Biomedical Science

The science of saving lives
Biomedical science is the laboratory science that underpins disease diagnosis and management, focussing on how cells, organs and systems function in the body.

This degree provides rigorous research-led teaching in the theory and practical techniques associated with biomedical science. It is ideal for students with a broad interest in human life processes and disease, as the course places an emphasis on developing a detailed understanding of the molecules and mechanisms fundamental to life processes, and how they are disrupted by disease.

It is accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS). Students who graduate from this IBMS-accredited degree programme, train in an NHS lab and complete an IBMS registration training portfolio can register as a Biomedical Scientist and work in NHS pathology labs.

IBMS Accreditation and your placement
Our IBMS-accredited Biomedical Science BSc is a great choice if you are considering a career as a Biomedical Scientist in the NHS as the course meets the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) educational standards required to register as a Biomedical Scientist in a UK healthcare laboratory.

To gain registration with the HCPC you will need to complete a training portfolio. You have two choices as to how you do this as explained below.

Both approaches will support you to register with the Health Care Professions Council (HCPC) as a Biomedical Scientist and work within the NHS as a Biomedical Scientist.

Complete a training placement during the third year of your BSc

As a student on our IBMS-accredited Biomedical Science (BSc), you will be eligible to apply for a prestigious placement with an NHS pathology lab. These are awarded on a competitive basis. If you are successful, you will be transferred on to our BSc Biomedical Science (Placement Year) degree and will complete your placement during the third year of your degree. After completing your placement you will return to university for your final year of study.

Students who successfully complete a training portfolio during the placement year, and graduate with an accredited Biomedical Science degree, are awarded an IBMS Certificate of Competence.

Complete your training portfolio after graduation

Your IBMS-accredited degree will provide you with the necessary qualification to apply for a trainee post as a trainee Biomedical Scientist in an NHS pathology lab and complete an IBMS training portfolio while in employment.

Your journey through biomedical science
The curriculum of our Biomedical Science BSc is highly structured in order to meet the requirements for IBMS accreditation.

• You will begin, in Year 1, by studying fundamental themes that will provide you with a firm foundation for the rest of your course; topics covered include biomedical science practice, molecules of life, infection, immunity, anatomy and physiology.

• In Year 2, you will progress on to studying the topics that are core to the discipline of biomedical science, including blood sciences, clinical biochemistry, medical microbiology and cellular pathology, as well as genetics, immunology and cell biology.

• Year 3 will see you focus in greater depth on specific aspects of human disease through themes spanning clinical immunology, cancer, medical genetics, pathobiology and global health challenges. In Year 3, you will also carry out your own independent research project. This is your opportunity to make a unique contribution to increasing scientific knowledge in an area of biomedical science that fascinates you.

Important Information
For the most up-to-date course information and more details, we recommend that you revisit our website before submitting your application.