Biomedical Science

Our practical, lab-based Biomedical Science degree prepares you for a career where you can make a difference.

• Explore the molecular basis of disease and how this can be used in healthcare.

• Learn through a multidisciplinary approach that includes physiology, biochemistry and psychology.

• Develop the knowledge and practical skills you'll need for biomedical and life sciences careers.

Biomedical science is at the heart of diagnosing, monitoring and treating disease. It's also key to the development of new drugs and treatments.

On our Biomedical Science degree, you'll learn how the human body works, exploring the cellular, molecular and genetic basis of disease. You'll gain the practical skills needed to succeed in a wide range of biological and medical science careers, such as hospital laboratory work, roles in research, or in industry.

Drawing on content from across the life sciences, and with the option of a placement year, this course is designed to provide you with the knowledge and skills you'll need to contribute to whichever branch of biomedical science you wish to follow.

The course is aligned with the specific and vocational requirements detailed in the QAA Subject Benchmark Statement for Biomedical Sciences, ensuring that you'll develop the expertise needed for professional practice.

Accreditation
This programme has been accredited by the Royal Society of Biology following an independent and rigorous assessment. Accredited degree programmes contain a solid academic foundation in biological knowledge and key skills, and prepare graduates to address the needs of employers.

The accreditation criteria require evidence that graduates from accredited programmes meet defined sets of learning outcomes, including subject knowledge, technical ability and transferable skills.

Professional Placement Year

A Professional Placement Year (PPY), traditionally known as a sandwich year, is where you undertake a period of work with an external organisation for between 9-13 months. The placement occurs between your second and final years of undergraduate study. You can engage in multiple placements to make up the total time and are required to source the placement(s) yourself, with support from the Careers team.

Course Modules

Course structure - year one
You'll be introduced to the essentials of anatomy and physiology, biochemistry, and microbiology as well as cell biology and genetics. We focus on practical sessions to reinforce theoretical knowledge in the different areas, and help you develop confidence in key practical lab skills. You'll also gain a foundation in academic writing, data collection, analysis and communication.

Course structure - year two
You'll work on a team project with a focus on research and how to design and conduct experiments to address a scientific question. You'll continue to develop your understanding of different branches of biomedical science, with haematology, immunology and biochemistry being taught alongside pharmacology and toxicology. There will also be options to study broader areas such biotechnology and microbiology. You'll have the option to complete a work placement, giving you real world experience of the biomedical sector.

Course structure - year three
You'll cover fundamental topics such as clinical biochemistry, medical microbiology, genetics and immunology, all while you look in depth at mechanisms of disease. You'll complete an independent dissertation project, using your research and practical skills to investigate a selected biomedical topic. The dissertation includes elements of project management, completing appropriate ethical and risk assessments, logistical planning and detailed data analysis.