Biomedical Science BSc (Hons)
Subject and course type
- Biology, Biochemistry and Biomedical Science
- Undergraduate
Kickstart your medical or research career with the Biomedical Science BSc (Hons) degree course from ΞΆΓάΘ¦, accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS). If you also complete the IBMS Training Portfolio, you can apply to register as a Biomedical Scientist with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).
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Contribute to innovative medical research using our modern laboratories
Gain first-hand experience of a busy research or diagnostic laboratory.
On our Biomedical Science BSc (Hons) course, you'll have the opportunity to do a placement year in NHS laboratories, research institutes or drug companies. This means you will graduate with the knowledge and practical skills necessary to pursue your dream career.
At our Penrhyn Road campus, you will have access to a modern environment with the latest equipment, including:
- The Integrated Research and Teaching Laboratories (IRTL), which is the hub for life sciences research. Students work in there for their projects and during internships.
- Modern applied biology laboratories equipped with quantitative PCR and Point of Care Machines.
- Computer science suites with a team of IT technicians to offer assistance.
The Library in our award-winning new Town House Building offers:
- Onsite subject libraries.
- A range of printed and electronic resources.
- Online access to resources as well as a free inter-library loan scheme to other libraries in the Greater London area.
- Areas for quiet study and collaborative group workspaces.
ΞΆΓάΘ¦'s Biomedical Science degree has given me a good understanding of both haematology and oncology. This knowledge helped me secure both my first two roles, and provided me with the foundation for my PhD.
Why choose this course
Biomedical Science covers a wide range of topics including immunology, microbiology, haematology and genetics; and more specifically, cancer screening, blood transfusion, control of infections, and cardiovascular diseases.
If you enjoy investigating things in a laboratory and monitoring diseases, this could be the ideal course to kickstart your future career. Biomedical Science BSc (Hons) is an accredited course offered by London’s only University to be ranked Gold in all three categories of the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF).
At the completion of your BSc degree, you may continue your journey with a postgraduate course in Haematology, Microbiology or Cancer Biology at ΞΆΓάΘ¦. The University also offers teacher training courses if you want to follow that path.
You'll be introduced to principles of biomedical sciences, molecular and cell biology, physiology, anatomy, biochemistry, and relevant laboratory techniques. You'll also independently research a subject that interests you. This might include a laboratory-based project, a computer-based projects such as bioinformatics, analysis of survey information or a review of scientific literature.
We have updated our modules to enhance student-centred teaching and align course content with industry needs, helping you become a future-proof graduate. The Biomedical Science BSc (Hons) course is aligned with the latest QQA 2023 benchmarks for IBMS-accredited degrees.
Accreditation
Our BSc and MSc Biomedical Science courses are all accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS). The IBMS Training Portfolio for IBMS registration can be completed during the placement year of the four-year professional placement course or can be undertaken after graduation, once in appropriate employment.
Those graduated with an Honours degree will become eligible for registration with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) as Biomedical Scientists once they are in appropriate employment to fulfil the additional HCPC requirements of competencies and completion of the IBMS Certificate of Competence.
Course content
Year 1
Year 1 offers a firm foundation in the biological and chemical principles upon which biomedical science is based, including various laboratory techniques. You will be introduced to molecular and cell biology, physiology, anatomy and biochemistry.
Core modules
30 credits
This module provides an understanding of how basic chemical elements are bonded to form complex biomolecules in living systems. In this module, we will explore the role and structure of proteins, carbohydrates and lipids and delve into defining their properties and functions. The module will also introduce the vital role of energy transformations in living organisms.
Core material is delivered through lectures, online resources and activities, and problem-solving workshops supported by laboratory practicals and subsequent data analysis.
On completion of the module, you will have a comprehensive grounding in the molecular basis of life from the atomic scale up to cells. This module will help you develop the skills necessary for enhancing your learning through effective note-taking and critical thinking, which will continue to help you throughout your degree.
30 credits
This module introduces basic cell biology of prokaryotes and eukaryotes, genetics, germ layers, and tissue types in the human body, as well as various microorganisms.
You will experience practical sessions in a state-of-the-art laboratory, on microscopy, histology, cytogenetics and microbiology, enabling you to develop practical skills in the correct use of microscopes, examining and studying chromosomes, prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, microbes and tissues, interpreting, and recording biological data, and build upon your knowledge gained from lectures.
This module provides a foundation for advanced modules in cell biology, anatomy, physiology, genetics, and microbiology.
30 credits
This module provides you with a dynamic exploration of how human physiology and anatomy work together to underpin health, movement, and physical performance. You will investigate how key physiological systems like the cardiovascular, muscular, and nervous systems work together, while exploring the principles of biomechanics to understand how the body moves and adapts to homeostatic challenges.
Through hands-on labs and workshops, you will develop practical skills in data collection, experimental design, and analysis, learning how to measure and evaluate human performance. By the end of this module, you will have a solid grasp of how human physiology and anatomy are studied and how they relate to broader issues like sustainability and human health.
30 credits
This module provides a firm foundation in the general scientific and laboratory skills students require to successfully complete their programmes of study.
A significant component of the module consists of the development and demonstration of core technical/practical skills through familiarity with the laboratory environment through hands-on learning.
This module will also introduce you to Future Skills through engagement with the Navigate programme introducing the key graduate attributes required in developing your professional development portfolio in the biosciences. The Future Skills concepts and activities will support you in developing and evidencing your practice, scientific analytical/problem-solving, teamworking, digital competency, practical and numeracy skills.
Year 2
Year 2 includes in-depth study of the more specialised aspects of biomedical science, particularly the nature and effects of human disease. You will develop your knowledge of microbiology and immunology and the cellular pathological changes that occur in medical conditions such as cancer and heart disease. You will learn about medical genetics, including a range of genetic diseases and disorders, and how to identify them.
Core modules
30 credits
This module delves into the fascinating world of microorganisms, that play a big role in health and disease. We’ll explore how our immune system responds to these microscopic agents. Through interactive lectures and workshops, we’ll examine various microbiological processes. You will learn about controlling these organisms in laboratory settings and within patients. You will also become familiar with the immune system’s different cells and organs, understanding how they work together to protect the body from infections upon first exposure and during subsequent encounters. Lastly, we’ll introduce some of the molecular processes and signalling events crucial for communication between human immune cells.
30 credits
You will be introduced to the molecular and cellular basis of human diseases. This module covers basic concepts of inheritance patterns, population genetics and genetic disorders including single-gene disorders, chromosomal imbalances, epigenetics, and complex disorders. You will learn about molecular genetics techniques, genetic testing and counselling, pharmacogenomics, and personalised medicine.
The module covers basic bioinformatic tools and computational techniques used in analysing large volumes of biological data that help in the identification of genetic variations and their influence on disease processes. You will also be introduced to cutting-edge advancements in the field including gene therapy and editing, single-cell sequencing, and omics technologies. You will gain insight into how these technologies are shaping the future of medical genetics research and clinical practice.
30 credits
This module is divided into two distinct parts. The first part is designed to enhance your understanding of the recurring physiological themes in non-communicable diseases, relating physiological systems to prevalent chronic diseases and likely mechanisms involved. Topics such as endocrinology and metabolic disease neurophysiology, cardiovascular, reproductive, renal and respiratory physiology will be covered. You will gain an insight into the clinical relevance of medical physiology and its direct application to patient care and medical practice through practical experience and interpreting results of essential clinical practice and research-based laboratory skills.
The second part broadens the scope to encompass the wider aspects of biomedical science and beyond. It focuses on developing your Future Skills by engaging them with Explore, enhancing your research, problem-solving, and critical thinking abilities, and preparing you for your final year capstone project. This is further supported by tutor meetings, which help you work on tasks to develop, articulate, and reflect on their progress and graduate attributes. The Future Skills learning outcomes are integrated into this module.
30 credits
This module discusses the fascinating world of cellular mechanisms of disease and explore how cellular pathology integrates with clinical pathology and other disciplines. Particular emphasis is given to hand-on laboratory techniques to understand cellular injury and its role in routine diagnosis. By the end of the module, you will understand the effects of cell injury, inflammation, cancer, infertility, and genetic diseases on cells. You will learn how cellular pathology and diagnostic techniques contribute to disease identification and the development of research-informed treatments, preparing you for bright and impactful careers in science.
Year 3
Year 3 consists of specialist modules covering the theoretical and practical aspects of the major branches of biomedical science. These include clinical chemistry and haematology, clinical immunology and medical microbiology. The Clinical Applications of Biomedical Science module includes clinical case studies, integrating diagnostic procedures from across the course and developing awareness of contemporary issues within biomedical science.
Year 3 also includes a research project. This may be undertaken in University research laboratories or in a hospital or medical research laboratory. It enables you to carry out independent research in a subject that interests you, and gain first-hand experience of a busy research or diagnostic laboratory. The project could also be data analysis of survey information or a systematic review of scientific literature.
Core modules
30 credits
This module provides you with the opportunity to integrate the knowledge you have gained from all other modules on the Biomedical Science course. We will use case studies to provide an overview of biomedical techniques, including the use of point of care testing (POC) and traditional laboratory diagnosis.
You will examine their applications in clinical diagnosis, prognosis, and patient management, including drug interactions and the basis of individual variation in drug responsiveness. The use of pertinent clinical cases encourages you to think 'outside the box’ and realise that when dealing with a real patient, knowledge gained from the discipline is required simultaneously to make a rational diagnosis.
The module will also examine the importance of β€quality controlβ€ (QC) and β€quality assuranceβ€ (QA) in clinical diagnosis enabling you to understand the importance of both QC and QA in the correct day to day running of clinical diagnostics. The Future Skills Apply learning outcomes are delivered in this module.
30 credits
In this course, we explore how laboratory investigations contribute to diagnosing, treating, and preventing diseases like renal disease, diabetes, anaemia, and haematological malignancies. Additionally, we delve into the role of transfusion laboratories in treating specific disorders.
The module kicks off with structured lectures, introducing various topics. These concepts are then further explored during practical laboratory sessions and workshops. You will find additional resources on Canvas, including tutorials to reinforce your understanding of key ideas.
Throughout the course, real-life case studies illustrate best practices in clinical chemistry and haematology. Expert practitioners also deliver keynote lectures, enriching your learning experience. Plus, we emphasise equipping you with the knowledge and practical skills sought after by employers.
30 credits
In this module, we delve into disease related to overactive immunity (such as autoimmune disease and hypersensitivity) and immune deficiency (like AIDS). Additionally, we explore critical aspects of clinical immunology, including cancer immunology, monoclonal antibodies and laboratory diagnostics through case studies.
We then shift focus to infectious diseases and the principles of Medical Microbiology. We take an organ system approach to study selected infectious diseases and their laboratory diagnosis, for example examining infections affecting the respiratory tract, gastrointestinal tract, and urinary tract.
30 credits
Your independent project forms a very important part of your degree programme. There are several types of projects that may be offered to you: a laboratory or field-based project, data projects involving acquisition of data and information from surveys, computer simulations or bioinformatics, or a systematic review of research literature that includes the collection, analysis, and original presentation of reported research data.
Your project will include a review and critical evaluation of qualitative and quantitative information and data to address a hypothesis or research question, and the production of a written report.
Science Foundation Year
If you would like to study one of our science degrees at ΞΆΓάΘ¦ but are not yet ready to join the first year of a BSc (Hons) course, you can include an extra foundation year within your chosen degree. Please see theβ€―science foundation year course pageβ€―for details of modules.
Future Skills and career opportunities
This degree provides excellent preparation for careers in science, health and education. Many of our students also go on to further studies at postgraduate level. For example, with medical or research degrees.
Types of graduate jobs include:
- Biomedical scientist
- Medical laboratory assistant
- Senior healthcare technical officer
- Hospital administrator
- Product analyst
- Phlebotomist
- Retinal screener
- Teacher
- Lecturer
- Researcher
Graduate employers include NHS, Cancer Research UK, CL Medical, and Oxbridge Centre.
Boost your employability
Embedded within this course and throughout the whole ΞΆΓάΘ¦ experience is our Future Skills programme. The Future Skills programme was developed to respond to the ever-evolving demands from modern day employment.
It will help you obtain the skills most valued by employers, such as problem-solving, digital competency and adaptability, and learn how to apply these skills in different scenarios. You’ll also learn how to articulate to employers how being able to do so gives you the edge.
At ΞΆΓάΘ¦, we're not just keeping up with change, we're creating it
For more information on how ΞΆΓάΘ¦ prepares you for the future job market, visit our Future Skills page.
Teaching and assessment
Scheduled learning and teaching on this course includes timetabled activities including lectures, seminars, small group tutorials and practical sessions.
It may also include placements, project work, workshops, conferences and field trips.
Outside the scheduled learning and teaching hours, you will learn independently through self-study which will involve reading articles and books, working on projects, undertaking research, preparing for and completing your work for assessments. Some independent study work may need to be completed on-campus, as you may need to access campus-based facilities such as studios and labs.
Our academic support team here at ΞΆΓάΘ¦ provides help in a range of areas.
When you arrive, we'll introduce you to your personal tutor. This is the member of academic staff who will provide academic guidance, be a support throughout your time at ΞΆΓάΘ¦ and show you how to make the best use of all the help and resources that we offer at ΞΆΓάΘ¦.
A course is made up of modules, and each module is worth a number of credits. You must pass a given number of credits in order to achieve the award you registered on, for example 360 credits for a typical undergraduate course or 180 credits for a typical postgraduate course. The number of credits you need for your award is detailed in the programme specification which you can access from the link at the bottom of this page.
One credit equates to 10 hours of study. Therefore 120 credits across a year (typical for an undergraduate course) would equate to 1,200 notional hours. These hours are split into scheduled and guided. On this course, the percentage of that time that will be scheduled learning and teaching activities is shown below for each year of study. The remainder is made up of guided independent study.
- Year 1: 24% scheduled learning and teaching
- Year 2: 26% scheduled learning and teaching
- Year 3: 19% scheduled learning and teaching
The exact balance between scheduled learning and teaching and guided independent study will be informed by the modules you take.
Your course will primarily be delivered in person. It may include delivery of some activities online, either in real time or recorded.
Types of assessment
- Year 1: Coursework 80%; exams 20%
- Year 2: Coursework 62.5%; exams 37.5%
- Year 3: Coursework 59%; exams 41%
Please note: the above breakdowns are a guide calculated on core modules only. If your course includes optional modules, this breakdown may change to reflect the modules chosen.
Your individualised timetable is normally available to students within 48 hours of enrolment. Whilst we make every effort to ensure timetables are as student-friendly as possible, scheduled learning and teaching can take place on any day of the week between 9am and 6pm. For undergraduate students, Wednesday afternoons are normally reserved for sports and cultural activities, but there may be occasions when this is not possible.
To give you an indication of class sizes, this course normally enrols 160 students and lecture sizes are normally 160 to 180. However this can vary by module and academic year.
We aim to provide feedback on assessments within 20 working days.
I've really enjoyed the medical-related modules of the course. I also like the practical sessions and the lecturers are very good. They are positive, friendly and easy to get hold of. You have more opportunity to learn and the chance to improve your knowledge in specialist areas.
Fees and funding
| Fee category | Fee |
|---|---|
| Home (UK students) | |
| Β£9,535* | |
| Foundation Year: | Β£9,535 |
| International | |
| Year 1 (2026/27): | Β£19,200 |
| Year 2 (2027/28): | Β£19,900 |
| Year 3 (2028/29): | Β£20,700 |
| Year 4 (2029/30): | Β£21,500 |
The tuition fee you pay depends on whether you are assessed as a 'Home' (UK), 'Islands' or 'International' student. In 2026/27 the fees for this course are above.
For courses with Professional Placement, the fee for the placement year can be viewed in our Fees and Funding section. The placement fee published is for the relevant academic year stated in the table. This fee is subject to annual increases but will not increase by more than the fee caps as prescribed by the Office for Students or such other replacing body.
* For full-time programmes of a duration of more than one academic year, the published fee is an annual fee, payable each year, for the duration of the programme. Your annual tuition fees cover your first attempt at all of the modules necessary to complete that academic year. A re-study of any modules will incur additional charges calculated by the number of credits. Home tuition fees may be subject to annual increases but will not increase by more than the fee caps as prescribed by the Office for Students or such other replacing body. Full-time taught International fees are subject to an annual increase and are published in advance for the full duration of the programme.
Eligible UK students can apply to the Government for a tuition loan, which is paid direct to the University. This has a low interest-rate which is charged from the time the first part of the loan is paid to the University until you have repaid it.
| Fee category | Fee |
|---|---|
| Home (UK students) | |
| Β£9,535* | |
| Foundation Year: | Β£9,535 |
| International | |
| Year 1 (2025/26): | Β£18,500 |
| Year 2 (2026/27): | Β£19,200 |
| Year 3 (2027/28): | Β£19,900 |
| Year 4 (2028/29): | Β£20,700 |
The tuition fee you pay depends on whether you are assessed as a 'Home' (UK), 'Islands' or 'International' student. In 2025/26 the fees for this course are above.
For courses with Professional Placement, the fee for the placement year can be viewed in our Fees and Funding section. The placement fee published is for the relevant academic year stated in the table. This fee is subject to annual increases but will not increase by more than the fee caps as prescribed by the Office for Students or such other replacing body.
* For full-time programmes of a duration of more than one academic year, the published fee is an annual fee, payable each year, for the duration of the programme. Your annual tuition fees cover your first attempt at all of the modules necessary to complete that academic year. A re-study of any modules will incur additional charges calculated by the number of credits. Home tuition fees may be subject to annual increases but will not increase by more than the fee caps as prescribed by the Office for Students or such other replacing body. Full-time taught International fees are subject to an annual increase and are published in advance for the full duration of the programme.
Eligible UK students can apply to the Government for a tuition loan, which is paid direct to the University. This has a low interest-rate which is charged from the time the first part of the loan is paid to the University until you have repaid it.
Scholarships and bursaries
For students interested in studying this course at ΞΆΓάΘ¦, there are several opportunities to seek funding support.
Additional course costs
Some courses may require additional costs beyond tuition fees. When planning your studies, you’ll want to consider tuition fees, living costs, and any extra costs that might relate to your area of study.
Your tuition fees include costs for teaching, assessment and university facilities. So your access to libraries, shared IT resources and various student support services are all covered. Accommodation and general living expenses are not covered by these fees.
Where applicable, additional expenses for your course may include:
Our libraries have an extensive collection of books and journals, as well as open-access computers and laptops available to rent. However, you may want to buy your own computer or personal copies of key textbooks. Textbooks may range from Β£50 to Β£250 per year. And a personal computer can range from Β£100 to Β£3,000 depending on your course requirements.
While most coursework is submitted online, some modules may require printed copies. You may want to allocate up to £100 per year for hard-copies of your coursework. It’s worth noting that 3D printing is never compulsory. So if you choose to use our 3D printers, you’ll need to pay for the material. This ranges from 3p per gram to 40p per gram.
ΞΆΓάΘ¦ will pay for all compulsory field trips. Fees for optional trips can range from Β£30 to Β£350 per trip.
Your tuition fees don’t cover travel costs. To save on travel costs, you can use our free intersite bus service. This route links the campuses and halls of residence with local train stations - Surbiton, ΞΆΓάΘ¦ upon Thames, and Norbiton.
Specific courses may require uniforms, specialty clothing, or specific equipment like lab coats and safety shoes. ΞΆΓάΘ¦ will supply you with a lab coat and safety goggles at the start of the year.
Some courses may require professional memberships.
Course changes and regulations
The information on this page reflects the currently intended course structure and module details. To improve your student experience and the quality of your degree, we may review and change the material information of this course. Find out more about course changes
for the course are published ahead of each academic year.
Regulations governing this course can be found on our website.
What our students and graduates say
My 12-month placement at Kew Gardens was challenging because I was learning new techniques and using equipment I hadn't used before. But it was also very rewarding when I finally ironed out the [DNA] code.
Jumping genes are quite well known and present in all life forms, but as yet not much work has been done on their presence with large amounts of DNA. The information I have uncovered will help scientists to keep chipping away at a puzzle that has been fascinating experts for years.
After graduating, I went on to join the Institute of Cancer Research. I now investigate novel compounds used to treat cancer. This means looking at the properties of a cancer and then creating a brand-new drug to treat it. I enjoy discovering new things and the interaction with people that my work provides.
Key information
The scrolling banner below displays some key factual data about this course (including different course combinations or delivery modes of this course where relevant).
