Fees and key information

Course type
Undergraduate
UCAS code
B900
Entry requirements
On this page

Why study this course?

Our Biomedical Science BSc degree is designed to help you play a key role in identifying diseases, monitoring treatment and undertaking research into infectious diseases and other pathologies. This course is accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS).

Biomedical science transforms our understanding of health and disease. This course will put you at the cutting edge of science as you study everything from healthcare issues to research-based science, learning how disease is caused, identified and treated.

The subjects covered during the course are similar to the pre-clinical components of a medical degree, with topics including the structure and function of biological fluids, cells and tissues, and the relationship between bodily systems and health, disease and the environment.

Your study programme is designed so that core modules are delivered over two whole days per week, enabling you to juggle lectures with study and other responsibilities. Your first year will include an introduction to the key principles of biomedical science and place a heavy focus on developing the necessary laboratory skills and data manipulations. In Year 2, you’ll look at core areas such as blood science, infection and tissue science. You’ll also get plenty of hands-on experience in a wide range of research techniques, such as spectrophotometry, polymerase chain reaction (PCR), electrophoresis and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

Your third year will comprise more in-depth study of the major disciplines of biomedical science and you'll have the opportunity to specialise with an independent research project on a topic of your choosing.

Throughout the course, you’ll take practical classes in our £30 million Science Centre in London, which is equipped with 280 workstations and is one of the largest teaching laboratories in Europe. You’ll also benefit from the guidance of our knowledgeable academic staff – many of whom are active researchers – as well as a range of external speakers working in the pathology industry who will keep you up to date with the latest biomedical developments and laboratory practices.

Accredited by the IBMS

This course gives you the academic competencies required by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) and is accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS)

Benefit from state-of-the-art facilities

You’ll take practical classes in our £30 million Science Centre , which is equipped with 280 workstations and is one of the largest teaching laboratories in Europe

Learn from industry professionals

You’ll benefit from the guidance of our knowledgeable academic staff, many of whom are active researchers, as well as a range of external speakers working in the pathology industry

Student reviews

Our real, honest student reviews come from our own students – we collect some of these ourselves, but many are also collected through university comparison websites and other nationwide surveys.

Course modules

The modules listed below are for the academic year 2024/25 and represent the course modules at this time. Modules and module details (including, but not limited to, location and time) are subject to change over time.

Year* 1 modules

Year 2 modules

Year 3 modules

Anatomy & Physiology 1

This module currently runs:
autumn semester - Monday afternoon

(core, 15 credits)

This module introduces students to the theoretical and practical aspects of human anatomy and physiology in health and disease. It is designed for life-science students with an interest in human biology, but particularly for those wishing to pursue advanced studies in the Biosciences or Forensic Science.
This module aims to provide students, through lectures, tutorials and practical classes, with a sound knowledge of human body structure using appropriate anatomical nomenclature and an in-depth understanding of the physiology of selected body systems. The module will also aim to introduce basic concepts in immunology and pathology.

Read full details

Anatomy & Physiology 2

This module currently runs:
spring semester - Monday afternoon

(core, 15 credits)

This module introduces students to the theoretical and practical aspects of human anatomy and physiology in health and disease. It is designed for life-science students with an interest in human biology, but particularly for those wishing to pursue advanced studies in the Biosciences.
This module aims to provide students, through lectures, tutorials and practical classes, with a sound knowledge of human body structure using appropriate anatomical nomenclature and an in-depth understanding of the physiology of selected body systems. The module will also aim to introduce basic concepts in immunology and pathology.

Read full details

Biochemistry

This module currently runs:
spring semester - Thursday morning

(core, 15 credits)

The aims of this module are aligned with the qualification descriptors within the Quality Assurance Agency’s, Framework for Higher Education Qualifications. This module is concerned with biochemistry focusing on the properties of key biochemical molecules and their role in biochemical function. This module aims to provide students with the qualities and transferable skills necessary for employment requiring the exercise of some personal responsibility.

Read full details

Cell Biology

This module currently runs:
autumn semester - Monday morning

(core, 15 credits)

A core module which provides students with an understanding of basic cell structures and an awareness of different cell types and relates the structure and activities of cell components to their functions and to cellular activities as a whole.
The second half of the module is concerned with biochemistry focusing on the properties of key biochemical molecules and their role in biochemical function.
The aims of this module are aligned with the qualification descriptors within the Quality Assurance Agency’s Framework for Higher Education Qualifications. Specifically it aims to expose students to some of the key questions of cell biology concerning cell structure and intracellular activities. Provide students with practical experience in a range of laboratory-based biological techniques. Enhance students' ability to manage themselves and to develop organisational, critical and analytical skills which are applicable to the workplace.

Read full details

Fundamentals of Molecular Biology

This module currently runs:
spring semester - Monday morning

(core, 15 credits)

The aims of this module are aligned with the qualification descriptors within the Quality Assurance Agency’s, Framework for Higher Education Qualification. This module aims to provide an overview of the organisation, expression, and replication of genetic information in prokaryotes and eukaryotes together with principles of Mendelian inheritance; examine the consequences of mutation on gene expression together with an introduction to techniques of gene analysis and manipulation. This module aims to provide students with the qualities and transferable skills necessary for employment requiring the exercise of some personal responsibility.

Read full details

General Microbiology

This module currently runs:
spring semester - Thursday afternoon

(core, 15 credits)

This module focuses on the structure and classification of a selected range of microorganisms and their impact on human society. Laboratory classes develop the skills required to work safely and cooperatively in the laboratory.
This module aims to provide students with the opportunity to:
study the classification, structure and function of bacteria, fungi, protoctista and viruses;
understand the diverse nature of microorganisms, their roles in the environment and their impact on human society as normal flora and as agents of disease;
the exploitation of microorganisms by humans in medicine and biotechnology.

Read full details

Laboratory Skills and Techniques

This module currently runs:
autumn semester - Thursday morning

(core, 15 credits)

This module aims to provide students with a solid basis in aspects of chemistry appropriate to underpin their undergraduate biosciences course. Its aims are aligned with the qualification and descriptors within the Quality Assurance Agency’s Framework for Higher Education Qualification. The module provides an introduction to core aspects of chemistry – atoms, periodic table, molecules, bonding and functional groups, organic molecular structure and the naming and drawing chemical structures, concept of moles and reaction processes.

This module will also introduce students to safe contemporary and good laboratory practice in the laboratory environment, practical bioscience techniques, simple chemical techniques and the discipline of accurate laboratory record keeping. The module also aims to develop basic laboratory practice: personal safety (as expedited by COSHH and Risk Assessments), awareness of others and where appropriate to consider ethical issues that can have an impact on the execution of a given experiment. The development of study skills will include writing laboratory records, scientific reports and essays. The analysis of data will also be a core component of the module. It develops competence in laboratory skills through practical work, and in scientific writing.

Read full details

Professional Studies

This module currently runs:
autumn semester - Thursday afternoon

(core, 15 credits)

This module will develop students’ transferable skills to enable them to derive maximum benefit from their chosen courses of study, provide clear guidance on the University’s teaching, assessment and progression regulations to facilitate students’ smooth passage through their chosen courses of study.

The module will introduce students to the learning resources and support facilities available within the University to assist them with their personal and professional development. Specifically this module will also introduce students to safe contemporary (GLP) practice in the laboratory environment, practical bioscience techniques, simple chemical techniques and the discipline of accurate laboratory record keeping. The module also aims to develop basic lab practice: personal safety (as expedited by COSHH and Risk Assessments), awareness of others and where appropriate to consider ethical issues that can have an impact on the execution of a given experiment. The development of study skills will include writing laboratory records, scientific reports and essays. The analysis of data will also be a core component of the module.

The module aims to introduce students to the development, scope and organisation of their chosen discipline and its associated professional bodies and employment opportunities. The transferable skills that will be developed will also prepare students for employment.

Read full details

Blood Science

This module currently runs:
spring semester - Friday morning

(core, 15 credits)

This module provides experience, knowledge and understanding of the principles and practice of clinical haematology. It explores the rationale for laboratory testing in routine and specialised investigation. It examines the different elements that constitute blood in healthy and diseased states. The module also focuses on teamwork, scientific communication skills and the application of these to future employment.


This module provides experience, knowledge and understanding of the principles and practice of haematology. It explores the rationale for laboratory testing in routine and specialised investigations. It examines the different elements that constitute blood in healthy and diseased states. Tutorials and one piece of coursework focus’ on teamwork, scientific communication skills and the application of these to future employment. Students’ haematology skills will be developed in the laboratory in practical sessions. Theoretical and practical problems will be employed to assist students in the development of their analytical and problem-solving capabilities. Case studies will be examined to give students practice in diagnosis.

Read full details

Fundamentals of Medicinal Chemistry

This module currently runs:
autumn semester - Monday afternoon

(core, 15 credits)

The module provides experience, knowledge and understanding of the principles and practices of medicinal chemistry. Explores the rational for biochemical principles that are fundamental to the study of medicine and related healthcare areas. The module will cover general and applied biochemistry, focusing on the structure and function of important drug targets such as receptors, enzymes, and nucleic acids. Material will review biochemistry knowledge and expand in preparation for areas such as the general principles and strategies involved in discovering and designing new drugs.

Read full details

Infection Science 1

This module currently runs:
autumn semester - Tuesday afternoon

(core, 15 credits)

The module develops an understanding of infection science from a laboratory diagnostic perspective. You will develop your knowledge of the different types of microorganisms and how they cause disease. You will also gain knowledge of the innate and acquired immune system in health and disease, including complement. Through case studies in tutorials you will develop vocationally relevant critical reasoning and problem solving skills. Through laboratory practical exercises you will develop practical laboratory skills. Development of vocational reasoning and practical skills will enhance your employability.
You will gain an understanding of pathogenicity and the virulence mechanisms of major groups of microorganisms and how these enable evasion of the immune system. You will understand the use of laboratory investigations to corroborate clinical diagnosis and treatment of microbial diseases.
Teaching and learning will be delivered via lectures, tutorials and practicals.
Lectures will give the required information.
Tutorials are designed to reinforce the lecture material. Seen tutorials should be attempted beforehand. Tutorials will include case studies to develop vocational critical reasoning skills.
Practicals will build on the information from lectures to reinforce learning and develop practical skills. Learning outcomes are linked to the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS) standards and requirements, to allow progression to the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) registration portfolio.

Read full details

Infection Science 2

This module currently runs:
spring semester - Tuesday afternoon

(core, 15 credits)

The module develops an understanding of infection science from an infection by systems and laboratory diagnostic perspective. You will develop knowledge of the different types of microorganisms and how they cause disease in different body systems including gastrointestinal, respiratory, skin and nervous system infections. Through case studies in tutorials, you will develop vocationally relevant critical reasoning and problem-solving skills. Through laboratory practical exercises you will develop practical laboratory skills. Development of vocational reasoning and practical skills will enhance your employability.
You will be able to show an understanding of pathogenicity and the virulence mechanisms of major groups of microorganisms using a systems approach, including tissue tropism and evasion of the immune system.
You will be able to describe the use of laboratory investigations to corroborate clinical diagnosis of microbial diseases. You will be able to discuss treatment of infectious disease and the problems of antimicrobial resistance.
Teaching and learning will be delivered via lectures, tutorials and practicals. Lectures will give the required information. Tutorials are designed to reinforce your understanding of the lecture material and develop the application of the knowledge. Seen tutorials will include case studies to develop vocational critical reasoning skills and application of knowledge, a high order skill.
Practicals will build on the information from lectures to reinforce your learning. Practicals are also designed to develop your practical laboratory skills to enhance employability. Learning outcomes are linked to the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS) standards and requirements, to allow progression to the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) registration portfolio (IBMS) standards and requirements, to allow progression to the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) registration portfolio.

Read full details

Methods of Bioanalytical Analysis

This module currently runs:
autumn semester - Friday afternoon

(core, 15 credits)

This module will overview the bioanalytical analytical analysis methods commonly encountered within biomedical science supporting quantitative and qualitative analyse of biological and pharmacological agents and their metabolites. Modern instrumental methods will be reviewed and practical experience given.
The aims of this module are aligned with the qualification descriptors within the Quality Assurance Agency’s, Framework for Higher Education Qualifications.
The module aims to introduce students to a range of techniques for determining the presence of an element or compound in a specified sample and the concentration at which it occurs and to describe the theoretical background and instrumental requirements for these techniques. Through extensive practical work and structured examples, it will give students experience of quality control, quality assurance, handling analytical results and assist students to develop practical skills in selected techniques and develop a feel for sample preparation, instrument calibration and other practical aspects of analysis.

Read full details

Tissue Science 1

This module currently runs:
autumn semester - Tuesday morning

(core, 15 credits)

This module explores the classification, structure and function of tissues within the Human body, and provides in-depth coverage of the fundamentals of the science of pathology, exploring the underlying genetic, molecular and cellular perturbations that lead to pathological tissue states incurred by inflammation, infection, trauma and neoplasia. Students will also gain practical experience of modern laboratory techniques used to investigate and diagnose tissue samples within a biomedical setting.This module aims to provide students with an in-depth knowledge and understanding of the structure and functional of different cell and tissue types, and the genetic, molecular and cellular factors underpinning the pathogenesis of selected human diseases.The module aims to review the basic the basic techniques of gene analysis and tissue identification.

Read full details

Tissue Science 2

This module currently runs:
spring semester - Tuesday morning

(core, 15 credits)

This module explores the classification, structure and function of tissues within the Human body, and provides in-depth coverage of the fundamentals of the science of pathology, exploring the underlying genetic, molecular and cellular perturbations that lead to pathological tissue states incurred by inflammation, infection, trauma and neoplasia. Students will also gain practical experience of modern laboratory techniques used to investigate and diagnose tissue samples within a biomedical setting. This module aims to provide students with an in-depth knowledge and understanding of the structure and functional of different cell and tissue types, and the genetic, molecular and cellular factors underpinning the pathogenesis of selected human diseases.

Read full details

Ethics for Science

(option, 15 credits)

This module introduces different normative philosophical bases for ethical decision-making, and gives opportunities for critically applying these principles and approaches to a range of contemporary moral issues in the human sciences.
This module aims to introduce underlying concepts of normative ethics and processes of ethical decision-making, and to offer the opportunity for in-depth critical examination of specific ethical issues and dilemmas in the human sciences. It will enable the exploration of different approaches to ethical issues in scientific research and practice, and will provide students with an awareness of the scope of the field of bioethics. In addition, it aims to facilitate the development of moral reasoning skills that may be applied in practical contexts, and to provide a supportive environment for the development of competence in written and oral presentation. Finally, the module will introduce students to professional ethics and codes of conduct in the human sciences.

Infection Control

This module currently runs:
spring semester - Wednesday afternoon

(option, 15 credits)

This module fosters an understanding of the principles of infection control in the management of infectious disease. It uses paradigms of sources and transmission routes of infection to apply theory to practice. This module uses the identification methods to underpin principles of investigating infection control
The aim of this module is to enhance the understanding of infection and routes of infection. The module will help students appreciate the concepts of pathogens, contaminants, the host and their inter-relatedness in the chain of infection. Raising students awareness of methods used to control and prevent infections will be explored.
This module aims to provide students with the qualities and transferable skills necessary for employment requiring: the exercise of initiative and personal responsibility; decision making in complex and unpredictable contexts; and, the learning ability needed to undertake appropriate further training of a professional or equivalent nature.

Read full details

Parasitology

This module currently runs:
spring semester - Friday afternoon

(option, 15 credits)

The module addresses the major parasites of medical importance. It emphasises those aspects of parasite life-cycles that contribute to disease and pathology, the anti-parasite immune responses they engender, how parasites evade these responses, and alternative control measures.
The aims of this module are aligned with the qualification descriptors within the Quality Assurance Agency’s, Framework for Higher Education Qualifications
The aims of this module are to review a range of medically important parasites, investigating the variety of parasite life-cycles as these contribute to disease and pathology. The module aims to advance students’ abilities in parasite recognition and diagnosis and develop students’ understanding of immunological control, evasion of that control, the development of anti-parasite vaccines and alternative methods of control.
This module aims to provide students with the qualities and transferable skills necessary for employment requiring: the exercise of initiative and personal responsibility; decision making in complex and unpredictable contexts; and, the learning ability needed to undertake appropriate further training of a professional or equivalent nature.

Read full details

Work Placement (for Life Sciences)

This module currently runs:
spring semester
autumn semester

(option, 15 credits)

Description: This module focuses on extending students' learning experience by providing them with an opportunity to tackle real-life problems, appropriate to their academic level, by undertaking a short period of professional activity in the workplace. The placement needs to be approved prior to being undertaken, by the work placement coordinator. It is expected that the student should work for 140 hours, for which they will be required to provide evidence (completed in the summer or part-time over the Autumn or Spring semester). The suitability of the opportunities will be assessed on an individual basis. Where required, students will be supported in finding suitable opportunities and with all aspects of their job search and applications. However, it is the students’ responsibility to obtain suitable employment, and roles cannot be guaranteed. DBS checks and or Hep B vaccination may be required for some placements (NHS or School-based).
This module aims to provide the student with an opportunity to: Increase their personal and professional development and gain experience of the culture and structure of a working environment; evaluate, and critically reflect on, the workplace as well as the student's role and contribution to it; and to apply previously-learnt academic knowledge to the task in hand. Explore employment options and consider future career plans. It will also ensure that suitable health and safety requirements are in place and the work activity will be approved by the module team in advance.

Read full details

Advanced Blood Science

This module currently runs:
spring semester - Monday morning

(core, 15 credits)

The module covers an advanced combination of the interrelationship between Haematology, and Transfusion Science as reflected in the practice of a multidisciplinary pathology department. More in-depth focus on disease diagnosis and monitoring in haematology the principles of stem cell and solid organ transplantation, tissue and bone banking, organ transplantation, prophylaxis and immunotherapy. Quality control and quality assurance, sample quality and regulatory issues within blood science.
Students’ haematology and transfusion science skills will be developed in the laboratory in practical sessions. Theoretical and practical problems will be employed to assist students in the development of their analytical and problem solving capabilities. Case studies will be examined to give students practice in diagnosis.

Read full details

Advanced Infection Science

This module currently runs:
spring semester - Wednesday morning

(core, 15 credits)

The module aims to provide students with knowledge of a range of microorganisms and the diseases that they cause. Students will develop an appreciation of how pathogens cause disease and be able to carry out diagnosis from associated pathophysiological features. They will also have knowledge of the identification, prediction and control of disease. The epidemiology of selected diseases will be studied and strategies used for disease control and management will be explored including examples of prophylaxis and therapy.

The module also addresses the gross structure and ultrastructure of normal cells and tissues and the structural changes which may occur during infectious disease. Students will further develop their microbiological, cellular visualisation and imaging techniques in the laboratory in practical sessions. The principles and applications of laboratory diagnosis including aspects of QA and QC will also be studied. Theoretical and practical problems will be employed to assist students in the development of their analytical and problem solving capabilities. Case studies will be examined to give students practice in diagnosis.

Read full details

Advanced Tissue Science

This module currently runs:
autumn semester - Wednesday morning

(core, 15 credits)

The module studies the gross structure and ultrastructure of normal cells and tissues and the structural changes which may occur during disease (infectious and genetic causes); the principles and applications of laboratory diagnosis including aspects of QA and QC. Students’ will further develop their immunological, molecular, cellular visualisation and imaging techniques in the laboratory in practical sessions. Theoretical and practical problems will be employed to assist students in the development of their analytical and problem solving capabilities. Case studies will be examined to give students practice in diagnosis.

This module focuses on human pathology involving the evaluation of structural and functional changes in tissues brought about by infection, inflammation, trauma and neoplasia. Selected examples will be studied in depth to explore the underlying causes as well as the pathophysiological features of disease.

Read full details

Clinical Biochemistry

This module currently runs:
autumn semester - Monday morning

(core, 15 credits)

The module covers the advanced aspects of the role of Clinical Biochemistry, as practiced in a pathology department. More in-depth focus on disease screening, diagnosis, treatment and monitoring in clinical biochemistry, the principles and application of common methods used in the clinical setting and point of care testing, therapeutic drug monitoring and the investigation of substances of abuse. Quality control and quality assurance, sample quality and regulatory issues within clinical biochemistry.
Students’ clinical biochemistry skills will be developed in the laboratory in practical sessions. Theoretical and practical problems will be employed to assist students in the development of their analytical and problem-solving capabilities. Case studies will be examined to give students practice in diagnosis.

Read full details

Project

This module currently runs:
all year (September start) - Wednesday afternoon

(core, 30 credits)

This module will enable students to demonstrate the skills necessary to carry out a scientific programme requiring significant research. It will allow students to demonstrate the final development of their subject knowledge, skills and understanding through extended research based on laboratory, literature/meta-analysis of databases or bioinformatics research. This research will lead to the presentation of a detailed written report.
The research project and laboratory skills sessions will enable students to carry out at least 24 hrs on directed competency skills-based activities and an equal amount of time on independent work-related learning activities on various themes approved in conjuction with the School Employer Liasion Board. In addition students will spend 230 hours on project-related activities

This module aims to encourage the student to reflect and build upon their subject knowledge and expertise by means of a specific investigation requiring significant research; develop the skills necessary to plan, carry out, analyse and report upon the results of an experimental or analytical programme on a scientific topic; allow the student to demonstrate that s/he has achieved a high level of personal development through working independently with the minimum necessary supervision; allow the student to demonstrate their understanding and application of safe and considerate working practices, particularly within the laboratory.
In addition the module will also encourage students to develop professional work-related learning skills through the competencies skills sessions which have been developed to map to and are responsive to employers requirements.

Read full details

Systems Pathology

This module currently runs:
autumn semester - Monday afternoon

(core, 15 credits)

This module characterises the aetiology, pathophysiology, clinical investigation and treatment of selected systems diseases that make a significant contribution to morbidity and mortality within healthcare. Aspects covered begin with an overview of pathology, followed by a systems approach to disease, including cardiovascular, respiratory, renal, gastrointestinal, endocrine, immune disorders, obesity, diabetes, inborn errors of metabolism, nutritional deficiencies, and cancer
The aims of this module are aligned with the qualification descriptors within the Quality Assurance Agency’s, Framework for Higher Education Qualifications. More specifically the module aims to provide an opportunity for in-depth study of selected body systems with reference to the pathogenesis of disease, its diagnosis and therapeutic options. The module will also highlight the pivotal role of pathology in the prevention, diagnosis, treatment and prognosis of disease. In addition students will be shown how body structure and function continues to change throughout the lifespan with reference to the increasing incidence and pathophysiology of selected “age-related” systems diseases. Students’ ability to research and evaluate biomedical issues and present their findings in a cogent manner will be developed.
This module aims to provide students with the qualities and transferable skills necessary for employment requiring: the exercise of initiative and personal responsibility; decision making in complex and unpredictable contexts; and, the learning ability needed to undertake appropriate further training of a professional or equivalent nature.

Read full details

Applied Immunology

(option, 15 credits)

The module focuses on the development and operation of the immune system in both health and disease and explores current research in immunopathology, stem cells and immunotherapy. The aims of this module are aligned with the qualification descriptors within the Quality Assurance Agency’s, Framework for Higher Education Qualifications.
Understand the mechanisms of the mammalian immune system in defence against disease; using an understanding of the basic mechanisms of the immune system, understand the consequences of inappropriate responses of the immune system; examine the applications of immune products in the areas of diagnostics and immunotherapy.

Genomics

This module currently runs:
spring semester - Tuesday morning

(option, 15 credits)

This module provides information and guidance to facilitate an understanding and knowledge of the theory and practical applications of molecular biology, genetics and genomics. It explains the underlying mechanisms of molecular biology and enables these ideas to be expanded to the understanding of human health and disease.


To provide, thorough in depth study, knowledge and understanding of the theory and practical applications of the underling molecular biology of modern genetics and genomics. This module will investigate both historical and modern approaches to genomics. It will reinforce analytical, evaluative and communication skills. The module will also enable students to research a topical issue in depth and present it and reflect on the topics studied and their application in biomedical practice.

Read full details

Medical Genetics

This module currently runs:
spring semester - Monday afternoon

(option, 15 credits)

Description: This module builds on the knowledge and understanding developed at level 4, through the module Cell and Molecular Biology. It will also be underpinned by topics covered in the module entitled “Molecular Biology”. In this module specific diseases will be used to illustrate genotype/phenotype relationships. The module will address the application of current knowledge to clinical practice in the NHS and will examine how a family with affected offspring, would be counselled.
The aims of this module are aligned with the qualification descriptors within the Quality Assurance Agency’s, Framework for Higher Education Qualifications. The module aims to help students develop their understanding of genetic mutations and how they relate to human disease. It will enable students to relate disease phenotype to mutations in gene products or aberrations in gene expression. The module develops an understanding of how human biology has been enriched through the huge increase of genetic data now available. The lectures and practicals enable students to appreciate how these data have allowed the development of novel therapeutic strategies, predictive testing and illustrate how an affected family may be counselled with respect to their inherited condition, in the UK NHS. This module aims to provide students with the qualities and transferable skills necessary for employment requiring: the exercise of initiative and personal responsibility; decision-making in complex and unpredictable contexts; and, the learning ability needed to undertake appropriate further training of a professional or equivalent nature.

Read full details

Sandwich Placement

This module currently runs:
all year (September start)

(option, 30 credits)

One year of work based learning. Work experience based full-time in an organisation with roles relevant to the academic programme of study and at an appropriate level of responsibility. Relevant organisations include; NHS, research, industrial and private medical laboratories. Learning would be driven by practical experience in the work place. Progress and development will be assessed against an agreed framework of objectives as defined in the learning agreement. For part-time students in appropriate employment they can complete the module over an extended period during their degree rather than take a year out.

The aims of this module are aligned with the qualification descriptors within the Quality Assurance Agency’s, Framework for Higher Education Qualifications.
The module aims to: Provide experience of the technical expertise, knowledge, pressures and opportunities within the context of the Scientific workplace; Increase awareness of the scope, structure and operation of the host organisation, from a career perspective; Develop generic competencies as outlined in the registration portfolio or work based learning portfolio; Maximize employeabilty by developing the student’s ability to work (at a certain threshold level) in a proffesional capacity.

This module aims to provide students with the qualities and transferable skills necessary for employment and registration with relevant professional bodies such as the HCPC.

Read full details

Virology

This module currently runs:
spring semester - Monday afternoon

(option, 15 credits)

This module will focus on the structure, genome and replication strategy of viruses, their role in disease, epidemiological factors that facilitate transmission and their control with antiviral drugs and vaccines.
This module aims to provide students the opportunity to study the genome classification, structure, function, and replication strategy of viruses using specific examples where appropriate. Students will explore virus-host interactions and will need to appreciate some of the epidemiological factors facilitating transmission and strategies for disease control. These control measures will include some consideration of human behaviour and animal husbandry, vaccination/immunisation and the use of antiviral drugs. Finally the applications of recombinant viruses in medicine and biotechnology will be introduced.

Read full details

Course details

In addition to the University's standard entry requirements, you should have:

  • a minimum of 112 points from three A levels including a B in Biology or Human Biology or from an equivalent Level 3 qualification eg BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma/Diploma, Advanced Diploma, Progression Diploma or Access to HE Diploma with 60 credits

If you don't have traditional qualifications or can't meet the entry requirements for this undergraduate degree, you may still be able to gain entry by completing our Biomedical Science (including foundation year) BSc (Hons).

Accelerated study

If you have relevant qualifications or credit from a similar course it may be possible to enter this course at an advanced stage rather than beginning in the first year. Please note, advanced entry is only available for September start. See our information for students applying for advanced entry.

Accreditation of Prior Learning

Any university-level qualifications or relevant experience you gain prior to starting university could count towards your course at London Met. Find out more about applying for Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL).

English language requirements

To study a degree at London Met, you must be able to demonstrate proficiency in the English language. If you require a Student visa you may need to provide the results of a Secure English Language Test (SELT) such as Academic IELTS. This course requires you to meet our higher requirements.

If you need (or wish) to improve your English before starting your degree, the University offers a Pre-sessional Academic English course to help you build your confidence and reach the level of English you require.

You'll be assessed through self-diagnostic testing, debates, group work, essays and cumulative exams.

Your practical skills will be assessed through coursework assignments, including those in the final project module.

Your data handling skills will be assessed through practical reports, problem-solving exercises, information abstracting and reviewing exercises, poster presentations, exams and seminar presentations.

While studying this course, you can become an eStudent of the Institute of Biomedical Science. On graduation, you'll be eligible to apply for Licentiate Membership.

Many graduates go on to careers in hospital and private medical laboratories as healthcare assistants, phlebotomists and biomedical scientists. Previous students have found work with companies such as NHS pathology laboratories and The Doctors Laboratory.

Other possible career paths include management, medical research, education and specialised laboratory work. The skills you'll learn are also applicable to public health (water, foodstuffs, disease surveillance etc), veterinary laboratories, blood banks, forensics and pharmaceuticals development.

You can also use this course as an entry point into the competitive world of graduate medical studies and go on to MSc and PhD studies. Together with further studies, this course serves as a great entry point to the newly emerging role of physician associate.

If you study your undergraduate degree with us, as a graduate of London Met, you'll be entitled to a 20% discount on a postgraduate course if you continue your studies with us.
* exclusions apply

Please note, in addition to the tuition fee there may be additional costs for things such as equipment, materials, printing, textbooks, trips or professional body fees.

Additionally, there may be other activities that are not formally part of your course and not required to complete your course, but which you may find helpful (for example, optional field trips). The costs of these are additional to your tuition fee and the fees set out above and will be notified when the activity is being arranged.

Discover Uni – key statistics about this course

Discover Uni is an official source of information about university and college courses across the UK. The widget below draws data from the corresponding course on the Discover Uni website, which is compiled from national surveys and data collected from universities and colleges. If a course is taught both full-time and part-time, information for each mode of study will be displayed here.

How to apply

If you're a UK applicant wanting to study full-time starting in September, you must apply via UCAS unless otherwise specified. If you're an international applicant wanting to study full-time, you can choose to apply via UCAS or directly to the University.

If you're applying for part-time study, you should apply directly to the University. If you require a Student visa, please be aware that you will not be able to study as a part-time student at undergraduate level.

When to apply

The University and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) accepts applications for full-time courses starting in September from one year before the start of the course. Our UCAS institution code is L68.

If you will be applying direct to the University you are advised to apply as early as possible as we will only be able to consider your application if there are places available on the course.

To find out when teaching for this degree will begin, as well as welcome week and any induction activities, view our academic term dates.

Are you from outside the UK? Find out how to apply from your home country

Find out more

News and success stories