Biomedical Science - BSc (Hons) *
Currently viewing course to start in 2025/26 Entry. Switch to 2024/25 Entry
Gain a fascinating insight into human life processes, and the health of the human population with our practice-based IBMS-accredited degree in Biomedical Science, designed to provide you with the knowledge, and practical and analytical skills needed to pursue a variety of Biomedical Science careers.
- Level Undergraduate
- Study mode Full Time
- Location City South
- Award BSc (Hons)
- Start date September 2025
- Fees View course fees
- School School of Health Sciences
- Faculty Faculty of Health, Education and Life Sciences
This course is:
Open to International Students
Overview
Biomedical scientists use their expertise to develop a whole range of health interventions from testing novel antibacterial drugs through to understanding how we can age healthily. I want to do something that's going to help our future in science. My dissertation is basically about how bacteria is becoming resistant to the antibiotics and we're trying to find new cures and new ways to treat that bacteria. Our tutor took us from where we didn't know anything about the project and he guided us right through making the models, making the wound fluid. It's like you're challenging yourself in the science department as well as your other skills like critical thinking, problem solving.
Biomedical engineers develop devices that are key to detection, diagnosis and treatment of individual conditions so we can develop technological interventions that really benefit someone's life. In the first year we did more engineering in general. In the second semester last year we did ECGs labs and taking your pulse and basically recording with sensors and that was awesome. I've always had a massive interest in prosthetics, specifically bionic limbs. I found that this course would be something that was really beneficial to me in learning more about that and making it able to further my understanding and my enjoyment of the course. We've also had a variety of guest lectures coming from the industry, specifically from the NHS and other medical device companies. Honestly it has been great, I have my friends at uni and we always support each other, either on the assignments and outside of uni as well which is really nice to have that kind of people around you. I love BCU, I've definitely changed, I've become more confident. We don't feel we're going alone for university, we feel like we've got friends and people we can turn to and have a chat to which is really beneficial to us as we look to move forward into our next steps. It definitely makes you feel like part of the department and part of the team.
Gain a fascinating insight into human life processes, and the health of the human population with our practice-based IBMS-accredited degree in Biomedical Science, designed to provide you with the knowledge, and practical and analytical skills needed to pursue a variety of Biomedical Science careers.
Accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS), our practice-led degree offers a fascinating insight into human life processes, as well as disease and health within the human population. You will develop a range of practical and analytical skills using our state-of-the-art life sciences labs. Our aim is to equip you with the skills and knowledge needed to progress into a variety of Biomedical Science careers.
If your goal is to work within the NHS as a Biomedical Scientist, completion of an IBMS-accredited degree will mean you can apply for trainee Biomedical Scientist roles. You could then go on to complete the IBMS registration training portfolio, which is a pre-requisite for full qualification in this role and potential registration with the Health and Care Professions Council.
What's covered in this course?
Biomedical Science embraces a range of disciplines, including clinical biochemistry, human molecular genetics, cell biology, infection and immunity, and blood science. These subjects are of immense importance in healthcare provision and medical research, as well as underpinning the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries.
On this course you will learn how the human body functions during health and disease, and develop an understanding of the diagnosis, management, and treatment of a range of diseases. Throughout the programme you will gain important practical and scientific skills, developed by learning in our state-of-the-art life sciences laboratories where you will use industry standard equipment.
In the final year you will complete an independent research project under the guidance of one of our academic staff, providing you with the opportunity to consolidate your learning on the course.
When you graduate, a range of careers are open to you as well as the option for further postgraduate training and study. These careers include medical laboratory assistant, trainee biomedical scientist, conducting clinical trials for drug companies, research assistant and research technician, marketing assistant and medical and scientific sales representative. You could also use your qualification to progress into teaching, or undertake postgraduate study to obtain Master’s, Physician Associate/Assistant or PhD qualifications. Exceptional graduates may be able to progress into postgraduate entry Medicine or Dentistry courses.
You will be taught by our team of specialist academic staff who have a wealth of industry, clinical and research experience and will provide the expertise to support your learning throughout the course. We encourage a collaborative culture, so students feel able to seek support and guidance from academic and support staff and you will have the opportunity to contribute to the ongoing development of the course as part of the biomedical science community at the University.
Why Choose Us?
- Taught by expert academic staff with a range of experience from the biotechnology industry, clinical sciences, education, and research.
- Work in our well-equipped teaching laboratories and develop a broad range of skills that will prepare you for a career in the Life Sciences and beyond.
- Get involved in our cutting-edge research, and work alongside our research staff on an independent project in the final year.
- Apply for a travel scholarship as part of our Go Abroad scheme to carry out exciting work placements overseas.
Open Days
Join us for an on-campus Open Day where you'll be able to learn about this course in detail, chat to students, explore our campus and tour accommodation.
Next Open Day: 19 October 2024
Entry Requirements
These entry requirements apply for entry in 2025/26.
All required qualifications/grades must have been achieved and evidenced at the earliest opportunity after accepting an offer to help confirm admission and allow for on-time enrolment. This can also include other requirements, like a fee status form and relevant documents. Applicants can track their application and outstanding information requests through their BCU mySRS account.
Essential requirements
112 UCAS Tariff points. Learn more about UCAS Tariff points.
Please note: If you qualify for our BCU Accelerate scheme, you could receive an offer that is two grades below our normal entry requirements. Find out more about BCU Accelerate.
If you have a qualification that is not listed, please contact us.
Fees & How to Apply
UK students
Annual and modular tuition fees shown are applicable to the first year of study. The University reserves the right to increase fees for subsequent years of study in line with increases in inflation (capped at 5%) or to reflect changes in Government funding policies or changes agreed by Parliament. View fees for continuing students.
Award: BSc (Hons)
Starting: Sep 2025
- Mode
- Duration
- Fees
- Full Time
- 3 years
- £9,250 in 2025/26
- Apply via UCAS
International students
Annual and modular tuition fees shown are applicable to the first year of study. The University reserves the right to increase fees for subsequent years of study in line with increases in inflation (capped at 5%) or to reflect changes in Government funding policies or changes agreed by Parliament. View fees for continuing students.
Award: BSc (Hons)
Starting: Sep 2025
- Mode
- Duration
- Fees
- Full Time
- 3 years
- £17,690 in 2025/26
Guidance for UK/EU students
UK and EU students applying for most undergraduate degree courses in the UK will need to apply through UCAS.
The Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) is a UK organisation responsible for managing applications to university and college.
Applying through UCAS
Register with UCAS
Login to UCAS
Complete your details
Select your course
Write a personal statement
Get a reference
Pay your application fee
Send UCAS your application
Guidance for International students
There are three ways to apply:
1) Direct to the University
You will need to complete our International Application Form and Equal Opportunities Form, and submit them together with scan copies of your original academic transcripts and certificates.
2) Through a country representative
Our in-country representatives can help you make your application and apply for a visa. They can also offer advice on travel, living in the UK and studying abroad.
3) Through UCAS
If you are applying for an undergraduate degree or a Higher National Diploma (HND), you can apply through the UK’s Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS).
You can request a printed form from your school or nearest British Council office. You will be charged for applying through UCAS. Birmingham City University’s UCAS code is B25 BCITY.
Personal statement
Your personal statement is a highly important part of your application. It gives you a crucial opportunity to say why you’re applying and why the institution should accept you.
Here are the key areas you’ll need to address:
Course choice
Why does this course appeal? What areas are of particular interest?
Career plans
If you have a specific career in mind, say how your chosen course will help you pursue this goal.
Work experience
Mention any work that is relevant to your subject, highlighting the skills and experience gained.
School or college experience
Highlight skills gained at school/college, eg summer schools or mentoring activities.
Non-accredited skills or achievement
eg Duke of Edinburgh Award, Young Enterprise scheme.
You should also mention your future plans – if you’re planning to take a year out, don't forget to give your reasons. Talk about any subjects you’re studying that don’t have a formal assessment and any sponsorships or placements you’ve applied for. And don't be scared to add in details about your social, sports or leisure interests.
Get more information on writing personal statements.
Course in Depth
Year One
In order to complete this course, you must successfully complete all the following CORE modules (totalling 120 credits).
Biochemistry is the study of the fundamental chemical and molecular reactions that occur within living organisms. The aim of this module is to introduce you to structure/function relationships of key biological molecules, as well as the fundamental biochemical reactions that occur within the human body. The module is delivered in 5 broad themes covering:
- properties of water, pH and buffers
- nucleic acid structure and function
- protein structure and function
- carbohydrates and lipids
- enzymes and metabolism
As well as learning fundamental concepts and theory in biochemistry, you will develop a range of practical skills with relevance to a range of careers in life sciences too.
You will be taught through a series of lectures, interactive workshops, and laboratory classes. Labs will cover methods of protein isolation and purification, protein separation and detection by SDS-PAGE and Western blotting, as well as methods for measuring enzymatic activity. You will learn how to analyse, interpret, and present the data you obtain in the lab.
Cell and molecular biology are key disciplines within the biosciences. This module will introduce you to the ‘cell’ as a fundamental unit of life. You will learn about cell structure and function in the context of the tissue that cells belong to, protein synthesis and trafficking, cell communication and cell signalling, the cell cycle and programmed cell-death, and the significance of stem cells.
In this module you will also learn the fundamentals of genetics and molecular biology. You will learn about the structure and function of genes, genome organisation, gene expression and its regulation, and patterns of inheritance.
In this module you will be taught a range of fundamental scientific skills that you will apply and develop across the course. You will embark on a range of instructional and investigative laboratory practical's designed to introduce you to scientific instruments that are commonly used in biology labs.
During these experiments you will generate your own data, which you will be shown how to analyse appropriately. When generating any kind of data, it is important that replicate measurements are taken to ensure that the results are reproducible, and that the methodologies and technologies used to generate the data are reliable and consistent and this will be discussed in the module.
You will be taught to apply basic scientific numeracy and data handling skills, and how to write using scientific conventions. These skills will be further developed as you process from the degree course.
This module will introduce you to the structure (anatomy) and function (physiology) of the adult human body. It aims to provide you with a solid grounding into the cells, tissues and organs that allow the different organ systems to function effectively, so that you can understand the pathophysiology resulting from dysfunction.
The pivotal concept of this module is homeostasis, the control mechanisms that ensure optimal functioning of the body in different conditions. You will build upon many of the concepts learned in the biochemistry, and cell and molecular biology modules, to develop a holistic understanding of body (dys)function. This will then be further explored in later modules, including cellular pathology and pathophysiology, and Integrated studies.
Pharmacology is the science of drugs and their effect on living systems. First defined in the 19th century, pharmacology began with studies of the biological effects of naturally occurring compounds. In more recent times, advancements in synthetic chemistry led to a revolution in the pharmaceutical industry, and in the science of pharmacology itself. These advancements have allowed the pharmaceutical industry to grow into a major contributor to the world’s economy, with estimates the industry is worth over £1000 billion annually, and employs over 70,000 people in the UK alone.
This module introduces you to the world of microbiology. The diversity of microorganisms, their habitats and relationships with humans will be explored. This module examines the properties of microorganisms, their structures and compositions and their interactions with the human body in health and disease. You will learn about how we grow different microorganisms, their classification and identification. You will be taught different methods of sterilisation, aseptic techniques, and their applications in clinical and industrial contexts. You will learn about the role of the microbiome in health and disease, showing how it can be manipulated to manage a range of clinical conditions. Towards the end of the module, you will also learn about the strategies used by pathogens to circumvent the body’s defences and how they cause damage to the host, resulting the symptoms associated with each pathogen. Finally, you will be given an introduction into viruses, fungi, and parasites.
Year Two
In order to complete this course, you must successfully complete all the following CORE modules (totalling 120 credits).
Blood sciences or this case haematology and transfusion science are important disciplines within Biomedical Science and are a crucial part of medical and health care services. This module will provide you with an introduction to the components of human blood, the functions of the different cell types, and the disorders that affect them. You will also learn about the techniques used for the diagnosis and monitoring of blood disorders, the interpretation of clinical and laboratory data, and the essential features of modern clinical and laboratory haematology.
You will learn aspects of immunology and antibody production, inflammation, haemoglobin disorders, and blood cancers (leukaemia’s and lymphomas). In addition, you will learn about blood transfusion science and organ transplantation, and the safety measures associated with the storage of blood products.
Clinical biochemistry is concerned with the biochemical processes that occur within our bodies. As a discipline within Biomedical Science, it plays an important role in the prevention, diagnosis, and management and treatment of disease. Biochemical measurements can be performed on a range of clinical specimens and used to identify any abnormal functioning of the organs of the body. Clinical biochemistry may be used to investigate kidney, liver, heart, thyroid, and endocrine function for example, and the module will feedforward into the pathophysiology and cellular pathology modules in semester 2.
This module will introduce you to the underlying biochemistry of a range of different diseases, and the biochemical methods that can be used to investigate them. The module will include new point of care testing methods, and you will learn about the importance of quality assurance in the clinical biochemistry laboratory. You will also explore the role of clinical laboratories in therapeutic drug monitoring, and in detecting drugs of abuse.
This module will build upon the level 4 Microbiology module and introduce you to the anatomy and function of the immune system and immunopathology. In the medical microbiology section, we will introduce you to key pathogenic microorganisms and how they cause disease. Indicative topics will include epidemiology, virology, skin infections, GI tract infections, CNS infections, respiratory tract infections, UTI and STD infections. As some infections can be life-threatening, one of the critical issues in clinical microbiology is the speed of reporting diagnostic test results. Therefore, you will review how cutting-edge, time-saving techniques are beginning to replace traditional culture-based methods.
You will also examine mechanisms of antibiotic resistance, antibiotic-sensitivity testing and antimicrobial stewardship strategies. The immunology section will introduce topics such as inflammation, innate and adaptive immunity, microbial defence mechanisms, antigen processing and presentation, antibody structure and function and complement. An overview of immune pathology will be provided in preparation for the 3rd year Clinical Immunology module.
Pathophysiology is the study of abnormalities and disturbances of normal physiological functions, caused or resulting from diseases and conditions, in living beings. The four components of pathophysiology; aetiology (causes), pathogenesis (process in which a disease develops, clinical manifestations (visible or detectable signs and symptoms) and treatment implications will be considered for several diseases and conditions.
The module will start with an understanding of the global burden of disease. Then you will be taught pathophysiology at the cellular level, including cell injury, aging and death, and inflammation. There will then be a focus on alterations caused by diseases and conditions in cardiac function, respiratory function, kidney function, gastro-intestinal tract, and neurological function.
This module will cover key professional skills that Biomedical Scientists are expected to demonstrate in the workplace. Quality assurance is an essential function of any medical laboratory, and you will be introduced to Quality Assurance in Biomedical Science. You will learn about accreditation of medical laboratories, the role of UKAS and the application of relevant ISO standards. You will be taught about quality management systems, roles and responsibilities, audits, SOPS, competency, and training records, CPD, non-compliance reporting and root cause analysis. You will then apply your knowledge of quality assurance in subsequent modules in the course.
In addition to this, you will develop professional and transferable skills, that are widely applicable across the course, and in a broad range of careers. We will support you in refinement of critical thinking, and literature searching, as well as communication of science to both expert and lay audiences.
In this module you will explore the various types of research that are conducted in the Biosciences. You will learn how to find, read, and interpret scientific publications, and how to use existing research to form new and exciting research hypothesis. You will also learn about the legal, ethical and safety issues that surround different types of research in biomedical sciences too. We will introduce you to bioinformatics and other forms of big data that drive many new advances in healthcare and policy.
Final Year
In order to complete this course, you must successfully complete all the following CORE modules (totalling 100 credits).
In this module you will complete a substantial piece of independent research, with the guidance and supervision of an academic member of staff.
The module will provide you with an authentic experience of how scientific information is reviewed, and how novel information is acquired, analysed, and presented. You will be involved in the initial planning of the project, the continual project development, and be responsible for the communication of the research findings. It is an opportunity to apply the theoretical, research, and academic skills that have been acquired throughout the programme to answer novel questions. The project enables you to demonstrate initiative and creativity in your approaches to examining a specific problem or question. A range of project types are available to enable you to meet the learning outcomes; these may include laboratory-based and non-laboratory-based data collection, bioinformatics, questionnaire- based studies, or systematic reviews that are hypothesis driven and include an element of statistical analysis.
This module aims to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of a broad range of advanced immunology topics. The module will build on the foundation of immunology knowledge provided in the 2nd year of the course, layering over clinical elements including the dysfunctional immune system and the aetiology of immune-mediated disease. You will review the ‘bench-to-bedside’ approach that underpins advancements in immune-biotechnology, and will evaluate the principles of antibody engineering, vaccine development, and immunotherapeutic strategies. An understanding of current laboratory techniques applicable to clinical immunology services is provided in the form of workshops and practical sessions.
In recent years, the fields of genomics, transcriptomics, and proteomics have reshaped the landscape of biological and biomedical research. This has not only deepened our understanding of fundamental biological mechanisms but has also paved the way for groundbreaking applications in personalised medicine, disease diagnostics, and the development of targeted therapies.
In this module you will develop an in depth understanding how genomics, transcriptomics and proteomics have contributed to our understanding of a range of diseases and is transforming the diagnosis and clinical management of disease. You will explore the principles and applications of personalised medicine, emphasising the role of human molecular genetics in tailoring medical treatments to individual patients. This will be supported with recent case studies, providing insightful illustrations of real-world scenarios, and offering recommendations for both diagnosis and treatment of disease
In this module you will explore a range of human diseases through the interdisciplinary study of cellular pathology, clinical biochemistry, clinical immunology, haematology and transfusion science, clinical genetics, and medical microbiology.
The module will provide you with a holistic understanding of the biomedical sciences by integrating and applying these various disciplines to analyse and solve complex clinical case studies. This would include an understanding of the pathophysiology, diagnosis, treatment, and clinical management of disease. One of these case studies will be a simulated laboratory investigation of a clinical case, to provide you with an authentic experience of the workplace environment.
In order to complete this course, you must successfully complete at least 20 credits from the following indicative list of OPTIONAL modules.
All core modules are guaranteed to run. Optional modules will vary from year to year and the published list is indicative only.
Globally, it is estimated there will be 2 billion people over the age of 60 by 2050. In the UK, around 18.2% of the population were aged 65 years or over at mid-2017, compared with 15.9% in 2007; this is projected to grow to 20.7% by 2027. This presents new and challenging issues in healthcare making it vitally important to understand how to manage the complexities of ageing. Many chronic diseases have age as a major risk factor, for example, in the UK women aged 65-74 are five times more likely to have COPD than those under 35, and men ten are times more likely.
In this module you will explore the concept of ageing and its clinical importance. You will look at the physiological changes that occur in the body as we age and the pathophysiology of chronic diseases. To help with this you will have the opportunity to learn about and gain experience in utilising some of the clinical tests that are employed to diagnose diseases associated with ageing. The aim is to develop an understanding of the ageing process and be able to provide ideas on how it may be possible to help people age more healthily.
Within the last decade, outbreaks and epidemics on the global scale have been experienced. These include the Middle East Respiratory Virus (MERS), Ebola, the Zika virus, SARS-CoV-2, Monkey pox and the 2022 hepatitis epidemics. From the 2023 WHO Health Statistics Report, 1.3 million new cases of HIV were recorded in 2022 alongside 10.6 million cases of tuberculosis and 1.65 billion cases of neglected tropical diseases. The socioeconomic burden of infectious diseases globally is huge and recent experiences with epidemics and the COVID-19 pandemic has revealed the fragility of health systems globally as well as significant global healthcare inequities.
Download course specification
Download nowHow you'll learn
Our teaching philosophy is focused on enabling students to progress as self-directed learners. You will be encouraged to investigate, to be creative and enterprising, and to think critically about the current and future global challenges faced by modern day scientists. These attributes will be developed within independent subject modules, overseen by a dedicated team of scientists with teaching and research expertise covering the whole range of biomedical sciences disciplines.
You'll be exposed to a number of different teaching and learning styles, as well as a range of assessment types. You will also be able to influence your learning pathway by choosing from a choice of optional modules in your second and final years of study.’
Employability
Enhancing your employability skills
We'll develop you into a work-ready graduate. Employability skills are embedded throughout the programme that will enable you to succeed in careers in science, and which are transferable across a variety of graduate careers
You will also have access to the University's Graduate+ programme which will provide you with opportunities to engage in extracurricular activities that will help to expand your employability attributes. There are modules in the programme that provide you with opportunities to develop employability skills on work placements or as part of research-focused projects.
International
Birmingham City University is a vibrant and multicultural university in the heart of a modern and diverse city. We welcome many international students every year – there are currently students from more than 80 countries among our student community.
The University is conveniently placed, with Birmingham International Airport nearby and first-rate transport connections to London and the rest of the UK.
Our international pages contain a wealth of information for international students who are considering applying to study here, including:
- Details of the entry requirements for our courses
- Some of the good reasons why you should study here
- How to improve your language skills before starting your studies
- Information relevant to applicants from your country
- Where to find financial support for your studies.
Facilities & Staff
We have invested over £400 million in our facilities, including an upgrade to our Skills and Simulation facilities at City South Campus. We boast up-to-date, innovative facilities that simulate the real situations that you may come across in the workplace. These resources are essential in offering you a hands-on introduction to health and social care practice.
Biomechanics Laboratory
Our biomechanics laboratory features pressure plates in the floor and cameras mounted at the side. Sensors linked to a computer are used to record motion, evaluate people’s movements and analyse gait.
Nutrition Science Kitchen
Our kitchen has several workstations to allow you to wash, prepare and cook food. There are multi-coloured chopping boards (following food hygiene standard regulations) and a range of utensils and appliances. This space is used by a range of courses including Dietetics, Secondary Design and Technology and Sport. You may use this room to prepare certain meals for teaching basic cooking or baking skills to school children and exploring nutritional education, or protein high recipes for athletes to support their training and fitness regime.
Microbiology Laboratory
The lab is equipped with modern equipment for teaching the molecular biology techniques that underpin modern clinical and research labs such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR) machines and a variety of cell-analysis and cell-culture tools. The department also has DNA sequencing equipment.
Bioscience Laboratory
Our purpose-built bioscience laboratory features a range of specialist equipment to support your studies, including Zeiss PrimoStar microscopes.
Nutrition Science Research Laboratory
This laboratory is used by staff or students doing specific projects such as analysing the chemistry of food in the later stages of their degree.
Skills Classroom
This room can be used to practise a variety of skills but is primarily home to our Anatomage tables. An Anatomage table allows you to investigate anatomy digitally, from organs and muscles to skeletal forms and blood flow, the software includes real-life MRI scan data to help you develop your understanding of anatomy.
Our staff
Dr James Barnett
Senior Lecturer (Biomedical Sciences)
James graduated from the University of Sheffield in 2000 with a BSc (Hons) in Biochemistry and Genetics. James’ first graduate job was at The Binding Site Ltd, where he was employed as a technician In the monoclonal antibodies department. James later embarked on a research career, and in 2002 joined the group of Professor Colin Robinson in the Dept...
More about JamesDr Chris Hartley
Lecturer in Biomedical Sciences
Dr Hartley completed a BSc in Sports and Exercise Science at the University of Leeds before working for an orthopaedic company. Whilst working he completed an MSc in Biomechanics at Manchester Metropolitan University. Chris completed his PhD at Loughborough University, investigating ‘the effect of high impact exercise on markers of bone and joint...
More about ChrisDr Irmgard Haussmann
Associate Professor in Health Sciences
Irmgard is an Associate Professor in Health Sciences and teaches at undergraduate and postgraduate level. In her role as Director of Postgraduate Research Degrees for Life and Sport she leads all aspects of recruitment and student experiences for PhD Life and Sport Sciences.
More about IrmgardManoher Singh
Lecturer in Biomedical Sciences
Manoher Singh, a dedicated Lecturer in Biomedical Sciences at Birmingham City University since 2019, brings a wealth of experience from teaching across secondary, further, and higher education sectors. With a solid background in scientific research, Manoher has notably contributed to developing an ELISA assay at the University of Birmingham and...
More about ManoherDr Alexander Robinson
Lecturer in Biomedical Sciences
Alex graduated from the University of Sunderland in 1997 with a BSc (Hons) in Pharmacology. He then went on to complete a MSc in Clinical Pharmacology at the University of Aberdeen in 1998, and then attained a PhD in Molecular Pharmacology from Nottingham Trent University, graduating in 2003.
More about Alexander