Looking at studying a degree in a life sciences subject? You’ve come to the right place, as there are plenty of reasons why you should study it right here in Birmingham. Read on to find out just some of them.
Innovative laboratory environments
We are the first university in the UK to install a Zeiss microscope system in our life sciences laboratories. Zeiss is a state-of-the-art system that connects to our IT network and displays live images from under the microscope, allowing you to take samples and accurate measurements of microorganisms and human cells. Zeiss can be accessed via our iPads and large screens, which gives you a new and innovative way to share and discuss microscopy images.
In addition to this, our life sciences labs are well equipped with modern technology that is used for working with and teaching molecular biology. There is also next generation DNA sequencing equipment for those who are interested completing projects in genomics.
Employment opportunities
After you graduate, you’ll be surrounded by a wealth of opportunities in the city, so there’s no need to worry about moving away!
University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust is recognised as one of the leading NHS trusts in the UK and employs more than 20,000 members of staff, meaning there are large prospects for employment there. As well as hospitals, community hospitals, and GP surgeries within Birmingham and Solihull, there are also referral centres for specialist services within other local and national trusts.
We’re also home to laboratories that are recognised for training by the Health and Care Professions Council, the Royal College of Pathologists, the Association for Clinical Biochemistry, and the Institute of Biomedical Sciences.
Graduates have gone on to do a range of different roles or have gone into further postgraduate training and study. These careers include working as medical laboratory assistants, trainee biomedical scientists, physician associates, research assistants and research technicians, marketing assistants and medical and scientific representatives, as well as working in clinical trials for drug companies.
Placements and trips
Our life science courses offer you the chance to complete a placement during modules or in a sandwich year. Some of our biomedical science students have even gone on to complete their placement here at BCU within the laboratories as associate technicians, whilst others have worked with Future Genetics, a non-profit research company.
We’re home to the HELS Go Abroad initiative, which has seen our students travel across the world to undertake work-related opportunities in countries such as South Korea, USA, and Vietnam.
You will also have the opportunity to go on plenty of trips and visits to relevant places, such as Queen Elizabeth Hospital, home to the largest critical care unit in Europe.
Satisfied students
Students on our life science courses often share their study and life experiences with us in the form of blog posts, giving you a further insight into what the courses entail, and why you should choose to study at Birmingham and BCU. Read more about them here:
Life Science Courses
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