BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science

Tuition Fee

GBP 14,900

Per year

Start Date

2025-09-01

Medium of studying

On campus

Duration

36 months

Program Facts

About Program

About University

Admission Requirements

Ambassadors

Gallery

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Program Facts

Program Details

Degree

Bachelors

Major

Biomedical Sciences | Health Administration | Medical Technology

Area of study

Education

Education type

On campus

Timing

Full time

Course Language

English

Tuition Fee

Average International Tuition Fee

GBP 14,900

Intakes

Program start date	Application deadline
2025-09-01	-
2026-09-01	-

About Program

Program Overview

Course Overview

Our degree is accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS), ensuring it provides you with the necessary background, knowledge, and skills to pursue your career as a biomedical scientist upon graduation. IBMS accreditation also means that your programme covers all elements that satisfy the QAA benchmark statements for Biomedical Science degrees.

The course provides flexibility to explore areas of biology such as cell and molecular biology, clinical biochemistry, haematology, immunology, genetics, and medical microbiology. You’ll gain an in-depth understanding of the complex science behind the cause, consequence, diagnosis, and treatment of illnesses.

You’ll also delve deep into blood sciences and clinical biochemistry, giving you the opportunity to expand your knowledge of diagnostic approaches, researching clinical markers, screening techniques and the role biomedical scientists can play in saving lives and improving health.

In our brand-new laboratories, you’ll put theory into practice, building a sound knowledge of cellular pathology, genetics, the human immune system, and biochemical pathways.

Thanks to our close partnerships with local hospitals, you’ll also have access to valuable opportunities, including work experience, clinical expert talks, visits and early career support.

A biomedical science degree offers diverse career paths in research laboratories, pharmaceutical industries, healthcare settings, government agencies, or academia. You could also proceed to apply to Study Medicine at the Pears Cumbria School of Medicine.

On this course you will...

Develop an enthusiasm for biomedical sciences and be involved in stimulating and hands-on learning opportunities.
Be assigned a personal tutor who will not just be your academic point of contact on the course but will, along with our careers service, help you to consider the wide range of jobs and further study options a degree in biomed can give you.
Have the opportunity to be involved with other science students on other courses to get a wider appreciation of the biosciences in an industrial, academic, economic, and social context.
Get time in labs to conduct experiments and procedures planned for you. But also learn to plan and carry out your own experiments independently with support and guidance.
Be introduced to a network of employers to gain a real-world insight, find work experience opportunities and learn more about the plethora of doors that this course can unlock.
Gain a knowledge and skills base from which will help you move towards a career in biomedical sciences or postgraduate study.

Key Details

Recruiting to: UK / RoI / Settled in UK, EU / EEA / International
Course Location: Carlisle - Fusehill Street
Institute: Institute of Science and Environment
UCAS Code: C912
Delivery Style: Blended
Course Duration: Full-time: 3 Years
Study Options: Integrated Foundation Year
Course Start Point: September
Award: BSc (Hons)

Minimum entry requirements

112-120 UCAS Tariff points
GCSE English Language, Mathematics and Science at grade 4/C or above
Functional Skills Level 2 in English and Maths and Adult Literacy and Numeracy are also accepted

Tuition fees

£9,535 - UK
£14,900 - International

Course Structure

What you will learn

You will get an in-depth understanding of the complex science behind the cause, consequence, diagnosis and treatment of disease. You’ll learn how science can be applied to clinical practice and research, ultimately to make a difference to human lives through diagnosis and treatment of disease.

Our brand new laboratories will support you in getting a sound knowledge of cellular pathology, molecular genetics, the human immune system and biochemical pathways.

We’ll delve deep into blood sciences and the immune system, giving you the opportunity to also expand your knowledge in the fields such as clinical biochemistry researching clinical markers, screening techniques and diagnostic approaches.

Year one

Introductory Biochemistry
Cell Biology
Anatomy and Physiology
Introductory Immunology and Microbiology
Molecular Biology
Practical Laboratory Science

Year two

Exploring Research
Human Genetics
Infection and Immunity
Medical Microbiology
Pharmacology and Physiology
Cellular and Molecular Pathology

Year three

Integrated Biomedical Science
Clinical Biochemistry
Haematology and Transfusion Science
Dissertation module
Parasitology (Optional)
Toxicology (Optional)
Advanced Genetics (Optional)

Teaching & Assessment

How you will learn

The programme of teaching and learning is designed to enable you to demonstrate the attainment of the stated learning outcomes of the programme and assessment strategies are as such matched to these outcomes.

You will be supported in a progressive acquisition of subject knowledge and skills, gradually advancing towards more independent learning whilst developing a reflective approach to personal progress.

How you will be assessed

Within a balanced scheme, assessment methods will include:

Word exams
Time-constrained coursework
Short note class tests
Laboratory reports
Problem solving exercises (both of a practical and written format)
Critical analysis of case studies
Oral, audio-visual and poster presentations
Dissertations
Peer and self-assessment
Group work
Practical skills tests

Entry Requirements

104-120 UCAS Tariff Points
GCSE English Language, Mathematics and Science at grade 4/C or above
Functional Skills Level 2 in English and Maths and Adult Literacy and Numeracy are also accepted

Qualifications

A-levels: BBD - BBB to include Biology at C or above
T-levels: P (C+) – M. T Levels Healthcare Science; Health and Science are accepted for entry to this course
Access to HE: 30 credits at Distinction, 6 at Merit and 9 at Pass - Science based
CACHE Technical Level 3 and Level 3 Extended Diploma: B - Science based
OCR Cambridge Technical & Edexcel/Pearson BTEC Level 3 (National) Extended Diploma: MMM - DDM - to include Biology
Scottish Highers: BBBC – AABB to include Biology
Irish LC Highers: B1, B2x3 – A2, B1x3 to include Biology
Other experience: IELTS 7.0 with no less than 7.0 in each element for applicants where English Language is not their first language

Funding

We have a wide range of scholarships, bursaries, grants and funds available to support you throughout your studies with us. This includes the Cumbria Bursary - a non-repayable bursary designed to support first year students with a household income of less than £25,000.

Additional Costs

There will be some additional costs. For example all students will need to purchase stationery and may wish to purchase some text books. Extra costs may also be applicable to cover field trips, membership fees etc. although such features are usually options within the course.

Books are reviewed annually and are therefore subject to change, course welcome information will provide you with an indicative list for the year.

Books and Journals

Most core text books are available via the University's library, however students may wish to buy copies of any texts used to support your learning on your course. This could cost between £50 - £100 per year.

Stationery

Students should budget for stationery and consumables for your own personal use. This should include notebooks, pens and pencils for taking notes in class and/or in the field. Students should also budget for the purchase of USB pen drives, as well as occasional printing and photocopying costs incurred in the preparation or submission of coursework. Whilst you will choose how much you need, expect to pay around £30 - £40 per year for these items.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The BSc (Hons) Biomedical Sciences program at the University of Cumbria focuses on the study of human health, disease, and the development of life-saving medical therapies. It aims to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and inspiration to become biomedical scientists who can make a significant impact on patient care and contribute to groundbreaking research. The program is aligned with the educational standards set by the Institute of Biomedical Science, offering flexibility to explore various areas of biology based on student interests. This program is also a potential pathway to applying to Study Medicine at the Pears Cumbria School of Medicine.

Outline:

The program's content is designed to provide students with an in-depth understanding of the complex science behind the cause, consequence, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases. The curriculum includes a diverse range of modules covering essential aspects of biomedical sciences, including:

Year One:

Introductory Biochemistry: This module focuses on the key aspects of macromolecules, cell structure, function, and interrelationships.
Cell Biology: Students study the interactions between molecules and systems in eukaryotic cells, focusing on how cells control division and differentiation to form specialized tissues.
Anatomy and Physiology: This module provides a comprehensive understanding of basic human anatomy and physiology, with particular emphasis on the musculoskeletal, nervous, cardiovascular, and respiratory systems.
Introductory Immunology and Microbiology: This module introduces students to various groups of microbes, their structure, function, and roles.
Molecular Biology: This module covers the fundamental concepts of genetics and genetic analysis, focusing on the processes of inheritance and mutation and their relationship to disease onset and susceptibility.
Practical Laboratory Science: Students acquire the essential laboratory and research skills necessary to succeed in subsequent advanced modules.

Year Two:

Exploring Research: This module equips students with the skills required to conceive, design, conduct, and interpret scientific research.
Human Genetics: This module covers the organization of the human genome, the basis of genetic variation, and the relationship between mutations and disease phenotype.
Infection and Immunity: Students delve into recent developments in the study of immunological and infectious diseases, exploring how the immune system protects against different pathogens.
Medical Microbiology: This module examines the biology of major pathogens, their interactions with hosts, virulence factors, and methods for prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.
Pharmacology and Physiology: Students gain a detailed knowledge of human anatomy and physiology, focusing on the major body systems.
Cellular and Molecular Pathology: This module explores the role of molecular and cellular diagnosis in various pathological conditions, covering key processes involved in diagnosis, especially fixation mechanisms.

Year Three:

Bioethics: This module examines social and ethical issues in bioscience and provides knowledge on current public policy concerning the governance and regulation of developing technology.
Clinical Biochemistry: Students explore the principles of clinical biochemistry in relation to the diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring of disease.
Haematology and Transfusion Science: This module investigates the components of blood, differences between normal and diseased states, technology used in blood component identification, and the importance of transfusion science.
Dissertation Module: Students undertake an independent research project on a topic of their choice.
Parasitology (Optional): Students delve into major human and veterinary eukaryotic pathogens, gaining a deeper understanding of key concepts in parasitology.
Toxicology (Optional): This module focuses on the principles of toxicology, providing an in-depth understanding of the effects of toxic chemicals on the body and the environment.
Advanced Genetics (Optional): This module explores the application of molecular genetics to clinical diagnostics, microbial biotechnology, forensic science, and disease treatment, providing an overview of current biotechnological advances.

Assessment:

The program employs a variety of assessment methods to evaluate student learning, including:

Online tests
Time-constrained coursework
Short note class tests
Laboratory reports
Problem-solving exercises
Critical analysis of case studies
Oral, audio-visual, and poster presentations
Dissertations
Peer and self-assessment
Group work
Practical skills tests

Teaching:

The teaching and learning approach is designed to support students in progressively acquiring subject knowledge and skills. The curriculum emphasizes independent learning and encourages students to develop a reflective approach to their personal progress. Key considerations include:

A clear appreciation of the scientific approach
The knowledge, skills, and capacities needed for employment or further study
Engaging and enriching learning experiences that are both enjoyable and intellectually stimulating.

Careers:

A biomedical science degree offers diverse career paths in various settings, including:

Research Laboratories: Biomedical scientists can work in research labs, conducting experiments, analyzing data, and contributing to the development of new treatments and technologies.
Pharmaceutical Industries: Careers in the pharmaceutical industry involve research and development, testing, and quality control of drugs and other medical products.
Healthcare Settings: Biomedical scientists play a vital role in hospitals and other healthcare facilities, performing diagnostic tests, analyzing samples, and contributing to patient care.
Government Agencies: Careers in government agencies often involve research, regulation, and policy development related to public health and safety.
Academia: Biomedical scientists can pursue careers in academia, teaching, conducting research, and mentoring future generations of scientists.

Other:

The program emphasizes practical experience, with opportunities for work experience, clinical expert talks, visits, and early intelligence about job opportunities. It also fosters collaboration among students from different science courses to broaden their understanding of the biosciences in various contexts, including industrial, academic, economic, and social.

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Tuition Fees