Program Overview

Biomedical Science

BSc (Hons)

Overview

The Biomedical Science degree at Oxford Brookes University is designed to equip students with a broad understanding of disease causes and treatment, as well as specific skills for the 21st century. The course is accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS) and is recognized by the NHS.

Course Details

Course Structure

The course is divided into four years, with the option of taking a sandwich year in a relevant professional role. The first year focuses on core modules, including cell biology and genetics, human structure and function, and introduction to biochemistry. The second year builds on these foundations, with modules on biochemistry of cell function, molecular biology, research methods for healthcare sciences, cellular pathology, microbiology, genetics, and haematology and immunology.

Learning and Teaching

Teaching and learning methods include lectures, practicals, tutorials, and seminars. The course also includes a variety of assessment methods, such as essays, reviews, exams, laboratory notebooks, scientific reports, posters, and oral presentations.

Study Modules

• Year 1:
  • Cell Biology and Genetics
  • Human Structure and Function
  • Introduction to Biochemistry A
  • Introduction to Biochemistry B
  • Scientific Skills
  • Professional and Experimental Skills
• Year 2:
  • Biochemistry of Cell Function
  • Molecular Biology
  • Research Methods for Healthcare Sciences
  • Cellular Pathology
  • Microbiology
  • Genetics
  • Haematology and Immunology
• Year 3 (optional placement year):
  • Professional Placement (only for 4-year sandwich mode)
• Year 4 (or year 3 if no placement):
  • Molecular Biology
  • Research Project
  • Infection, Immunity and Immunology
  • Clinical Biochemistry and Pharmacology
  • Genomic Medicine
  • Optional modules:
    • Neuroscience
    • Advanced Genetics and Genomics
    • Human Genetic Disease
    • Molecular Biology of Cancer
    • Evidence-Based Medicine and Diagnostics
    • Advances in Bioscience Research
    • Professional Skills and Techniques
    • Molecular Medicine

Careers

The Biomedical Science degree prepares students for a career at the cutting edge of biomedical science. Many graduates have gone on to work in biological, clinical, pharmaceutical, or medical areas. Popular roles include biomedical scientist, biochemist, biotechnologist, medical research scientist, lab technician, forensic scientist, clinical research associate, and microbiologist.

Entry Requirements

• Standard offer: UCAS Tariff Points: 104-120, A Level: BCC-BBB, IB Points: 29, BTEC: DMM-DDM
• Contextual offer: UCAS Tariff Points: 88-96, A Level: CCD-CCC, IB Points: 27, BTEC: MMM
• Specific entry requirements: A Level or comparable Level 3 qualification in a science subject
• English language requirements: Please see the University's standard English language requirements

Tuition Fees

• Home (UK) full-time: £9,535 (2025/26), £9,535* (2026/27)
• Home (UK) part-time: £1,190 per single module (2025/26), £1,910 per single module* (2026/27)
• Home (UK) sandwich (placement): £1,700 (2025/26), £1,905 (2026/27)
• International full-time: £17,750 (2025/26), £18,250 (2026/27)
• International sandwich (placement): £1,700 (2025/26), £1,905 (2026/27)

Additional Costs

• Basic personal protection equipment for laboratory practical classes (lab coat: £27, safety glasses: a few pounds)