Program Overview

Applied Biomedical Science, BSc (Hons) - Degree Apprenticeship

Overview

Our Applied Biomedical Science degree is accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS). You'll study health and disease and learn how the human body functions during normal and diseased states.

Course Details

• Attendance: Full-time
• Campus: Preston Campus
• Start: September 2025
• Duration: 3 years
• Delivery: Blended learning

Why Study with Us

• We tailor learning to prepare you for a career in the NHS. You'll be guaranteed work placements in NHS pathology laboratories. This will allow you to complete a portfolio to achieve HCPC registration.
• Taught by internationally-recognised research-active scientists and biomedical scientists.
• Our Biomedical Science course ranked 1st in the North West for graduate prospects. (Complete University Guide 2022).

Important Information

• This course is only available to UK students.

Course Structure

Year 1

• Fundamentals of Biosciences
  • Module code: BL1011
  • The aim of this module is to introduce you to the science behind biology. You'll learn about the molecular biology of the cell through to the level of the whole organism. You'll also gain theoretical knowledge and practical experience of common biological techniques.
• Essential Skills in Biosciences
  • Module code: BL1012
  • Introducing you to the concepts of chemistry as well as the relevant mathematical manipulations. You will develop your knowledge in literature searching, the application of databases, scientific communication, ethics, and health and safety. You will also get the necessary knowledge and skills to support the understanding of biosciences as a discipline and a profession.
• Biosciences in Practice
  • Module code: BL1013
  • The module introduces the professional roles in biosciences. You will study different disciplines within bioscience through lectures and practicals. You will leave with analytical and written skills to present laboratory data. You will explore employability within haematology, clinical biochemistry, clinical microbiology, and cellular pathology, as well as physiology, pharmacology, genetics, and the wider healthcare environment.

Year 2

• Bioscience Practical Skills
  • Module code: BL2011
  • During this module, you'll develop your experimental skills and learn about various proteins. You'll examine cell biology, molecular biology, and immunological techniques. You'll also explore biological samples, cellular components, and interactions with external factors.
• Biology of Disease
  • Module code: BL2012
  • You will gain knowledge of the nature of different pathology specialisms, including immunology, microbiology, haematology, cellular pathology, and biochemistry. You will investigate causes and disease effects at the cellular and subcellular levels. You will study aetiology, pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment currently presenting major healthcare challenges.
• Molecules to Cells
  • Module code: BL2013
  • On this module you'll learn how genomes are maintained, copied and inherited. You'll also learn how gene expression is regulated, how mutations are acquired and the effects mutations have on protein function, maturation and trafficking. Intracellular signalling pathways, the cell cycle and cell death will also be studied.
• Placement and Professional Practice
  • Module code: BL2015
  • The Roles, Attitudes And Working Practices Of Healthcare Professionals – The wider aims of the NHS will be explored. In addition, the importance of regulations, the patient and carer perspective and communication issues across a range of boundaries will be further explored. Knowledge And Accompanying Skills And Attitudes To Work As A Healthcare Science Practitioner – To explore and reflect upon personal qualities and behaviours such as time management and organisational skills, communication with patients and professionals and maintenance of their own well-being and personal development. This will be recorded by starting the compilation of a portfolio.

Year 3

• Diagnosis of Disease
  • Module code: BL3031
  • Study the different pathology specialisms and develop an appreciation of the interdisciplinary nature of biomedical science. You'll understand and gain experience in applying and delivering a range of core and specialised methods from across Biomedical Sciences. The module will give you the necessary skills to apply knowledge in pursuing a career within Biomedical Science.
• Research Project including IBMS Registration Portfolio
  • Module code: BL3032
  • You will apply the scientific knowledge and skills you have gained throughout your degree to produce an independent piece of scientific research. You'll use your laboratory skills to analyse, interpret and present scientific data. You'll also be able to reflect on your own practice. This will allow you to complete your IBMS portfolio.

Entry Requirements

• Students will be in employment with an appropriate NHS pathology lab which is accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS) as a training laboratory, who will fund study and support learning development needs
• The University’s minimum standard entry requirements for degree level study is 112 points including Biology or Chemistry or Environmental Science or Applied Science and pass in science practical (if applicable) at A2 level
• 5 GCSE passes, including maths and English at grade C or above
• Other acceptable qualifications include: BTEC Extended Diploma (DDM), Scottish Certificate of Higher Education Higher Grade passes, Irish Leaving Certificate Higher Grade, International Baccalaureate 28P including grade HL5 in Biology or Chemistry, Appropriate Access to HE Course 112 UCAS points including 15 level 3 credits with distinction in Chemistry or Biology
• T Level Science or Healthcare Science at Merit or above
• Appropriate Foundation Course 60% or above
• IELTS score of at least 7.0 or above with no element below 6.5
• Applications from people with relevant work or life experience and/or non-standard qualifications are welcomed and will be considered on a case-by-case basis
• Entry to the optional Foundation route requires; DDD or above at A2 including Biology or Chemistry, BTEC ND DMM-DDM Access to HE, IB 25 - 27P including grade 5 in Biology or Chemistry
• Progression from level 3 Foundation Year to level 4 year 1 is dependent on achieving an overall grade of 60%
• All applicants will also be required to undergo DBS and occupational health clearance

Scholarships and Bursaries

We offer many scholarships, bursaries and funds to support you during your studies. Select your country or region to see if you are eligible and how to apply.

Information for Employers

You'll employ an apprentice to do a real job while they study for a formal qualification. Usually, they'll study for one day a week at one of our campuses or training centres.

This course meets Apprenticeship Standards ST0413 (Healthcare Science Practitioner). After successfully completing the course, your apprentice will be eligible to apply for registration with The Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) as a biomedical scientist.

Benefits to the Employer

• Apprenticeships enable your staff to develop and demonstrate the knowledge, skills and behaviours to become a Biomedical Scientist.
• Successful graduates will have completed their IBMS registration training portfolio as part of the course. They can then apply for HCPC registration as a Biomedical Scientist.
• Apprenticeships can provide a way to a succession plan, enabling specific skill sets to be retained within your business.

Key Information and Funding

• Award: BSc (Hons)
• Apprenticeship Standard: Healthcare Science Practitioner
• Level: Level 6
• Funding band: £27,000

View more information on Levy and Non-levy paying organisations and eligibility.

Tuition fees are paid by funding through the employer and/or Government. This funding comes via the Apprenticeship Levy, meaning that the learner does not pay the standard tuition fee rates. Students on Degree Apprenticeships do not qualify for any funding from Student Finance.