Program Overview

Biomedical Science MSc

The Biomedical Science MSc program is offered by the School of Biosciences, Faculty of Science. This course is designed to build on a student's background in eukaryotic molecular or cellular biology, developing them into a capable laboratory scientist. The program focuses on one of two specialist pathways: Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine or Cell Biology and Drug Development.

Course Description

Biomedical science research aims to understand how the human body functions in health and disease, allowing scientists to develop treatments that can improve and save lives. This course will equip students with core knowledge and practical skills in the area of cutting-edge biomedicine that most interests them.

Pathways

• Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine pathway: Students will be trained in how to culture, manipulate, and analyze human stem cells, learning directly from experts in the Centre for Stem Cell Biology. Techniques such as stem cell and 3D organoid cultures, manipulation of animal models used to study human disease, in-situ hybridization, and fluorescence microscopy will be mastered.
• Cell Biology and Drug Development pathway: This pathway allows students to explore cell and animal models and cutting-edge techniques used in the drug discovery industry. Hands-on training will develop real-world skills from robotics and automation to cell culture, biomedical assays, and high-throughput drug screening.

Modules

A selection of modules is available each year. Core modules for all students include:

• Literature Review and Research Proposal
• Advanced Scientific Skills
• Critical Analysis of Current Science
• Research Project

On the Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine pathway, students will take:

• Practical Developmental Genetics
• Stem Cell Biology
• Modelling Human Disease and Dysfunction
• Culture and Differentiation of Human Pluripotent Stem Cells
• Cancer Biology
• Principles of Regenerative Medicine and Tissue Engineering

On the Cell Biology and Drug Development pathway, students will take:

• Practical Cell Biology
• The Biotech and Pharmaceutical Industry
• Membrane Receptors
• Genomic Approaches to Drug Discovery
• Cancer Biology
• Sensory Neuroscience
• Small Molecule and Functional Genomic Screening

Duration and Attendance

• Duration: 1 year full-time
• Attendance: Full-time

Teaching and Assessment

• Teaching: Through lectures, practical sessions, and seminars.
• Assessment: Includes formal examinations, coursework assignments, poster presentations, and a dissertation.

Career Prospects

This master's will train students in specialist research techniques and give them experience of using industry-standard technology. It's great preparation for a career in research and development within academia, healthcare, or the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries.

School

The School of Biosciences brings together more than 100 years of teaching and research expertise across the breadth of biology. It's home to over 120 academics who are actively involved in research at the cutting edge of their field.

Entry Requirements

• Minimum 2:1 undergraduate honors degree in a relevant subject with relevant modules.
• Subject requirements: Biochemistry, Biology, Biomedical Sciences, Biotechnology, Medical Laboratory Sciences, Medicine.
• Module requirements: At least one module from each of Molecular Biology/Molecular and Cellular Biology and Cell/Cellular Biology/Human Cell Biology.
• English language requirements: IELTS 6.5 (with 6 in each component) or University equivalent.

Fees and Funding

• Home (2026 annual fee): £13,660
• Overseas (2026 annual fee): £35,840
• Scholarships: £3,000 scholarships for international students, and up to £2,500 savings for Sheffield graduates.