top of page
A biomedical scientist at work in the lab.

Biomedical Science BSc

Study of human health and disease - combining biology, chemistry, and medical technology to understand how the body works and how illness can be prevented, diagnosed, and treated.

Is this for you?

This degree could suit you if you:

  • Enjoy science and lab work

  • Are interested in disease and diagnosis

  • Like research

  • Want a healthcare or lab career

  • Are analytical

Popular Career Fields

Healthcare & Public Health

Pharmaceuticals & Biotechnology

Research & Academia

Government & Public Sector

Your Personality Might Be:

Scientifically rigorous

Pharmaceuticals & Biotechnology

Laboratory-focused

Medically interested

What is it?

What Is a Biomedical Science Degree?

Biomedical Science focuses on the science behind medicine. You’ll study how diseases develop, how the body responds, and how laboratory research supports diagnosis and treatment. The degree prepares you for careers in healthcare, research, and biotechnology.


Why Study Biomedical Science?

If you’re interested in human biology, medical research, and making a difference in healthcare, Biomedical Science offers a fascinating and varied path. It combines scientific investigation with real-world applications that help improve lives.

Biomedical scientist with a petri dish in the laboratory.

Course Summary

Study of human health and disease - combining biology, chemistry, and medical technology to understand how the body works and how illness can be prevented, diagnosed, and treated.

What you'll study

Most Biomedical Science degrees cover:


  • Human anatomy and physiology

  • Cell biology and genetics

  • Biochemistry and molecular biology

  • Microbiology and immunology

  • Haematology and clinical chemistry

  • Pathology and disease processes

  • Research and laboratory skills


Later in your degree, you may specialise in areas such as cancer biology, neuroscience, virology, or forensic science.



Degree Type

  • BSc (Bachelor of Science) or BSc (Hons) - both may lead to accreditation by the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS), allowing you to pursue registration with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) after additional clinical training.

Explore More Courses

Skills You'll Gain

A Biomedical Science degree helps you develop key scientific and transferable skills, which could include:

Laboratory Techniques – performing experiments using microscopy, biochemistry, and molecular biology methods.


Data Analysis – interpreting scientific results and evaluating experimental accuracy.


Diagnostic Testing – conducting tests for diseases, infections, and genetic conditions.


Understanding Human Biology – deep knowledge of physiology, pathology, microbiology, and immunology.


Scientific Communication – presenting findings clearly through reports, presentations, and lab documentation.

Explore Uni Open Days

Pathways, Placements and Work Experience

CAREERS

Career Pathways

Graduates can work in:

  • NHS or private hospital laboratories

  • Biomedical and pharmaceutical research

  • Biotechnology and diagnostic development

  • Forensic and public health laboratories

  • Education, communication, or regulatory roles

Work Experiences & Placements

Some universities offer placement years or sandwich courses, giving you experience in:

  • NHS pathology or diagnostic laboratories

  • Pharmaceutical or biotech companies

  • Academic or government research facilities

Accredited courses may also include clinical placements required for HCPC registration as a Biomedical Scientist.

Salary Profile

Coming soon

Qualifications, Personal Satement, What to do Next?

AM I ELIGIBLE?

Entry Requirements

A-levels or equivalent including Biology and Chemistry. Some universities accept Biology plus one other Science (Chemistry, Physics, or Maths). Chemistry is strongly recommended.

Personal Statement Tips


  • Explain your interest in human health, disease, and research.

  • Mention any laboratory, volunteering, or work experience.

  • Highlight curiosity, accuracy, and analytical skills.

  • Show awareness of how biomedical science supports modern medicine.

What to do Next

  • Gain experience through work shadowing or volunteering in healthcare or laboratories.

  • Attend open days to explore teaching labs and research facilities.

  • Read about recent advances in biomedical research and healthcare innovation.

  • Build your confidence with independent or school-based science projects.

Uni student

Not sure what to study?

Alternatives to Degrees

Internships
Short Courses
Apprenticeships
Apprenticeships

Wider Reading

  • The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot – The human story behind one of medicine’s greatest breakthroughs.

  • The Emperor of All Maladies by Siddhartha Mukherjee – A history of cancer and medical discovery.

  • Genes: A Very Short Introduction by Jonathan Slack – A concise look at genetics and molecular biology.

  • Bad Blood by John Carreyrou – A real-world story of science, ethics, and innovation in biotechnology.

bottom of page