Medical Sciences BSc
Study of the science behind medicine - combining biology, anatomy, and disease research to understand how the body works and how illness is diagnosed and treated.
Is this for you?
This degree could suit you if you:
Are interested in medicine
Enjoy biology and science
Want flexible healthcare options
Like research and analysis
Are curious
Popular Career Fields
Healthcare & Public Health
Pharmaceuticals & Biotechnology
Research & Academia
Government & Public Sector
Your Personality Might Be:
Scientifically rigorous
Pharmaceuticals & Biotechnology
Medically curious
Research-focused
What is it?
What Is a Medical Sciences Degree?
Medical Sciences explores the biological and physiological principles that underpin medicine and healthcare. You’ll study how the body functions in health and disease, how treatments are developed, and how research improves patient outcomes.
Why Study Medical Sciences?
If you’re fascinated by medicine and want to understand the science behind it, this degree offers a strong foundation for careers in research, healthcare, and biotechnology. It’s also an excellent pathway for postgraduate study in Medicine, Dentistry, or Biomedical Research.
Course Summary
Study of the science behind medicine - combining biology, anatomy, and disease research to understand how the body works and how illness is diagnosed and treated.
What you'll study
Core Topics
Most Medical Sciences degrees cover:
Human anatomy and physiology
Biochemistry and molecular biology
Genetics and genomics
Immunology and infection
Pharmacology and toxicology
Pathology and disease mechanisms
Medical ethics and data science
Optional Modules
In later years, you can focus on areas such as neuroscience, cancer biology, regenerative medicine, or global health.
Degree Type
BSc (Bachelor of Science) or BSc (Hons) - may be offered as a general Medical Sciences degree or as a pathway within Biomedical or Clinical Science programmes.
Skills You'll Gain
A Medical Sciences degree helps you build scientific and professional skills, which could include:
Biomedical Knowledge – deep understanding of human anatomy, physiology, pathology, and disease mechanisms.
Laboratory Competence – performing experiments in molecular biology, biochemistry, and pharmacology.
Scientific Data Analysis – interpreting experimental results and evaluating research validity.
Critical Research Skills – reviewing scientific literature and contributing to research projects.
Clinical Science Understanding – linking biological processes to diagnostics, treatment, and healthcare practice.
Pathways, Placements and Work Experience
CAREERS
Career Pathways
Graduates can work in:
Biomedical and clinical research
Pharmaceuticals and biotechnology
Public health and medical education
Science communication and policy
Work Experiences & Placements
Some courses include optional placements or a year in industry, where you could work in:
NHS or private medical laboratories
Pharmaceutical or biotechnology companies
Academic or hospital research units
Public health or policy organisations
These experiences help you apply your scientific knowledge to real-world health and research environments.
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 may accept Biology plus one other Science. Many prefer three Sciences or Maths.
Personal Statement Tips
Explain your interest in the science behind medicine.
Mention relevant experience in healthcare, research, or volunteering.
Highlight curiosity, problem-solving, and analytical skills.
Show how the degree connects to your future career goals.
What to do Next
Explore medical and biological science topics through reading or online courses.
Attend open days to see teaching labs and research facilities.
Volunteer or gain experience in hospitals, research labs, or health organisations.
Keep up with advances in medicine and biomedical research.
Wider Reading
The Emperor of All Maladies by Siddhartha Mukherjee – A powerful history of medicine and disease.
The Body: A Guide for Occupants by Bill Bryson – A fascinating exploration of human biology.
The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot – The story behind one of medicine’s greatest discoveries.
Medical Science and the Law by David Burnett – Insight into how science supports healthcare and policy.