Top Ten Universities in the UK for Healthcare Sciences

Healthcare sciences covers various careers and professions within the medical and science industry. There are over 50,000 healthcare science experts in the UK who work across 50 different specialisms, which are broadly split into four different categories:

• Laboratory (pathology) sciences
• Physiological sciences
• Medical physics and clinical engineering
• Bioinformatics

These areas of expertise can include roles such as clinical biology (Labsciences), audiology (Physiological sciences), radiotherapy physics (Medical physics and clinical engineering) and computer science (Bioinformatics). If you have any questions about studying a healthcare science course in the UK or wish to begin your UCAS application, don't delay and arrange a free consultation today.

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Best Healthcare Science Degrees in the UK

If you are interested in studying medicine, biotechnology or nursing in the UK, learn more about some of the best universities in the UK (Guardian University Guide 2024) to study healthcare sciences below.

1. Liverpool John Moores University

Liverpool John Moores University's Faculty of Health is a top choice for healthcare science degrees in the UK. Boasting a vibrant community of over 1,000 students, learners engage with clinically experienced academics and research-active lecturers. Whether pursuing psychology, nursing, allied health, or public and environmental health, LJMU provides dedicated support for students to excel and be successful after graduation. 

The university's well-established MSc in Public Health, offered by the renowned Public Health Institute, ensures a research-informed learning environment aligned with industry advancements, providing a flexible and impactful educational experience.

• Suggested course: MSc Public Health
• Entry requirements: A good honours degree (normally a minimum grade 2.2) in any related health or social science discipline.
• International fee: £17,750

2. Swansea University

Swansea University's School of Health and Social Care stands among the top choices in the UK for healthcare science degrees. With a global impact, the school conducts cutting-edge research and collaborates with the NHS, Social Services, and the private sector. State-of-the-art clinical suites and laboratories prepare students to excel in health and social care professions. 

The MSc in Public Health and Health Promotion emphasises real-world impact, integrating theory and practice to contribute significantly to public health services nationally and internationally. Swansea's commitment to research excellence is evident, with 62% of outputs recognised as world-leading or internationally excellent in REF2021.

• Suggested course: MSc Public Health and Health Promotion
• Entry requirements: A relevant degree at 2.1 or above.
• International fee: £ 19,850

3. Bolton University

The University of Bolton is a top choice for studying healthcare science, notably with its BSc (Hons) Health and Social Care degree. The programme offers excellent facilities and a broad spectrum of work placements, ensuring students acquire the essential skills for rewarding healthcare science jobs. The course delves into principles of care, person-centred health, ethics, health promotion, and safeguarding. 

Bolton emphasises practical experience, including placements in healthcare settings, fostering the development of knowledgeable, compassionate, and person-centred care professionals. State-of-the-art facilities like the Clinical Simulation Suites provide a dynamic and realistic learning environment.

• Suggested course: BSc (Hons) Health and Social Care
• Entry requirements: 96 UCAS points. Five GCSEs at grade C or above or grades 4 to 9 (or equivalent), including English and Mathematics.

4. City, University of London

City, University of London, is a premier choice for healthcare science degrees. The School of Health & Psychological Sciences, located in the heart of London, offers top-class education and research facilities. With a diverse student body and a focus on clinical skills, the school provides an innovative learning environment catering to both beginners and experienced practitioners. 

Renowned for excellence, City consistently ranks among the best providers in London for various healthcare disciplines, including nursing, health professions, radiography, and speech and language therapy. 

• Suggested course: MSc Health Management
• Entry requirements: A minimum 2:1 from a UK University or an overseas qualification of an equivalent standard.
• International fee: £17,500

5. Coventry University

Coventry University's School of Health and Care is a top destination for healthcare science degrees, renowned for its innovative learning approach and commitment to producing industry-ready graduates. With over 6000 enrolled students, the school's dedication is evident in the state-of-the-art Alison Gingell Building, providing cutting-edge facilities like hospital simulation, clinical skills training, and a BioSciences super-lab. 

The institution's global impact is reflected in active partnerships with universities and institutions worldwide, offering students unique opportunities. For those seeking flexibility, the online learning option, such as the Nursing MSc, provides a convenient pathway to academic excellence.

• Suggested course: MSc Global Public Health
• Entry requirements: A minimum of a 2:2 or higher in a social science-related undergraduate degree with an interest in public health or an equivalent appropriate qualification that includes substantial public health content.
• International fee: £18,600

6. University of Strathclyde

The University of Strathclyde excels in healthcare science education, which is evident in its MSc Health & Social Policy programme. The programme focuses on understanding the intersections of key health and social policies. With a whole-of-government approach, students delve into the factors shaping health and well-being, studying interventions by various societies and governments.

The curriculum integrates postgraduate research methods with policy perspectives, providing opportunities for placement-based dissertation modules in collaboration with NGOs, policy bodies, or research teams. Strathclyde's comprehensive programme ensures students gain expertise in health systems and comparative policy analysis.

• Suggested course: MSc Health & Social Policy
• Entry requirements: First or upper second-class Honours degree, or overseas equivalent, in health or social policy or a related discipline.
• International fee: £19,600

7. University of Nottingham

The University of Nottingham's School of Health Sciences provides a global educational setting with diverse courses for undergraduates and postgraduates across 15 healthcare professional groups. Renowned for research excellence, the university secured an 86% internationally excellent or world-leading rating in the latest Research Excellence Framework. 

Notably, Times Higher Education ranked it joint 6th in the UK for research impact. The three-year physiotherapy programme is designed to equip students with comprehensive theoretical and practical skills essential for a newly qualified physiotherapist. 

• Suggested course: Master of Public Health
• Entry requirements: Undergraduate degree - 2:1
• International fee: £25,250

8. Oxford Brookes University

Oxford Brookes University is a top choice for healthcare science degrees, offering a vibrant community driven by a passion for understanding and caring for human beings. The university has a longstanding reputation for quality teaching and research and provides a warm and supportive learning environment. Holding Athena SWAN Bronze and Silver Awards, Oxford Brookes promotes gender equality. 

The Master of Public Health programme, taught by experts engaged in research and practice, offers a global perspective and interdisciplinary approach. It serves as a stepping stone to a rewarding career focusing on community empowerment and advocacy.

• Suggested course: Master of Public Health
• Entry requirements: A UK or overseas degree from a recognised institution, plus at least six months of work experience in a public health-related field.
• International fee: £16,950

9. University of Exeter

The University of Exeter's Department of Health and Care Professions is a top choice for healthcare science education, engaging in impactful research and education closely aligned with the NHS and local health providers. Offering a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes, including Medical Imaging, Nursing, and Advanced Clinical Practice, Exeter aims to produce skilled professionals and advance patient care through research.

The MSc Healthcare Leadership and Management programme further enhances leadership skills, fostering compassionate, inclusive, and effective healthcare leaders for the future.

• Suggested course: MSc Healthcare Leadership and Management
• Entry requirements: A minimum 2.2 Honours degree (or equivalent) in a relevant discipline.
• International fee: £29,700

10. Aston University

Aston University's College of Health and Life Sciences stands out as a top destination for healthcare science education, offering a Public Health MPH programme. With a strong reputation, it is ranked in the top 10 in the UK for health professions and excels in graduate prospects in Psychology, Optometry, Ophthalmics and orthoptics. 

The college provides diverse courses spanning audiology, biosciences, medicine, nursing, and more, with research focused on key areas. The MPH programme, delivered in the heart of Birmingham, equips students to address global public health challenges, emphasising theoretical knowledge and practical skills.

• Suggested course: Public Health MPH
• Entry requirements: A UK Upper Second honours degree or equivalent (2.1).
• International fee: £22,750

Study Healthcare in the UK

If you want to learn more about the above UK universities and study healthcare sciences in the UK, arrange a free consultation to discuss your application today.

Help me to Study in UK

FAQ

What qualifications do I need to study a healthcare science degree in the UK?

To study healthcare science in the UK, you generally need A-levels or equivalent qualifications in science subjects like biology and chemistry. Some healthcare universities in the UK may also consider vocational qualifications.

Which universities in the UK have the highest acceptance rate for healthcare science degrees?

Aston University and Aberystwyth University are among the UK universities with the highest acceptance rates for healthcare science degrees.

How can I get a full scholarship to study healthcare science degree in the UK?

To increase your chances of getting substantial scholarships, maintain a high academic record, actively participate in extracurricular activities, and research available scholarships. Apply for national and university-specific scholarships, and consider external funding sources.