Biomedical science is a field of study that focuses on the biological processes that underlie human health and disease. It involves the application of biological, chemical and physical principles to the study of human biology, encompassing a wide range of topics such as molecular biology, cell biology, genetics, biochemistry, microbiology, immunology, pharmacology and physiology. Biomedicine is vital in healthcare, providing the scientific basis for developing new diagnostic tools, therapies and drugs and supporting clinical care delivery.
Biomedical science courses are offered at undergraduate and postgraduate levels. Courses provide students with a broad understanding of the scientific principles and techniques of studying human biology, enabling them to develop the practical skills and knowledge necessary for a biomedical research or healthcare career.
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Best Biomedical Science Universities in the UK
Below is the list of the top ten UK universities for biomedical sciences, according to the Guardian University Guide 2024.
1. University of Oxford
The Masters in Biomedical Sciences at Oxford offers students an intellectually stimulating education in modern molecular, cellular, and systems biology and neuroscience. This programme provides a broad foundation in biomedical science, with practical laboratory work forming an integral part of the curriculum. As the course progresses, students can specialise in the topics that interest them the most, with increasing emphasis on scientific research in the later stages.
In the first year of the Oxford biomedicine course, students will be provided with a broad foundation in the core areas of the biomedical sciences. In the second and third years, students can choose from a wide range of specialist options that cover various topics related to biomedical research, such as cancer biology, infectious diseases, neuroscience, and stem cell biology. The fourth year is research-intensive, leading to the award of a Master's degree for those who complete it.
- Suggested course: Biomedical Sciences (MBiomedSci)
- Entry requirements: A-levels: A*AA; Highers: AAAAA; International Baccalaureate (IB): 39 (including core points) with 766 at HL
- International fees: £48,620
2. Ulster University
Ulster University offers a detailed Biomedical Science - BSc (Hons) programme structured over three years. In the first year, students explore fundamental biochemical pathways, human physiology, anatomy, medical cell biology, chemistry, pharmacology, practical and laboratory skills, and scientific communication and statistics.
The second year focuses on cellular pathology, haematology, clinical biochemistry, professional practice, applied genetics, microbiology, pathophysiology, and immunology. The third year involves an investigative project and advanced studies in clinical and molecular genetics, clinical immunology, medical microbiology, molecular pathology, and pharmacology, emphasising evidence-based practice.
- Suggested course: Biomedical Science - BSc (Hons)
- Entry requirements: Overall IB profile minimum 26 points to include 13 points at higher level to include two science subjects.
- International fee: £19,130
3. Lancaster University
The MSc in Biomedicine offered by Lancaster University is a 12-month intensive programme that aims to develop students' intellectual, practical and transferable skills. It focuses on core research themes in biomedical and life sciences, including global health, cancer biology, diseases of the brain, infectious disease, drug discovery and biomedical ethics. The course is taught by research-active staff in a world-class environment.
Students gain practical experience in cutting-edge techniques during their research projects and develop autonomous problem-solving and decision-making skills. Graduates are highly regarded for their analytical ability, communication skills, competence in critical evaluation, and interpretation of data in a biomedical context, making them eligible for careers in the NHS, industry, government, and charities.
- Suggested course: Biomedicine MSc
- Entry Requirements: 2:1 Hons degree (UK or equivalent) in an appropriate Biosciences subject such as Biology, Biomedical Sciences or Biochemistry. Eligible related topics are also considered.
- International fees: £28,675
4. University of Edinburgh
Biomedical Sciences at the University of Edinburgh aims to understand the human body's function at molecular, cellular, organ, and system levels in health and disease. Throughout the programme, students integrate knowledge from various disciplines to analyse disease mechanisms, contributing to diagnosis, treatment, and prevention advancements.
In the first year, the focus is on the importance of biomedical sciences, including medical molecular and cellular biology courses. The second year emphasises foundational understanding with compulsory biomedical sciences, microbiology, and cell biology courses. In the third year, students delve into developing knowledge through experiments, and the final year centres on research in practice, including a major research project.
- Suggested course: BSc Biomedical Sciences
- Entry requirements: A Levels: AAB in one set of exams. IB: 34 points with 6,5,5 at HL.
- International fee: £34,800
5. Bangor University
Bangor University's biomedical science course provides a deep understanding of disease biology, emphasising modern concepts and applications in research, diagnosis, and treatment. The course, accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science, collaborates with local NHS clinical laboratories. It addresses the growing demand for advanced diagnostic and molecular technology graduates.
The curriculum covers core biological sciences with specialised disciplines like clinical biochemistry, cellular pathology, haematology, and medical microbiology. Bangor University offers excellent facilities, including state-of-the-art teaching laboratories and optional NHS Pathology lab work experience for registration as a biomedical scientist.
- Suggested course: Biomedical Science BSc (Hons)
- Entry requirements: International Baccalaureate Diploma: Including grade H5 in Biology and Chemistry (preferred) at Higher Level.
- International fee: £19,000
6. Teesside University
Teesside University’s MSc Advanced Biomedical Science is designed to equip students with the necessary knowledge and skills to become professional biomedical scientists who can operate at an advanced level. The MSc provides hands-on practical experience in laboratory and bioinformatics techniques, introduces contemporary industry issues, and offers training in biotechnology research strategies.
The course develops comprehensive knowledge and understanding of biomedical science in the 21st century. It focuses on genomics and bioinformatics, emerging clinical biochemistry and diagnostic techniques, and the pathobiology of genetic disorders, neurodegenerative diseases, or infectious diseases. It offers state-of-the-art analytical and digital infrastructure supporting basic and applied research in the biosciences and across disciplinary boundaries, aligned to academic excellence and industry needs. It is delivered at the University's National Horizons Centre.
- Suggested course: Advanced Biomedical Science MSc
- Entry requirements: A UK 2.2 honours degree, or equivalent, in a subject related to life or physical sciences.
- International fees: £17,000
7. Abertay University
The BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science degree at Abertay University provides an excellent learning experience, delving into human health and disease science. It equips students to explore biological processes, understand the body's response to diseases, and conduct crucial scientific tests. Taught in state-of-the-art labs by academic and clinical experts, the course is accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science.
Achieving high Student Satisfaction ratings, it ranks 1st in Scotland for Teaching Satisfaction. Graduates can pursue diverse career paths, including becoming Biomedical Scientists in the NHS, analytical chemists, biology teachers, or research scientists, and many choose to further their studies at the postgraduate level.
- Suggested course: BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science
- Entry requirements: International Baccalaureate - 27 Points, with Biology at S5 or H4 and Chemistry in the Middle Year programme at four or better.
- International fee: £15,000
8. University of Bath
The BSc (Hons) Biomedical Sciences course at Bath explores human health and disease from molecular details to symptoms and pathology. It prepares students to be the next generation of biomedical research scientists, emphasising skills and knowledge application in genetics, genomics, human physiology, cancer, pathology, infection and immunity, molecular and cellular biology, biochemistry, and pharmacology.
The curriculum encourages the development of transferable professional skills, including problem-solving, IT, communication, time management, research, analysis, and teamwork. Students gain hands-on experience in well-equipped teaching and research labs, ensuring readiness for a dynamic career in the evolving field of biomedical science.
- Suggested course: Biomedical Sciences BSc (Hons)
- Entry requirements: IB diploma: 36 points overall and 6, 6, 6 or 7, 6, 5 in three Higher Level subjects, including 6 in Biology and 6 in Chemistry.
- International fee: £28,800
9. University of East Anglia
The biomedicine degree at UEA equips students to address challenges in human health, such as stem cell biology, ageing, cancer, arthritis, and cardiovascular disease. The programme applies cellular and molecular techniques to understand and treat diseases, covering human physiology, antibiotic resistance, pathogens, genetics, ophthalmology, metabolic disorders, and gastroenterology.
With training in modern biochemical, molecular, and imaging techniques, students benefit from state-of-the-art teaching laboratories. UEA, ranked 17th for research quality in biological science, offers a multidisciplinary approach, combining biology and chemistry to understand medically related biological sciences comprehensively.
- Suggested course: BSc (Hons) Biomedicine
- Entry requirements: IB diploma: 33 points with HL5 in Biology and one of the following subjects: Chemistry, Physics, Computing Science, Psychology or Mathematics.
- International fee: £26,100
10. University of Exeter
The medical sciences degree prioritises the foundational science supporting medicine, emphasising its translation into enhanced healthcare. Students engage in small-group learning, lectures, and laboratory practicals to understand normal human body function. The curriculum explores diseases, trauma, and restoration of normal function, fostering a holistic understanding of human health.
Specialisation options include Health Research, Human Genomics, Pharmacology and Therapeutics, and Neuroscience. Students can undertake a Professional Training Year, gaining practical experience in leading research teams in the UK or abroad. This programme prepares students to apply scientific discoveries to advance medical practice.
- Suggested course: BSc Medical Sciences
- Entry requirements: IB diploma: 32/655, At least one HL6 and one HL5 in IB science subjects, one of which must be Biology.
- International fee: £29,700
Study Biomedicine in the UK
If you want to study for a biomedical degree in the UK, arrange your free consultation today.
FAQ
What qualifications do I need to study biomedical science in the UK?
To study biomedical science in the UK, you typically need A-levels, IB diplomas, or equivalent qualifications in relevant subjects like biology and chemistry.
Which universities in the UK have the highest acceptance rate for biomedical science?
The University of East Anglia, the University of Bath, and the University of Leeds are among the UK universities with high acceptance rates.
How can I get a full scholarship to study biomedical science in the UK?
Full scholarships for biomedical science in the UK are uncommon, and eligibility criteria vary. Commonly, scholarships are based on academic excellence, financial need, or a combination of both. You can explore scholarship opportunities from universities, government programmes, and private organisations.
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