Biomedical Science Lancaster University

The science of saving lives

Our Biomedical Science BSc provides rigorous research-led teaching in the theory and practical techniques associated with biomedical science. It is ideal for students with a broad interest in human life processes and disease, as the course places an emphasis on developing a detailed understanding of the molecules and mechanisms fundamental to life processes, and how they are disrupted by disease.

This course is highly specialised and focuses on the key aspects of modern-day biomedicine as well as embedding the clinical specialisms of medical microbiology, clinical biochemistry, cellular pathology, haematology and transfusion science, clinical immunology and clinical genetics that are core to the work of pathology laboratories.

It is accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS). Students who graduate from this IBMS-accredited degree programme, train in an NHS lab and complete an IBMS registration training portfolio can register as a Biomedical Scientist and work in NHS pathology labs.

By undertaking this research-led degree you will gain practical skills and competence in experimental design; numerical skills such as statistical analysis, data recording and presentation; and interpersonal skills such as teamwork, communication and negotiation. These skills are highly valued by employers and are transferable to other careers both within the sciences, and in broader fields such as marketing, finance and management.

Complete a training placement during the third year of your BSc

As a student on our IBMS-accredited Biomedical Science (BSc), you will be eligible to apply for a prestigious placement with an NHS pathology lab. These are awarded on a competitive basis. If you are successful, you will be transferred on to our BSc Biomedical Science (Placement Year) degree and will complete your placement during the third year of your degree. After completing your placement you will return to university for your final year of study.

Students who successfully complete a training portfolio during the placement year, and graduate with an accredited Biomedical Science degree, are awarded an IBMS Certificate of Competence.

Complete your training portfolio after graduation

Your IBMS-accredited degree will provide you with the necessary qualification to apply for a trainee post as a trainee Biomedical Scientist in an NHS pathology lab and complete an IBMS training portfolio while in employment.

Your journey through biomedical science

The curriculum of our Biomedical Science BSc is highly structured in order to meet the requirements for IBMS accreditation.

• You will begin, in Year 1, by studying fundamental themes that will provide you with a firm foundation for the rest of your course; topics covered include biomedical science practice, molecules of life, infection, immunity, anatomy and physiology.

• In Year 2, you will progress on to studying the topics that are core to the discipline of biomedical science, including blood sciences, clinical biochemistry, medical microbiology and cellular pathology, as well as genetics, immunology and cell biology.

• Year 3 will see you focus in greater depth on specific aspects of human disease through themes spanning clinical immunology, cancer, medical genetics, pathobiology and global health challenges. In Year 3, you will also carry out your own independent research project. This is your opportunity to make a unique contribution to increasing scientific knowledge in an area of biomedical science that fascinates you.

You will be supported throughout by our academics, whose vast biomedical research experience includes skin, colorectal, breast and prostate cancers; Alzheimer's disease; schizophrenia; chronic human conditions such as respiratory disorders; and infectious human diseases caused by viruses, bacteria and parasites.

Entry requirements

These are the typical grades that you will need to study this course. This section will tell you whether you need qualifications in specific subjects, what our English language requirements are, and if there are any extra requirements such as attending an interview or submitting a portfolio.

A levels

AAB. This should include Biology and one other science subject from: Chemistry, Mathematics or Physics.

Access to HE Diploma

Considered on a case-by-case basis. Our typical entry requirement would be 36 Level 3 credits at Distinction plus 9 Level 3 credits at Merit, but you would need to meet the subject requirements.

Advanced Skills Baccalaureate Wales

We accept the Advanced Skills Baccalaureate Wales in place of one A level, or equivalent qualification, as long as any subject requirements are met.

BTEC Extended Diploma

DDD in Applied Science to include sufficient Biology and Chemistry content

BTEC in combination with A levels

Our typical entry requirement would be A level grade B plus BTEC(s) at DD, or A levels at grade AB plus BTEC at D. This should include sufficient Biology and other science content.

International Baccalaureate

35 points overall with 16 points from the best 3 HL subjects including 6 in HL Biology and 6 in one further HL science subjects from Chemistry, Mathematics or Physics

Scottish Highers and Advanced Highers

We are happy to admit applicants on the basis of five Highers, but where we require a specific subject at A level, we will typically require an Advanced Higher in that subject. If you do not meet the grade requirement through Highers alone, we will consider a combination of Highers and Advanced Highers in separate subjects. Please contact the Admissions team for more information.

T levels

Not accepted

GCSE requirements

Mathematics grade 5/B, English Language grade 4/C.

We will also look at your overall GCSE profile when considering your application as a whole.

We do have flexibility when considering GCSE requirements. Go to our GCSE information for more details.

English language requirements

If English is not your first language, we require an IELTS score of 6.5 overall with at least 6.0 in each component for this programme. English language qualifications for undergraduate study.