Medical Science

UCAS code: B902

Here's what De Montfort University says about its Medical Science course.

Our Medical Science programme combines hands-on learning with real-world clinical experience, focusing on both the science of the human body and the practical skills needed to make a difference in healthcare. You’ll be supported by expert staff and benefit from personalised teaching that puts your needs first.

In the first year, you’ll build essential knowledge in chemistry, anatomy, microbiology, and professional skills. Year two focuses on understanding the healthy body and disease processes, while in your final year, you’ll conduct an independent research project and develop crucial skills in time management, critical thinking, and scientific communication.

With practical training in techniques like ELISAs, cell culture, histology, ECGs, SDS-PAGE and western blotting, history taking, measurement of vital signs, providing first aid, you’ll gain hands-on experience that prepares you for real-world challenges.

• Ranked #1: Our Anatomy and Physiology courses are ranked 1st in the East Midlands and 11th in the UK by The Guardian University Guide 2026.

• Focused learning:?Modules are delivered through our block teaching approach, so you can concentrate on one subject at a time.

• Industry experience: Take advantage of an optional year-long placement opportunity to explore real-world applications of medical science in research and clinical environments. Past students have undertaken roles at the Institute of Lung Health (Glenfield Hospital), De Montfort University, Clintec, Covance, and the NHS.

• Professionally accredited: Our Medical Science course is accredited by the Royal Society of Biology, ensuring you’re taught current developments in the field and are prepared for a range of careers.

• Research informed teaching:?Our dedicated staff have a diverse range of experience, ensuring what you learn is relevant.

• Boost your employability:?Hands-on learning in authentic labs and clinical settings.

• Global experience: Through DMU Global, Medical Science students have explored preventative healthcare in Berlin, raised awareness of type 2 diabetes in Kentucky, and conducted public health research in New York - gaining hands-on international experience.

YEAR ONE: Block 1: Personal and Professional Skills Block 2: Chemistry and Biochemistry Block 3: Anatomy and Physiology Block 4: Microbiology

YEAR TWO: Block 1: Genetics and Molecular Pathology Block 2: Clinical Skills for Medical Science Block 3: Organ System Physiology Block 4: Evidence-Based Medicine

YEAR THREE: Block 1: Endocrinology and Nutrition Block 2: Cancer Biology and Clinical Pharmacology Block 3: Advanced Clinical Perspective for Medical Science Block 4: Research and Innovation

Teaching methods used on the course include lectures, workshops, seminars, and tutorials which will deliver core and advanced theoretical knowledge. Some more advanced modules will use a problem-based learning approach to explore case studies through both independent and team working. Theoretical knowledge will be expanded within laboratory practical sessions which will demonstrate good practice and provide opportunities to develop experimental design, problem-solving, data analysis, and presentation skills.

eLearning will be used to illustrate more complex biological processes from the use of simple animations to more complex experimental simulations. Both formal and informal assessments may be delivered online, and eLearning is used to develop student skills in information retrieval and appraisal, and bioinformatics.

Most of the modules are assessed using a combination of examinations and coursework. Coursework may include written assignments, oral presentations, poster presentations, the generation of experimental results, the completion of a laboratory task such as the production of a histological specimen, laboratory reports, article critiques, and project reports. Less formal online quizzes and phase tests will be used to enable students to monitor their progress and understanding.