Biomedical Science

UCAS code: B900

Here's what University of Plymouth says about its Biomedical Science course.

Experience research-informed education by exploring the scientific basis of human health, disease and therapeutics. You'll benefit from a rich and varied learning environment that highlights recent developments and examines how these inform clinical and diagnostic practice. Receive the input of internationally-recognised researchers and NHS staff and open up a range of employment opportunities in both industrial and public research laboratories.

• Stand out with a degree accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS).

• Delivered by the Faculty of Health and enhanced by links with healthcare professionals.

• Develop practical skills, critical thinking and professional competence.

• Taught components of the course are enriched by the varied research activities of staff within the school.

• LABplus is a unique open access laboratory and resource centre designed for students studying science and engineering courses. The lab provides a flexible workspace, computing facilities, specialist software, access to microscopes, microscope cameras and bespoke resources.

• Experience more with an optional placement year.

• Gain a positive learning experience within a work setting that will support your studies and future employability – the school offers 12 work placements between Stage 2 and the final year of your programme.

• The school typically offers a limited number of research summer placements – these are available at the end of Stage 1 and at the end of Stage 2. These competitive placements are available for students who demonstrate excellent performance in their studies and allow students to gain valuable research experience within the Biomedical Research Group.

Progression options

This course has up to ten ring-fenced places available at the end of year 1 for progression onto medicine and dentistry. Applicants must meet the following requirements for consideration:

• Minimum of AAB at A level to include A grades in Biology and one other science from Chemistry, Maths, Physics, or Psychology. General Studies will not be accepted.

• Over 70% average across all Year 1 modules.

• Satisfactory DBS check and Occupational Health screening.

We also have an additional route for our Biomedical Science graduates. This involves an enhanced admissions process, as follows:

• On track to gain 1st Class (over 70%) OR already holds a 1st Class Biomedical Science degree with us achieved in the two years prior to applying.

• GAMSAT requirement waived.

• Satisfactory performance in interview.

• Satisfactory DBS check and Occupational Health screening.

For further information regarding admissions and interviews please contact us at [email protected].

In your first year, you'll start building a foundation for future learning. You'll develop key skills in communication, data acquisition and analysis.

In your second year, you'll focus on developing a deeper understanding of core biomedical disciplines, with an emphasis on the scientific understanding of pathological processes and diagnostic practice. You'll examine key laboratory techniques and acquire research skills.

You have the option to take up a work placement as part of your degree course between the end of Year 2 and the final year of your degree. Students can choose to apply for an Industrial or NHS placement. Industrial placements are usually 6 month or 12 month duration and upon successful completion, students will gain the Certificate of Industrial Experience. NHS placements are minimally a 40 week duration full-time or the equivalent. Those successfully completing an NHS placement and the IBMS v4 portfolio, will gain the Certificate of Competence from the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS). Students who have completed a full IBMS accredited degree (BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science; 360 credits) as well as the Certificate of Competence are eligible to apply to the HCPC to register as a Biomedical Scientist.

Your final year will support your critical thinking and enhance your practical competency. A personal research project allows you to study an area of biomedicine in detail. You will have a choice of research-led topics that discuss current developments and the implications for human health and clinical practice.

The modules shown for this course or programme are those being studied by current students, or expected new modules. Modules are subject to change depending on year of entry.