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Bachelor of Science (with Honours) - BSc (Hons)
Main Site
Full Time
Sep 2026
3 Year
Biomedical scientists conduct laboratory and scientific tests to support the diagnosis and treatment of disease. They are critical to the running of diagnostic laboratories, A&E, operating theatres, many other hospital, GP and outpatient departments and NHS Blood and Transplant services. Based in a laboratory, you’ll investigate a wide range of medical conditions from blood disorders and cancer to hepatitis and meningitis. Your work will be extremely varied and demand both analytical and practical skills. You’ll screen for diseases and be expected to identify diseases caused by bacteria and viruses, while monitoring the effects of medication and other treatments. Confidence with technology is important as you’ll work with computers, automated equipment, microscopes and other laboratory instruments. You’ll have the opportunity to specialise often in one of four areas: Infection sciences Blood sciences Cellular sciences Genomic or genetic sciences The BSc (Hons) in Applied Biomedical Science takes a multidisciplinary approach to the study of human disease. It examines the causes of disease, and the effects of disease on the normal structure and functions of the human body. You’ll gain a firm understanding of the scientific basis for laboratory investigation, diagnosis, monitoring and treatment of disease. The programme also develops and applies new technologies that help improve patient care.
Cells are the building blocks of the human body. An understanding of how cells function is needed to be able to understand how human bodies work,This module supports the programme by developing learners knowledge of the underlying concepts and core principles of Biomedical Science (PLO1) through the development of an understanding of the cellular basis of life and our anatomy. This module will introduce the structure and function of cells, specialised cell types including immune cells and the visualisation techniques used to study subcellular organelles. This module will support those students who wish to undertake a career in research or the cellular basis of disease.
Understanding how molecules within a cell interact is key to being able to understand how the human body responds to physiological changes or drug treatments. This module supports the programme by developing learners' knowledge of the underlying concepts and core principles of biomedical science (PLO1) through the development of understanding of key chemical principles relevant to biological systems. This module covers the basic molecules of life, metabolism and function of these molecules and the role of electrolyte and pH homeostasis in supporting their physiological conformation. The biochemistry of processes that support life, including cellular metabolism and its control, will also be covered. This module will support those students seeking knowledge to support their employment or further study in medicine and medical research. It emphasises the importance of molecular interactions in normal physiological responses.
Human diseases have wide and varying impacts on different parts of the human body. For example, Diabetes can cause problems for the cardiovascular system, the renal system, nerves and visual systems. Therefore, it is important to understand how the human body works in health so that changes which happen in disease can be identified and treated. This module supports the programme by developing learners' knowledge of the underlying concepts and core principles of Biomedical Science (PLO1) through the development of an understanding of the functional organisation of the human body using a systems approach to normal anatomy and physiology, and selected examples of pathophysiological changes and disease. This module will support those students seeking knowledge to support their employment in medicine and medical research. It emphasises the control and integration of cells and systems in the healthy body and outlines some important disease states.
Healthcare Scientists are responsible for conducting diagnostic tests which treatment decisions are based upon. Therefore, it is vital that individuals are aware of the regulations which govern the profession. To be able to work effectively in the healthcare setting, healthcare scientists must possess not only key laboratory skills but also keen inquiry, evaluation and critical analysis skills. This module supports the Healthcare Science programme by developing learners' practical, literacy, numerical and data handling skills. The module also furthers understanding of professional standards in Healthcare Science and facilitates the acquisition of core personal transferable skills (PLO2-5).This module also focuses on introducing students to essential laboratory techniques and providing opportunities to develop evidence of competence for presentation in the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS) Registration Portfolio for the Certificate of Competence, in order to be eligible to apply for HCPC registration. This module will support those students seeking technical knowledge, as well as practical and professional skills to support their employment in a Healthcare Scientist role.
The importance of microbiology has recently come into sharp focus with numerous outbreaks of infectious diseases and global pandemics. This has led to the prioritisation of microbiology research and major healthcare developments in this area. This module supports the programme by developing learners' knowledge of the underlying concepts and core principles of Biomedical Science (PLO1) through the development of an understanding of microbial structure, growth and adaptation to new environments. The impact of this on human health will be introduced, including how bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites cause infections and built upon further by examining the immune response to infection. The Level 5 module Medical Microbiology and Infection Control builds on this module. This module will support those students who wish to develop a career in either medical or industrial microbiology. It will provide fundamental practical experience of aseptic techniques and bacterial identification
Genetics is at the core of our very existence. Genetics explains how human bodies are built, and governs our inheritance, susceptibility to disease and response to treatments. Understanding the concepts of genetics can help drive advances in healthcare and personalised medicine. This module supports the programme by developing learners knowledge of the underlying concepts and core principles of Biomedical Science (PLO1) through understanding classical, molecular and clinical approaches to genetics. It also focuses on knowledge of inheritance, structure and role of red cell antigens. This module will support those students seeking knowledge to support their employment in research or clinical testing laboratories.
Clinical and Analytical Biochemistry is the division of laboratory medicine that deals with the measurement of chemicals in blood, urine and other body fluids. Test findings are useful for detecting health problems, determining prognosis and guiding patient therapy. This module supports the programme by developing learners knowledge and critical understanding of the well-established principles of Biomedical Science (PLO6). It also enables learners to evaluate and discuss the laboratory specialities of clinical biochemistry (PLO7).The aim of this module is to develop an understanding of how biochemical techniques are used in biomedical sciences to screen, diagnose, monitor, treat diseases and develop new therapeutic strategies in the treatment of diseases. Learners will develop presentation and data analysis skills. This module will help those students seeking knowledge to support their employment in medicine and medical research. It emphasises the importance of biochemical analysis of human samples in the diagnosis of health and disease.
Medical Microbiology is a branch of medical science concerned with the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of infectious diseases. This field of science studies the various clinical applications of microorganisms for the improvement of health. Medical microbiologists support and oversee the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of illness caused by microorganisms. This module supports the programme by developing learners' knowledge and critical understanding of the well-established principles of Biomedical Science (PLO6). It also enables learners to evaluate and discuss the laboratory specialities of medical microbiology (PLO7).This will be achieved by considering a variety of pathogenic microorganisms, exploring the virulence factors and pathogenesis of infectious agents, including bacteria and viruses, revisiting the concept of host/microbe interactions in health and disease, and the roles of host responses in clinical conditions caused by infection. The techniques used in the identification and characterisation of microbes in modern and routine diagnostic microbiology will be considered, as well as hospital- and community-acquired infections and the roles of infection control; emerging infections in relation to potential epidemics and pandemics will be explored. The concept of epidemiology in monitoring and addressing infectious diseases will be investigated. This module will support those students seeking knowledge to assist their employment in medicine and medical research. It emphasises the importance of host/microbe interactions in health and disease.
Immunology is a branch of medicine that studies the immune system, which protects us from infection through various lines of defence. Haematology and Transfusion Science is the study and analysis of blood and blood-forming tissues. Both are key disciplines required routinely in laboratory investigations for diagnosis of health and disease. This module supports the programme by developing learners' knowledge and critical understanding of the well-established principles of Biomedical Science (PLO6). It also enables learners to evaluate and discuss the laboratory specialities of clinical immunology, haematology and transfusion science (PLO7).In this module, learners will develop an appreciation of the fundamentals of the immune system and immune responses. Learners will be introduced to some basic immunological techniques commonly used throughout the Biomedical Sciences. Learners will develop an appreciation of the study and investigation of the different elements that constitute blood in normal and diseased states (haematology) and the identification of blood group antigens and antibodies, which ensures a safe supply of blood and blood components (transfusion science).This module will support those students seeking knowledge for their employment in medicine and medical research. It emphasises the importance of the blood and immune system interactions in health and disease.
Due to the critical nature of NHS diagnostic testing, Healthcare Scientists must demonstrate not only academic but also laboratory competency before they can be admitted to the role. This module supports the Healthcare Science programme by applying skills acquired to the evaluation of diagnostic procedures and demonstrating proficiency (PLO 11-13) through clinical experiential learning and the development of work-based competencies as defined in the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) Standards of Proficiency and by Health Education England (HEE) and the Institute of Biomedical Science. This module also develops knowledge and understanding of the delivery of healthcare within the NHS, the role of the Healthcare science professional, the role of pathology and laboratory medicine and clinical governance. Throughout this module students will also collate evidence of competence for presentation in the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS) Registration Portfolio for the Certificate of Competence in order to be eligible to apply for registration with the HCPC and for presentation to HEE. All of the above are focused on service need, patient care/pathway and continuous service improvement. The module combines and integrates both academic and work-based learning and has a strong patient and clinical focus.
Pathology is a Biomedical Science specialist laboratory discipline that involves the study and diagnosis of disease through the examination of tissue specimens. Human diseases have a wide impact at the cellular level and tissue level. Understanding the mechanisms by which diseases occur is essential in the development of novel therapeutic interventions.This module supports the Biomedical Science programme by developing learners' knowledge and critical understanding of the well-established principles of Biomedical Science (PLO6). It also enables learners to evaluate and discuss the laboratory specialities of cellular pathology (PLO7). This will be done by promoting learners' appreciation of: the pathogenic mechanisms (endogenous and exogenous) associated with the development, progress, manifestation and complications of disease in human beings; the range of diseases which affect particular organs/tissues and the accompanying changes in morphology both locally and systemically. Learners will also understand the importance of digital pathology in diagnostic medicine in order to achieve even better, faster and cheaper diagnosis, prognosis and prediction of cancer and other important diseases. This module will support those students seeking knowledge to support their employment in medicine and medical research. It emphasises the control and integration of cells and systems in the healthy body and the mechanisms involved in the development of specific diseases.
Molecular Biology is a branch of biology that studies how molecules interact with one another in living organisms to perform functions of life. In the context of the programme, molecular biologists investigate human genetics and the molecular basis of disease using advanced laboratory techniques which will be covered in this module. This module supports the programme by developing learners knowledge and critical understanding of the well-established principles of Biomedical Science (BMS PLO6). It also enables learners to evaluate and discuss the genetics laboratory speciality (BMS PLO7, HCS PLO6).This module aims to promote knowledge and application of the basic principles of Molecular Biology. To appreciate recombinant RNA, DNA, proteins and their functions. To describe the application of gene expression systems and cloning. To describe techniques relating to DNA isolation, purification and quantitation (including PCR). To understand the principles of genetic sequencing (Sanger, Illumina, Short- and Long-read technology), genetic testing, screening and pharmacogenetics (personalised medicine). To explain methods relating to genetic manipulation and its ethical issues (RNAi, CRISPR/Cas9).This module will support those students seeking knowledge to assist their employment in medicine and medical research. It emphasises the importance of the use of molecular biology techniques in scientific and applied research.
Blood testing is a vital part of the NHS diagnostics laboratory provision. This module specifically looks at the role of specialist blood testing during pregnancy and of the neonate. This module supports the Healthcare Science programme by developing learners understanding of diagnostic procedures in Healthcare Science (PLO12) through experience of the application and delivery of a range of specialised methods and techniques from the blood sciences. This module will support those students seeking knowledge to support their employment in healthcare laboratories, medicine and medical research. This module comes under blood science pathway.
This module comes under blood science pathway. It is critical that correct blood test results are processed and reported quickly and accurately to minimise the risk to life. This module supports the programme through applying skills in critical thinking (HCS PLO11), discussion and evaluation of current research (HCS PLO12, BMS PLO11 & 13). The module focuses on transfusion science methods/techniques and understanding their value in relevant areas of clinical practice. This module will help those students seeking knowledge to support their employment in healthcare laboratories, medicine and medical research.
Due to the critical nature of NHS diagnostic testing, Healthcare Scientists must demonstrate not only academic but also laboratory competency before they can be admitted to the role. This module supports the Healthcare Science programme by applying skills acquired in previous stages to the evaluation of diagnostic procedures and demonstrating proficiency (PLO 11-13) through clinical experiential learning and the development of work-based competencies as defined in the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) Standards of Proficiency and by Health Education England (HEE) and the Institute of Biomedical Science. This module also further develops knowledge and understanding of the delivery of healthcare within the NHS, the role of the Healthcare science professional, the role of pathology and laboratory medicine and clinical governance. Throughout this module students will also build on their previous work to collate evidence of competence for presentation in the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS) Registration Portfolio for the Certificate of Competence in order to be eligible to apply for registration with the HCPC and for presentation to HEE. All of the above are focused on service need, patient care/pathway and continuous service improvement. The module combines and integrates both academic and work-based learning and has a strong patient and clinical focus. This module comes under blood science, cellular science, genetics, infection science pathway.
This module comes under blood science, cellular science, genetics, infection science pathway.
Accurate diagnosis of disease is important for delivery of an effective treatment. Monitoring of chronic disease also allows efficacy of treatment to be assessed. This module supports the Healthcare Science programme by developing learners' understanding of diagnostic procedures in Healthcare Science (PLO12) through experience of the application and delivery of a range of core and specialised methods and techniques in clinical biochemistry and immunology. This module also focuses on understanding the importance of clinical biochemistry and immunology in the clinical investigation of patients. This module will support those students seeking knowledge to support their employment in healthcare laboratories, medicine and medical research. This module comes under blood science pathway.
Reproductive science testing requires core and specialised techniques to identify causes of infertility and to provide support for assisted reproduction services. This module supports the programme through applying skills in critical thinking (HCS PLO11), discussion and evaluation of current research (HCS PLO12, BMS PLO11 & 13). This module expands student understanding and provides experience of the application and delivery of a range of core and specialised methods and techniques of reproductive science. This module will support those students seeking knowledge to support their employment within this specialist clinical discipline or related research areas. This module comes under cellular science pathway.
This module comes under cellular science pathway. While Cytology is the study of normal cells, the field of cytopathology looks for cellular abnormalities or signs of disease. Detecting microscopic changes at the cellular level allows early diagnosis of diseases such as cancer and therefore improves prognosis for the patient. This module supports the Healthcare Science programme by developing learners' understanding of diagnostic procedures in Healthcare Science (PLO12). This module also facilitates understanding of the importance of cytopathology in the clinical investigation of patients.This module will support those students seeking knowledge to support their employment in healthcare laboratories, medicine and medical research.
This module comes under cellular science pathway. Histopathology is the study of changes in tissues caused by disease. Diagnosis and therefore treatment of disease relies upon understanding the changes which are happening within the human body.This module supports the Healthcare Science programme by developing learners' understanding of diagnostic procedures in Healthcare Science (PLO12) through experience of the application and delivery of a range of core and specialised methods and techniques in pathology. This module also focusses on understanding the importance of pathology in the clinical investigation of patients.This module will support those students seeking knowledge to support their employment in healthcare laboratories, medicine and medical research.
Diagnostic testing laboratories within the NHS operate a critical 247 service 365 days a year. This service is vital to provide information to frontline medical staff who need a fast and accurate diagnosis. As a result, Healthcare Science staff working on a role may be the sole expert in their area for that shift. Therefore, it is important that Healthcare Scientists are able to work independently and evaluate data to make informed decisions. This module supports the Healthcare Science programme by developing learner understanding of diagnostic procedures in Healthcare Science (PLO12) through study of the application of a range of specialised methods and techniques, and their importance in the clinical investigation of patients. This module also enhances deep understanding of a specialist area of genetics and develops skills in critical analysis and report presentation (the dissertation). These skills are key for life-long learning in the Healthcare Science discipline. This module comes under genetics pathway.
Technological improvements and reduction in the cost of whole genome sequencing has made personalised medicine a reality. This module explores not only the principles underlying core technologies but also the data analysis and application in a clinical setting. This module also aims to give students an introduction to bioinformatic data processing for large datasets. This module supports the programme through applying skills in critical thinking, numbering skills (HCS PLO11) and developing technical skills required for data analysis (HCS PLO12 and 13, BMS PLO11 and 13).This module will support those students seeking knowledge to support their employment in research or who wish to go on to further study in this field. This module comes under genetics pathway.
To be able to treat and monitor chronic and acute diseases a fundamental understanding of the causes, mechanisms and pathology are required. This requires knowledge and understanding which spans more than just the clinical disciplines of Biomedical Science but also extends to cutting edge scientific research. This module supports the programme through applying skills in critical thinking (Healthcare Science (HCS), programme learning outcome (PLO) 11), discussion and evaluation of current research (HCS PLO12, Biomedical Science (BMS) PLO11 & 13). The module explores the mechanisms of development, progression, manifestation and complications of disease in human beings. The focus of this module is understanding the role of laboratory testing in diagnosis of disease and the underlying cause of pathological changes observed at not only the macro and microscopic level but also the accompanying changes in biochemistry, cell biology and physiology. This module will help those students seeking knowledge to support their employment in healthcare laboratories, medicine and medical research. This module comes under genetics pathway.
This module comes under infection science pathway. Effective infection treatment requires the correct identification of the disease-causing species so that the appropriate course of treatment can be prescribed. Selection of the wrong treatment course can negatively impact the outcome for a patient. This module supports the programme through applying skills in critical thinking (HCS PLO11), discussion and evaluation of current research (HCS PLO12, BMS PLO11 & 13). This module expands student understanding and provides experience of the application and delivery of a range of core and specialised methods and techniques from across the infection sciences. This module will support those students seeking knowledge to support their employment within this specialist clinical discipline or related research areas.
The impact of parasites and fungal infections on the human body is wide and varying. Therefore it is important to be able to recognise and diagnose such infections to allow rapid treatment. This module supports the Healthcare Science programme by developing learners' understanding of diagnostic procedures in Healthcare Science (PLO12) through study of the application of a range of specialised methods and techniques and to understand their importance in the clinical investigation of patients. This module will support those students seeking knowledge to support their employment in healthcare laboratories, medicine and medical research. This module comes under infection science pathway.
Infection by microbial species can cause a plethora of human diseases with variation in the severity of symptoms. Treatment options are species specific and using the wrong treatment can make symptoms worse. Therefore, accurate detection and diagnosis of the pathogenic microbe is vital. This module supports the Healthcare Science programme by developing learners understanding of diagnostic procedures in Healthcare Science (PLO12) through understanding strategies to prevent and investigate bacterial infections. This module also enables students to understand and gain experience of the application and delivery of a range of core and specialised methods and techniques from across the infection sciences. This module will support those students seeking knowledge to support their employment in healthcare laboratories, medicine and medical research. This module comes under infection science pathway.
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