School of Biomedical Sciences

BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science

UCAS tariff 112 - 128 Contextual offers
A contextual offer is an offer to study at university that takes personal circumstances that may affect grades into account.
UCAS course code B900
Institution code P60
Duration

3 years

(+ optional placement)
Course type

Full-time
Study location Plymouth
Register for open day
Apply at UCAS.com

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, opening up a range of employment opportunities in both industrial and public research laboratories.

Make a difference

Work with leading academics on groundbreaking biomedical research, contributing to advancements in areas such as cancer biology, immunology, and molecular medicine.

Specialise in applied biomedical science

Kickstart your career as an NHS a professional Biomedical Scientist and graduate ready to apply to the Health Care Professions Council (HCPC) *

Real-world experience

From summer research experience to full year industry placements, take the opportunity to develop your employability.

This course is for you if...

  • you're fascinated by the scientific basis of human health and disease
  • you aspire to contribute to advancements in medical diagnostics and therapeutics
  • you seek hands-on laboratory experience to develop practical skills
  • you're eager to learn from internationally recognised researchers and NHS professionals
  • you aim to pursue a career in biomedical research or healthcare industries.
Biomedical Science student Nia in lab wearing scrubs working on microscope
"Plymouth gave me a feeling of belonging. Everyone was invested in my future" BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science student, Nia

Careers with this subject

Advice from graduate Liana Gynn:

"Experience is key. Working directly in the field is the best way to learn the key skills and processes to develop your passions and understanding. My research placement transformed me from an average student to a high achieving one with the confidence and independence which is so essential for a postgraduate career."
Useful links:

Key features
  • 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.

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.
  • >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 (>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 meddent-admissions@plymouth.ac.uk.

Course details

  • Year 1

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

    Core modules

    BHCS1001Z
    Biomedical Investigation and Experimentation

    To introduce the learner to key elements of investigation and experimentation within the biomedical sciences and to support the development of the basic skills and knowledge required for effective practice in these discipline areas

    BHCS1002
    Human Anatomy and Physiology: Cells to Systems 20 credits

    This module offers an introduction to the key anatomical features of the body and how physiological function is controlled to maintain homeostasis and health. It will commence with an exploration of cell and tissue biology and the founding principles of genetics, embryology and human development. The module will conclude with an exposition of anatomy and physiology of the major human organ systems.

    50% Coursework

    50% Examinations

    BHCS1003
    Human Metabolism 20 credits

    This module offers an introduction to the biochemistry underlying human metabolism. In particular, the module explores the cellular and molecular mechanisms by which the human body extracts energy from nutrients to sustain life. The significance of metabolic dysfunction in relation to human disease pathology and diagnosis is emphasised.

    50% Coursework

    50% Examinations

    BHCS1004PPZ
    Introduction to Human Pathology

    This cross-disciplinary module provides the learner with an introduction to the study of human disease, exploring historical, social and scientific perspectives as well as an opportunity to explore how modern pathology services are structured and operated.

    BHCS1005
    Human Disease 20 credits

    Concepts associated with altered health states due to environmental, developmental and genetic causes are explored. Pathological changes at the cellular, tissue and organ level are discussed. Genomic and bioinformatic technologies are introduced, and their application to clinical and personalised medicine considered.

    50% Coursework

    50% Examinations

    BHCS1006
    Infection and Immunity 20 credits

    This module introduces the student to infection & immunity and the study of microorganisms with a particular emphasis on food-borne pathogens. It explores concepts of food safety, gut organisms, infectious disease and the body's ability to resist and repel such disease via a range of immune responses.

    50% Coursework

    50% Examinations

    BHCS1011
    Study skills and personal development 0 credits

    This module supports the development of key study and learning skills. Timetabled tutorials will help promote self-reflection and provide a framework for personal development planning and careers.

    HIPL400
    Interprofessional Learning 1

  • Year 2

  • 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.

    Core modules

    BHCS2001Z
    Biology of Disease

    This module will explore the biology relating to a range of disorders and emphasize the integrated nature of the investigation and study of disease.

    BHCS2002Z
    Evidence-Based Practice in Biomedical Science

    This module continues the processes of understanding, acquisition and development of the skills and personal attributes necessary for a biomedical sciences practitioner. It also provides a greater understanding of research theory and methodology.

    BHCS2003Z
    Genetic Continuity and Diversity

    Processes which maintain genetic stability or promote genetic variation at various levels of biological organisation are considered. Applications of advances in genetics are examined in topics such as developmental genetics, epigenetics, genomics and proteomics, recombinant DNA technology, and human genetic diversity.

    BHCS2004Z
    Cell Biology in Health and Disease

    This module examines the fundamental principles of cell biology in health and disease. It will include the theory and practice of cellular laboratory science and introduce the scope and practice of light microscopy and histology in clinical investigation and cellular pathology.

    BHCS2005Z
    Clinical Haematology and Biochemistry

    Clinical laboratory tests for a wide variety of biochemical and haematological parameters play an important role in disease diagnosis. This module will investigate both the scientific theory underlying commonly used tests and their application in biochemistry, haematology and transfusion science laboratories.

    BHCS2006Z
    Infection, Immunity and Disease

    This module is to develop an in-depth understanding of the immune system and pathogenic infection. It highlights the integrated cellular responses that prevent infection and the underlying principles that govern these actions, and it looks at measures to prevent and control infections, including health protection measures, antimicrobial therapy and vaccination.

    BHCS2027
    Placements and Employability 0 credits

    HIPL500
    Interprofessional Learning 2

  • Year 3

  • 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.

    Core modules

    BHCS3030
    Biomedical Sciences: Placement 0 credits

    This module provides an opportunity for professional training of at least 26 weeks duration with an approved placement provider or host organisation between Stage 2 and 4. While on placement, students will gain work experience related to their degree programme, be able to apply their knowledge and expertise, and learn further skills and relevant techniques.

  • Final year

  • 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.

    Core modules

    BHCS3031
    Personal Development and Employability 0 credits

    The module aims to provide personal academic support and careers guidance. It will provide a forum for students to discuss their achievements and develop plans to address potential areas of weakness and achieve future career and professional goals.

    BHCS3001Z
    Personal Research Project

    The module requires students to perform a self-directed research study project that includes the design, implementation, collection, analysis and interpretation of scientific data. It also involves the evaluation and interpretation of scientific literature, evaluation of current issues and concepts and the ability to reflect upon continuing professional and personal development.

    HIPL600
    Interprofessional Learning 3

    Optional modules

    BHCS3002
    Molecular and Cellular Pathology 20 credits

    This module provides knowledge of the cellular and molecular basis of a range of common altered health states. Current methods and techniques for investigative pathology will also be explored in a critical manner.

    50% Practicals

    50% Examinations

    BHCS3003
    Clinical Microbiology 20 credits

    This module provides knowledge and skills that will enable students to operate effectively in a modern infection sciences laboratory. The module will develop an in-depth understanding of the commonly encountered infections, tests to identify the disease agents and the principles of antimicrobial therapy.

    50% Examinations

    50% Tests

    BHCS3004
    Specialist Biochemistry and Screening 20 credits

    This module provides theoretical and practical skills that will enable students to operate effectively in a modern blood sciences laboratory or research laboratory. Current practice in clinical biochemistry, pregnancy and paediatric blood sciences will be explored in a comprehensive and critical manner.

    100% Practicals

    BHCS3005
    Transplantation and Transfusion Science 20 credits

    This module provides theoretical and practical skills that will enable students to operate effectively in a modern blood sciences laboratory. Current practice in transfusion and transplantation science including haematology and transplantation immunology will be explored in a comprehensive and critical manner.

    50% Coursework

    50% Examinations

    BHCS3006
    Cellular Basis of Immunity 20 credits

    This module provides theoretical skills that will enable students to explore immune processes focussing on the role of immune cells and their molecules in host immune defences to pathogens and chronic diseases. Contemporary immunology research issues and their translation to clinical practice will be explored in a critical manner.

    50% Coursework

    50% Examinations

    BHCS3007
    Current Issues in Neurobiology 20 credits

    This module provides an in depth understanding of the molecular, cellular and systems mechanisms that underlies nervous system function and dysfunction related to key contemporary issues in neuroscience

    50% Coursework

    50% Examinations

    BHCS3008
    Current Developments in Biomedical Science 20 credits

    The module will promote an up to date understanding of research developments in aspects of blood, infection or cellular sciences. Students will have a choice of topics to focus on.

    50% Coursework

    50% Practicals

    BHCS3009
    Medical Genetics 20 credits

    Medical genetics explores how genetics affects human health. Techniques for human genetic analyses are considered, and chromosomal, single gene and multifactorial disorders reviewed. The relevance of modern genetic and genomic technologies for public health and personalised medicine are examined.

    50% Coursework

    50% Examinations

The modules shown for this course are those currently being studied by our students, or are proposed new modules. Please note that programme structures and individual modules are subject to amendment from time to time as part of the University’s curriculum enrichment programme and in line with changes in the University’s policies and requirements.

Entry requirements

UCAS tariff

112 - 128

Contextual offers: Typically, the contextual offer for this course is 8 points below the advertised tariff. A contextual offer is an offer to study at university that takes into account individual circumstances that are beyond your control, and that can potentially impact your learning and your exam results, or your confidence in applying to university.

Check your eligibility for a contextual offer

GCSEs: Grade C/4 or above in Mathematics and English. Consideration may be given to equivalent qualifications such as Functional Skills.
Plus one of the following:
A levels: 112–128 Tariff points to include a minimum of three A levels, including Grade B in Biology/Human Biology, and Grade B in a relevant second science. General Studies excluded.
Relevant second sciences: Chemistry, Physics, Maths, Applied Science, Environmental Science, Environmental Studies, Geology, Geography, Psychology, and IT.
Access to HE Diploma: Pass an Access to HE Diploma with 30 Level 3 credits at distinction, including 15 Level 3 credits in Biology and 15 Level 3 credits in a second relevant science. The remaining 15 Level 3 credits must be at merit or above.
BTEC RQF National Extended Diploma/QCF Extended Diploma: DDM – depending on the BTEC and units studied. If you hold a BTEC qualification it is vital that you provide our Admissions team with details of the exact modules you have studied as part of the BTEC. Without this information we may be unable to process your application quickly and you could experience significant delays in the progress of your application to study with us. Please explicitly state the full list of modules within your qualification at the time of application or contact Admissions for further advice.
T level: Accepted – preference pathways would be Health or Science. Typical offer will be confirmed once an application is received.
International Baccalaureate: 30 points overall to include Grade 5 in Higher Level Biology and Grade 5 in a second relevant science. English and Mathematics accepted within as GCSE equivalent at higher level = 4, standard level = 5
International qualifications: We welcome applicants offering a wide range of international qualifications. Applications are considered on an individual basis, depending on the subjects studied.
IELTS: Overall average score of at least 6.0, with a score of at least 6.0 in all elements.
Other qualifications: Applicants with other qualifications should contact the Admissions Office at admissions@plymouth.ac.uk for advice.
Transfer to BSc (Hons) Applied Biomedical Science: Stage two students have the opportunity to apply for a limited number of year-long placements in accredited NHS labs and transfer to BSc (Hons) Applied Biomedical Science after year two. Transfer is not guaranteed, with applicants having to successfully complete a competitive behaviours-based interview, a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check and an Occupational Health (OH) assessment. Students applying to transfer to the BSc (Hons) Applied Biomedical Science degree will need an overall IELTS average score of 7.0 with 6.5 in the writing and speaking sections or a GCSE Grade C/4 minimum in English language.
Placements with NHS employers will be for 40 weeks full-time (or the equivalent of 40 weeks). While on placement, ABMS students complete the IBMS portfolio of competence, and ABMS graduates are eligible to apply for Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) registration and the protected title of ‘Biomedical Scientist’ for employment in Band 5 positions within the NHS.
Students must be 18 years old or over at the start date of this programme.

Fees, costs and funding
New student 2024-2025 2025-2026 *
Home £9,250 £9,535
International £18,100 £18,650
Part time (Home) £770 £795
Full time fees shown are per annum. Part time fees shown are per 10 credits. Please note that fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them shown in the prospectus are correct at the time of going to print. Fees shown on the web are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about fees and funding.

* UK Government announcement on tuition fees

On Monday 4 November 2024, the UK Government announced a proposal to increase tuition fees for home undergraduate students from £9,250 to £9,535 per annum from September 2025 onwards. The University of Plymouth intends to apply this new fee from September 2025. However, implementation of this increase will be subject to parliamentary procedure. This change applies to new students starting their studies in September 2025. For current and returning students, the University is reviewing fees and will update you as soon as possible.

Additional costs

This course is delivered by the Faculty of Health and more details of any additional costs associated with the faculty's courses are listed on the following page: Faculty of Health additional costs .

Tuition fees for optional placement years

The fee for all undergraduate students completing any part of their placement year in the UK in 2024/2025 is £1,850.
The fee for all undergraduate students completing their whole placement year outside the UK in 2024/2025 is £1,385.
 Learn more about placement year tuition fees

How to apply
All applications for undergraduate courses are made through UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service).
UCAS will ask for the information contained in the box at the top of this course page including the UCAS course code and the institution code.
To apply for this course and for more information about submitting an application including application deadline dates, please visit the UCAS website.
Support is also available to overseas students applying to the University from our International Office via our how to apply webpage or email admissions@plymouth.ac.uk.

Progression routes

International progression routes

The University of Plymouth International College (UPIC) offers foundation, first-year and pre-masters programmes that lead to University of Plymouth degrees. Courses are specially designed for EU and international students who are missing the grades for direct entry to the University, and include full duration visa sponsorship. You can start in January, May or September, benefitting from small class sizes, top-quality tuition and 24/7 student support.
Find out more at plymouth.ac.uk/upic or contact our team at info@upic.plymouth.ac.uk

 

What our students do

"We're finding protein compounds that could be developed into drugs that could be used in place of current antibiotics"
Putting everything you've learned into practice in our professional standard labs. BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science student Lauren talks about the Derriford Research Facility and the research she was able to get involved with.

Student insight

The on-campus practical labs and workshops offered by BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science introduced Christina to a helpful and supportive network of lecturers and course mates.
Joining some of the many societies on offer helped her broaden this community beyond her course.
 
 

Real-world experience

Employers consistently report that work experience is one of the most significant factors in their recruitment decisions. We want you to graduate ready for the world of work and so will encourage and support you to gain real-world experience alongside your studies.
You can choose to:
  • take part in a year-long industrial placement at the end of your second year
  • if a year seems too long, we also support shorter internships that fit around your studies
  • we also offer a limited number of research summer placements which allow students to gain valuable research experience with the Biomedical Research Group.
Both industrial and research placements and internships allow you to:
  • gain hands-on experience
  • apply learning from the classroom to the workplace
  • make an informed career choice when you graduate
  • develop commercial awareness and other key employability skills
  • start building your own network of industry contacts.
All of which will enhance your prospects on graduation.

I graduated with first class honours, experience in an NHS lab, and a funded research project in the subject area of my choice (immunotherapeutics) under my belt. I wouldn’t be where I am now without these things on my CV.

After graduating, James, took a position in an NHS microbiology laboratory as an assistant technician, then moved on to work as a medical technician in transplant immunology.

Studying a historical landmark inspired my future


BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science student Enus Fina talks about a placement with Bath's world-famous Roman Baths that has guided his thinking for the future.
"We discovered upwards of 50 antimicrobial producing bacteria, which could be producing potentially novel antimicrobials ... This is something that could have real impact when you consider the current global efforts to tackle antimicrobial resistance."
BSc (Hons) Biomedical Sciences student Enus Fina at the Roman Baths
University of Plymouth staff and students collecting samples from the Roman Baths.
 
 
 

BSc (Hons) Applied Biomedical Science

During your second year you will have the opportunity to apply to for a year-long placement in an accredited NHS lab and transfer to BSc (Hons) Applied Biomedical Science *.
Successful applicants complete a 40 week, full-time placement, alongside an Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS).registration training portfolio. This will enable you to apply for HCPC registration as a biomedical scientist on graduation.
* Please be aware that transfer is highly competitive and not guaranteed. Applicants also undergo a behaviours-based interview by NHS employers, Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check and occupational health (OH) assessment.

While I didn’t realise it until my placement year, the fact that my course was accredited was so useful as it meant that I didn’t need to do “top-up” modules to get onto the HCPC register.

Graduate Tim got a job as a biomedical scientist in the same NHS trust that supported his placement year. 
 
 
 

Where our students learn

Our students in the School of Biomedical Sciences have access to some of the best-resourced laboratories in the UK, pursuing research grounded in the real world of clinical, applied and basic science.

LABplus
LABplus
LABplus is a flexible learning space designed to support students with their studies, practical work and laboratory skills.
Students having sample taken in the Phlebotomy Laboratory
Phlebotomy Laboratory
The Phlebotomy Laboratory is a specialised facility designed for the collection of biological samples including blood and saliva samples.
Students in the Analytical Laboratory, Link Building
Analytical Laboratory
The Analytical Laboratory is specifically dedicated to the testing, analysis and evaluation of food products and will allow you to process and analyse food samples ensuring the safety, quality, and compliance of food items.
Peninsula Medical School anatomical model of the human body in the Life Sciences Resource Centre
Life Sciences Resource Centre (LSRC)
An outstanding teaching and learning facility with an extensive range of modern resources designed to best support your study, whether attending taught sessions or during self-directed learning, the LSRC will empower you to succeed to your full potential.
Working in the lab researchiing Brain Tumours at the Derriford Research Facility (DRF).
Derriford research facility (DRF)
DRF brings together the University’s lab-based research to focus on the development of new therapeutics, diagnostics, interventions and approaches to prevent, diagnose and treat diseases, enhance patient outcomes and improve global healthcare.

Teaching and learning

The teaching and learning philosophy of the School of Biomedical Sciences can be summarised in three words: engagement, experience and expertise.
We work in partnership with you. We help support your growth to achieve your ambitions and goals.

Research-rich environment

Learn about our varied research topics within the Biomedical Research Group , which include:
  • Non-invasive pre-natal testing
  • new targets for cancer treatment
  • understanding macrophages
  • combating sepsis
  • self-disseminating vaccines.
 
 
* The programme has been designed to meet the IBMS’s standards of accreditation and re-accreditation. Successful completion of 360 credits of the BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science programme with completion of the IBMS portfolio between Year 2 and final year will enable students to apply to the Institute of Biomedical Science for the protected title of ‘Biomedical Scientist’ and eligibility to register with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) to work within the NHS upon graduation.
Please be aware that transfer is highly competitive and not guaranteed. Applicants also undergo a behaviours-based interview by NHS employers, Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check and occupational health (OH) assessment.