Undergraduate course

BSc (Hons)

Medical Sciences

Develop an understanding of how fundamental molecular, cellular, physiological and psychological processes affect human health and biology, and how advances in these areas of contemporary science impact on society.

Our typical offer

104 - 120 UCAS points

Make a difference

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

Solid foundation in biosciences

A strong foundation in a broad range of bioscience disciplines, underpinned by a biomolecular knowledge base relevant to human biology and pathology.

Real-world experience

From summer research experience to full year industry placements, take the opportunity to develop your employability.
BSc (Hons) Medical Sciences
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About

The significant developments in our basic understanding of the human organism have been enhanced, in particular, by new technologies associated with remarkable achievements especially in the fields of molecular and cellular biology. These in turn have had a substantial impact on our knowledge of the underlying basis of human health and disease. Recent advances in cutting edge technologies such as gene editing by CRISPR and single-cells omics have revolutionized the landscape of drug discovery and cancer research. Their potential use raise various social, ethical, and legal challenges. Society requires graduates who understand the scope and limitations of this knowledge and techniques and who are able to effectively communicate with others.
Male health student in the lab
 
 

This course is for you if...

you are interested in learning more about human microbiology, health and disease
Bacteria
you seek hands-on laboratory experience to develop practical skills
Beaker and test tube or vial
you're eager to learn from internationally recognised researchers and NHS professionals
Two healthcare professionals, one with stethoscope
you aim to pursue a career in biomedical research or healthcare industries
Healthcare professional with stethoscope outside building

Details

Year 1

Develops students’ abilities in core areas such as molecular and cell biology, genetics, physiology, anatomy, biochemistry, and microbiology. An introduction to psychology is also included at stage 1. The course offers flexibility allowing students to follow their own interests within the field.
Faculty of Health student working in lab

Core modules

BHCS1001
Biomedical Investigation and Experimentation 20 credits

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

50% Coursework

50% Practicals

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

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

PSYC427
Psychobiological and Cognitive Aspects of Health Behaviour 20 credits

This module introduces the psychology of choices and behaviour, with an emphasis on health. We will examine health behaviours, choices, and risks with a particular consideration of how these are influenced by biological and social factors. Students will have the opportunity to design and conduct research projects in groups, with presentation of this project forming the assessment for the module, in addition to assessment by Multiple Choice Test.

100% Coursework

Year 2

During stage 2, the foundations of the above subjects are developed further in core modules, which are combined with optional modules in biochemistry or psychology. This consequently provides a focus for student choice in the final year where students study related themes in health and disease from a variety of research-informed modules that discuss current hot topics in biosciences.
Health students working together in a lab

Year 3

Enrich your experience and boost your career prospects by taking an optional work placement for a minimum six months full-time (or part-time equivalent). Once completed, you’ll receive the Certificate of Work Experience as valuable evidence for future employers.
Student in the liquid nitrogen facility

Final year

In the final year, all students also undertake a research module enabling them to apply the skills they have developed over the course in an area of major interest to them.
Dr Juri Na Research Fellow in the lab
 
 
 

Progression

Applicants should be aware that only a limited number of students that enrol on this course are able to progress onto the following pathways: BMBS Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery and BDS Bachelor of Dental Surgery. The number of students progressing to these pathways varies each year and is subject to fulfilling the entry requirements set out below.
Please note that undertaking the BSc (Hons) Medical Sciences regardless of academic achievement on the course does not guarantee progression to any other course including BMBS/BDS.
For further information regarding admissions and interviews please contact admissions@plymouth.ac.uk

Progression requirements
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.
 
 
 

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.

Experience

 
 

Our facilities

With access to some of the country’s best-resourced and most advanced laboratories, our students in the School of Biomedical Sciences are set to excel in their studies and research.
You will work in state-of-the-art teaching laboratories throughout your degree, with the opportunity to undertake research or a final year project at our additional cutting-edge facilities based in the John Bull Building, north Plymouth.
Students being shown equipment in the Exercise Laboratory, Smeaton Building
LabPlus
Clinical and Human Physiology Laboratory
 
 

My favourite parts were definitely the laboratory practicals and modules about microbiology. I love being in the lab and am happiest with a pipette in hand!

Trudie McCombs, PhD student and BSc (Hons) Human Biosciences graduate
 
 

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.
Shagun Khera with medical students in the lab
 
 
 

Learn from experts

Learn from academics who are leaders in their field, with expertise in a wide range of biomedical research topics that directly inform your learning and prepare you for a successful career.
Dr Shagun Khera Lecturer in Biomedical Sciences


Lecturer in Biomedical Sciences

Dr Andrew Foey Associate Professor of Immunology


Associate Professor of Immunology

Dr David Price Lecturer in Genetics


Lecturer in Genetics

Show all
 
 

Immunologist’s teaching excellence recognised in national award

Dr Andy Foey, Associate Professor in Immunology in the School of Biomedical Sciences, won the inaugural Teaching Excellence Award given by the British Society for Immunology (BSI).
The BSI established the award to recognise immunologists who use excellent communication skills to convey immunology concepts to a range of students in an engaging and accessible manner, and inspire the next generation of experts in the profession.
Dr Andy Foey with Dr Helen Collins, BSI Education Secretary and head of the judging panel that awarded the prize
 
 
 
 

Enrich your studies – join the Biomed+ Society

The Biomedical Society is a group run by students, and open to Biomedical Science, Human Biosciences, Medical Sciences, Healthcare Sciences and Nutrition, Exercise and Health students.
The club offers a range of academic support and events, plus social events throughout the year (both drinking and non-drinking) to meet course mates across all three years of study.
Join the Biomed+ Society
Biomedical Society logo UPSU
 
 
 

Life in Plymouth

Plymouth's maritime history and coastal location have an undeniable influence on life in the city. The walk from our main campus to the seafront is only about one mile, providing loads of opportunity to relax and unwind during your studies. You don’t need to leave the city to get to the coast!

The overall vibe of the city is perfect. You are by the sea so it is still laid back, but you have all the conveniences of living in a city.

Jenna
Current student

Students sitting on the Barbican
Life in the city
Discover what Plymouth and its unique geographical location have to offer
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Explore your accommodation options
Discover our range of student accommodation options and find out how you can get a guaranteed place in halls
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Get involved with one of our many student groups
Our large student population, active Students' Union, and abundance of student-led clubs and societies blend to create a busy and vibrant student scene

Careers

I would definitely encourage you to carry out a placement year as it gave me a fantastic insight into how to prepare for life after graduation.

Harriet Saunders
Alumni

Harriet Saunders, BSc Human Biosciences Graduate
 
 

Optional placement year: preparing you for the future

Enrich your experience and boost your career prospects by taking an optional work placement in research or industry, for a minimum six months full-time (or part-time equivalent). A placement will enhance your employability by providing relevant work experience, allowing you to apply your knowledge and expertise while also developing new skills and techniques. Once completed, you’ll receive the Certificate of Work Experience as valuable evidence for future employers.

Graduates are equipped for a variety of careers

Graduates should be well equipped with the knowledge and practical skills to enable them to appreciate and contribute to informed discussion of human health issues, enabling them to pursue a career in bioscience.
There are a wide range of career opportunities in, for example, biomedical and public health laboratories, health counselling, the leisure industry, pharmaceutical sales and marketing, health product development, clinical science, medical laboratory technology, environmental agencies, the cosmetics industry, food quality control, alternative therapies, and scientific publishing for which Medical Science graduates are suited. Graduates are also well placed to obtain positions in the scientific civil service, the teaching profession, and other areas where the benefits of a science degree are recognised.
In recent years, an increasing number of our graduates have gone on to study either medicine or dentistry, gaining admission via one of the medical graduate entry programmes (GEPs). Other graduates progress onto postgraduate study either to enhance their knowledge via an MSc in a more specialised area of bioscience (eg cancer therapeutics or medical genetics), or they may undertake research for a PhD with the aim of developing a research career in bioscience.
  • ]

    87% of our human biosciences graduates are in work or further study

  • >

    80% of our human biosciences graduates said their current activity is meaningful

*Data is from the Graduate Outcomes Surveys covering the three years of 2019/20 – 2021/22. Graduates were surveyed 15 months after graduating. Data displayed is for UK-domiciled, first degree, full-time graduates who are working, studying or looking for work.

Fees and funding

Tuition fees

 
 
 
Tuition fees for full-time UK students starting in 2025-2026 academic year
Full-time study
£9,535 per year
Part-time study
£795 per 10 credits
Optional placement year completed in the UK
£1,850
Optional placement year completed outside the UK
£1,385
 
 

Tuition fee price changes
Following an announcement in November, the government has confirmed its intention to increase undergraduate tuition fees for the 2025/26 academic year. Subject to final Parliamentary approval (expected in early March 2025), the tuition fee for UK students is increasing to a maximum of £9,535 from 1 August 2025. This change applies to current and new students at the University of Plymouth. The Student Loans Company (SLC) has confirmed loans for tuition fees will be increased accordingly.
Our fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about fees and costs of studying .
 
 
 
 
 
 
Tuition fees for full-time international students starting in 2025-2026 academic year
Full-time study
£18,650 per year
Optional placement year completed in the UK
£1,850
Optional placement year completed outside the UK
£1,385
 
 

Tuition fee price changes
Our fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about fees and costs of studying .
 
 
 
 
 
 

Fund your studies

As an undergraduate at Plymouth, there are plenty of funding options available, including tuition fee loans, living cost loans, scholarships, bursaries and support funds.

Supporting students with the cost of living

The cost of living in the UK has risen faster than household income, meaning that most people will have less to spend on essential goods and services. This is an ongoing situation that is likely to affect everyone in some way.
The University provides advice and guidance and has a range of services, facilities and offers to help students with rising everyday costs.
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Entry requirements

Our typical offer
104 - 120 UCAS points

You may be eligible for a contextual offer

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

GCSE
Grade C/4 or above in Mathematics and English. Consideration may be given to equivalent qualifications such as Functional Skills.

A levels
104 - 120 points from a minimum of 3 A levels, including Grade B in Biology/Human Biology, and Grade C in a relevant second science. General Studies excluded.
Relevant second sciences: Chemistry, Physics, Maths, Applied Science, Environmental Science, Environmental Studies, Geology, Geography, and Psychology.

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.

All Access courses
Pass an Access to HE Diploma with 33 Level 3 credits at merit or distinction, including 15 Level 3 credits in Biology and 18 Level 3 credits in Chemistry, Maths, or Physics.

T level
Accepted – preference pathways would be Health or Science. Typical offer will be confirmed once an application is received.

International Baccalaureate
28 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

Extended entry requirements

To be accepted onto a degree course with us, you must have a suitable English language qualification.

Ready to apply?

All applications for undergraduate courses are made through UCAS.com. Please refer to the course facts below when completing your application for this course.
UCAS course code
B190
Institution code
P60
Duration

3 years
(+ optional placement)
Course type

Full-time
Study location
Plymouth
  • Apply at UCAS.com
    •  

    Entry requirements

    We welcome applicants with international qualifications and we accept a range of qualifications from across the globe.
    Our typical offer
    104 - 120 UCAS points
     
     

    BSearch entry requirements for your country

    5

    English language requirements

    To be accepted onto a degree course with us, you must have a suitable English language qualification.

    Ready to apply?

    As an international student, you can apply for this course through UCAS or an agent in your country.
  • Apply at UCAS.com
  • Find an agent
    • UCAS course code
    B190
    Institution code
    P60
    Duration

    3 years
    (+ optional placement)
    Course type

    Full-time
    Study location
    Plymouth

    Other routes to this course

    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
     
     
     

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