BSc (Hons) Human Biosciences

Careers options include: biomedical research, biomedical NHS and public health laboratory assistants, medical laboratory technology, health counselling, pharmaceutical sales and marketing, health product research and development, environmental agencies, food quality control, cosmetics industry, scientific writing and publishing, teaching profession and further postgraduate study (MSc, MRes, PhD).

With regards to career options, in addition to the five ring-fenced places for transfer to medicine and dentistry after year 1 for BMS or HB, we also have the additional route for graduates of all our undergraduate programmes.

The programme also has an enhanced admissions process for medicine and dentistry. So if you are considering applying for either of these courses you may wish to consider applying to Plymouth in light of the following. Further information regarding admissions and interviews etc. is available from the medical and dental school admissions team meddent-admissions@plymouth.ac.uk.

What can you do with a human biosciences degree?

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:

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

For further information regarding admissions and interviews please contact us at meddent-admissions@plymouth.ac.uk.

• Year 1

• In your first year, a foundation of theory and practicals will introduce you to the most important organism – Homo sapiens, and you'll develop key graduate skills in communication, data analysis and IT.

  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

• The focus in your second year will be to develop a deeper understanding of human physiology and neurobiology, genetics and molecular cell biology, metabolism, infection and immunology. You'll also enhance your knowledge and practical skills in experimental and investigative techniques with a methods module.

  Core modules

  BHCS2003
  Genetic Continuity and Diversity 20 credits

  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.

  50% Coursework

  50% Examinations

  BHCS2004
  Cell Biology in Health and Disease 20 credits

  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.

  50% Coursework

  50% Examinations

  BHCS2006
  Infection, Immunity and Disease 20 credits

  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.

  50% Practicals

  50% Examinations

  BHCS2018
  Systems Physiology: Function and Dysfunction 20 credits

  This module examines human physiological mechanisms of function of major body systems at the cellular, tissue, organ and organism level. It also explores mechanisms of dysfunction at the cellular, organ and systems level. The module will emphasize relationships between structure and function and will emphasize correlations between normal physiology and pathophysiology, normal anatomy and pathology, and homeostasis and homeostatic imbalances.

  50% Coursework

  50% Examinations

  BHCS2027
  Placements and Employability 0 credits

  HIPL500
  Interprofessional Learning 2

  BHCS2002
  Evidence-Based Practice in Biomedical Science 20 credits

  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.

  75% Coursework

  25% Practicals

  Optional modules

  PSYC522
  Individual Differences in Behaviour 20 credits

  The aim of this module is to give an overview of how individuals vary in thinking, behaviour, and emotion, and the consequences this may have for their physical and mental health. This module consists of four strands. 1 Personality & Intelligence (development, measurement) 2 Health Psychology (physical health, behaviour change) 3 Clinical Psychology (definition, therapy) 4 Positive Psychology (mental health improvement)

  50% Coursework

  50% Examinations

  BHCS2005
  Clinical Haematology and Biochemistry 20 credits

  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.

  50% Coursework

  50% Examinations

• 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.

  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

• In your final year, you will have a choice of two personal research project modules to suit your career aspirations. A wide range of modules will develop your critical understanding of cutting-edge research.

  Core modules

  BHCS3001
  Personal Research Project 40 credits

  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.

  80% Coursework

  20% Practicals

  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.

  HIPL600
  Interprofessional Learning 3

  Optional modules

  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

  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

  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

  BHCS3014
  Reproductive Science 20 credits

  This module provides the theoretical underpinning that will enable students to operate effectively in a modern reproductive science laboratory. Current concepts and techniques in reproductive biology and pathology, with particular reference to infertility and assisted reproduction, will be explored in a critical manner.

  50% Practicals

  50% Examinations

  BHCS3022
  Contemporary Issues in Human Health 20 credits

  Rapid developments in the biomedical sciences are affecting many aspects of human health, and there are profound economic, social, legal and ethical implications of many recent advances. This module allows students to select topics of personal interest for in-depth study and encourages effective communication to peers and other audiences, providing good skills for future career development

  70% Coursework

  30% Examinations

  BHCS3024
  Diet, Exercise and Chronic Disease 20 credits

  This module examines the roles of diet and exercise in the development and management of chronic disease states. The focus is on the major chronic diseases - obesity, CVD, type2 diabetes, cancer, osteoporosis.

  50% Coursework

  50% Examinations

  PSYC608
  Applied Topics in Psychology 1 20 credits

  This course allows students to develop an in depth and critical appreciation of two areas of psychological research (four topics drawn from the current research programmes of the School's staff).

  50% Coursework

  50% Examinations

BSc Hons Human Biosciences Programme Specification 2024 25 1391

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 Tariff points to include a minimum of three 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.

Access to HE Diploma: 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.

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: 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

International qualifications: We welcome applicants offering a wide range of international qualifications. Applications are considered on an individual basis, depending on the subjects studied.

English language requirements

IELTS: Overall average score of at least 6.0, with a score of at least 5.5 in all elements.

Other qualifications: Applicants with other qualifications should contact the Admissions Office for advice.

Students must be 18 years old or over at the start date of this programme.

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.