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Biomedical science students using equipment in lab

Biomedical Science BSc(Hons) (with integrated foundation year)

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Intro

With an extra year of integrated study at foundation level, this course opens up opportunities in the sciences if you don't hold the required scientific A-levels or equivalent qualifications, want to change career or simply want to explore the options offered by university-level science before deciding on your specific pathway.

The foundation year gives you the support, knowledge and skills you need. On successful completion of the foundation year, you can progress directly to the Biomedical Science BSc(Hons).

Our teaching is informed by research that ensures it is kept relevant and current. You will have the opportunity to complete a project in an active research laboratory. Our researchers are working on the development of novel biomedical products and pioneering new approaches to regenerative medicine, and the treatment of cancer, asthma, diabetes and other chronic diseases.

You’ll put your learning into practice through project work, hospital visits and case studies. Visits from clinical and biomedical scientists and placement opportunities help prepare you for work and give you a feel for what it’s really like to be a biomedical scientist.

Key facts

Location Brighton: Moulsecoomb

UCAS code B942

Full-time 4 years
With placement year 5 years

Accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS) and the Royal Society of Biology (RSB).

Join an online event

Apply now with UCAS

Course content

How this course is delivered

We've made some changes to the way our courses are taught to keep everyone safe, connected and involved in university life.

At the moment, students have a blend of on-campus and digitally enabled remote learning that provides lots of opportunities to interact and engage with lecturers and other students.

Find out what these changes mean for this course

Course structure 

Our course provides a strong foundation in clinically related subjects such as the blood sciences, cell pathology microbiology, human physiology and pharmacology.

These subjects are supported by studies in fundamental scientific disciplines such as cell and molecular biology, genetics and biochemistry.

You will learn through lectures, fieldwork, group work, practical classes and independent study. Assessment involves the use of essays, exams, presentations, practical exercises and communication exercises, which vary between different modules.

Biomedical science students

Foundation year 

During your foundation year you’ll be introduced to key concepts in biology, chemistry and data handling to prepare you for study at undergraduate level. You’ll also develop your skills in problem solving, analysis and communication.

Modules

  • Foundation Biology
  • Foundation Chemistry
  • Data Handling
  • Study Skills
Close up of a pharmacy student in white coat and safety glasses

Year 1 

You will learn the foundations of biomedical science and be introduced to lab techniques used in professional practice.

Modules

  • Essential Skills for Bioscientists

    This module introduces the principles of the scientific method and a variety of study and communication skills that you’ll need during your degree. You’ll develop mathematical and statistical skills and apply them in the context of bioscientific data presentation and interpretation.

  • Introduction to Genetics and Molecular Biology

    This module will provide you with a conceptual and procedural understanding of the modern evolutionary synthesis of natural selection, Mendelian inheritance and population genetics culminating in the emergence of modern molecular biology. The recognition of DNA as the archetypical material responsible for information transfer, the discovery of the mechanisms of information flow in biological systems (eg transcription and translation) and the development and application of modern recombinant DNA techniques are also studied.

  • Introduction to Biochemistry and Bioanalytical Techniques

    This module will introduce you to the fundamental concepts of biochemistry and the principle techniques used in biochemical analysis. You will learn about the different classes of biochemical compounds and the structure and function of the macromolecules that are created from them. The structure and function of enzymes will be covered, along with the principle metabolic pathways. You’ll also explore the theory and practical use of the most commonly used biochemical techniques.

  • Introduction to Human Physiology

    This module will introduce you to human physiology. You'll explore anatomical structure, function, the principle of homeostasis, and neurological and hormonal control of the human body, its component parts and major systems, with appropriate examples of disease pathophysiology.

  • Introduction to Infection Science

    This module will introduce to microorganisms and the components of the immune system. You will also learn about the main laboratory techniques used to grow and identify microorganisms and to detect and identify components of the immune system. Programmes which screen healthy people for disease will also be investigated.

  • Introduction to Biomedical Science

    The module introduces the biomedical science profession in the UK, including the organisation of subject-specific disciplines and the professional and regulatory structures. This will be set in the context of a broad perspective of biology of disease and techniques used in laboratory investigation in the pathology disciplines. There will be a focus on principles underlying laboratory techniques in haematology and clinical biochemistry to investigate disease.

Biomed students in lab

Year 2

You will build on knowledge gained in your first year, broaden your research and professional development skills, and explore topics that include diet and exercise, infection and immunity, human physiology, molecular cell biology, genetics and genomics, human biochemistry and metabolism.

Modules

  • Research Skills and Professional Development
  • Diet and Exercise in Health
  • Infection and Immunity
  • Molecular Cell Biology, Genetics and Genomics
  • Intermediate Human Physiology
  • Human Biochemistry and Metabolism
Close up of a student in a white coat looking into a microscope

Placement year

You have the option of a year’s paid placement after your second year where you will spend a year working in a professional environment. It’s a great way to build on the skills you have developed on your course and to gain new ones. Our placements team can help you to find the job for you and you will also have the support of one of our lecturers while on placement. 

An optional placement year in an accredited NHS training lab allows you to work towards the IBMS Certificate of Competence and the Registration Training Portfolio.

Other placement opportunities prepare you for work in a range of scientific areas and postgraduate research.

Our students have secured placements in organisations such as GlaxoSmithKline, Public Health England and Brighton and Sussex University Hospitals NHS Trust.

Biomedical Specialist facilities

Final year

The focus is more on the clinical aspects of biomedical science, including blood sciences, cellular pathology, clinical immunology and microbiology, and innovations in bioscience research. You will undertake a project linked with one of our research groups.

Modules

  • Blood Sciences
  • Cellular Pathology
  • Innovations in Bioscience Research
  • Clinical Immunology and Microbiology
  • Biology Experimental Project
Two lab students cooperating on an experiment

Staff profile

Peter Bush, course leader

"I joined the University of Brighton in 2008 to lecture physiology. Now, as Biomedical Science course leader, it is my responsibility to make sure the degree remains relevant for the biomedical sciences, and provides our students with the opportunity to fulfil their potential and have varied and successful careers.

"Alongside my academic duties I have a number of research interests, which help to keep my lectures informed and up to date. My research encompasses most things related to cartilage, including cartilage degeneration in osteoarthritis, and the mechanisms of bone lengthening by growth plate cartilage. Our final year project students have the opportunity to be directly involved in these areas of study."

Peter Bush

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Science taster online event – Wednesday 2 December 15:00 – 16:30

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Come and join us at this online event, where you’ll have the opportunity to chat to current students and academics about our undergraduate degree courses in all areas of the sciences.

Read more from our blog

Careers

Professional accreditation

The BSc(Hons) degree is accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science and meets the academic requirements for registration as a biomedical scientist
with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).

The BSc(Hons) element of the course is also accredited by the Royal Society of Biology for the purpose of meeting in part the academic and experience requirement for the Membership and Chartered Biologist (CBiol). Accredited degree programmes contain a solid academic foundation in biological knowledge and key skills, and prepare graduates to address the needs of employers.

The accreditation criteria require evidence that graduates from accredited programmes meet defined sets of learning outcomes, including subject knowledge, technical ability and transferable skills.

IBMS new logo

RSB accreditation logo

Becoming a biomedical scientist 

To work as a biomedical scientist in the UK you’ll need:

  •  a degree qualification that is accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS) (like this BSc)
  • at least one year’s experience in an NHS approved lab as you work towards the IBMS Certificate of Competence and the Registration Training Portfolio
  • to achieve the IBMS Certificate of Competence which enables you to register with Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC)
  • to register with the HCPC.
Lindsey Dixon, Chief Biomedical Scientist at Brighton and Sussex University Hospitals NHS trust shares her experience with students Lindsey Dixon, Chief Biomedical Scientist at Brighton and Sussex University Hospitals NHS trust shares her experience with students

Facilities for learning 

Your lab-based learning is in our specialist laboratories which are purpose-built for studying molecular biology, microbiology and ecology.

Our facilities include:

  • a dedicated microbiology lab with its own technical support team and preparation area
  • primary cell/tissue and secondary cell culture facility
  • molecular biology lab
  • RT-PCR equipment
  • image analysis suite with electron microscopes, a confocal microscope and atomic force microscopes.
  • genomics/proteomics facility for analysis of cell genes and proteins.
University of Brighton Biosciences Lab Click to view a virtual tour of some of our biosciences facilities.

Graduate destinations  

Many of our graduates follow careers as biomedical scientists in the NHS as part of the biochemistry, pathology and microbiology teams.

You will have the skills and knowledge for careers in industries such as biotechnology, pharmaceutical development and forensic science. You will also be prepared for medicine, dentistry, postgraduate degrees (MSc, MRes or PhD), academic research and teaching.

Further study 

If you achieve the required standard in year 2, you can choose to progress from BSc directly to the third year of the Biomedical Science MSci and study towards a masters-level qualification.

We have opportunities for further postgraduate study in the following fields, all of which can be a springboard to PhD level.

  • Biological Sciences MRes
  • Biomedical Sciences MRes
  • Natural Sciences MRes
  • Regenerative Medicine and Devices MRes
  • Stress, Ageing and Chronic Disease MRes

Supporting your employability 

Outside of your course, our Careers Service is here to support you as you discover (and re-discover) your strengths and what matters to you. We are here for you throughout your university journey as you work towards a fulfilling and rewarding career.

Connect with our careers team

  • Find part-time work that you can combine with your studies.
  • Find, or be, a mentor or get involved with our peer-to-peer support scheme.
  • Develop your business ideas through our entrepreneurial support network.
  • Get professional advice and support with career planning, CV writing and interview top tips.
  • Meet potential employers at our careers fairs.
  • Find rewarding volunteering opportunities to help you discover more about what makes you tick, and build your CV.

Whatever your career needs, we are here to help. And that's not just while you are a student, our support carries on after you've graduated.

Find out more...

Coloured background with the words Be More, Connected, Skilled, Emlployable

Entry criteria

Entry requirements

UCAS tariff
72 tariff points. Level 3 Key Skills and General Studies will count towards the tariff.

A-levels
DDD including two full science A-levels.

International Baccalaureate
24 points, with Higher level biology and chemistry at grade 4.

Other qualifications
If you have completed an Access course or BTEC diploma we will consider your application on an individual basis; relevant experience may also be taken into account. 

GCSE (minimum grade C or grade 4)
At least three subjects including English language, maths and a science.

Studied before or got relevant experience?
A qualification, HE credits or relevant experience may count towards your course at Brighton, and could mean that you do not have to take some elements of the course or can start in year 2 or 3. 

English language requirements
IELTS 6.0 overall with a minimum of 5.5 in each element. Find out more about the other English qualifications that we accept.

 

International requirements and visas

International requirements by country
Country name
Albania
Algeria
Argentina
Australia
Austria
Bahrain
Bangladesh
Belarus
Belgium
Bermuda
Bosnia and Herzegovina
Botswana
Brazil
Bulgaria
Burma (Myanmar)
Cameroon
Canada
Chile
China
Colombia
Croatia
Cyprus
Czech Republic
Denmark
Ecuador
Egypt
Estonia
Finland
France
Germany
Ghana
Greece
Guyana
Hong Kong
Hungary
Iceland
India
Indonesia
Iran
Iraq
Ireland
Israel
Italy
Jamaica
Japan
Jordan
Kazakhstan
Kenya
Kosovo
Kuwait
Latvia
Lebanon
Liechtenstein
Libya
Lithuania
Luxembourg
Macedonia
Malaysia
Malawi
Malta
Mexico
Moldova
Montenegro
Morocco
Namibia
Nepal
Netherlands
New Zealand
Nigeria
Norway
Oman
Pakistan
Palestinian National Authority
Philippines
Poland
Portugal
Qatar
Romania
Russian Federation
Saudi Arabia
Serbia
Sierra Leone
Singapore
Slovakia
Slovenia
South Africa
South Korea
Spain
Sri Lanka
Syria
Sweden
Switzerland
Taiwan
Tanzania
Thailand
Tunisia
Turkey
Uganda
Ukraine
United Arab Emirates
United States
Uzbekistan
Venezuela
Vietnam
Yemen
Zambia
Zimbabwe

We can help you meet our English language or academic entry requirements.

Visit our language centre

For English language preparation courses.

Visit our International College

For degree preparation courses.

Visas and immigration advice

Applying for a student visa

Check out our step-by-step guidance.

Why choose an integrated foundation year?  

This integrated, preparatory course is suitable for applicants with a wide range of backgrounds and qualifications who, for a variety of reasons, may not feel ready to begin study at undergraduate level. This may apply to mature students who have had a break from education and may have vocational experience in addition to academic qualifications. Students who do not have the subject-appropriate A-levels or equivalent qualifications for the undergraduate course may also benefit.

Fees

Course fees

UK (full-time) 9,250 GBP

International (full-time) 14,748 GBP

What's included

You may have to pay additional costs during your studies. The cost of optional activities is not included in your tuition fee and you will need to meet this cost in addition to your fees. A summary of the costs that you may be expected to pay, and what is included in your fees, while studying a course in the School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences are listed here.

  • All students are provided with a laboratory coat, safety glasses and log book.
  • A budget to cover laboratory consumables and equipment for your final year project is included in the fees for all students.
  • Access to key subject journals and subject specific databases is provided, as well as a site licence for industry-standard chemical drawing software.
  • Essential instruction booklets (laboratory handbooks) are provided, as is project poster printing and thesis binding. However, you should budget for books, printing and stationery for personal study.
  • The school provides some financial support for social activities via the student societies and holds a free annual graduation party.
  • Optional placements and day trips may include additional costs but this will vary depending on location of the placement.
  • For our ecology and conservation courses there are compulsory field trips for which you should budget up to £200. There are also optional field trips for which you may choose to budget up to £2,700. You may also need to buy appropriate clothing for outdoor use.
  • DBS checks for MPharm students are included in the fee.
  • Costs for MPharm placement travel is reimbursed up to a specified amount depending on location of placement.

You can chat with our enquiries team through the Stay in touch panel at the end of this page if you require further information. Or check our finance pages for advice about funding and scholarships, as well as more information about fees and advice on international and island fee-paying status.

Info

The fees listed here are for full-time courses beginning in the academic year 2021–22.

Further tuition fees are payable for each subsequent year of study and are subject to an annual increase of no more than 5% or RPI (whichever is the greater). The annual increase for UK students, who are subject to regulated fees, will increase no more than the statutory maximum fee.

You can find out more about our fees in the university's student contract and tuition fee policy (pdf).

The tuition fee you have to pay depends on a number of factors including the kind of course you take, and whether you study full-time or part-time. If you are studying part-time you will normally be charged on a pro rata basis depending on the number of modules you take.

Location

Local area

About Brighton

The city of Brighton & Hove is a forward-thinking place which leads the way in the arts, technology, sustainability and creativity. You'll find living here plays a key role in your learning experience.

Brighton is a leading centre for creative media technology, recently named the startup capital of the UK.

The city is home to a national 5G testbed and over 1,000 tech businesses. The digital sector is worth over £1bn a year to the local economy - as much as tourism.

All of our full-time undergraduate courses involve work-based learning - this could be through placements, live briefs and guest lectures. Many of these opportunities are provided by local businesses and organisations.

It's only 50 minutes by train from Brighton to central London and less than 40 minutes to Eastbourne. There are also daily direct trains to Bristol, Bedford, Cambridge, Gatwick Airport, Portsmouth and Southampton.

Map showing distance to London from Brighton
Brighton Beach sunset

Campus where this course is taught

Moulsecoomb campus

Two miles north of Brighton seafront, Moulsecoomb is our largest campus. Subjects taught here include architecture, business, computing, construction, engineering, geography, product design, law and pharmacy.

On campus you will find professional-standard facilities including a flight simulator, trading room, design and digital media suites and specialist research laboratories, alongside the library, student centre, a nursery, fitness facilities and Students’ Union. There are excellent public transport links.

The Big Build
A major transformation of our Moulsecoomb campus began in summer 2018. By the time the Big Build is complete, there’ll be new halls of residence, academic building, and Students’ Union and fitness facilities – all created with sustainability, inclusivity and community in mind.

As the development grows it will provide many exciting learning opportunities for our students, ranging from live projects, placements and internships with the companies involved to guest lectures and site visits. Find out more...

The Big Build

Accommodation

Brighton: Moulsecoomb

We guarantee an offer of a place in halls of residence to all eligible students.

Halls of residence
We have halls of residence across Brighton in the city centre, Moulsecoomb, Varley Park and Falmer.

  • You'll be prioritised for accommodation in the halls that are linked to your teaching base, subject to availability.
  • Moulsecoomb campus is linked to Varley Park and Moulsecoomb Place halls. All halls are self catered, but if you prefer you can add in a food and drink plan.
    • Varley Park offers a mix of rooms. It is around two miles from Moulsecoomb campus and four miles from the city centre. Public transport in the city is excellent, and there’s a shuttle bus between our Brighton campuses during term time.
    • Moulsecoomb Place halls are all self-catered and are located right on campus.

Want to live independently or in a university-managed house? We can help – find out more about unihomes and unilets or private renting.

Modern accommodation at nearby Varley Halls

Modern accommodation at nearby Varley Park

Relaxing in halls near the campus

Relaxing in halls near the campus

Students eating at the Hub

Students eating at the Hub

Maps

Moulsecoomb campus map

Student views  

Nina Holling

"I went to several open days before deciding on a university, and I eventually chose Brighton because of its excellent laboratory facilities.

"During my degree, I was pleasantly surprised by the number of laboratory classes. The practical skills gained are not only important for students wanting to become biomedical scientists but also for those thinking about going into postgraduate degrees or research.

"Having lived in Brighton for the last five years, I have truly fallen in love with the city and the freethinking lifestyle. I have also grown very fond of the university and the staff working here, and I've stayed to study for a PhD in microbiology."

Nina Holling Biomedical Sciences BSc(Hons)

Stay in touch

Join an online event

If you have a question about this course, our enquiries team will be happy to help.

01273 644644

Statistics

These charts give an indication of how much time you will spend on different activities at each level of the course, and an indication of the balance of assessment by coursework, and written and practical exams. For courses with option modules, actual proportions will depend on the modules you choose.

Find out more about how the academic year and degree courses are organised, and about learning and assessment activities you might get to grips with at Brighton. More specific information about this course is detailed in the programme specification (linked above). You can find out also about the range of support we offer to help you adjust to university life.

Overall workload

Assessments

Discover Uni

Discover Uni enables you to compare information when choosing a UK university course. All UK universities publish Discover Uni data on their website. Discover Uni will be launching a widget this month that will show top line stats for this course. Once live, the widget will appear below. 

Programme specification

The programme specification is the approved description of each course. They are updated following course changes, and give a detailed breakdown of the content and structure of the course.

Programme specification

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‹ ›

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