Biomedical ScienceMSci

This degree equips you to make significant contributions to the field. Covering all major body systems to cellular and molecular levels, delve into the intricacies of the human body and the mysteries with our 'bench-to-bedside' approach. Access professional development and entrepreneurial opportunities, including Good Clinical Laboratory Practice (GCLP) and business skills, while building strong research and practical abilities.  

• See how groundbreaking research translates into clinical practice using specialist state-of-the-art facilities and laboratories

• Study at at the forefront of Biomedical Science as you learn from world-leading experts engaged in pioneering research

• Join a global science community with opportunities to gain real-world industry experience across the globe

• Opportunity to gain invaluable industry and clinical experiences through our placement partnerships

• Develop specialised research and transferable skills as you conduct your own research project and acquire your Good Clinical Laboratory Certificate

Shape your degree to your interests

Transform your Biomedical Science degree by diving into a scientific area that ignites your passion. With a wide array of optional modules, you can craft your own unique academic journey. From Biomedical Entrepreneurship to Biomaterials, embrace the chance to forge your own path and specialise in an area of interest to you.

• Laboratory-based practicals - Gain hands-on experience in our state-of-the-art laboratories, crucial for your future career in biomedical science
• E-learning - Benefit from access to Canvas, our Virtual Learning Environment (VLE), allowing you to share thoughts on assignments with you peers, access learning materials 24 hours a day and submit your work electronically. 
• Self-study - Become an independent and self-motivated learner. Self-study is a vital part of the course to deepen your understanding of biomedical science.

Support during your studies

You will have access to a comprehensive support system to help you make the transition to higher education when you start at Birmingham:

Personal academic tutors – Your personal tutor get to know you as you progress through your studies. They will provide academic support and advice to enable you to make the most of your time here at Birmingham.

Student Services Centre - Based within the Medical School, access many services from drop in sessions for advice and guidance, referral to internal and external services to support regarding extenuating circumstances. Here you will find our Wellbeing Officers. They provide professional support, advice and guidance across a range of issues. 

Academic Skills Centre - The centre is a place where you can develop your mathematical, academic writing and general academic skills. Become an effective and independent learner through the use of a range of high-quality and appropriate learning support services. 

Our student experience team will help you get the most out of your academic experience. They offer research opportunities, placement support, and help you prepare for your post-university career. They also organise social events to help you meet fellow students from your course. 

Assessment methods

You will be assessed in a variety of ways to help you transition to a new style of learning. At the beginning of each module, you will be given information on how and when you will be assessed. You’ll receive feedback on each assessment within four weeks, so that you can learn from and build on what you have done. Assessments methods will vary with each module and could include:

• Coursework such as written assessments
• Group and individual presentations
• Laboratory-based work
• Formal exams

Contact hours

Year 1: Approximately 25-30% in scheduled teaching (lectures, small group tutorials and lab practice), 70-75% on independent study.

Year 2: Approximately 20-25% in scheduled teaching (lectures, small group tutorials and lab practice), 75-80% on independent study. 

Year 3: Approximately 15-20% in scheduled teaching (lectures, small group tutorials and lab practice), 80-85% on independent study.

Year 4: Approximately 10-15% in scheduled teaching (lectures, small group tutorials and lab practice) and 85-90% on independent study.

MBChB Medicine and Surgery transfers

From 2025 you may have the opportunity to transfer on to our MBChB Medicine and Surgery programme after completing year one of your studies in Biomedical Science. This exciting opportunity is open to academically excellent students who have developed their interests and abilities while studying at Birmingham.

To secure a place at Birmingham, you'll need to meet our general entry requirements as well as those specific to your course.

Number of A levels required: 3

Required subjects and grades

Two science A levels from Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, Physics or Psychology. General Studies and Critical Thinking are not accepted. 

GCSE

GCSE grade B/6 in Mathematics, Biology and Chemistry (or double award science) if not offered at a higher level.

International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma:

Overall score of 32 points, with minimum grades of 6, 6, 5 in higher level subjects, to include at least two sciences (from Biology, Chemistry, Psychology, Mathematics (either Analysis & Approaches or Applications & Interpretation) and Physics).

Minimum age requirement

Every applicant for admission to the University must have reached the age of 18 years on 1 October of the year of entry.

English language requirements

If you are an international student, you will need to demonstrate you have a suitable level of English proficiency, usually through the form of an IELTS or equivalent qualification or a Presessional English course.

• TOEFL: 88 overall with no less than 21 in Reading, 20 in Listening, 22 in Speaking and 21 in Writing.
• IELTS: 6.5 overall with no less than 6.0 in any band.
• Pearson Test of English (PTE): PTE 67 with no less than 64 in all four skills.
• Cambridge English(exams taken from 2015): Cambridge English: Advanced Minimum overall score of 176, with no less than 169 in any component
• Language Cert ESOL SELT (UKVI): B2 ‘Communicator’ with no less than 33 in each skill
• Trinity ISE II: Not applicable
• Trinity ISE III: Pass in each Skill

Presessional English courses

If you have a conditional offer for Birmingham where English is a requirement, you can take a Presessional English course as an alternative to retaking IELTS or a similar qualification. We offer on-campus courses all year round starting from September, including additional online courses in the summer term. Teaching takes place in small classes with no more than 18 students to maximise class participation.

The University will charge the maximum approved tuition fee per year. If your offer is for 2025 year of entry, we expect that the tuition fee for your first year of study will be £9,535 for UK students.  If Parliament agrees on an increase in tuition fees, the University will increase fees for each year of study normally in line with these changes and will communicate any change in the fees to you without delay.  If you are applying for 2026 year of entry, you will be advised of the annual tuition fee closer to the time.

Undergraduate loans

To help with the cost of studies, undergraduate students from the UK can apply for student finance through the Student Loans Company. The support available is made up of a tuition fee loan and a maintenance loan which helps to cover living costs.

Scholarships, grants and bursaries

At Birmingham, we believe that financial worries should not be a barrier to accessing higher education. That’s why we offer a range of additional financial support for students through scholarships, bursaries and other awards.

View further information on how to apply for undergraduate courses, including advice for UK and overseas applicants.

Our Biomedical Science graduates have an excellent record of employment, often pursuing PhDs, working in hospitals, or becoming clinical scientists and biotech professionals. Our modules offer many professional development opportunities, including acquiring your Good Clinical Laboratory Practice (GCLP) certificate required for roles within clinical research and laboratories. Developing your transferable skills will also equip you to thrive in business, accounting, marketing, and management roles.

Careers Network

Our aim is to make sure that success in your studies leads you on to a fulfilling career. Whatever you plan to do after your degree, the Careers Network offer support to help you identify your options, develop your skills and gain access to opportunities that propel you towards your career goal.

Our bustling campus with its beautiful grounds, friendly community, and excellent facilities will quickly make you feel at home. We offer you a huge variety of accommodation options in the UK’s second city, exciting activities to get involved in outside your studies, as well as all the support and advice you need.