Biomedical Sciences BSc Honours
University of Westminster
Key Information
Select location
Campus location
London, United Kingdom
Languages
English
Study format
On-Campus
Duration
3 - 4 years
Pace
Full time
Tuition fees
GBP 15,400 / per year *
Application deadline
Request info
Earliest start date
Sep 2024
* international | UK: £9,250
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Introduction
Biomedical science is concerned with the detailed study of the human body, both in health and disease, with emphasis on the diagnosis and understanding of disease states and the mechanisms involved.
In Year 1 you'll study the important fundamental sciences, including biochemistry, cell and molecular biology, and human anatomy and physiology.
In Year 2 you'll develop your understanding of a wide range of disease processes, combined with the principles of laboratory procedures used to aid diagnosis and treatment.
Between Years 2 and 3, you’ll have the opportunity to undertake a professional placement year in the industry. Alternatively, you can undertake a period of study abroad at one of Westminster’s partner institutions.
In Year 3 you'll focus on the study of the complex nature of disease as it affects particular biological systems. You'll also study the laboratory procedures used in haematology, clinical immunology, cellular and molecular pathology, clinical biochemistry and medical microbiology, to diagnose and monitor disease. You'll also undertake a major research project, which will enable you to develop the skills you need for genuine scientific inquiry.
Professional accreditation
The degree is accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS). Honours graduates can apply for registration with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) as Biomedical Scientists, provided they fulfil the additional HCPC requirements of competencies through suitable employment and completion of the IBMS certificate of competence.
The course is 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).
Career Opportunities
With a growing global network of 3,000 employers, our Careers and Employability Service is here to support you to achieve your full potential.
- Fantastic central London location
Our central London location facilitates you in finding work experience, with numerous opportunities available within the biomedical laboratories in London, the UK and abroad. - Transferable skills
You'll gain the knowledge and experience to work in areas such as laboratories, clinical trials, healthcare commerce, medical devices industries, regulatory affairs, research development, scientific writing, teaching and many more. - Employers around the world
The University’s Careers and Employability Service has built up a network of over 3,000 employers around the world, helping all our students explore and connect with exciting opportunities and careers.
Career development
Our course has been designed to prepare you for a career in medical diagnostic, pharmaceutical and research environments. It provides you with a thorough education in the disciplines required to understand and investigate disease and enables you to develop your career in a variety of pathways in biomedical sciences.
We also have a strong record in preparing graduates for postgraduate study across a range of biomedical and molecular disciplines, as well as postgraduate teacher training.
We regularly monitor graduate career destinations and reflect on this information in the planning of the course curriculum.
Graduate employment
Graduates from Biomedical Sciences are widely sought after by employers. Major employment areas include:
- Clinical genetics laboratories
- Clinical trials
- Commerce (sales and marketing) related to healthcare and diagnostics products
- Diagnostic pathology and clinical laboratories
- Forensic laboratories
- Government or charity-funded research laboratories
- Medical devices and laboratory instrumentation industries
- NHS Blood and Transplant laboratories
- Private pathology laboratories
- Public Health England
- Regulatory affairs (drug registration and patents)
- Research development for pharmaceuticals
- Research laboratories in universities
- Scientific writing and publishing
- Teaching
- Veterinary and agricultural laboratories
Admissions
Curriculum
Teaching includes tutorials, lectures and seminars, practical laboratory work and group activities, together with supervised use of facilities. Assessment is through a combination of exams and coursework (including essays, practical work, group work, presentations and reports).
You’ll receive continuous feedback through online activities, group and one-to-one tutorials and periodic reviews, designed to give you multiple points of guidance throughout your studies.
The following subjects are indicative of what you will study in this course.
Year 1
Subjects of study include:
Core Study Areas
- Biochemistry
- Cell Biology
- Functional Anatomy
- Human Physiology
- Professional Development in Science (PRoDS)
Optional Study Areas
- Applications of Biological Sciences
- Biological Chemistry
- Fundamentals of Pharmacology
- Principles of Human Nutrition
Credit Level 4
Year 2
Subjects of study include:
Core Study Areas
- Applied Pathobiology
- Infection and Immunity
- Medical Genetics and Genomics
- Metabolic Biochemistry
- Research Methods
Optional Study Areas
- Bioinformatics
- Diet in Health and Disease
- Genetics in Medicine
- Human Parasitology
- Medical Physiology
- Molecular and Cellular Therapeutics
- Neuroscience
Credit Level 5
Placement Year
Professional experience or study abroad year
Between Years 2 and 3, you’ll have the opportunity to undertake a professional placement year in the industry. Completing the placement year will lead to the final award of Bachelor of Science with Honours – Biomedical Sciences with Professional Experience.
Alternatively, you can undertake a period of study abroad at one of Westminster’s partner institutions. Successful completion will lead to the final award of Bachelor of Science with Honours – Biomedical Sciences with International Experience.
Year 3
Subjects of study include:
- Cellular and Molecular Pathology
- Clinical Immunology and Immunohaematology
- Diagnostic Biochemistry and Haematology
- Final Year Project in Life Sciences
- Medical Microbiology in the Genomics Era
Credit Level 6
International Opportunities
Many of our courses offer international study and work experiences, and the University provides other global opportunities that all students can apply for - so whatever you're studying, you'll have the chance to go abroad.
Opportunities could include:
- Taking part in a semester or year-long exchanges at institutions around the world
- Attending an international summer school or field trip
- Developing your CV through volunteering or work placements abroad
International experience broadens horizons, boosts self-confidence, and improves global understanding, alongside being fantastic for your career.
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Program Tuition Fee
Scholarships and Funding
The University is dedicated to supporting ambitious and outstanding students and we offer a variety of scholarships to eligible undergraduate students, which cover all or part of your tuition fees.
English Language Requirements
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