20 July - 7 August 2026

Biomedical Science, Clinical Care, and Population Health

Explore the science behind healthcare and population health. This three-week programme offers an exciting introduction to Biomedical science, Clinical care, and Public Health in a global context. This unique programme reflects the University of Birmingham’s 200-year medical heritage and 125-year legacy as a civic university, bringing together a common theme that unites two pathways, each addressing different aspects of Biomedical and healthcare challenges.
The College of Medicine and Health at the University of Birmingham is home to world-leading experts.
Students will first explore their chosen pathway before coming together in the second phase, where they will integrate their knowledge, share insights, and collectively tackle real-world healthcare challenges. This multidisciplinary approach highlights the interconnected nature of biomedical research, clinical care, clinical trials and public health, demonstrating how collaboration drives medical progress.
Programme structure
Phase 1: Specialised pathways
Bench to breakthroughs
A research-focused track exploring laboratory science, molecular biology, and translational research.
From clinic to community
A clinically oriented track focused on patient care, communication, health interventions, and public health.
Phase 2: Multidisciplinary integration
Tackling global health challenges together
After gaining specialised foundational knowledge in their respective pathways, students will come together in the second phase, where they will:
- Learn about and examine the interconnections between biomedical research, clinical trials, clinical care, and public health.
- Explore clinical trials and global health challenges.
- Collaborate in interdisciplinary teams.
Each year, the summer school will centre around a key theme inspired by the city and Birmingham’s medical heritage, innovation, and the university’s civic commitment to health and well-being.
- Duration
- Course Type
Summer School,
Undergraduate
Why study this course?
Why study this course?
- World-class education: Learn from leading academics and clinicians at a top 100 global university.
- Two tailored pathways: Bench to Breakthroughs–laboratory research and clinical trials, and From Clinic to Community–clinical skills and population health.
- Hands-on learning: Gain practical skills in research, data analysis, and clinical techniques.
- Multidisciplinary collaboration: Work across disciplines to foster understanding in holistic solutions to real-world health challenges.
- Cultural and professional growth: Engage in networking, career development, and cultural immersion in the UK.
- Make new friends: Meet and work with like-minded students from across the globe, as well as our current undergraduate students.
- Gateway to future opportunities: Insights into postgraduate study and health-related careers.
What you will learn and experience?
What you will learn and experience?
- Build foundational knowledge in biomedical science, population health, and the UK healthcare context.
- Develop hands‑on skills in laboratories, clinical training, and global health and clinical trials exploration.
- Strengthen critical thinking through data analysis and applied research tasks.
- Gain transferable skills useful for careers in medicine, nursing, public health, and research.
- Learn key research methods and communicate scientific findings clearly.
- Create and present a scientific poster as part of a research symposium.
- Explore Birmingham’s medical and public health heritage through guided learning experiences.
Alongside, you will also enjoy cultural visits, games nights, and networking opportunities. From exploring historic sites to engaging in lively social events, this is your chance to experience British culture in a truly immersive way.
What skills will you develop?
What skills will you develop?
You will have the opportunity to:
- Research scientific literature in a chosen biomedical field.
- Analyse and interpret clinical or biomedical data.
- Carry out laboratory‑based experiments.
- Contribute ideas and think creatively in group discussions.
- Work effectively as part of a collaborative scientific team.
- Communicate clearly with peers and non‑specialist audiences.
- Translate complex concepts into accessible explanations.
- Co‑design and present a scientific poster in a conference‑style setting.
Who can apply?
Who can apply?
- International students aged 18+ and studying at an undergraduate level.
- Demonstrate the relevant subject background in any of the areas: Biomedical Science, Clinical Care, Population Health, Medicine, Dentistry, and Nursing. Academic backgrounds in biosciences, biochemistry, bioengineering, public health, pharmaceuticals and medicine will also be considered.
- Students must be able to demonstrate relevant subject background with a translated transcript.
- Meet the BISS entry requirements for English Language Proficiency (minimum B2, aiming for C1).
How will you be assessed?
How will you be assessed?
This programme is formally assessed at the end of the three weeks with a poster-style presentation based on the stream the student was under, and reflecting on their work.
- Class journal club presentations.
- Submission of scientific poster (40%).
- Presentation of a poster in a symposium (60%).
- A pass requires a minimum of 40% in combination with a minimum attendance.
- All students are expected to attend a minimum of 90% timetabled activities.
- Any student who fails will be required to complete a reflective log of their work and the outcomes of their studies. Once they have returned to their home country. Students will receive two sessions of online support before submission.
Please check with your home institution regarding transfer recognition of credits.
Besides the academic activities we had lots of opportunities to travel in the UK and interact with friends… The professors also made so much effort in the classes and made everything so clear and understandable, even in the second language.