Biomedical Research: Cardiovascular Sciences MRes

Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death worldwide, as reported by the World Health Organization.

On our MRes, you'll develop an extensive understanding of the mechanisms underlying these conditions. You'll also explore the cutting-edge research driving advances in this field. 

This course offers you a unique opportunity to engage with cardiovascular research and begin shaping your own future in biomedical science.

Course Structure

Department of Cardiovascular Sciences

Studying in our Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, you'll gain experience designing and conducting lab-based research projects. You'll also master general and cardiovascular-specific experimental techniques. 

The Department is one of the University of Birmingham's prestigious Research Centres of Excellence. We're globally recognised for our research in areas such as atrial fibrillation, heart failure, thrombosis, haemostasis, and vascular biology.

Facilities

As part of the MRes, you’ll join a leading cardiovascular research group and gain access to state-of-the-art facilities.

These include the Department of Biomedical Research, the Welcome Trust Clinical Research Unit, Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham, and Birmingham City Hospital.

Why study an MRes in Biomedical Research?

By choosing an MRes, you'll access training in essential research skills on our research skills module. This will help prepare you for a research career in your chosen biomedical discipline or for work in the life sciences industry. 

You'll develop your understanding of: 

• Scientific writing
• Data interpretation and analysis
• How to critically analyse literature
• Delivering presentations
• Key experimental techniques used across biomedical research

You'll then use the knowledge and skills you develop during the MRes to inform your research project. 

This course consists of two compulsory taught modules and a research project.

• Taught modules – provide you with knowledge in all aspects of the field and introduce the topics and research questions your projects will be based on.
  
  
• Research project - this is an eight-month laboratory-based research project. You'll be supported by regular tutorials.
  
  
• Assessment – taught modules are assessed using a mixture of assessments including a literature review, research proposal and presentations. The research project is assessed through the submission of a Thesis which will be examined by an internal and external examiner. 

How will you learn?

You’ll engage with cardiovascular science research and core concepts through a series of seminars delivered by leading academics and clinical researchers.

These seminars highlight major research areas and introduce you to staff offering projects for the research component of the programme.

On the taught modules, you'll also complete interactive tutorials featuring activities such as appraisal of research papers, case studies or demonstrations of techniques and methodologies used in cardiovascular research.

The tutorials support your self-directed learning and provide formative opportunities to help you prepare for your module assignments.

The modules listed below are an indication only and may be subject to change. Occasionally, it may be necessary to make changes to modules, for example, to ensure they remain current and relevant.

As a research-intensive University, our teaching is informed by the latest academic thinking and expertise of our staff. For more information on the circumstances in which the University may need to make changes to modules, please refer to the Terms and Conditions for applicants.

Core Modules

2027/28 Session

The following must be taken:

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.

For this course we require IELTS 6.5 with no less than 6.0 in any band, which is equivalent to:

• TOEFL iBT taken before January 2026: 88 overall with no less than 21 in Reading, 20 Listening, 22 Speaking and 21 in Writing
• TOEFL iBT taken from January 2026: 4.5 Overall with no less than 4.5 in any 2 skills and 4 in the other two skills
• Pearson Test of English (PTE): Academic 67 with no less than 64 in all four skills
• Cambridge English: C1 Advanced - minimum overall score of 176, with no less than 169 in any component
• LanguageCert ESOL SELT (UKVI): B2 'Communicator' with no less than 33 in each skill

English presessional programmes

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.

We charge an annual tuition fee. Fees for 2027 entry are above.

The fees quoted are for one year only. For those studying courses that are longer than one year, tuition fees will also be payable in subsequent years of your programme.

Paying your tuition fees

Tuition fees can either be paid in full or by instalments. You can check whether you are eligible for UK or international fees with our admissions team.

Learn more about postgraduate tuition fees and funding.

Tuition fee deposits for international students

International students undertaking a postgraduate taught degree are required to pay a tuition fee deposit before an electronic Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) can be issued.

Scholarships

To help you afford your studies, we offer a range of scholarships and funding opportunities. We also offer advice and guidance on searching for funding and managing your finances.

Postgraduate Masters loan

To help with the cost of studies, this loan is available to all UK students. You can use this loan towards fees, maintenance or other costs at your own discretion. It’s available for all full-time, part-time and distance learning Masters programmes, as long as you don’t already have a Masters qualification (or equivalent). If you’re a student from Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland, you can apply for Masters loans from your country’s government.

As part of your application you will be asked to submit a research proposal.

However for this MRes course you will select your research projects during the first term.

Please use the research proposal section to tell us about your research interests in Cardiovascular Sciences and how your interests align with our research specialisms.

Your careers toolkit

Gain skills, confidence and experiences ready for the world of work with your dedicated careers toolkit. With Careers Network, your dedicated careers service, and the variety of opportunities available at Birmingham, you can build your own toolkit of skills and experiences to get you ready for an ever-changing world after graduation.

Your careers toolkit connects you with the opportunities, support and experiences across the university, including:

• Careers support services and Careers Network
• Work experience and placements
• Enterprise and entrepreneurship
• Alumni and employer connections
• Global opportunities and life experience
• Careers in the curriculum

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.