Biomedical Science BSc

Study at the forefront of Biomedical Science and see first-hand how research drives clinical advancements. This degree not only provides a solid foundation in Biomedical Science but also prepares you to make impactful contributions to the field. 

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

• 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 build a deep understanding of the key ethical and social issues in medical science

Shape your degree to your interests

Our Biomedical Science degrees give you the flexibility to specialise in areas that excite you most. Whether you're passionate about cancer research, neuroscience, or launching your own biotech startup, our diverse module options let you tailor your studies to your goals. By selecting specific modules you can graduate with our popular major-minor degree, Biomedical Sciences with Biomedical Entrepreneurship. This tailored degree title is ideal if you have a passion to bridge scientific knowledge with real-world impact, enhancing your employability in emerging biomedical industries.

• Laboratory-based practicals - Dive into hands-on experiences in our cutting-edge laboratories, pivotal for your future career in biomedical science.
• Flexible and interactive learning - Benefit from Canvas, our Virtual Learning Environment (VLE). Connect with your peers, share insights on assignments, access a wealth of learning materials anytime, and submit your work effortlessly.
• Self-study - Embrace the journey of becoming an independent and self-driven learner. Self-study is a cornerstone of our course, designed to deepen your understanding and passion for 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 – You will be assigned your own personal academic tutor who will 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 - Located within the Medical School, our Wellbeing Officers are here to support you every step of the way. Whether you need advice and guidance, referrals to internal and external services, or help with extenuating circumstances, drop into our student services centre for comprehensive support.

Our Student Experience Team will help you get the most out of your academic experience. They offer research opportunities, study skills support, and help you prepare for your post-university career.

Assessment methods

You will be assessed in a variety of ways to help you transition to a new style of learning. At the start of each module, you'll receive details on your assessments and get feedback within four weeks to help you improve. Assessments may include coursework such as written assessments, presentations, laboratory-based work and formal examinations. 

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.

New curriculum for 2026

We are excited to launch our new curriculum across our Biomedical Science programmes. The modules listed for this programme are still being finalised and may be subject to change. The optional module information is intended to be indicative, and the availability of optional modules may vary from year to year. Where a module is no longer available, we will let you know as soon as we can and help you to make other choices.

MBChB Medicine and Surgery transfers

You may have the opportunity to transfer on to year one of 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 to include one of Biology or Chemistry, plus another science from Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Maths or Psychology. General Studies and Critical Thinking are not accepted. 

GCSE

GCSE grade B/6 in Mathematics, and B/6 in 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).

Core Maths qualification

Applicants who take the Core Maths qualification and meet our offer criteria will be made the typical offer for their programme of choice, plus an alternative offer which will be one grade lower plus a grade A in Core Maths. If you are also taking A-level Maths, you will not be eligible for an alternative offer through studying Core Maths. This offer would apply if you make Birmingham your firm choice.

Extended Project Qualification (EPQ)

Applicants who take the EPQ and meet our offer criteria will be made the typical offer for their programme of choice, plus an alternative offer which will be one grade lower plus a grade A in the EPQ. This offer would apply if you make Birmingham your firm choice.

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 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. The fee for September 2025 entry was £9,535 for UK students. If you are applying for 2026 entry, you will be advised of the annual tuition fee once it is confirmed by the Government.

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. Many dive into laboratory work at universities, securing PhD and research positions, work in hospitals or become clinical scientists for leading biotechnology companies such as Abbott and Pfizer. Other degree-related careers also include work in NHS England, clinical trials, or in marketing and advertising roles. Through developing transferable skills, you can propel yourself into many other high-profile careers, such as teaching, accountancy, consultancy, as well as management positions in a variety of companies worldwide. 

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.

Flexible programmes to suit you

Not sure what you want to study?

Explore your options for combining subjects and shape your degree around your interests, whilst developing key skills for the world of work.