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BSc (Hons) - Biomedical Science

Dive into the fascinating world of Biomedical Science where theory meets practice in our cutting-edge laboratories. You'll gain the knowledge, skills and inspiration to thrive in the field and make a lasting impact on healthcare.

Put theoretical learning into practice in our industry-standard labs. You will gain hands-on experience with the equipment biomedical scientists really use to plan and execute captivating experiments giving you the practical skills you need for a fulfilling career.

You will be guided and inspired to make the most of your studies, receiving personal support from your expert tutors who are equipped with real-world experience in the field.

Throughout your course you will receive the individual attention you deserve with our customised class structures and student-centered class environments.

Take advantage of Cumbria’s collaborative NHS and industry partnerships, both locally, globally and nationally, to build connections and expand your network.

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Accredited by:

IBMS (Institute of Biomedical Science)

Course Overview

Our degree is accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS), ensuring it provides you with the necessary background, knowledge, and skills to pursue your career as a biomedical scientist upon graduation. IBMS accreditation also means that your programme covers all elements that satisfy the QAA benchmark statements for Biomedical Science degrees.

The course provides flexibility to explore areas of biology such as cell and molecular biology, clinical biochemistry, haematology, immunology, genetics, and medical microbiology. You’ll gain an in-depth understanding of the complex science behind the cause, consequence, diagnosis, and treatment of illnesses.

You’ll also delve deep into blood sciences and clinical biochemistry, giving you the opportunity to expand your knowledge of diagnostic approaches, researching clinical markers, screening techniques and the role biomedical scientists can play in saving lives and improving health.

In our brand-new laboratories, you’ll put theory into practice, building a sound knowledge of cellular pathology, genetics, the human immune system, and biochemical pathways.

Thanks to our close partnerships with local hospitals, you’ll also have access to valuable opportunities, including work experience, clinical expert talks, visits and early career support.

A biomedical science degree offers diverse career paths in research laboratories, pharmaceutical industries, healthcare settings, government agencies, or academia. You could also proceed to apply to Study Medicine at the Pears Cumbria School of Medicine.

On this course you will...

Develop an enthusiasm for biomedical sciences and be involved in stimulating and hands-on learning opportunities.
Be assigned a personal tutor who will not just be your academic point of contact on the course but will, along with our careers service, help you to consider the wide range of jobs and further study options a degree in biomed can give you.
Have the opportunity to be involved with other science students on other courses to get a wider appreciation of the biosciences in an industrial, academic, economic, and social context.
Get time in labs to conduct experiments and procedures planned for you. But also learn to plan and carry out your own experiments independently with support and guidance.
Be introduced to a network of employers to gain a real-world insight, find work experience opportunities and learn more about the plethora of doors that this course can unlock.
Gain a knowledge and skills base from which will help you move towards a career in biomedical sciences or postgraduate study.

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Key Details

Recruiting toUK / RoI / Settled in UK
EU / EEA / International
Course LocationCarlisle - Fusehill Street
Institute Institute of Science and Environment
UCAS CodeC912
Mode of DeliveryBlended learning
Course DurationFull-time: 3 Years
Study Options Integrated Foundation Year
Course Start PointSeptember
AwardBSc (Hons)
More informationProgramme Specification
Prospectus
Open DaysCarlisle - Fusehill Street
All

Minimum entry requirements

112-120

UCAS Tariff points

Tuition fees

£9,535

UK | year

£14,900

International | year

Tuition Fees Policy

Course Structure

What you will learn

You will get an in-depth understanding of the complex science behind the cause, consequence, diagnosis and treatment of disease. You’ll learn how science can be applied to clinical practice and research, ultimately to make a difference to human lives through diagnosis and treatment of disease. Our brand new laboratories will support you in getting a sound knowledge of cellular pathology, molecular genetics, the human immune system and biochemical pathways.

We’ll delve deep into blood sciences and the immune system, giving you the opportunity to also expand your knowledge in the fields such as clinical biochemistry researching clinical markers, screening techniques and diagnostic approaches.

Year one

Introductory Biochemistry
Within this module the key aspects of macromolecules, cell structure, function and interrelationships and the processes and components that make up life at the molecular level shall be studied.
Cell Biology
Studies the interactions between molecules and systems in the eukaryotic cell with a view to understanding the ways in which cells both control division and differentiation to form specialised tissues.
Anatomy and Physiology
This module will provide students with an understanding and appreciation of basic human anatomy and physiology with particular focus on the musculoskeletal, nervous, cardiovascular, and respiratory systems.
Introductory Immunology and Microbiology
Introduces the various groups of microbes, their generalised structure, function and roles and consider the importance of the microbial world, the biology of micro-organisms and their potential in industry.
Molecular Biology
To provide an understanding of the basic concepts of genetics and genetic analysis alongside an understanding of the fundamental processes of inheritance and mutation, and how these are related to disease onset and susceptibility.
Practical Laboratory Science
To provide students in the Biological Sciences with the elementary laboratory and research skills required to pursue subsequent advanced modules.

Year two

Exploring Research
This module will help to provide you with the skills required to conceive, design, conduct and interpret scientific research. You will be guided in developing your ability to evaluate a range of quantitative and qualitative research methods and when it is appropriate to use them.
Human Genetics
Encompasses the organisation of the human genome the basis of genetic variation, relationship between mutations in or near genes and the manifestation of disease phenotype.
Infection and Immunity
Considers recent developments in the study of immunological and infectious diseases. You will learn about recognition of microbes by the specific immune system, and how the immune system protects against different pathogens.
Medical Microbiology
Biology of major pathogens, their host interaction, virulence factors and means for prevention, diagnosis and treatment. You will study the mechanisms of microbial pathogenicity, starting with transmission and entry into the host, progressing through adhesion and invasion, to host response.
Pharmacology and Physiology
Provides students with a detailed knowledge and understanding of human anatomy and physiology of the major body systems and an understanding of the molecular mechanisms by which neurotransmitters for example are capable of regulating the physiology of cells.
Cellular and Molecular Pathology
Looks at the role of molecular and cellular based diagnosis in a range of pathological conditions.An overview of key processes involved in diagnosis will be covered in particular the mechanism of fixation with particular reference to autolysis and putrefaction.

Year three

Integrated Biomedical Science
Brings together the contribution of different laboratory and non-laboratory specialities in the investigation of diseases.
Clinical Biochemistry
To discuss the principles of clinical biochemistry in relation to the diagnosis, treatment and monitoring of disease.
Haematology and Transfusion Science
This module aims to investigate the elements that constitute blood and the observed differences between the normal and diseased state. Technology utilised in the identification of key blood components will be studied as will the importance of transfusion science.
Dissertation module
To enable you to undertake an independent piece of in depth research into a topic of your choice. This module provides you with an opportunity to develop your research skills and gain valuable experience in project management.
Parasitology (Optional)
To advance knowledge of key concepts in parasitology by studying in detail major human and veterinary eukaryotic pathogens.
Toxicology (Optional)
To develop your knowledge of the principles of toxicology and enable you to gain an in-depth understanding of the effects of toxic chemicals on the body and the environment.
Advanced Genetics (Optional)
This module will discuss the application of molecular genetics to clinical diagnostics, microbial biotechnology, forensic science and disease treatment as well as providing an overview of current biotechnological advances.

Overview

104-120 UCAS Tariff Points. You can find out more about the tariff and qualification options from the UCAS tariff table. Offers are tailored to the individual applicant and their circumstances and can be across the tariff range. Applicants who meet our contextual information criteria will be offered at the bottom of the range.

GCSE English Language, Mathematics and Science at grade 4/C or above.  Functional Skills Level 2 in English and Maths and Adult Literacy and Numeracy are also accepted.  A full list of acceptable level 2 qualifications can be found here: Level 2 Acceptable Entry Requirements .

Qualifications

Entry Requirements

GCSEs: GCSE English Language, Maths and Science at C/4 or above.

A-levels: BBD - BBB to include Biology at C or above

T-levels: P (C+) – M. T Levels Healthcare Science; Health and Science are accepted for entry to this course.

Access to HE: 30 credits at Distinction, 6 at Merit and 9 at Pass - Science based

CACHE Technical Level 3 and Level 3 Extended Diploma: B - Science based

OCR Cambridge Technical & Edexcel/Pearson BTEC Level 3 (National) Extended Diploma: MMM - DDM - to include Biology

Scottish Highers: BBBC – AABB to include Biology

Irish LC Highers: B1, B2x3 – A2, B1x3 to include Biology

Other experience: IELTS 7.0 with no less than 7.0 in each element for applicants where English Language is not their first language.

Alternative routes: If you don’t think you’ll meet the criteria for this programme, check out our integrated foundation year.

Fair Admissions

When you apply, our Admissions specialists will review your whole application. We are looking for your potential to succeed so will assess your qualifications, any relevant work experience, your personal statement, and references.

Where you have received a conditional offer subject to achieving particular grades/UCAS tariff scores, and do not quite meet these scores, please try not to worry, where vacancies exist our Admissions specialists will review your whole application again and take account of any mitigating circumstances and reassess your suitability for the course.

Selection Criteria

As part of the application and selection process, we are looking for your commitment to this programme. In your personal statement, you should demonstrate your motivation for choosing this course and reflect upon any experience you have gained.

Contextual Admissions

Going to higher education can transform a person’s life. We use contextual admissions to make sure that we are accessible to everyone who has the potential to succeed. Qualifications and grades are important, but they are considered alongside other information that helps universities to identify potential and widen access to university level study. For some individuals, the disadvantages they have experienced in their life mean that they have not been able to demonstrate their full academic potential. Where a person lives and their personal circumstances can all affect their educational attainment.

We take this context into account and look for an applicant’s potential when making admission decisions. The University of Cumbria will make offers at the bottom of any UCAS Tariff range to applicants that live in postal code regions with the lowest participation in Higher Education (Polar 4 quintile 1 – you can check your postcode here), applicants that are estranged from their parents, are care leavers or have caring responsibilities or are in receipt of or received free school meals during their secondary education. Attendance at our Masterclasses and Summer Schools will also allow applicants to receive an offer lower within the tariff range. (T&Cs apply)   

Contact ugadmissions@cumbria.ac.uk for more information.   

Returning to Education

If you are over 21 and returning to study after being in relevant employment for a minimum of 3 years and do not meet the published entry requirements for Year 1 of our degree courses, please do not assume you are not qualified to join us. Our experienced Admissions and Academic staff will review your prior qualifications and professional experience to support your application.

Language requirements

Please follow the link to check language requirements for this programme here.

Fees & Funding

Tuition Fees

2025 - 2026

£9,535 - UK
£14,900 - International

The figures above don't include accommodation and living costs.

Tuition fees are set annually and are subject to review each year. The University may therefore raise tuition fees in the second or subsequent years of a course, in line with inflation and/or the maximum permitted by law or Government policy. Students will be notified of any changes as soon as possible.

International Finance

At the University of Cumbria, we offer affordable tuition fees for international and EU students looking to study at one of our main four campuses. No matter your choice of course or career path, our International Team is here to support you.

Funding

We have a wide range of scholarships, bursaries, grants and funds available to support you throughout your studies with us. This includes the Cumbria Bursary - a non-repayable bursary designed to support first year students with a household income of less than £25,000.

More Information

Student Finance

Additional Costs

There will be some additional costs. For example all students will need to purchase stationery and may wish to purchase some text books. Extra costs may also be applicable to cover field trips, membership fees etc. although such features are usually options within the course.

Books are reviewed annually and are therefore subject to change, course welcome information will provide you with an indicative list for the year.

Books and Journals

Most core text books are available via the University's library, however students may wish to buy copies of any texts used to support your learning on your course. This could cost between £50 - £100 per year.

Stationery

Students should budget for stationery and consumables for your own personal use. This should include notebooks, pens and pencils for taking notes in class and/or in the field. Students should also budget for the purchase of USB pen drives, as well as occasional printing and photocopying costs incurred in the preparation or submission of coursework. Whilst you will choose how much you need, expect to pay around £30 - £40 per year for these items.

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Location
Carlisle - Fusehill Street Campus
The Fusehill Street campus has been the setting of life-saving treatments since World War I. Now, it's home to world changers, life-savers, crime fighters, and entrepreneurs with access to high-quality facilities and innovative thinking.
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BSc (Hons) - Biomedical Science