BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science with a Placement Year in NHS
Course
options
Key Details
- Award
- Degree of Bachelor of Science
- UCAS Course Code
- C52P
- Typical Offer
- ABB (specific subjects required)
- Contextual Offer
- BBC (specific subjects required)
- Course Length
- 4 years
- Course Start Date
- September 2024
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Why you should choose us
17th
UEA is ranked 17th overall for research quality in Biological Science
The Times Higher Education REF 2021 AnalysisCourse Overview
NHS Biomedical Scientists have long been at the frontline in the fight against human disease, and never has this been more apparent than during the COVID19 pandemic.
Our BSc in Biomedical Science with a Placement Year in NHS prepares you to tackle current challenges in the field of biomedical science. You’ll study state-of-the-art advances in human health and disease and be trained in the latest techniques to work in medical NHS laboratories. Moreover, you’ll be able to undertake an optional NHS laboratory placement and complete the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS) training portfolio as part of the programme [subject to placement availability]. The optional placement will take place in the third year of this four-year degree programme.
We offer two degree programmes: Biomedicine (BSc hons) which is focused on biomedical research and its translation into the clinic; and Biomedical Science (BSc hons) which is directed at training the next generation of Biomedical Scientists to work in medical NHS laboratories, and is accredited to do so by the Institute of Biomedical Science. If you're unsure which programme to choose, it's worth noting that the first-year curriculum is identical for both. This allows you to make a decision at the end of your first year regarding which specialisation to pursue in years two and three. For example, if you initially enrol in Biomedical Science, you’ll have the flexibility to switch to Biomedicine at the end of your first year, and vice versa, ensuring you can align your studies with your evolving interests and career goals.
UEA is at the heart of the Norwich Research Park (NRP) which is a world-class environment for biomedical research. In collaboration with Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital (and several other NHS Trust partners) we’ve developed a cutting-edge degree programme. You’ll benefit from our collective expertise which will help you to foster a deep understanding of disease processes in the context of laboratory investigation for improved diagnosis, monitoring and treatment of disease.
In addition to microbiology, Biomedical Scientists can specialise in disciplines such as haematology, immunology, cell pathology, clinical chemistry and clinical genetics. The future of healthcare provision and the advancement of healthcare innovations hinge on cultivating and recruiting the next generation of highly qualified healthcare professionals, biomedical researchers and biomedical scientists. Join us and embark on a journey to help shape the future.
Watch this short video to find out more about UEA's Biomedicine and Biomedical Sciences courses
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Biomedical Sciences and Biomedicine
Interested in Biomedical Sciences and Biomedicine?
Placement Year and Study Abroad
An optional placement in a partnering NHS Trust laboratory will take place between the end of the second year and the start of the final year of the programme. A placement Year in NHS module will enable completion of the IBMS training portfolio and progression towards HCPC registration as a biomedical scientist in NHS. This is a practice-based module during which you’ll undertake the role of a Trainee Biomedical Scientist working in an IBMS approved NHS Medical Laboratory, where you’ll learn directly from qualified Biomedical Scientists. NHS workplace training programmes will be complemented by on-line access to recorded learning material relating to professional practice, which provides guidance and advice on how you can evidence your ability to meet the threshold competencies expected of Biomedical Scientists registered with the HCPC.
Accreditations
This Biomedical Science degree is accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS).
Employability
After the Course
In addition to gaining scientific and professional skills and knowledge in biomedical science, you’ll also develop transferable skills in areas of research and communication, IT, data collection, analytics and critical thinking, to name but a few. This combination makes you highly employable. Graduates from our Biomedical facing programmes have gone on to establish careers in the NHS as well as in pharmaceuticals, the food and brewing industries, medical laboratories, forensic sciences, teaching, science communication, medicine and more. Several of our graduates have progressed on to higher degrees (e.g. MSc, PhD).
Careers
Examples of careers that you could enter include:
- Biomedical Scientist (NHS)
- Pharmaceutical research and development
- Clinical trials and regulatory sector
- Education: university, college and school teaching
- Research laboratories in universities
- Government or charity-funded research laboratories and institutes
Discover more on our Careers webpages.
Entry Requirements
- This course is open to
UK and International fee-paying students. Choose UK or International above to see relevant information. The entry point is in September each year.
We welcome and value a wide range of qualifications, and we recognise that some students might take a mixture of different qualifications. We have listed typical examples that we accept for entry.
You should hold or be working towards the specified English and Mathematics requirements and one of the examples of typical entry qualifications listed below. If your qualifications aren’t listed, or if you are taking a combination of qualifications that isn’t specified, please contact Admissions.
- English and Mathematics
All applicants must hold or be working towards GCSEs in English Language at minimum grade 4 or grade C, and Mathematics at minimum grade 5 or grade B.
We accept a wide range of English Language qualifications, please see our English Language equivalencies page.
- Contextual Offers
UEA are committed to ensuring that Higher Education is accessible to all, regardless of their background or experiences. One of the ways we do this is through our contextual admissions schemes.
- Typical UK Entry Requirements
A levels
ABB including Biology/Human Biology and one from Chemistry, Physics, Computing Science, Psychology or Mathematics.
Contextual offer: BBC including Biology/Human Biology and one from Chemistry, Physics, Computing Science, Psychology or Mathematics.
Where applicable Science A levels awarded by an English Exam board require a pass in the practical element. Not accepted: Critical Thinking and General Studies.
BTEC
Level 3 Extended Diploma: DDM in Applied Science or Applied Science (Medical Science) or Forensic and Criminal Investigation
Contextual offer: DMM in Applied Science or Applied Science (Medical Science) or Forensic and Criminal Investigation
Applicants studying Forensic and Criminal Investigation must be taking one of the following modules: Physiology and Human Body Systems, Environmental Forensics, Forensic Genetics, or Microbiology and Microbiological Techniques.
Combinations of BTEC and A levels
Extended Diploma: DDM in Applied Science or Applied Science (Medical Science) or Forensic and Criminal Investigation
Diploma: DD in Applied Science or Applied Science (Medical Science) or Forensic and Criminal Investigation plus B at A level in one of the following subjects: Biology/Human Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Computing Science, Psychology or Mathematics or DD plus BB at A level in Biology/Human Biology and either Chemistry, Physics, Computing Science, Psychology or Mathematics.
Extended Certificate: D in Applied Science or Applied Science (Medical Science) or Forensic and Criminal Investigation plus BB at A level including Biology/Human Biology and either Chemistry, Physics, Computing Science, Psychology or Mathematics or Distinction plus BB at A level in Biology/Human Biology and either Chemistry, Physics, Computing Science, Psychology or Mathematics.
BTEC in Public Services, Uniformed Services and Business Administration are all excluded from our BTEC offers.
Applicants studying Forensic and Criminal Investigation must be taking one of the following modules: Physiology and Human Body Systems, Environmental Forensics, Forensic Genetics, or Microbiology and Microbiological Techniques.
Where applicable Science A levels awarded by an English Exam board require a pass in the practical element. Not accepted: Critical Thinking and General Studies.
Access to HE Diploma
Pass Access to HE Diploma with Distinction in 30 credits at Level 3 and Merit in 15 credits at Level 3, including 12 credits in Biology and 12 credits in another science, Computer Science, Psychology or Maths.
T levels
Obtain an overall Pass including a B in the core of the T Level and a Distinction in the Occupational Specialism. We accept: Science.
Foundation Year options:
If you do not meet the academic requirements for direct entry, you may be interested in one of our Foundation Year programmes such as - BSc Biological Sciences with a Foundation Year.
- Further Examples of Typical Entry Requirements
International Baccalaureate
32 points overall including HL5 in Biology and another science, Computer Science, Psychology or Mathematics.
Irish Leaving Certificate
3 subjects at H2, 3 subjects at H3 including Biology/Human Biology and one of the subjects listed below.
Accepted subjects: Chemistry, Physics, Computing Science, Psychology or Mathematics.
Scottish Highers
AAABB including Biology/Human Biology and one of the subjects listed below.
Accepted subjects: Chemistry, Physics, Computing Science, Psychology or Mathematics.
Scottish Advanced Highers
BCC including Biology/Human Biology and one of the subjects listed below.
Accepted subjects: Chemistry, Physics, Computing Science, Psychology or Mathematics.
A combination of Advanced Highers and Highers may be acceptable
- Deferred Entry
We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year. We believe that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry on your UCAS application.
- Admissions Policy
Our Admissions Policy applies to the admissions of all undergraduate applicants.
- Recent Study
We would prefer you to be able to demonstrate evidence of recent academic study within 5 years of the start of the course. If your last qualification will have been completed more than 5 years ago by the time the course starts, please contact Admissions.
- This course is open to
UK and International fee-paying students. Choose UK or International above to see relevant information. The entry point is in September each year.
We welcome and value a wide range of qualifications, and we recognise that some students might take a mixture of different qualifications. We have listed typical examples that we accept for entry.
You should hold or be working towards the specified English and Mathematics requirements and one of the examples of typical entry qualifications listed below. If your qualifications aren’t listed, or if you are taking a combination of qualifications that isn’t specified, please contact Admissions.
- English and Mathematics
All applicants must hold or be working towards GCSEs in English Language at minimum grade 4 or grade C, and Mathematics at minimum grade 5 or grade B.
We accept a wide range of English Language qualifications, please see our English Language equivalencies page.
- Typical International Entry Requirements
We accept many international qualifications for entry to this course. For specific details about your country, view our information for International Students.
A levels
ABB including Biology/Human Biology and one of the subjects listed below.
Accepted subjects: Chemistry, Physics, Computing Science, Psychology or Mathematics.
Where applicable Science A levels awarded by an English Exam board require a pass in the practical element. Not accepted: Critical Thinking and General Studies.
International Baccalaureate
32 points overall including HL5 in Biology and another science, Computer Science, Psychology or Mathematics.
- INTO UEA
If you do not meet the academic and/or English language requirements for direct entry our partner, INTO UEA offers progression on to this undergraduate degree upon successful completion of a preparation programme. Depending on your interests, and your qualifications you can take a variety of routes to this degree.
- English Foreign Language
English Foreign Language
Applications from students whose first language is not English are welcome. We require evidence of proficiency in English (including writing, speaking, listening and reading):
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IELTS: 6.0 overall (minimum 5.5 in all components)
We also accept a number of other English language tests. Review our English Language Equivalencies for a list of example qualifications that we may accept to meet this requirement.
Test dates should be within two years of the course start date.
If you do not yet meet the English language requirements for this course, INTO UEA offer a variety of English language programmes which are designed to help you develop the English skills necessary for successful undergraduate study.
-
- Deferred Entry
We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year. We believe that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry on your UCAS application.
- Admissions Policy
Our Admissions Policy applies to the admissions of all undergraduate applicants.
- Recent Study
We would prefer you to be able to demonstrate evidence of recent academic study within 5 years of the start of the course. If your last qualification will have been completed more than 5 years ago by the time the course starts, please contact Admissions.
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Fees and Funding
Tuition Fees
View our information for Tuition Fees.
Scholarships and Bursaries
We are committed to ensuring that costs do not act as a barrier to those aspiring to come to a world leading university and have developed a funding package to reward those with excellent qualifications and assist those from lower income backgrounds. View our range of Scholarships for eligibility, details of how to apply and closing dates.
Course Related Costs
Please see Additional Course Fees for details of course-related costs.
How to Apply
How to apply
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Your application does not have to be completed all at once. Register or sign in to UCAS to get started.
Once you submit your completed application, UCAS will process it and send it to your chosen universities and colleges.
The Institution code for the University of East Anglia is E14.
View our guide to applying through UCAS for useful tips, key dates and further information: