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 including Biology or Human Biology (and other subject specific requirements)
- Contextual Offer
- BBC including Biology or Human Biology (and other subject specific requirements)
- Course Length
- 4 years
- Course Start Date
- September 2026
Why you should choose us
Course 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. 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. On this course, you’ll be able to undertake an optional NHS laboratory placement and complete an IBMS training portfolio (subject to placement availability and accreditation of the programme with the Institute of Biomedical Science). The optional placement will take place in the third year of this four-year degree programme.
We offer two degree programmes: BSc Biomedicine which is focused on biomedical research and its translation into the clinic; and BSc Biomedical Science, which is designed to train the next generation of Biomedical Scientists to work in NHS medical laboratories and is accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science. If you're unsure which programme to choose, it’s helpful to know that the first-year curriculum is identical for both. This means you’ll have the flexibility to make an informed decision at the end of your first year. For instance, if you initially enrol in Biomedical Science, you can switch to Biomedicine later on—or vice versa—allowing you to tailor your degree to your developing interests and career aspirations.
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 biomedical researchers, scientists, and healthcare professionals. Join us and embark on a rewarding journey to help shape the future of healthcare.
Placement Year
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
The Biomedical Science degree programme is accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS).
Study and Modules
Structure
In your first year, you’ll be given a solid grounding in the fundamental science that underpins the study of biomedical science and biomedicine. You’ll establish a framework for exploring the molecular and cellular foundations of human disease, focusing on how this knowledge is applied in diagnosis, monitoring, treatment, and disease prevention. Key disciplines including molecular biology, genetics, biochemistry, cell biology, and human physiology are studied within the context of human health challenges. You’ll gain hands-on experience with laboratory skills and techniques across these disciplines to enhance your understanding and practical capabilities. You’ll also be provided with an introduction to professional skills required by biomedical scientists.
You’ll build a solid foundation of academic and professional skills, gaining a deep understanding of human health and disease while exploring the key challenges in biomedical science and biomedicine. Topics include cancer, ageing, personalised and precision medicine, stem cells and biomedical engineering, microbiome and host disease risk, infectious diseases, and vaccinations.
Compulsory Modules
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
UEA is one of six major institutions located on the Norwich Research Park (NRP), which also includes the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital. This multidisciplinary collaboration underpins the world-class education we offer as well as our research in biomedical science and healthcare, providing you with access to state-of-the-art facilities such as a modern £34 million STEM teaching laboratory.
The School of Biological Sciences (BIO) at UEA is home to world-class academics and internationally recognised biomedical researchers who will deliver research-led teaching. Professional-related content is delivered by a team of experienced biomedical scientists, clinical scientists and clinicians from the adjacent Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital (NNUH).
The majority of your learning will take place in face-to-face lectures, seminars and workshops. Most sessions are recorded and available via catch-up on the Blackboard virtual learning environment (VLE). Practical laboratory sessions take place in the multidisciplinary STEM teaching laboratory. In your modules you’ll undertake applied work in collecting, analysing and reviewing data, plus making observations on disease processes, with a particular emphasis on the critical assessment of existing knowledge. In seminars and workshop group discussions you’ll hone your problem posing and solving skills.
In your first year, you’ll be able to cultivate your mathematical and statistical skills. You’ll also be assigned an Academic Adviser in the School of Biological Sciences who will help you identify and work on areas for improvement across all your studies.
Independent Study:
You’ll have plenty of opportunities for independent study using our state-of-the-art University e-library throughout your course.
Assessment
Assessments are varied and include a variety of methods designed to reflect the diverse skills you’ll develop throughout the course. Assessments tend to include unseen examinations and computer-based assessments, as well as laboratory reports and research project reports. You may also complete reflective reports and be assessed on work experience and observed professional practice. Other forms of assessment could include online activities, essays, summaries, and assignments, alongside data interpretation exercises and critical analysis of case studies. You may also be asked to present your work through oral and poster presentations, or in other formats such as journal articles.
The balance of coursework and exams will vary in accordance with the modules you study. For example, many of our modules are split 50% coursework, 50% examination, but a number are 100% coursework.
Structure
In year two, you’ll build on the fundamentals from year one to develop a deep understanding of human disease processes within the context of clinical laboratory investigation. You’ll acquire essential knowledge and skills related to major pathology service units in the NHS, such as blood science, clinical genetics, cellular pathology, medical microbiology, and clinical immunology.
Complementary studies in human physiology, anatomy, and cell biology will provide a solid reference to human health and tissue homeostasis. This foundation is crucial for understanding the molecular and cellular basis of human disease and how this knowledge is translated into diagnosis, monitoring, treatment, and disease prevention.
You’ll gain a comprehensive understanding of disease processes within laboratory investigations and hands-on experience in specialised clinical laboratory disciplines.
Compulsory Modules
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
In year two, most of your learning will occur through face-to-face lectures, seminars, and workshops. Many of these sessions are recorded and can be accessed on the Blackboard virtual learning environment (VLE). Practical laboratory sessions will be held in the multidisciplinary STEM teaching laboratory. In your modules, you’ll engage in applied work, including collecting, analysing, and reviewing data, as well as observing disease processes with a focus on critically assessing existing knowledge. Seminars and workshop group discussions will help you refine your problem-posing and problem-solving skills.
Assessment
As for year one, the focus on assessment will continue, using a variety of formats depending on the module. All assessments come with an assessment brief that outlines the submission format, due date, and assessment description. Feedback for both formative and summative coursework assignments will be provided electronically through the virtual learning environment, using a combination of annotated scripts and coursework feedback forms. This feedback will progressively enhance your academic understanding and performance throughout the programme.
The ratio of coursework to examinations varies by module. For instance, many modules are assessed with a 50/50 split between coursework and examinations, while some are entirely coursework-based.
Structure
Year three comprises an optional placement in a partnering NHS Trust laboratory. 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 (subject to placement availability and accreditation of the programme with the Institute of Biomedical Science). 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.
Compulsory Modules
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
Year three will be spent on an optional placement in a partnering NHS Trust laboratory where you’ll be able to gain invaluable real-world skills and knowledge to enhance your future career prospects.
Assessment
Year three will be spent on an optional placement in a partnering NHS Trust laboratory where you’ll be able to gain invaluable real-world skills and knowledge to enhance your future career prospects.
Structure
In your final year, you'll take part in a combination of academic and professional modules designed to deepen your understanding of how detailed biomedical science knowledge translates into improved diagnosis, monitoring, and treatment of diseases. Additionally, you’ll undertake an independent research project.
Final-year modules will focus on the sophisticated integration of disciplines within biomedical science necessary to comprehend complex human diseases affecting the blood, circulatory, cardiovascular, respiratory, digestive, reproductive, musculoskeletal, and nervous systems. You'll study conditions such as cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, arthritis, sickle cell anemia, hypertension, infertility, cystic fibrosis, and Parkinson’s Disease.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Credits: 20)Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
In your final year, most of your learning will take place through in-person lectures, seminars, and workshops, with recordings available on the Blackboard virtual learning environment (VLE) for later review. Practical laboratory sessions will be conducted in the multidisciplinary STEM teaching laboratory. Your modules will involve applied tasks such as data collection, analysis, and review, along with observations of disease processes, emphasising the critical evaluation of current knowledge. In seminars and group discussions during workshops, you’ll develop your problem-posing and problem-solving abilities.
During your final year dissertation project, you’ll develop your skills in research design and analysis, developing the independent study skills you’ll use throughout your career.
Assessment
In your final year, assessment will continue as before, in a variety of formats depending on the module. The balance between coursework and examinations will depend on the module. Many modules have a 50/50 split between coursework and exams, while others are assessed entirely through coursework.
Employability
After the Course
As well as 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 programmes have gone on to establish careers 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 or Human Biology and one of the following subjects: Chemistry, Physics, Computing Science, Psychology or Mathematics.
Contextual offer: BBC including Biology or Human Biology and one of the following 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.
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.
BTEC in Public Services, Uniformed Services and Business Administration are all excluded from our BTEC offers.
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.
Contextual offer: Pass the Access to HE Diploma with Merit in 30 credits at Level 3 and pass in 15 credits at Level 3 including 12 credits in Biology and 12 credits in another science, Computing Science, Psychology or Maths at Merit.
T levels
Obtain an overall Merit. 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 or Human Biology and one of the subjects listed below.
Accepted subjects: Chemistry, Physics, Computing Science, Psychology or Mathematics.
Scottish Highers
AAABB including Biology or Human Biology and one of the subjects listed below.
Accepted subjects: Chemistry, Physics, Computing Science, Psychology or Mathematics.
Scottish Advanced Highers
BCC including Biology or 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.
- Progression
Once enrolled onto a course at UEA, your progression and continuation (which may include eligibility for study abroad, overseas experience, placement or year in industry opportunities) is contingent on meeting the assessment requirements which are relevant to the course on which you are enrolled.
- 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 or 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.
- UEA International Study Centre
If you do not meet the academic and/or English language requirements for direct entry our partner, UEA International Study Centre 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):
-
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, UEA International Study Centre 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.
- Progression
Once enrolled onto a course at UEA, your progression and continuation (which may include eligibility for study abroad, overseas experience, placement or year in industry opportunities) is contingent on meeting the assessment requirements which are relevant to the course on which you are enrolled.
- 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.
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
UCAS Hub is a secure online application system that allows you to apply for full-time undergraduate courses at universities and colleges in the United Kingdom.
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: