BSc (Hons) Biomedicine with a Placement Year
Course
options
Key Details
- Award
- Degree of Bachelor of Science
- UCAS Course Code
- C93P
- Typical Offer
- ABB (specific subjects required)
- Contextual Offer
- BBC (specific subjects required)
- Course Length
- 4 years
- Course Start Date
- September 2026
Why you should choose us
Course Overview
Study Biomedicine at UEA and turn your passion for human biology into real-world impact. You’ll study some of the biggest health challenges of our time – from stem cell research and ageing to cancer, arthritis and cardiovascular disease – placing you right at the forefront of efforts to improve human health.
Our BSc Biomedicine with a Placement Year degree is carefully designed to help you develop and apply advanced skills in medically related biological sciences. With a multidisciplinary approach that draws from both biology and chemistry, you'll gain a deep understanding of the molecular and cellular mechanisms underpinning modern medicine. You’ll explore areas such as human physiology, antibiotic resistance, pathogens and genetics. And you’ll discover a host of additional topics including ophthalmology, metabolic disorders and gastroenterology. In your third year, you’ll also undertake a work placement gaining invaluable real work experience to greatly enhance your CV.
We offer two degree programmes: 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, and BSc Biomedicine which is focused on biomedical research and its translation into the clinic. 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 Biomedicine, you can switch to Biomedical Science later on—or vice versa—allowing you to tailor your degree to your developing interests and career aspirations.
At UEA, you’ll be taught by world-class academics, hospital consultants and practicing biomedical scientists, and you’ll have access to some of the best facilities in the country, including our state-of-the-art teaching laboratories, the Biomedical Research Centre, the Bob Champion Research and Education Building, and the Norwich Medical School, which is based on campus. These facilities house a unique human tissue bio-bank facility to store DNA and tissue samples and host cutting-edge research into cancer, antibiotic resistance, and musculoskeletal and gastrointestinal disease.
You’ll also benefit from our enviable position as an integral partner of the Norwich Research Park, which is also home to the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital, and independent world-renowned research institutes such as the John Innes Centre, the Sainsbury Laboratory, the Earlham Institute and the Quadram Institute.
Placement Year
On this course, you’ll spend your third year in a work placement that’s relevant to your interests, gaining experience and skills that are highly valued by employers. You’ll be expected to seek your own work placement, and at the start of your second year you’ll be asked to write a CV and apply to a range of employers. Not only will this ensure that you work within your preferred field, but it’ll also provide you with the essential job-hunting skills you’ll require after graduation. We will, of course, offer our guidance and support whilst you are identifying and negotiating placement opportunities.
During this year, you’ll be supported by a placement supervisor and a mentor from the university. You and your placement supervisor will feed back during the placement to ensure that it’s progressing well, and your UEA mentor will visit you during the year.
Please note that we can’t guarantee any student a work placement as this decision rests with potential employers. If you’re unable to secure a work placement by the end of your second year, you’ll have the option to apply to transfer onto the equivalent degree programme without a placement year.
Accreditations
If becoming a Biomedical Scientist within the NHS is your goal, then you can undertake the NHS Scientist Training Programme after you graduate or submit your details of your Biomedicine degree to the IBMS for their consideration. Based on the modules that you’ve chosen during your degree, the IBMS will then inform you of any top-up modules that you may need to take.
Study and Modules
Structure
Your first year will introduce 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 also gain hands-on experience with laboratory skills and techniques, and you’ll 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
During your first year, you’ll be taught by leading academic researchers who are experts in their fields of study. In addition, the clinical aspects of your course will be partially taught by biomedical scientists and consultants from the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital.
Most of your learning will take place in lectures, seminars and practical laboratory sessions, which will provide you with hands-on experience as well as invaluable contact time with lecturers. Problem posing and solving skills are promoted through seminars and group discussions. Mathematical and statistical skills are also a major focus of both semesters of your first year.
Assessment
We’ll use a range of assessment methods throughout the course to best reflect the subject matter in hand. These include formal examinations, project reports, course tests, practical reports, poster and oral presentations, essays and worksheets.
Structure
You’ll spend your second year studying a further range of core subjects, designed to build on the knowledge and skills you’ve developed in your first year.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Credits: 20)Optional B Modules
(Credits: 20)Optional C 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
Most of your learning will be delivered through a blend of lectures, seminars, and hands-on laboratory sessions, providing valuable opportunities to engage directly with your lecturers. Seminars and group discussions will also help you develop your critical thinking, encouraging you to pose questions, explore different perspectives, and build effective problem-solving skills.
Assessment
In your second year, we’ll continue to employ various assessment techniques, dependent upon the subject matter. These methods will include formal examinations, project reports, course tests, practical reports, poster and oral presentations, essays, and worksheets.
Structure
You’ll spend your third year on a work placement, gaining invaluable real-world experience and developing your skills and knowledge. We’ve established links throughout the UK and beyond, and we’ll help you identify and compete for appropriate positions.
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
You’ll spend your third year in a work placement of your choice. There will be no formal teaching, but you’ll stay in contact with the UEA via our Placement Officer and your Academic Advisor.
Assessment
Your placement year will be assessed by an extended written report and a presentation upon returning to UEA, which will be graded on a pass or fail basis.
Structure
In your final year, you’ll tailor your learning to focus on your own specific interests, choosing from a list of optional modules. You’ll also develop key skills in data analysis and undertake a substantial research project.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Min Credits: 20, Max Credits: 60)Optional B Modules
(Min Credits: 0, Max Credits: 40)Optional C Modules
(Min Credits: 0, Max 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
The primary avenue for your learning will continue to be through lectures, seminars, and practical laboratory sessions, providing you with hands-on experience and ample contact time with lecturers. Additionally, seminars and group discussions will help cultivate your problem-posing and problem-solving abilities. In your third year, you’ll also undertake an independent research project, further enhancing your skills and knowledge.
Independent study
You’ll have plenty of opportunities for independent study using our state-of-the-art University library, and you’ll be assigned an Academic Adviser who will provide you with guidance throughout.
The culmination of your independent study will be the final year research project, which we encourage you to deliver as independently as possible.
Assessment
In your final year, we’ll continue to use a variety of assessment methods. Alongside formal exams, project reports, course tests, practical reports, poster and oral presentations, essays, and worksheets, you’ll be assessed on your completion of your final research project.
Employability
After the Course
When you graduate, you’ll have comprehensive knowledge of the fundamental scientific techniques required for research and clinical investigation into human health and disease.
You’ll leave UEA ready to pursue a wide range of career paths, including industry, management or teacher training. Alternatively, you might choose to progress to a higher degree. Many of our graduates go on to take posts in universities, or research laboratories within the fields of medicine or industry.
We work together with UEA’s Careers Service to offer support at every stage of your course, from choosing a career through to applying for graduate jobs and further study.
Careers
Example of careers that you could enter include:
- Medical research
- Industrial research
- Pharmaceutical industry
- Academia
- Teaching
- Management
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 C or grade 4 and Mathematics at minimum grade B or grade 5.
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 plus one of the following subjects: Chemistry, Physics, Computing Science, Psychology or MathematicsContextual 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. Critical Thinking and General Studies are not accepted.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
For Forensic and Criminal Investigation applicants MUST be studying ONE of the following modules: Physiology and Human Body Systems, Environmental Forensics, Forensic Genetics or Microbiology and Microbiological Techniques.Public Services, Uniformed Services and Business Administration are not accepted.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, Computing Science, Psychology or Maths
Contextual offer: Pass 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
T levels
Obtain an overall Merit
Accepted subjects are: 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 with HL 5 in Biology and another science, Computing Science, Psychology or Mathematics
Irish Leaving Certificate
3 subjects at H2 and 3 subjects at H3, including Biology and another science, Computing Science, Psychology or Mathematics
Scottish Highers
AAABB including grade A in Biology and another science, Computing Science, Psychology or Mathematics
Scottish Advanced Highers
BCC including Biology and another science, 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 C or grade 4 and Mathematics at minimum grade B or grade 5.
We accept a wide range of English Language qualifications, please see our English Language equivalencies page.
- Typical International Entry Requirements
A levels
ABB including Biology or Human Biology and one of the following subjects: Chemistry, Physics, Computing Science, Psychology or MathematicsWhere 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 with HL 5 in Biology and another science, Computing Science, Psychology or Mathematics
We accept many international qualifications for entry to this course. For specific details about your country, view our information for International Students.
- 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
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
Apply for this course through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Services (UCAS), using UCAS Hub.
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: