Biomedical Science BSc

At a glance

Course Details

Overview

Biomedical Science is the in-depth study of human biology in both normal and disease states. It provides an understanding of the causes of human disease, including viral and microbial agents, and the effects of disease on the structure and function of human cells and tissues. The methods used in the study of human diseases, such as cancer, malaria, heart disease etc., are also explored; as well as current and experimental treatments.

Teaching on the course involves staff of international research standing. As such, the course will include the most up-to-date information and a focus on the latest research findings, techniques and cutting-edge practice.

Special Features

• The Biomedical Science and Applied Biomedical Science courses cover a broad range of areas, with final-year options allowing specialisation. Graduates are, therefore, able to consider a wide range of careers and further education options, both scientific and non-scientific
• Both BSc (Hons) courses are accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS), with the Applied BSc (Hons) course additionally approved by the Health Professions Council (HPC). Both courses lead to Registration by the HPC. Biomedical Science graduates can seek registration after a training period within an NHS laboratory, although Applied Biomedical Science graduates can apply for HPC registration on graduation.  HPC registration to practise is a requirement for working within certain areas of the NHS and an increasing number of private sector diagnostic laboratories
• Lectures give a strong grounding in a range of topics, together with the latest advances in the field 
• Our courses introduce you to a wide range of modern laboratory techniques 
• Tutors give extensive support to students
• You will study in an environment with very strong research activity in the biomedical sciences. In the latest Research Assessment Exercise, 2008, 80% of our research was recognised as of international quality, with 5% being world-leading
• An optional placement year can normally be taken, on our 3-year Biomedical Science courses, prior to the final year. This can be spent in an NHS, industrial or research laboratory
• You will have the opportunity to carry out an extended laboratory-based research project in your final year

Aims

You may enter a code for a preferred final-year specialism purely to indicate your area of interest. You do not, however, have to detail any particular specialism, and this may change during your course as your interests develop. If you do not have a preference, please use the C900 Biomedical Science code instead. In any case, the degree you are awarded will be a BSc (Hons) in Biomedical Science. Please only enter ONE code for this course.

The first year provides an understanding of the normal structure and function of cells, tissues, organs and organisms, and introduces the techniques and procedures available for their investigation.

In the second year, the emphasis shifts towards disease processes, the influences of disease-producing agents on structure and function, the sites for therapeutic intervention, and diagnostic methods including DNA technologies.

In the final year you spend at least half your time specialising in one of the major options described below. You will also complete a substantial research project.

• Cancer Biology examines the molecular and genetic basis of cancer, and explores current and developing anti-cancer treatments.
• Medical Biochemistry examines the molecular mechanisms that alter the biochemical functioning of cells and lead directly to disease.
• Medical Cell Biology explores the field of cell biology, examining the differences and similarities between cell types, but with a particular emphasis on the cells which make up the skin
• Medical Microbiology examines the basis of microbial pathogenicity. It also covers the ways in which pathogens can be identified and isolated, public health issues and the means used to treat infectious disease.
• Pharmacology investigates how drugs and toxic substances interact with cells and tissues, both healthy and diseased, and examines critically the techniques available for the qualitative and quantitative assessment of such responses.

Career Outcome

Our graduate employment record is excellent, with 87.5% of 2009 graduates in employment or further education (PhD, Master’s or PGCE, for example) just six months after graduating.

You can apply your specialist skills and knowledge towards research in either medical or industrial research organisations (such as pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies), or universities. Openings exist in the NHS, public health, pathology laboratories, forensic science laboratories, the pharmaceutical industry, food manufacture, etc.

The scientific knowledge and skills you will acquire during the course can also be a useful basis for a career in television/radio; teaching; technical and scientific writing; clinical trials; drug registration, patenting or monitoring; medical publishing; other information services, etc.

Entrance Requirements

Our typical offer is:

260 points (e.g. B,C,C)

Including at least 100 points in either A-level Biology or Chemistry. Preference may be given to those offering both Biology and Chemistry. At GCSE level, English, Mathematics and at least two sciences (or dual award) are required at grade C or above. General Studies will not be considered. Alternative qualifications, and combinations, are also considered and candidates offering these qualifications are invited to contact the admissions team, prior to applying.

Biomedical Sciences, and the University of Bradford, have a strong international reputation.

A wide range of international qualifications are commonly accepted and candidates offering these qualifications are invited to contact the admissions team, prior to applying.

If you are considered for a place, you will normally be offered the opportunity to attend an Applicant Visit Day.

All candidates being considered will also be interviewed, prior to a final offer being made.

Placements Available?

Students on the Biomedical Science course will, at the end of their second year, normally have the opportunity to gain 12 months of practical experience, as a paid employee of an approved organisation such as a hospital, research or industrial laboratory. The placement year should significantly enhance your graduate employment opportunities.

Students on the Applied Biomedical Science course will complete a 12-month sandwich placement as described above.

Full-time Study

All applications, including Foundation Degrees, must be submitted via UCAS's (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service) online facility.

Your school or college will be able to advise you about making your application. Alternatively, full instructions can be found at: www.ucas.com

UCAS also provides a comprehensive guide called Applying Online which can be downloaded from the same web address.

If you are not currently at school or college, or have difficulty obtaining relevant literature, UCAS can be contacted directly:

• Tel: 0871 468 0468
• Email: enquiries@ucas.ac.uk
• Website: www.ucas.com