1. Birkbeck University of London
  2. Program
  3. Bachelors
  4. BSc Biomedicine with Foundation Year

BSc Biomedicine with Foundation Year

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Birkbeck University of London

Program Overview

Program Overview

This extended degree is designed for students who may not meet the direct entry requirements for a BSc in Biomedicine. The foundation year builds essential skills in biology, chemistry, and mathematics, preparing students for advanced biomedical study. After the foundation, students progress into the full undergraduate program, covering molecular biology, physiology, immunology, and medical research methods.

Curriculum Structure

Foundation Year
The foundation year is designed to strengthen academic and scientific knowledge for students who may not have the required background. It covers core subjects in biology, chemistry, and mathematics, while also teaching essential academic and research skills. Students are introduced to laboratory practice, scientific communication, and critical thinking to ensure readiness for the degree.

Year 1
Students study the building blocks of life, including cell biology, biochemistry, and human physiology. The year emphasizes understanding how human systems function at the cellular and organ level. Practical laboratory classes train students in microscopy, experimental design, and data analysis.

Year 2
This year advances into specialized topics such as molecular genetics, immunology, microbiology, and pharmacology. Students learn how diseases develop at the molecular level, how the immune system responds to infection, and how drugs interact with biological systems. Laboratory work includes molecular techniques such as DNA analysis and bacterial culture.

Year 3
The final year focuses on advanced biomedical sciences such as neuroscience, molecular medicine, and infectious disease biology. Students also conduct a research project under academic supervision, where they design, execute, and present original scientific work. This prepares them for careers in biomedical research or postgraduate study.

Focus Areas
Foundations of biology and chemistry, molecular and cellular biology, physiology, immunology, genetics, and biomedical research.

Learning Outcomes
Graduates will have both strong theoretical foundations and practical biomedical laboratory experience, ready to enter research, healthcare, or postgraduate education.

Professional Alignment
The program aligns with professional biomedical standards, offering pathways into laboratory roles and research positions.

Reputation (Employability & Graduate Outcomes)
Graduates are prepared for biomedical research, health sciences, pharmaceutical roles, and clinical laboratory careers. The foundation year ensures accessibility for students from varied academic backgrounds.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

The BSc Biomedicine with Foundation Year is designed for students who may not meet the traditional entry requirements but want to pursue a career in biomedical sciences. The Foundation Year provides essential grounding in biology, chemistry, mathematics, and study skills to prepare students for degree-level study. Upon completion, students progress into the full BSc Biomedicine programme, where they develop knowledge of human biology, physiology, and disease.

Experiential Learning Highlights:

  • Foundation Year Training: Core modules build confidence in science and academic skills to ensure readiness for higher study.
  • Laboratory Skills Development: From the first year onwards, students gain hands-on training in biomedical science laboratory techniques.
  • Flexible Study Environment: Evening teaching and part-time options provide flexibility for students balancing other commitments.
  • Progression Pathway: Automatic entry into Year 1 of the BSc Biomedicine after successful completion of the Foundation Year.

Why This Programme Stands Out:
This programme offers an accessible pathway into biomedical education while maintaining high academic standards. It suits motivated students who want to build their scientific foundations before progressing into biomedical science.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates gain a strong grounding in biomedical sciences including cell biology, human physiology, molecular biology, and biochemistry, preparing them for careers in clinical research, pharmaceutical development, laboratory science, and public health. Typical roles include Clinical Research Associate, Biomedical Lab Technician, Healthcare Scientist, and Research Assistant.

  • University Services That Support Your Career
    • Access to Birkbeck’s Careers Service for mentoring, CV development, and employer networking
    • Internship and placement opportunities in London’s hospitals, biotech firms, and research centers
    • Evening study model allows students to gain work experience alongside academic study
  • Employment Stats & Salary Figures
    • Approximately 82–85% of graduates are in employment or further study within 15 months
    • Median starting salary around £24,000–£28,000, with potential to rise beyond £35,000 in specialist roles
  • University–Industry Partnerships
    • Links with NHS hospitals, research institutes, and London-based biotech companies
    • Opportunities for students to participate in cutting-edge biomedical projects
  • Accreditation & Long-Term Value
    • Accredited by the Royal Society of Biology (RSB) for professional recognition
    • Provides a foundation year for students transitioning into higher-level biomedical study
  • Graduation Outcomes
    • Alumni progress into roles such as Biomedical Scientist, Clinical Data Analyst, Healthcare Researcher, and Lab Manager
    • Many also advance into graduate-entry medical training or allied health professions

Further Academic Progression

  • MSc programs in Biomedical Sciences, Molecular Medicine, Neuroscience, or Clinical Research
  • PhD pathways in cancer biology, immunology, neurobiology, or genetics
  • Graduate-entry medicine, public health training, or specialist clinical scientist programs

Program Key Stats

£18,500 (Annual cost)
£ 29
Oct Intake : 14th Jul


Eligibility Criteria

EEE
N/A
N/A
50

N/A
N/A
6.5
79

Additional Information & Requirements

Career Options

  • Biomedical Scientist – work in laboratories carrying out tests and research in healthcare
  • Clinical Laboratory Technician – support medical staff by preparing and analyzing samples
  • Pharmaceutical Researcher – develop and test new treatments and therapies
  • Biotechnology Assistant – contribute to innovations in medical and biological technologies
  • Healthcare Scientist – apply science to support patient care and health services
  • Forensic Scientist – use biological knowledge to assist legal and criminal investigations
  • Medical Sales Representative – promote and explain medical products to healthcare professionals
  • Research Assistant – support academic or industry led medical and scientific projects
  • Medical Writer – create accessible content about biomedical research and findings
  • Further Study Candidate – progress to masters or professional healthcare programs

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