Health Sciences with Foundation Year BSc

Students in the Health Sciences with Foundation Year BSc at the University of Nottingham gain hands-on, practical experience that prepares them for a variety of health-related careers. From the very first year, you’ll be introduced to real-world scenarios, laboratory techniques, and digital tools that are essential in health science fields. The program combines theoretical learning with immersive experiences, ensuring that you develop practical skills alongside academic knowledge. Facilities such as state-of-the-art laboratories, research institutes, and specialized learning spaces are at your disposal, providing the ideal environment to explore health sciences in depth. Students also benefit from group projects, clinical observations, and industry partnerships that allow you to apply what you learn in a professional context.

Experiential learning in the program includes:

• Laboratories and practical sessions: Access to dedicated Health Sciences labs for anatomy, physiology, and clinical skills, enabling hands-on practice in diagnostic and research techniques.

• Clinical observations and placements: Opportunities to visit local hospitals, clinics, and community health settings to observe health professionals in action.

• Group projects and teamwork: Collaborative assignments that develop problem-solving, communication, and project management skills in a health context.

• Digital tools and software: Training in relevant digital health platforms, data analysis software, and electronic patient record systems.

• Research institutes: Engagement with the Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre and the Institute of Mental Health for cutting-edge research experience.

• Library and study facilities: Access to the extensive University of Nottingham libraries with a focus on health sciences resources, journals, and databases.

• Field trips and experiential workshops: Visits to community health centers, public health organizations, and science outreach programs to understand health in real-world contexts.

• Foundation Year support: Structured support for students building essential study skills, scientific literacy, and foundational knowledge for a health sciences career.

Graduates from the Health Sciences BSc program often progress into rewarding careers where they can apply their knowledge in real-world healthcare and research settings: typical roles include public health officer, clinical research coordinator, health service manager, and community health practitioner. These roles allow graduates to make a tangible impact on patient care, health promotion, and medical research:

• University Careers and Employability Services: Nottingham offers one-to-one career guidance, CV and interview support, and access to health-focused internships and placements.

• Employment stats and salary figures: Over 90% of Health Sciences graduates are employed or in further study within six months of graduation, with starting salaries in the UK typically ranging from £22,000 to £30,000 depending on the role.

• University–industry partnerships: Nottingham has collaborations with the NHS, local public health authorities, and biomedical research centres, providing students with invaluable placement opportunities and industry insight.

• Long-term accreditation value: While the BSc itself is not a regulated healthcare qualification, the program is recognised for research and academic excellence, which supports postgraduate study or career progression in healthcare, public health, and biomedical research.

• Graduation outcomes: Graduates leave with a solid foundation in health sciences, practical skills in data analysis, and an understanding of healthcare systems—preparing them for both professional employment and further study.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing this program, students can progress to specialist master’s programs in Public Health, Global Health, Health Policy, or Clinical Research. Additionally, the strong foundation gained in this degree allows students to pursue professional training in healthcare, biomedical sciences, or allied health fields. 

With relevant work experience (typically three years), graduates may apply for Public Health Practitioner Registration with the UK Public Health Register (UKPHR) — a recognised professional benchmark for those working in public health.