BSc Hons Biomedical Science (with Foundation Year)

At UCLan, you’ll get much more than lectures — you’ll gain hands-on experience that mirrors real-world biomedical work. From your foundation year onwards, you’ll spend time in well-equipped laboratories, learning to handle advanced scientific equipment, analyse data, and work confidently in a team. The university’s facilities are designed to give you practical exposure to molecular biology, pathology, microbiology, and physiology, helping you turn theory into practice and preparing you for professional or research environments.

Here’s how your practical experience is structured and supported:

• State-of-the-art Laboratories & Equipment
  You’ll work in dedicated labs such as the Molecular Biology Suite, Biochemistry Lab, and Microscopy Laboratory, using equipment like PCR machines, DNA sequencers, confocal microscopes, and microplate readers. This gives you direct experience with the technology used in hospitals, research institutions, and biotechnology companies.

• Independent Research & Projects
  In your final year, you’ll complete an independent research project, allowing you to design experiments, analyse results, and present findings — building confidence and professional credibility.

• Placements & Professional Exposure
  If you follow the Healthcare Science route, you’ll gain placement experience in NHS pathology laboratories, learning how labs operate in real healthcare settings and building skills that contribute to your professional portfolio.

• Collaborative Learning & Digital Tools
  Many sessions involve teamwork, giving you experience in group projects and inter-professional collaboration. You’ll also use specialist software for data analysis, microscopy imaging, and molecular biology experiments.

• Comprehensive Learning Environment
  You’ll have access to purpose-built facilities like the Darwin Building and JB Firth Building, along with the university library and digital resources, all designed to support your practical and theoretical learning.

Graduating from this program opens up a wide range of exciting career paths. Many students go on to become Biomedical Scientists, Clinical or Healthcare Scientists, Laboratory Technicians, or take roles within the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries. Others may move into diagnostic pathology, research institutions, or pursue further academic study:

• Tailored Career Support
  UCLan’s Careers Service offers one-to-one guidance, interview preparation, CV support, and access to networking events with employers in healthcare, research, and industry. You’ll also benefit from career fairs and workshops that connect you with professionals in your field.

• Strong Employment Outcomes
  UCLan graduates enjoy excellent prospects, with most finding employment or further study soon after graduation. Biomedical Science graduates often secure roles in NHS labs, private diagnostic companies, or research organisations, with starting salaries typically around £25,000 and opportunities for progression as experience grows.

• Industry Connections
  The university maintains partnerships with NHS pathology labs, pharmaceutical companies, and biopharmaceutical research projects, giving students exposure to real-world working environments and placement opportunities. These links also ensure your skills are aligned with what employers value most.

• Accreditation Benefits
  The course is accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS), which is recognised across the UK and internationally. This accreditation supports your eligibility for professional registration and gives your degree long-term credibility with employers.

• Graduate Success
  Many graduates move quickly into highly skilled roles, while others continue their studies or take part in research projects, demonstrating the flexibility and value of this qualification.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing your degree, you have several options to continue your academic journey. You could pursue a Master’s degree in Biomedical Science, Molecular Biology, or Biotechnology to specialise in a specific area. Alternatively, you could join professional development programs such as the NHS Scientist Training Programme, gaining specialist clinical experience. For those interested in research, a PhD is a natural next step, allowing you to focus on advanced studies in genetics, immunology, or medical diagnostics. This program gives you a strong foundation and the flexibility to shape your career or academic path according to your interests.