BSc Biomedical Sciences

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Southampton

Program Overview

This Biomedical Sciences degree immerses you in the science behind clinical practice, exploring topics like disease mechanisms, therapeutics, genetics, and physiology through research-led teaching. It’s perfect for students passionate about medical science, offering you real research experience, industry insight, and flexibility to tailor areas of study. 


Curriculum structure

Year 1
You’ll build a solid foundation in key biological and biomedical disciplines through modules such as Chemistry of Life, Fundamentals of Cell Biology and Physiology, How to Think Like a Scientist, and The Human Genome and Disease. Hands-on practicals (including ethical animal tissue use), computer-supported work, and group discussions reinforce your experimental skills and critical thinking. 

Year 2
This year expands your skills with compulsory modules like Flow of Genetic Information, Immunology, Infection, and Inflammation, and Principles of Pharmacology. You also choose from options like Bioinformatics, Applied and Environmental Biochemistry, and Medical Microbiology, allowing you to specialize in areas of interest while gaining data analysis and lab technique experience. 

Year 3
In your final year, you undertake an independent research project in a topic that reflects your passions and career goals. You’ll also select advanced optional modules such as Cancer and Chromosome Biology, Neurodegenerative Diseases, Biofilms, Biomedical Technology, or Science Communication, allowing you to shape your degree to your strengths. 


  • Focus areas: cell biology, immunology, pharmacology, genetics, disease mechanisms, neuroscience

  • Learning outcomes: proficiency in lab techniques, bioinformatics, pharmacological and immunological understanding, research design and execution

  • Professional alignment (accreditation): Accredited by the Royal Society of Biology, highlighting its quality and employability potential. 

  • Reputation (employability rankings): Taught within a globally recognized, research-rich environment—Southampton is home to the Cancer Immunology Research Centre and leads the National Biofilms Innovation Centre—setting graduates apart in research, healthcare, and industry.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

This degree brings biology to life—from cutting-edge labs to immersive research projects and the sidelines of clinical discovery. You’ll take part in hands-on learning that merges real scientific practice with exploration, all supported by world-class facilities and experienced mentors:

Here’s how it’s brought alive:

  • State-of-the-art Wet Labs & Core Facilities: Based in the award-winning Life Sciences Building at Highfield, you’ll work in modern labs supported by specialist core facilities—such as proteomics, sequencing, tissue culture, imaging and microscopy, and biomolecular analysis. Associated resources include the Biomedical Research Facility and Biomedical Imaging Unit at University Hospital Southampton. 

  • Advanced Imaging & Microscopy Tools: Access the Imaging and Microscopy Centre (IMC) for high-resolution techniques like confocal microscopy, live imaging, flow cytometry, and electrophysiology—plus dedicated software for analysing complex image data.

  • Translational Research & Biomedical Collaboration: Collaborate in real-world clinical research through facilities like the NIHR Southampton Clinical Research Facility (CRF), Biomedical Imaging Unit, and NIHR BioResource Center—where cutting-edge pathology and biobank resources drive clinical innovations.

  • Specialist Structural Biology Resources: Benefit from world-class equipment such as the NMR laboratory, protein crystallisation pipelines, and X-ray diffraction tools—plus connections to national infrastructure like the National Crystallography Service and the Diamond Light Source. 

  • Research-Driven Teaching & Independent Projects: You’ll engage in research-led learning from day one, culminating in an independent final-year research project under academic supervision—building real-world experimental design, data interpretation, and communication skills. 

  • Global & Industrial Exposure: Enhance your learning with optional fieldwork, semester-abroad programs, or a year in employment, giving you practical and international insights that broaden academic and employability horizons. 

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates from this Biomedical Sciences degree frequently step into careers as Biomedical Scientists, Research Assistants, Clinical Laboratory Technicians, or Science Communication Officers—thanks to your strong laboratory training and research experience:

  • University Career Support
    Southampton’s Careers & Employability Service, alongside the Biological Sciences School, provides guidance through employer networking, workshops, and mentoring. The Southampton Internship Programme and Year in Employment give you the chance to work with leading organisations, gaining practical insight and industry exposure.

  • Employment Statistics & Outcomes
    A remarkable 95% of Biological Sciences graduates—which includes Biomedical Sciences—are in employment or further study within 15 months of graduating.

  • University–Industry Links & Experience
    Students often undertake lab placements with partners like AstraZeneca, GSK, Pfizer, Public Health England, NHS, Cancer Research UK, Roche, and Kew Gardens—enhancing both CVs and real-world experience.

  • Accreditation & Long-Term Value
    This course is accredited by the Royal Society of Biology, a mark of professional excellence that strengthens your eligibility for postgraduate training and industry roles.

  • Graduate Achievement & Satisfaction
    Biomedical Sciences students report high satisfaction and skill development—93% agree their communication skills improved, and 93% are satisfied with the course overall.


Further Academic Progression:
After graduating, many students progress into MSc degrees (e.g., Biomedical Sciences by Research), PhDs, or professional training such as medicine, teacher training, or industry-specific programs. Southampton’s research-rich environment and strong alumni network offer fantastic support for these next steps.

Program Key Stats

£32,000 (Annual cost)
£ 29
Sept Intake : 14th Jan


No
Yes

Eligibility Criteria

ABB
3.2
32
75

N/A
N/A
6.5
-

Additional Information & Requirements

Career Options

  • Biomedical scientist
  • Biotechnologist
  • Clinical scientist
  • Forensic scientist
  • Microbiologist
  • Research scientist
  • Toxicologist
  • Academic researcher
  • Pharmaceutical sales representative
  • Regulatory affairs specialist

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