BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science (with Foundation Year)

5 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of the West of England

Program Overview

The BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science with Foundation Year at UWE Bristol is ideal for students who want a strong start in science before moving on to a full biomedical degree. It’s perfect for anyone curious about how the human body works, how diseases develop, and how modern laboratories diagnose and study illnesses, offering a balance of practical skills and academic knowledge.


Curriculum Structure
In the Foundation Year, you’ll build the essential skills and knowledge needed to thrive in biomedical science. You’ll study Introduction to Human Biology, Chemistry for Life Sciences, and Fundamentals of Laboratory Techniques, helping you gain confidence in lab work and understand the core scientific principles behind the field.

In Year 1, the focus is on the foundations of biomedical science. Modules like Cell Biology and Physiology, Human Anatomy, and Biomedical Laboratory Skills give you hands-on experience in laboratories, learning techniques that scientists and clinicians use every day.

Year 2 moves into more specialised areas, including Medical Microbiology, Clinical Biochemistry, and Immunology. You’ll develop advanced lab skills, learn to interpret and analyse data, and understand how these concepts apply to real clinical and research scenarios.

In Year 3, you’ll specialise further and carry out an independent research project. Modules such as Haematology and Transfusion Science and Clinical Pathology let you apply everything you’ve learned, giving you the confidence and experience to step into professional roles or continue your studies.


Focus Areas: Human biology, molecular biology, clinical biochemistry, immunology, pathology, laboratory research.

Learning Outcomes: Graduates leave able to perform laboratory techniques, analyse biomedical data, understand disease processes, and communicate scientific findings clearly.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation): The course is accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS), which is key for anyone aiming to become a registered biomedical scientist in the UK.

Reputation (Employability Rankings): UWE Bristol is well known for its practical, career-focused approach, helping graduates move straight into biomedical roles, research, or further study.

 

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At UWE Bristol, students on the BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science with Foundation Year gain hands-on experience from day one, learning in real laboratories and applying theory to practice. The program ensures you develop practical skills in laboratory techniques, data analysis, and scientific research, while also encouraging teamwork and independent problem-solving. With access to modern facilities and professional placements, you graduate ready to step confidently into the biomedical field:

  • Access to state-of-the-art bioscience laboratories at Frenchay Campus, equipped for molecular biology, microbiology, and clinical biochemistry work.

  • Opportunities to use specialist lab software and digital tools for data collection, analysis, and reporting.

  • Group projects and collaborative practical sessions that develop teamwork and communication skills.

  • Professional placements or internships in hospital laboratories, research centres, or biotechnology companies, giving real-world experience.

  • Hands-on experience in diagnostic techniques and clinical sample analysis under expert supervision.

  • Support from the Glenside Library and dedicated learning spaces, offering access to biomedical journals, virtual resources, and research databases.

  • Engagement with research institutes and innovation hubs linked to UWE, providing insight into applied biomedical science and ongoing projects.

These experiences ensure students are not only confident in the lab but also understand how to apply their skills in professional settings, making them highly employable upon graduation.

 

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates from the BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science with Foundation Year at UWE Bristol leave with a strong combination of theoretical knowledge and practical skills, ready to step into careers in healthcare, research, and biotechnology. Many pursue roles such as biomedical scientist, clinical research associate, laboratory technician, or microbiologist, applying the hands-on training and professional experience gained during the degree:

  • University Careers Services: UWE’s careers team provides personalised guidance, CV and interview workshops, employer networking events, and access to internships and placement opportunities.

  • Employment stats and salary figures: Biomedical science graduates in the UK typically start with salaries around £22,000–£28,000, with experienced professionals in hospitals, research labs, or biotech companies earning upwards of £35,000.

  • University–industry partnerships: The program benefits from links with NHS Trusts, Bristol BioDesign Institute, and local biotech companies, providing professional placements and real-world insight.

  • Accreditation value: The course is IBMS-accredited, ensuring graduates meet professional standards required to become registered biomedical scientists.

  • Graduation outcomes: Alumni progress into NHS laboratories, biomedical research, pharmaceutical companies, clinical trials, or further postgraduate study.


Further Academic Progression:
After completing this degree, students can continue their studies with Master’s programs in Biomedical Science, Clinical Research, or Biotechnology, or pursue PhD research in specialised areas. Some graduates also explore professional pathways such as physician associate programs or clinical laboratory leadership courses, building on the strong foundation provided by the UWE Bristol program.

Program Key Stats

£17,000 (Annual cost)
£ 29
Rolling


No
Yes

Eligibility Criteria

2.8
-
65

N/A
N/A
6.0
80

Additional Information & Requirements

Career Options

  • Biomedical scientist
  • clinical research associate
  • laboratory technician
  • microbiologist
  • forensic scientist
  • biotechnologist
  • quality control analyst
  • medical sales representative
  • public health scientist
  • research scientist

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