Biomedical Science

Biomedical science provides the scientific foundations that underpin clinical medicine and healthcare, applying the principles of biology, chemistry and physiology to the study of health, disease and the laboratory techniques used in diagnosis and treatment. It is one of the most important disciplines in the healthcare system, providing the technical expertise behind blood tests, tissue analysis, microbiology cultures, genetic diagnostics and the many other laboratory investigations that clinicians depend on every day. Biomedical scientists work at the interface between fundamental science and clinical application, where precision, accuracy and technical skill are essential.

At Manchester Metropolitan University, this three-year full-time programme includes a sandwich year and a work placement, giving you direct experience in professional laboratory settings as part of your degree. You will develop an in-depth understanding of the biological principles underlying how the human body works, and an insight into the biology of a wide range of health disorders and their treatments. Core subjects include haematology, clinical biochemistry, medical microbiology, histopathology, immunology, pharmacology and laboratory quality assurance, alongside the research methods and data analysis skills that underpin rigorous biomedical practice.

The sandwich year and placement give you the professional experience in NHS or private laboratory settings that employers in this competitive sector look for.

Graduates of biomedical science programmes are eligible to apply for registration with the Health and Care Professions Council as biomedical scientists and to work in NHS clinical laboratories and private diagnostic services. Other career paths include roles in pharmaceutical companies, biotechnology firms, medical device organisations, public health laboratories, forensic science services, clinical research organisations and science communication. Further study at master's or doctoral level in biomedical science, clinical laboratory science, pharmacology or a related field is the route for those drawn to research or specialist clinical careers.