Biomedical Science

Biomedical science is the branch of the life sciences most directly connected to human health, concerned with understanding the biological processes underpinning disease, developing and applying diagnostic laboratory techniques, and contributing to the research that leads to new treatments and improved patient outcomes. It draws on microbiology, biochemistry, genetics, haematology, immunology, histopathology, and cellular pathology, and biomedical scientists work in hospital laboratories, research institutions, and pharmaceutical and diagnostics companies.

At the University of Keele, this three-year full-time programme is dual accredited, reflecting recognition from multiple professional bodies. It includes a sandwich placement year, a year abroad, and work placement opportunities, making it one of the more richly structured programmes in this discipline. The sandwich year takes you into a professional environment, typically a hospital laboratory or research setting, where you apply your scientific skills and develop professional competence alongside qualified scientists.

The year abroad adds international research experience and a broader scientific perspective. You will study across the core disciplines of biomedical science, developing both theoretical understanding and laboratory skills in areas including clinical biochemistry, haematology, microbiology, immunology, and histopathology. State-of-the-art laboratories and dedicated employability modules ensure you graduate with practical and professional readiness.

You will develop the ability to apply scientific knowledge to clinical diagnostic problems, to interpret results in the context of patient care, and to communicate findings to other healthcare professionals.

Graduates pursue careers as registered biomedical scientists in NHS and private laboratories, in pharmaceutical and medical device research, and in related science and healthcare roles. The dual accreditation and placement year strengthen your professional profile. Postgraduate study in biomedical science, clinical research, or a specialist laboratory discipline is a well-established next step.