Discover how biomedical scientists diagnose and treat diseases by studying for an accredited degree in Biomedical Science in our world-class laboratories in Cambridge.
As a biomedical science student at ARU, you’ll learn about the human body at molecular, organ and systems levels, and how to investigate and treat disease.
Our passionate, highly-qualified lecturers will teach you the latest findings about conditions such as cancer, diabetes, antibiotic resistance and haemostasis.
Biomedical science is an exciting and dynamic subject, where research is constantly leading to breakthroughs and medical advances that have an impact on the health and wellbeing of society.
In Cambridge you’ll study in our state-of-the-art Science Centre, in lecture theatres and laboratories, where you’ll have the opportunity to use specialist equipment. (We also plan to offer this course in Peterborough from September 2022. Please note that facilities at ARU Peterborough, which is a brand-new university, will differ. We'll add more details as soon as they're confirmed.)
Biomedical science is the field that underpins modern medicine. It’s always changing and developing, so it’s an exciting and rewarding subject to study.
We’ll begin by studying general biology, human anatomy and physiology, microbiology and cellular and molecular biology. Then we turn our attention to modern diagnostic techniques, and learn about biomedical disciplines including haematology and transfusion science, clinical biochemistry, cellular pathology, medical genetics, medical microbiology and clinical immunology.
In your final year, with support from a supervisor, you’ll carry out a research project and explore an area of biomedical science that’s of particular interest to you.
There’s also the option to take a placement year as part of this degree, and gain valuable work experience.
Our three-year course in Cambridge is accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science, setting you up for a trainee position in an NHS laboratory as a Health and Care Professions Council-registered biomedical scientist. Both our three-year and four-year (placement) courses in Cambridge are accredited by the Royal Society of Biology. As well as preparing you for a career in biomedical science, they’ll equip you for further study in science or medicine. We are currently seeking accreditation for this course in Peterborough, from September 2022.
There's a limited opportunity to transfer to Year 1 of our MBChB Medicine degree, following successful completion of your first year of Biomedical Science, application and interview.
TEACHING AND ASSESSMENT
3 years full-time
In the first year of your Biomedical Science degree, you’ll gain a solid grounding in the field of biomedical science. You’ll discover the wider context, key theories, knowledge and techniques of biology. You’ll also look at the history and philosophy of science, the history of medicine, and the biology of disease.
You’ll explore the characteristics, structures and properties of cells, molecules, genes and microorganisms, and how these relate to disease. You’ll learn about human organs and systems, how they function, and how disease, disorder and dysfunction occur.
You’ll also learn the core mathematical methods you need to succeed as a scientist, and how to work safely, competently and effectively in the lab.
Modules are subject to change and availability.
You’ll be assessed on essays, exams and practical analysis, so we can make sure you’re developing the knowledge and skills you need.
In your second year, you’ll learn how to perform a variety of diagnostic procedures following legal, ethical and quality assurance guidelines. You’ll gain an understanding of the science underlying them, how to interpret your findings, and how results are communicated to service users.
You’ll explore how metabolism, organs and genes function in normal and disease conditions, and the environments, health issues and lifestyles that can cause such dysfunction. You’ll discover the effects diseases have on molecular and cellular processes, and therefore the body, and how they are treated. You’ll find out how biomedical scientists analyse the occurrence of disease through bioinformatics (the study of 'big data') and epidemiology.
You’ll continue to develop your techniques and skills in the lab. You’ll also learn how to design and propose a research project in preparation for your independent project in Year 3.
Modules are subject to change and availability.
You’ll be assessed on essays, exams and practical analysis, so we can make sure you’re developing the knowledge and skills you need.
In your final year, you’ll learn about the normal and pathological operation of the immune system, with a focus on antibody structure and function. You’ll deepen your understanding of the causes, progression, side effects, complications, diagnosis and treatment of major diseases. You’ll also explore how recent discoveries and innovations in the field of genetics have expanded our understanding of, and treatment for, human disease, as well as the ethical dilemmas posed by these scientific advances.
You’ll prepare for a future-proof career in biomedical science by learning about the most topical and exciting recent developments in the field, and finding out how you can apply your knowledge, skills and experience in specialist fields in clinical, pharmaceutical and forensic pathology.
You’ll complete an independent research project on a biomedical science topic, supported by an expert supervisor.
With our optional modules, you can learn more about the practical application of biomedical knowledge across a range of disciplines, enhance your knowledge of bacterial, fungal and viral diseases in humans and animals, or zoom in on molecular cell biology.
Modules are subject to change and availability.
You’ll be assessed on essays, exams and practical analysis, so we can make sure you’re developing the knowledge and skills you need.
Careers
Our three-year course is accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science, setting you up for a trainee position in an NHS laboratory as a Health and Care Professions Council-registered biomedical scientist after you graduate.
Both our three-year and four-year (placement) courses are accredited by the Royal Society of Biology, preparing you for a wide range of biomedical roles or further study.
If you pass the UK Clinical Aptitude Test (UKCAT) and have relevant work experience in the healthcare sector, you can apply for a four- or five-year accelerated programme at a UK medical school after graduation.
Cambridge is home to number of world-renowned biomedical research institutes and biotechnology companies, offering plenty of opportunities for work experience and employment. You could also extend your stay in the city with one of our postgraduate degrees, including MSc Applied Bioscience. Take advantage of our Alumni Scholarship and get 20% off your fees.