Biomedical Science BSc (Hons)
Why choose this course?
Biomedical scientists are involved in areas ranging from cancer screening to diagnosing HIV, from blood transfusion to the control of infections. This course is ideal if you are interested in learning about, or working in, laboratory investigation and the monitoring of diseases. It provides excellent grounding for many careers in science, health, and education, and for postgraduate studies, including medical and research degrees.
| Attendance | UCAS code/apply | Year of entry |
|---|---|---|
| 3 years full time | B930 | 2020 2021 |
| 4 years full time including sandwich year | B931 | 2020 2021 |
| 4 years full time including foundation year | B948 | 2020 2021 |
| 6 years part time | Apply direct to the University | 2020 2021 |
| Location | Penrhyn Road |
Reasons to choose Kingston University
- This degree is accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS). If you complete the IBMS Training Portfolio as well, you can apply to register as a Biomedical Scientist with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).
- You'll gain first-hand experience of a busy research or diagnostic laboratory.
- This course gives you the opportunity to do an industrial placement, gaining a head start in your future career.
What you will study
Please note that this is an indicative list of modules and is not intended as a definitive list. Those listed here may also be a mixture of core and optional modules.
Year 1
Year 2
Year 3
Year 1 offers a firm foundation in the biological and chemical principles upon which biomedical science is based, including various laboratory techniques. You will be introduced to molecular and cell biology, physiology, anatomy and biochemistry.
Core modules
Genes, Cells and Tissues
30 credits
This module is a core module taken by students in the fields of Biochemistry, Biological Sciences, Biomedical Science, Forensic Biology, Forensic Science, Medical Biochemistry and Pharmacology. The module introduces students to basic cell biology of prokaryotes and eukaryotes, molecular, organismal and population genetics, germ layers and basic tissue types in the human body, and a variety of microorganisms. Core factual material is provided in keynote lectures and supported via material available via StudySpace. Laboratory practicals give students the opportunity to learn selected current techniques used to study cells, tissues, chromosomes and microbial organisms. The module provides an essential introduction to modules at levels 5 and 6 that develop further knowledge in cell biology, anatomy, physiology, genetics and microbiology.
The Biochemical Foundations of Life
30 credits
This is a core module taken by students studying Biochemistry, Biological Sciences, Biomedical Science, Forensic Biology, Forensic Science, Medical Biochemistry, Nutrition and Pharmacology. The module is intended to give you an understanding of how basic chemical elements are bonded to form complex biomolecules in living systems. The module will then elaborate on the role that structure of proteins, carbohydrates and lipids plays in defining their properties and function along with describing some of the laboratory techniques used in their investigation. The module will also introduce the importance of energy transformations in living organisms. The module provides an essential introduction to level 5 and 6 modules that develop further knowledge in biochemical principles. Core material is delivered through lectures and problem solving workshops supported by laboratory practicals and subsequent data analysis.
Scientific and Laboratory Skills
30 credits
This first year module is a core module for all Bioscience and Forensic Science programmes, and provides a firm foundation in general scientific and laboratory skills that students require to successfully complete their programmes of study. Students are introduced to the nature of studying in higher education, the need for effective time management and planning of work, the appropriate use of information sources, and to sources of information relating to careers in the biosciences. Scientific analytical and lab/practical skills are developed, together with essential mathematics and statistical skills for life scientists. A significant component of the module consists of the development of basic research skills such as practical skills in the laboratory, the principles of experimental design and the statistical analysis of data.
Human Physiology
30 credits
This is a core module taken by students studying BSc Biomedical Science, Nutrition, Medical Biochemistry, Biochemistry, Biological Sciences, Pharmacology, and Forensic Biology.
The module introduces students to fundamental physiological concepts which underpin the coordinated functioning of the human body, including homeostasis, cellular communication and movement of molecules through body compartments. The main physiological systems of the body are then covered, including the nervous, muscle, endocrine, respiratory, cardiovascular, renal and digestive systems. Core material is delivered through lectures, problem solving exercises and directed reading. Laboratory practicals provide experience of selected techniques, experimental design and data analysis used in physiological experimental work.
Year 2 includes in-depth study of the more specialised aspects of biomedical science, particularly the nature and effects of human disease. You will develop your knowledge of microbiology and immunology and the cellular pathological changes that occur in medical conditions such as cancer and heart disease.
Core modules
Medical Physiology with Research Methods
30 credits
This is a core module for students studying Biomedical Science. The module aims to develop scientific, academic and research skills that were introduced at level 4, and to relate the application of these skills to the study of physiology. Research methods and employability skills are taught within the context of biomedical and associated employment opportunities. The module is designed to enhance students' understanding of the recurring physiological themes in non-communicable diseases, relating physiological systems to common chronic diseases and likely mechanisms involved. The module will further develop the study of human physiology from level 4, covering topics such as endocrinology, neurophysiology, cardiovascular, reproductive and respiratory physiology.
Infection and Immunity
30 credits
This is a core module for Biomedical Science, Biological Sciences (Medical Biology), Medical Biochemistry, Nutrition and Pharmacology, and an option for Biological Sciences (Human Biology). It is a pre-requisite for the level 6 modules LS6003 (Chemotherapy of Infectious and Neoplastic Disease) and LS6006 (Clinical Immunology and Medical Microbiology).
This module provides an opportunity to learn more about the structure and function of microbiological agents in health and disease and the immunological responses raised as a consequence by the human body. Through the lectures a number of microbiological processes will be examined along with methods of controlling the organisms responsible in the laboratory environment as well as within a patient. Students will also become familiar with the different cells and organs of the immune system and how these function and interact to protect the body from infection. The module also introduces some of the molecular processes and signalling events that are important in communication between cells of the human immune system.
Pathobiology
30 credits
This is a core module in the BSc Biomedical Science and BSc Biological Sciences fields. The module discusses cellular mechanisms of disease. In addition it considers the role of cellular pathology in the context of other pathology disciplines such as Clinical Pathology. Particular emphasis is given to laboratory aspects of cellular injury and their application in routine diagnosis. The module delivery is in the format of lectures, tutorials, poster presentation, practicals and demonstrations. Core factual material is provided via Canvas with keynote lectures used to explain concepts. Teaching and practical session are supported by online pathology material.
Optional modules
Molecular Biology of the Cell
30 credits
This is a core module taken by student in the fields of Biochemistry, Biological Sciences (Genetics and Molecular Biology route), Pharmacology, and is an option module taken by Biomedical Science and Biological Sciences (General route)
The module builds on topics covered in LS4001 (Genes, Cells and Tissues) and explores more advanced concepts in cell and molecular biology. The module provides insight into the structure and function of cells, and takes an integrated approach to looking at how cells respond to changes in their environment - from receptor interactions and intracellular signalling pathways through to the regulation of gene expression and changes in cellular processes.
Formal lectures are supported by laboratory classes, tutorials, workshops, independent study and further resources available on Canvas. The module also includes opportunities to develop both data-handling and written skills.
Proteins and Metabolism
30 credits
This module is core in the Biochemistry, Biological Sciences (Human Biology, Medical Biology, Genetics and Molecular Biology routes) and Nutrition (Human Nutrition). It is also an option module for Biomedical Science. The module provides students with knowledge of the structure and methods of analysis of proteins, with particular emphasis on enzymes. This is followed by the study of the major catabolic and anabolic pathways and investigates how organisms obtain and use energy. These processes, and their regulation in health and disease, are considered at the molecular level, which involves many proteins including enzymes.
Year 3 consists of specialist modules covering the theoretical and practical aspects of the major branches of biomedical science. These include clinical chemistry and haematology, clinical immunology and medical microbiology. The Clinical Applications of Biomedical Science module includes clinical case studies, integrating diagnostic procedures from across the course and developing awareness of contemporary issues within biomedical science.
Year 3 also includes a research project. This may be undertaken in University research laboratories or in a hospital or medical research laboratory. It enables you to carry out independent research in a subject that interests you, and gain first-hand experience of a busy research or diagnostic laboratory. The project could also be data analysis of survey information or a systematic review of scientific literature.
Core modules
Clinical Applications of Biomedical Sciences
30 credits
This is a core module in the Biomedical Science field. It can only be taken by those students who have successfully completed all the pre-requisite modules. It is synoptic in nature, providing students with an opportunity to integrate the knowledge gained from all other modules on the Biomedical Science course. Case studies will be used to provide an overview of biomedical techniques and, more importantly, their applications in clinical diagnosis, prognosis and patient management, including drug interactions and the basis of individual variation in drug responsiveness. The use of pertinent clinical cases encourages students to think 'outside the box' and realise that when dealing with a real patient, knowledge gained from seemingly unrelated modules is required simultaneously in order to make a rational diagnosis.
The module will cover/review the following techniques and discuss their application in common diseases and clinical scenarios: immunoassay development and evaluation, infectious disease diagnosis and microbial identification, molecular and genetic approaches to disease diagnosis, biochemical analyses and histopathological examination of tissues.
Project (Bioscience)
30 credits
This is a core module in the Biosciences field for a number of BSc (Honours) programmes. The project module forms a very important part of the degree programme and probably constitutes the largest piece of independent work a student is likely to undertake during his/her undergraduate studies. There are several types of projects that may be offered to students: a laboratory or field-based project, data projects involving acquisition of data and information from surveys, questionnaires, computer simulations or bioinformatics, or a systematic review of research literature that includes the collection, comparison and original presentation of reported research data. The end point is the same in all cases; review and critical evaluation of qualitative and quantitative information and data to address a hypothesis or research question, and the production of a written report.
Clinical Chemistry and Haematology (Blood Sciences)
30 credits
This is a core module for Biomedical Science, and an option for Biochemistry, Biological Sciences (Medical Biology route), and Nutrition (Human Nutrition). The module evaluates the contribution of laboratory investigations to the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of disease in key areas such as renal disease, diabetes, anaemia, and haematological malignancies. The module also considers the role of the transfusion laboratory in the treatment of selected disorders.
Topics are introduced through a structured lecture series and further explored in practical laboratory sessions. Additional material is provided via Canvas, with tutorials used to support the practical programme and strengthen understanding of key concepts.
Throughout the module, case histories are used to illustrate current best practice in Clinical Chemistry and Haematology, and this is re-enforced by keynote lectures from expert practitioners in the field. The module also places an emphasis on students' acquisition of the knowledge and practical skills required by employers.
Clinical Immunology and Medical Microbiology
30 credits
This is a core requirement for Biomedical Science and is an option for those on other Life Science degree courses (Biological Sciences (Medical Biology route), Medical Biochemistry and Nutrition). The module builds on and applies the learning achieved in the level 5 Infection and Immunity (LS5008) module which is a prerequisite.
The module initially explores in detail diseases of: overactive immunity (eg. autoimmune disease and hypersensitivity); and of immune deficiency (eg. AIDS). It also explores other key areas of clinical immunology such as cancer immunology, monoclonal antibodies and laboratory diagnostics.
The module then explores infectious diseases and the principles and practise of the medical microbiology. Selected infectious diseases and their laboratory diagnosis are studied in depth using an organ system approach; for example, infections of the respiratory tract, gastrointestinal tract, and urinary tract.
The information above reflects the currently intended course structure and module details. Updates may be made on an annual basis and revised details will be published through Programme Specifications ahead of each academic year. The regulations governing this course are available on our website. If we have insufficient numbers of students interested in an optional module, this may not be offered.
Foundation year
If you would like to study one of our science degrees at Kingston University but are not yet ready to join the first year of a BSc(Hons) course, you can include an extra foundation year within your chosen degree. Please see the science foundation year course page for details of modules.
Entry requirements
Teaching and assessment
Who teaches this course?
The course is taught at the Faculty of Science, Engineering and Computing. Faculty staff have a wide range of experience across research and industry and continue to practice and research at the cutting edge of their discipline. This ensures that our courses are current and industry informed ensuring you get the most relevant and up to date education possible.
Staff will use their experience and professional networks to hone your skills and shape you into the next generation of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) graduates.
Postgraduate students may run or assist in lab sessions and may also contribute to the teaching of seminars under the supervision of the module leader.
Facilities
There is a wide range of facilities for practical work at our Penrhyn Road campus, where this course is based. You will have access to a modern environment with the latest equipment, including:
- the £9.8 million Eadweard Muybridge building with state-of the art laboratories;
- an exercise physiology and biomechanics lab;
- modern applied biology and chemistry laboratories
- specialist equipment, such as electron microscopes and spectrometers;
- computing laboratories and a team of IT technicians to offer assistance; and
- a newly refurbished state-of-the-art nutrition kitchen.
The Library offers:
- subject libraries, plus a free inter-library loan scheme to other libraries in the Greater London area;
- online database subscriptions; and
- a growing selection of resource material.
Course fees and funding
Accreditation
This degree is accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS). It is not approved by The Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) for Registration. However, when put together with completion of the IBMS's Registration Training Portfolio, it does provide eligibility to apply for HCPC Registration as a Biomedical Scientist. The IBMS Training Portfolio can potentially be completed during the placement year of the 4 year sandwich course (B931); however the majority of students undertake this after graduation, once in appropriate employment.
What our students say
After you graduate
Careers and progression
This course prepares you for careers such as:
- hospital-based biomedical scientist after further practical training;
- biomedical related, technical, and research and development scientists; and
- roles in education and the medical science industries.
Suitably qualified graduates can use their degree for graduate entry to medicine, physician associate, dentistry or veterinary science. This degree also provides a firm base for a higher degree such as a PhD, MSc, Masters by Research or PGCE. Long-term career prospects include disease diagnosis and control, specialised laboratory work, and management, education and research.
What our graduates say
Work placement year
How you can work in industry during your course
Placements:
- provide work experience that is relevant to your course and future career;
- improve your chances of graduating with a higher grade degree;
- enhance your CV;
- lead to a graduate job;
- enable you to earn a year's salary whilst studying (the vast majority of placements are paid); and
- help you to select your final-year project.
"To be successful, tomorrow's leaders will need to be far more rounded individuals than ever before. They will collaborate in pursuit of shared goals. They will guide, challenge and support...They will have an appetite for change and a hunger for continuous improvement, and they will have an ethos of learning and development..." Jeremy Darroch, Former Chief Executive, Sky.
"Doing a placement year effectively gives you one foot in the door of a future job and to stand out from the crowd... as well as enhancing my CV... and future interviews. It's a great motivator to be successful in my studies as it only serves to open even more doors and gain more skills." Placement student at Jagex Games Studios Ltd.
- 81% placement students and 34% non-placement students got a first or 2.1 (Faculty of Computing, Information Systems and Mathematics, 2008).
- 100% of placement students during 2008 recommend doing a placement (Faculty of Computing, Information Systems and Mathematics, 2008).
- Many employers offer a graduate job to their successful placement students.
There is a lot of support available for students looking to secure a placement (eg a jobs board with placement vacancies, help with writing CVs and mock interviews). Getting a placement and passing the placement year are ultimately the student's responsibility.
For further information please contact the placements team by telephone 020 8417 2969 or email secplace@kingston.ac.uk.
Examples of placements
Placements can be with large multinational companies, international companies, local companies and small start ups; offering a diverse range of posts. Here are some examples of employers and roles:
| Construction-based placement employers | Construction-based placement roles |
|---|---|
| RG Group Multiplex Costain Willmott Dixon Fluor |
Assistant site manager Assistant trades package manager Assistant logistics manager Health and safety officer Construction engineer |
| Science-based placement employers | Science-based placement roles |
| Reckitt and Benckiser GSK Drug Control Centre Minton Treharne and Davies Ltd Various local and international hospitals |
Bioanalytical sciences Lab assistant Pharmacy assistant Sports coach |
| Engineering-based placement employers | Engineering-based placement roles |
| Airbus BAM Nuttall Nissan Bosch Wozair |
Analysis of aircraft structure Construction resources specialist Site engineer assistant |
| Computing and IS-based placement employers | Computing and IS-based placement roles |
| Disney Sony Interactive Entertainment Europe IBM McKinsey Intel |
Database co-ordinator Software developer Website developer App developer |
| Mathematics-based placement employers | Mathematics-based placement roles |
| Lloyds Banking Group AXA Allianz PAU Education, Spain |
Analyst Investment solutions Research analyst Accounts assistant |
Links with business and industry
St George's, University of London
Links with St George's, University of London means some students also visit St George's for placements and project work during their course. Students can also apply for postgraduate courses there such as graduate medicine and physician associate or they can apply to other institutions.
This course provides the opportunity to do an industrial placement. Read more in the sandwich year placements section.
Industrial placement
This course provides the opportunity to do an industrial placement. Read more in the sandwich year placements section.
Find out about studying this course part-time
The part-time course is half the workload of the full-time course, taking six years to complete rather than three. The course is flexible so you can switch to full-time study in Years 2 or 3 if you wish.
Before the course begins, you will meet with a tutor to discuss your time commitments. The course leaders will then try to let you know the timetable of lectures and seminar groups as soon as possible. On average, part-time students need to allow 10 hours a week to attend lectures and seminars, plus a further 10 to 15 hours for independent study, but this does vary.
Key information set
The scrolling banner(s) below display some key factual data about this course (including different course combinations or delivery modes of this course where relevant).
