Biomedical Science BSc (Hons)

Why choose this course?

Biomedical Science is a course that covers a huge range of topics, such as cancer screening, diagnosing HIV, blood transfusion, the control of infections, immunology and conditions such as cancer and heart disease. It could be the ideal course for you if you enjoy laboratory investigation and the monitoring of diseases.

You'll be introduced to biological and chemical principles, to molecular and cell biology, physiology, anatomy, biochemistry, and relevant laboratory techniques.

You'll also independently research a subject that interests you. This might include a laboratory-based project, analysis of survey information or a review of scientific literature.

Apply for this course

Attendance	UCAS code/apply	Year of entry
3 years full time	B930	2022
4 years full time including sandwich year	B931	2022
4 years full time including foundation year	B948	2022
6 years part time	Apply direct to the University	2022

Location

Penrhyn Road

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2021 entry

If you are planning to join this course in the academic year 2021/22 (i.e. between September 2021 and August 2022), please view the information about changes to courses for 2021/22 due to Covid-19.

Changes to courses for 2021/22 due to Covid-19

Continuing students

Students who are continuing their studies with Kingston University in 2021/22 should refer to their Course Handbook for information about specific changes that have been, or may be, made to their course or modules being delivered in 2021/22. Course Handbooks are located within the Canvas course page.

Reasons to choose Kingston University

Kingston University is No.1 in London for biosciences (Guardian league table 2021).
This degree is accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS). If you also complete the IBMS Training Portfolio, 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.

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.

Find out more about the science foundation year

Entry requirements

Typical offer 2022

Degree 112-128 UCAS points from a minimum of three A-levels or equivalent Level 3 qualifications; Degree with foundation year 32.

A-levels to include Biology or Human Biology with a minimum of a grade C and at least one other science subject (Chemistry, Mathematics, Physics, Psychology, Further Mathematics, Statistics or Marine Science). General Studies not accepted.

Alternatively, BTEC Extended Diploma in appropriate Science subject such as Science, Life Science, Applied Science, Medical Science or Forensic Science with grades DMM.

Candidates are normally required to hold five GCSE subjects grades A*-C including Mathematics and English Language (or comparable numeric score under the newly reformed GCSE grading).

Additional requirements

Entry on to this course does not require an interview, entrance test, audition or portfolio.

Alternative routes

We will consider a range of alternative Level 3 qualifications such as an Access Course in a relevant Science subject e.g. Biomedical Science, Forensic Science, Medicine and Medical, Biosciences, Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, Science, Applied Science, Health and Human Sciences or Health Professions, which has been passed with 112 UCAS points.

Applications from those that have undertaken a Science foundation year will also be considered.

International

We welcome applications from International Applicants. View our standard entry requirements from your country.

All non-UK applicants must meet our English language requirements. For this course it is Academic IELTS of 6.0, with no element below 5.5.

Teaching and assessment

Guided independent study

When not attending timetabled sessions you will be expected to continue learning independently through self-study. This typically will involve reading journal articles and books, working on individual and group projects, undertaking preparing coursework assignments and presentations, and preparing for final assignments. Your independent learning is supported by a range of excellent facilities including online resources, the library and CANVAS, the online virtual learning platform.

Academic support

Our academic support team here at Kingston University provides help in a range of areas.

Dedicated personal tutor

When you arrive, we'll introduce you to your personal tutor. This is the member of academic staff who will provide academic guidance, be a support throughout your time at Kingston and who will show you how to make the best use of all the help and resources that we offer at Kingston University.

Your workload

Type of teaching and learning

Year 1

Year 2

Year 3

Year 1

Scheduled teaching: 313 hours
Guided independent study: 887 hours

Year 2

Scheduled teaching: 223 hours
Guided independent study: 677 hours

Year 3

Scheduled teaching: 210 hours
Placement: 240 hours
Guided independent study: 750 hours

How you will be assessed

Type of assessment

Year 1

Year 2

Year 3

Year 1

Coursework: 45%
Practical: 15%
Exams: 40%

Year 2

Coursework: 33%
Practical: 7%
Exams: 60%

Year 3

Coursework: 38%
Practical: 24%
Exams: 38%

Feedback summary

We aim to provide feedback on assessments within 20 working days.

Your timetable

Your individualised timetable is normally available to students within 48 hours of enrolment. Whilst we make every effort to ensure timetables are as student-friendly as possible, scheduled teaching can take place on any day of the week between 9am and 6pm. For undergraduate students, Wednesday afternoons are normally reserved for sports and cultural activities, but there may be occasions when this is not possible. Timetables for part-time students will depend on the modules selected.

Class sizes

To give you an indication of class sizes, this course normally enrols 160 students and lecture sizes are normally 160-325. However this can vary by module and academic year.

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.

Dr Simon Gould

Course leader

Dr Hossein Ashrafi

Dr Miyyada Boumechache

Dr Jess Buxton

Mr Alan Calder

Dr Athina-Myrto (Myrto) Chioni

Dr Richard Cook

Dr Ahmed Elbediwy

Professor Mark Fielder

Dr Gary Forster-Wilkins

Dr Terry Gaymes

Dr Joan Jarman

Dr Darren Johnson

Professor Andrey Karlyshev

Dr Alison Kelly

Dr Said Khelwatty

Dr Sarah Koushyar

Dr Francesca Mackenzie

Professor Helmout Modjtahedi

Dr Huda Morgan

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

2022/23 fees for this course

The tuition fee you pay depends on whether you are assessed as a 'Home' (UK), 'Islands' or 'International' student. In 2022/23 the fees for this course are:

Fee category	Amount
Home (UK students)	£9,250*
International	Year 1 (2022/23): £15,400 Year 2 (2023/24): £15,800 Year 3 (2024/25): £16,200

For courses with a sandwich year, the fee for the placement year can be viewed on the undergraduate fees table. The placement fee published is for the relevant academic year stated in the table. This fee is subject to annual increases but will not increase by more than the fee caps as prescribed by the Office for Students or such other replacing body.

* If your course involves a foundation year, the fee for that year for Home (UK) students will be £9,250 in 2022/23. The fees shown above apply for year 1 of the degree from 2022/23 onwards (fees may rise in line with inflation for future academic years). For full time programmes of a duration of more than one academic year, the published fee is an annual fee, payable each year, for the duration of the programme. Your annual tuition fees cover your first attempt at all of the modules necessary to complete that academic year. A re-study of any modules will incur additional charges calculated by the number of credits. Home tuition fees may be subject to annual increases but will not increase by more than the fee caps as prescribed by the Office for Students or such other replacing body. Full time taught International fees are subject to an annual increase and are published in advance for the full duration of the programme.

Eligible UK students can apply to the Government for a tuition loan, which is paid direct to the University. This has a low interest-rate which is charged from the time the first part of the loan is paid to the University until you have repaid it.

2021/22 fees for this course

The tuition fee you pay depends on whether you are assessed as a 'Home' (UK), 'Islands' or 'International' student. In 2021/22 the fees for this course are:

Fee category	Amount
Home (UK students)	£9,250*
International	Year 1 (2021/22): £15,000 Year 2 (2022/23): £15,400 Year 3 (2023/24): £15,800

* If your course involves a foundation year, the fee for that year for Home (UK) students will be £9,250 in 2021/22. The fees shown above apply for year 1 of the degree from 2021/22 onwards (fees may rise in line with inflation for future academic years). For full time programmes of a duration of more than one academic year, the published fee is an annual fee, payable each year, for the duration of the programme. Your annual tuition fees cover your first attempt at all of the modules necessary to complete that academic year. A re-study of any modules will incur additional charges calculated by the number of credits. Home tuition fees may be subject to annual increases but will not increase by more than the fee caps as prescribed by the Office for Students or such other replacing body. Full time taught International fees are subject to an annual increase and are published in advance for the full duration of the programme.

Note for EU students: UK withdrawal from the European Union

The Government has recently announced that new students from the European Union and Swiss Nationals starting their course after August 2021 will no longer be eligible for a student loan in England for Undergraduate or Postgraduate studies for 2021/22 academic year. This decision only applies to new EU students starting in 2021/22. If you are an existing/continuing EU student, you will continue to be funded until you graduate or withdraw from your course.

Need to know more?

Our undergraduate fees and funding section provides information and advice on money matters.

Additional costs

Depending on the programme of study, there may be extra costs that are not covered by tuition fees which students will need to consider when planning their studies. Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching, assessment and operating University facilities such as the library, access to shared IT equipment and other support services. Accommodation and living costs are not included in our fees.

Where a course has additional expenses, we make every effort to highlight them. These may include optional field trips, materials (e.g. art, design, engineering), security checks such as DBS, uniforms, specialist clothing or professional memberships.

Textbooks

Our libraries are a valuable resource with an extensive collection of books and journals as well as first-class facilities and IT equipment. You may prefer to buy your own copy of key textbooks, this can cost between £50 and £250 per year.

Computer equipment

There are open-access networked computers available across the University, plus laptops available to loan. You may find it useful to have your own PC, laptop or tablet which you can use around campus and in halls of residences. Free WiFi is available on each of the campuses. You may wish to purchase your own computer, which can cost between £100 and £3,000 depending on your course requirements.

Photocopying and printing

In the majority of cases written coursework can be submitted online. There may be instances when you will be required to submit work in a printed format. Printing, binding and photocopying costs are not included in your tuition fees, this may cost up to £100 per year.

Travel

Travel costs are not included in your tuition fees but we do have a free intersite bus service which links the campuses, Surbiton train station, Kingston upon Thames train station, Norbiton train station and halls of residence.

Placements

If the placement year option is chosen, during this year travel costs will vary according to the location of the placement, and could be from £0 to £2,000.

Field trips

All field trips that are compulsory to attend to complete your course are paid for by the University. There may be small fees incurred for optional field trips such as travel costs and refreshments.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Kingston University will supply you with a lab coat and safety goggles at the start of the year.

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

I am from Afghanistan, but came to study in the UK because of the high standard of education here. I chose this course because I am very interested in medicine and it has very good lecturers.

I have really enjoyed the medically-related modules. I like the practicals and you get lots of time for your own study. The lecturers are very good. They are positive, friendly and easy to get hold of.

Compared to my college, everything is very different. Teaching-wise, you have more opportunity to learn and the chance to improve your knowledge of specialist areas.

I've found it very easy to settle in at Kingston. I feel comfortable and more confident because of the knowledge I'm gaining at University. I am working in a pharmacy and the course makes it easier for me to connect with customers. I have a wider range of knowledge, which helps me to explain things to them.

The course has enabled me to apply for a career in medicine. After I graduate, I hope to go to medical college for another five years' training. I am looking forward to being accepted for this, and then becoming a doctor.

Shogofa Lalzad – Biomedical Science BSc(Hons)

It was challenging because I was learning new techniques and using equipment I hadn't used before, but also very rewarding when I finally ironed out the [DNA] code.

Jumping genes are quite well known and present in all life forms, but as yet not much work has been done on their presence with large amounts of DNA. The information I have uncovered will help scientists to keep chipping away at a puzzle that has been fascinating experts for years.

Alastair gained lots of new skills during his placement, according to Kew's Head of Genetics, Dr Mike Fay: "Alastair's breakthrough shows students on work research placements can achieve marvellous things.

"Working at Kew is a great way to kick-start their careers and gives students the opportunity to investigate a whole range of research interests that affect plant life around the globe.

"Sometimes, like Alastair, they are even lucky enough to discover something that will have a lasting impact on the wider research we do."

Alastair Muir – Biomedical Science BSc(Hons) 12 month work placement at Kew Gardens

After you graduate

Careers and progression

This degree provides excellent preparation for careers in science, health and education, and postgraduate studies such as medical and research degrees.

Examples of recent graduate destinations

Types of jobs

Medical laboratory assistant
Retinal screener
Hospital administrator
Product analyst
Phlebotomist
Senior healthcare technical officer
Teacher
Researcher
Lecturer

Employers

CL Medical
Oxbridge Centre
St George's Hospital
Ashford and St Peter's Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
Moorfields Eye Hospital
NHS
Royal Marsden Hospital
Cancer Research UK

Courses available after you graduate

Careers and recruitment advice

The Faculty of Science, Engineering and Computing has a specialist employability team. It provides friendly and high-quality careers and recruitment guidance, including advice and sessions on job-seeking skills such as CV preparation, application forms and interview techniques. Specific advice is also available for international students about the UK job market and employers' expectations and requirements.

The team runs employer events throughout the year, including job fairs, key speakers from industry and interviews on campus. These events give you the opportunity to hear from, and network with, employers in an informal setting.

Employability preparation at Kingston University

In addition to building expertise in your own discipline, our courses will also help you to develop key transferable skills that you'll need for professional life or further study once you graduate.

As well as a range of careers and employability activities at Kingston, we also offer you the chance to apply and develop your skills in live contexts as an integral part of your course. Opportunities include:

placements;
working or studying abroad;
volunteering;
peer mentoring roles; and
internship opportunities within and outside the University.

In your final year, you'll get the opportunity to complete a major 'capstone' project where you can apply the knowledge and skills you have acquired to a range of real issues in different contexts. This is a great way to learn and is a valuable bridge to employment or further research at masters level.

Courses available after you graduate

If you decide that you would like to go on to postgraduate study after your undergraduate course, we offer a 10 per cent discount on our postgraduate course tuition fees to our alumni. Here are some courses that might interest you:

What our graduates say

Having studied at Kingston already, I was aware of the great research facilities and industrial contacts that it held. Kingston is a super place to study and I have always been impressed with its commitment to students, student learning, and providing external research placements. There were also definite benefits of doing my MSc at the same university as my undergraduate degree including familiar faces, being local to home and knowing the surroundings.

For my MSc Research Project I was fortunate enough to be one of two students to complete their project at the Institute of Cancer Research - an amazing, but probably the most challenging 12 weeks ever.
I am now training to become a teacher through a Graduate Teacher Programme with the Thamesmead Teacher Training Partnership. I definitely feel my masters degree helped me secure this position, and will also definitely aid me in providing a foundation subject knowledge when teaching post 16 in the near future.

My MSc has enhanced my career prospects, showing that I can think and work at a higher level. Despite this, you can't expect to walk into a job on the basis of a masters. Experience and understanding of the job you are applying for is key. The final highlight for me was being asked to deliver the student 'vote of thanks' speech at graduation. A remarkable experience.

Daniel West – Biomedical Science BSc(Hons) and Cancer Biology MSc

Biomedical Science gave me a good understanding of both haematology and oncology, which helped me secure both my first two roles, and provided me with the foundation for my PhD.

In October 2003, I went on to join the Institute of Cancer Research. I now investigate novel compounds used to treat cancer. This means looking at the properties of a cancer and then creating a brand new drug to treat it. I enjoy discovering new things and the interaction with people that my work provides.

I have found the most useful element of the Biomedical Science degree is that it is so wide-ranging. It covers everything from haematology to pharmacology and this, combined with the research project, which you can work on outside the University, enables you to keep your career options open. I feel it is a fantastic course.

When you are deciding what to study it is useful to have a rough idea of what you would like to do career-wise. But you don't need to be too specific - by doing a wide ranging course such as this one, a lot of doors are still left open to you.

Wai Liu – Biomedical Science BSc(Hons)

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% of placement students and 34% of 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 coordinator 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.

Changes to courses for 2021/22 due to Covid-19

Course information (changes for 2021/22 entry)

Composition of the course

Unless government advice instructs otherwise, Study Abroad programmes will take place in 2021/22. The safety of all our students is paramount, therefore, as per normal practice, all Study Abroad activities must also be approved by the University's insurers to ensure that students are adequately protected during their period abroad. We will provide updates as the pandemic situation stabilises and/or further government advice is released.

Changes can be made to courses as part of normal enhancement processes in order to keep our courses up to date with current developments in that subject area and in response to feedback from students and other key stakeholders. Any such changes made to the composition of the course will be highlighted to students by email before enrolment.

Modules

Changes can be made to modules as part of normal enhancement processes in order to keep our courses up to date with current developments in that subject area and to provide a high quality student experience. Any such changes made to module titles, module summaries and/or availability of modules will be highlighted to students by email before enrolment.

Length of course

We expect to deliver the course within the planned timescales to enable successful students to progress through and graduate from the course without delay.

In exceptional circumstances the sequence of learning and teaching activities may be changed in 2021/22, e.g. moving those modules which can be delivered more effectively to the first teaching block and moving back those – such as practical modules and placements – which may be more difficult to deliver due to some ongoing restrictions.

In some cases, it may be necessary to delay placement modules which may then impact the length of the course. In these circumstances the University will guide students through the appropriate options available to ensure students are able to make informed choices.

Entry requirements (changes for 2021/22 entry)

We have not changed entry requirements as a direct result of the pandemic.

Entry requirements for international students

We have not changed entry requirements for international students as a direct result of the pandemic.

Teaching (changes for 2021/22 entry)

Changes to the way the course will be delivered

As we transition from the pandemic restrictions, we expect to steadily increase the proportion of on-campus teaching. We will continue to provide a proportion of online learning, as experience has shown that this enriches and supports the student learning experience.

If the pandemic affects teaching and learning activities in 2021/22 more than we currently anticipate, the proportion of online learning will increase. However, unless a lockdown is enforced, we will ensure that all courses provide a reasonable percentage of their teaching and learning activities on campus.

Should your circumstances prevent your attendance at on-campus sessions, you should still be able to engage with your course remotely in a way that allows you to progress. Where this is not possible, for example on courses with high practical content, your course team will be able to advise you on the options available to you.

Changes to teaching in the event of a further lockdown or adjustments in government advice

The University will continue to closely monitor government announcements and advice in relation to the pandemic and, where required, will take any necessary action in order to comply with such advice.

In the event that a further lockdown is enforced in 2021/22 the University will aim to deliver the course fully online once more. The majority of our courses are prepared to be delivered fully online if the situation requires it. Where the quality of the student experience may be compromised, or the course is unable to be delivered fully online, the University may need to suspend the delivery of that course until a time that it can be delivered. Students will be supported in these situations to ensure they are able to make the right choices for their particular circumstances.

Changes to the overall breakdown of scheduled teaching hours, placements and guided independent study hours for Year 1

Changes to the overall breakdown of scheduled learning and teaching hours, placements and guided independent study hours were not and will not be made as a direct result of the pandemic.

‘Scheduled learning and teaching' includes teaching delivered online, either live or recorded/on demand.

Timetable

Your individualised timetable for teaching block 1 (i.e. up to December 2021) should be available by the end of August. Timetables for teaching block 2 (i.e. from January 2022) will not be available until the autumn. We make every effort to ensure timetables are as student-friendly as possible.

In 2020/21 it was agreed that scheduled learning and teaching could take place on any day of the week between 9am and 9pm, to maximise the time available for teaching in order to accommodate smaller group sizes and social distancing. This meant we sometimes had to use Wednesday afternoons and enrichment week for additional teaching slots. If we need to accommodate smaller group sizes and social distancing in 2021/22 we expect to adopt a similar approach. Timetables for part-time students will depend on the modules selected.

Assessment (changes for 2021/22 entry)

The experience of delivering courses in 2020/21 under the various Covid-19 restrictions has enabled us to better prepare and plan the delivery of our courses in 2021/22. We are confident the course can be delivered as planned and, therefore, do not anticipate having to make any further changes to the course, i.e. to the overall methods of assessments, in response to issues arising from the pandemic. However, if this becomes necessary, the changes will be highlighted to students via email before enrolment.

Changes are made to modules, including how they are assessed, as part of normal enhancement processes to keep our modules up to date with current developments in that subject area and in response to feedback received from students and other key stakeholders. Any changes to the overall methods of assessment for Year 1 of the course will be highlighted to students by email before enrolment.

If social distancing or lockdown restrictions are in place in 2021/22, online alternative options to formal on-campus examinations, including practical examinations, will be made available to students where possible.

Staff (changes for 2021/22 entry)

No changes are expected to the general level of experience or status of staff involved in delivering the course.

Staff are engaged in Continuous Professional Development activities to develop their teaching expertise, as part of the normal enhancement processes, to ensure that course teams have the required breadth of expertise.

Fees, funding and additional costs (changes for 2021/22 entry)

Tuition fees

There will be no changes to published tuition fees for 2021/22.

Additional costs (e.g. field trips, materials, equipment, etc.)

As we transition from the pandemic restrictions, we expect to be able to increase student access to on-campus facilities. Students will therefore have access to University computers and library facilities.

If, due to an increase in social distancing requirements or the enforcing of a lockdown, it becomes necessary to significantly increase the proportion of teaching delivered online, students will need a personal laptop or computer and access to the internet to participate in online teaching and learning activities. Students who are able to travel will have access to computers on campus, however, it should be noted that access to on-campus facilities might be restricted if social distancing requirements are enforced.

The University is committed to supporting students who are unable to access suitable technology to ensure equity of access in a blended delivery mode.

Funding

There will be no changes to any existing University funding arrangements for 2021/22. Currently there are no indications from the UK government that there will be any changes to government funding arrangements.

Fees and funding for international students

There will be no changes to published tuition fees or funding arrangements specifically relating to international students for 2021/22.

Work placements and field trips (changes for 2021/22 entry)

We are anticipating that placements (including work and clinical placements) and field trips included as part of the course will go ahead in 2021/22. However, to ensure students gain maximum value from placement activities, it may be necessary to reschedule them to later in the year, when any impacts from the pandemic restrictions are minimised.

Any proposed changes to placements or field trips would go through the University's agreed processes where the impact of the change will be carefully considered.

In the interests of the health and wellbeing of our students, all placement arrangements must be approved by the University's insurers and the appropriate risk assessments made before students are sent on a placement.

Courses which require placements or field trips to be completed in order to pass relevant modules will have contingency plans in place in the event that a placement or field trip cannot be completed due to another lockdown or more stringent social distancing measures.

Award, qualification and accreditation (changes for 2021/22 entry)

Qualification

No changes will be made to the qualification awarded, e.g. BSc (Hons), MSc, etc., as a direct result of the pandemic.

Changes can be made to courses, including the qualification awarded (although very rare), as part of normal enhancement processes in order to keep our courses up to date with current developments in that subject area. Any changes made to the qualification awarded for the course will be highlighted to students by email before enrolment.

Accreditation

The experience of delivering courses in 2020/21 under the various Covid-19 restrictions has enabled us to better prepare and plan the delivery of our courses in 2021/22. We are confident the course can be delivered as planned and in accordance with any professional body requirements. We do not anticipate making any further changes to courses in response to any issues arising from the pandemic and which would put at risk any professional body accreditation status.

Additional (changes for 2021/22 entry)

International students should maintain awareness of the UK government's and their home country's government advice on possible travel restrictions. The University will closely monitor advice and guidance published by the UK government and assess its impact on our international students. Appropriate advice and guidance will be provided as and when required.

Key information set

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