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Biomedical Science

Entry requirements


A level

B,B,B

BBB in three A Level subjects including Biology. Excluded Subjects: We welcome the following subjects as an additional A Level, but not as one of the core three A levels; General Studies, Critical Thinking, Citizenship Studies. BBC in three A Level subjects including Biology and grade B in either Core Maths or Extended Project Qualification (EPQ). BCC in three A Level subjects including Biology for our contextual offer scheme (more details https: //www2aston.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/contextuaI¬offer). We welcome applications from students who have tried to improve their examination grades by taking resits and only your latest grades will be accepted. We treat these applications in exactly the same way as other applications.

Access to HE Diploma

D:30,M:15,P:0

We accept the QAA recognised Access to HE Diploma which must consist of 45 credits at Level 3. You must obtain a minimum of 30 distinction and the rest must be at merit or distinction. Please note that we do not accept the English and Maths components within the Access qualification, and you must meet the GCSE entry requirement. Subjects accepted: Applied Science, Biology combined with Chemistry, Biomedical Science, Biosciences, Combined Sciences, Health Sciences, Health Sciences Professions, Life Sciences and Sciences. Please note that we do not accept Health and Social Care as it does not contain the amount of core science material required for subsequent undergraduate studies on this degree.

GCSE/National 4/National 5

Five GCSEs which must include Mathematics and English all at grade C/4. Please note thatwe do not accept Key Skills or Functional Skills in place of these.

International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme

31

31 points overall and must include grades 5, 5, 5 in Higher Level subjects which must include Biology. You must also have Standard Level grade 5 in both Mathematics and English Language. Or 28 points overall and must include grades 5, 4, 4 in Higher Level subjects which must include Biology. You must also have Standard Level grade 5 in both Mathematics and English Language for contextual offer students (more details https://www.aston.ac.uk/undergraduate/contextual-offer-aston-ready).

Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Diploma (first teaching from September 2016)

DD

With this BTEC you must also achieve grade B in A Level Biology. Contextual offer students must also achieve grade C in A Level Biology (more details https: //www2aston.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/contextuaIoffer).

Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate (first teaching from September 2016)

D

With this BTEC you must also achieve grades BB in two A Levels of which one must be Biology. Contextual offer students must also achieve grades BC in two A Levels of which one must be Biology (more details https: //www2aston.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/contextuaIoffer).

Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma (first teaching from September 2016)

D*D*D*-DDD

BTEC RQF* National in Applied Science with grades D*D*D* (you do not require an additional A Level). BTEC QCF* in Applied Science with grades DDD and you must also achieve grade B in A Level Biology. Contextual offer students must also achieve grade C in A Level Biology (more details https: //www2aston.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/contextuaIoffer). If you are studying a non-science subject in this BTEC which is QCF or RQF National, then you must achieve grades DDD and grade B in A Level Biology. *Please note that on the UCAS application form QCF BTEC Extended Diploma appears under the name BTEC Extended Diploma (QCF) and the RQF BTEC Extended Diploma appears under the name Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma (1080) (2016 to Present). If you are unsure of which qualification you are taking, please contact your school or college provider to confirm.

Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Foundation Diploma (first teaching from September 2016)

D

With this BTEC you must also achieve grades BB in two A Levels of which one must be Biology. Contextual offer students must also achieve grades BC in two A Levels of which one must be Biology (more details https: //www2aston.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/contextuaIoffer).

The 2023 entry requirements will be confirmed by September 2022.

UCAS Tariff

120

We've calculated how many Ucas points you'll need for this course.

About this course


This course has alternative study modes. Contact the university to find out how the information below might vary.

Course option

3years

Full-time | 2024

Other options

4 years | Sandwich | 2024

Subject

Biomedical sciences

Our BSc Biomedical Science programme is accredited by both the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS) and the Royal Society of Biology (RSB), and focuses on current clinical practice. Designed to provide you with the necessary academic requirements to become a registered Biomedical Scientist with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) upon graduation, it covers a range of disciplines including cellular pathology, haematology, microbiology, and immunology, as well as common aspects of medicine and care, such as blood transfusions.

It utilises research-led teaching to explore the physiology of the human body in health and disease and learn about cutting edge medical research. During your time on the course you could get to:

- Learn how to set up and read an electrocardiogram (ECG).

- Determine blood groupings and screen patient blood films.

- Practice key techniques used in pathology laboratories like preparing and staining tissue samples, examining serum samples and working with laboratory analysers.

- Undertake your own research project, working with leading biological scientists.

All 3rd and 4th year BSc Biomedical Sciences courses are accredited by the IBMS.

**Placement year**
The best way to prepare you for your future career is to gain experience in the real world of work. That's why our course offers you the option of an integrated placement year between the second and final years of your degree. BSc Biomedical Science students can use their placement year to complete a registration training portfolio within an IBMS-approved pathology laboratory. This allows you to apply for an IBMS Certificate of Competence, and subsequently, register with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) as a Biomedical Scientist upon graduation.

Designed to make you stand out in the graduate crowd, you can also undertake placements in industrial or research laboratories, as well as non-laboratory settings. Our students have completed placements in:

- NHS organisations

- Clinical trial companies

- Research institutes

- Pharmaceutical companies

- Medical sales

- Biotechnology companies

**International students and post-study work visa**

Students from over 120 countries choose to study with us every year and Aston is not only a great place to study, based in the centre of Birmingham it’s also a great place to live. The new graduate visa enables international students to remain in the UK for two years after completing studies to find work. For International Students intending to do a foundation year, visit ONCAMPUS.

**Course outline**
Studying Biomedical Science at Aston University gives you the abilities needed to provide healthcare, undertake medical research, and understand the pharmaceutical industry. You’ll develop a thorough knowledge of the core principles of how the human body works and a deep understanding of the vital role Biomedical Scientists play in the healthcare sector.

Our teaching is research-led; meaning you learn about the research our world-leading academics are doing, particularly in your final year. We also ensure you gain exposure to practicing Biomedical Scientists via guest lectures, so you can hear first-hand what this rewarding role is really like.

From your first year at Aston you’ll learn more about the careers available to graduates with Biomedical Science degrees, as well as spending time reflecting on the skills acquired and needed for your future career.

**Key course benefits:**

- Dual accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS) and the Royal Society of Biology (RSB).

- The chance to apply for HCPC (Health and Care Professions Council) registration after graduation.

- Boost your employability with an optional placement year designed to set your studies in a real-world context.

**Please note we do not offer a Foundation Programme, if you select year 0 on your application form this will be amended to year 1 at admissions review stage**

Modules

Year 1
Learn from a range of bioscience academics and complete a number of specialist sessions with practicing biomedical scientists. You’ll study the key biology topics that will form the basis of your biomedical science education, preparing you for specialist modules in later years. You will also develop the knowledge to undertake laboratory work safely. Core modules: Biomolecules, Cells to Systems, Microbiology and Genetics, and Metabolism and Physiology for Biomedical Science

Year 2
Study new specialist subject areas and revisit previously studied topics at a deeper level. You’ll learn how to select appropriate experimental approaches and test hypotheses, in addition to participating in Problem Based Learning (PBL), where you (as part of a group) will be set a problem and asked to provide a solution through independent research. Core modules: Clinical Sciences, Mechanisms of Pathology, Cell Signalling and Physiology, and Clinical Genetics and Human Disease.

Placement Year (Optional)
The optional placement year gives you the opportunity to gain valuable career boosting experience by setting your studies in a real-world context of a working environment alongside professionals. You will get the chance to undertake your placement in a wide variety of settings such as hospitals, industrial or research laboratories or non-laboratory settings.

All students enrol onto the BSc Biomedical Science (3 year) course without placement.

Students who go onto achieve minimum set grades during their degree and complete an accredited placement will graduate with a BSc Applied Biomedical Science qualification and be eligible to apply to the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) for registration as a biomedical scientist. This is opportunity is available to all home, EU and international students on the course as long as they meet the requirements as listed here.

For students who wish to practice as a biomedical scientist in the NHS, this year is your opportunity to complete an IBMS registration training portfolio in a UKAS accredited CPA hospital laboratory.

The availability of NHS placements is limited and highly competitive. You will have to undergo an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check and occupational health checks; the cost of these checks will be payable by the student.

Final Year
Acquire the skills required to undertake an individual original research project, study a small number of advanced topics, in addition to critically reflecting on the enhancement of patient care and the importance of codes and acts in biomedical science. Core modules: Immunology and Inflammation, Clinical and Food Microbiology, Research Project Preparation, Research Project, and Professional Skills for Biomedical Scientists. In addition you will complete one optional module: Cancer Biology or Bench to Bedside.

For more information, please visit our website.

Assessment methods

As a biomedical science student, you will be taught by experts in biosciences about topics they have a passion for.

There is huge breadth of academic research undertaken across Aston which is integrated into our courses. It’s this integration that gives you a distinct advantage in your studies by ensuring you have access to the latest trends, thinking, issues and research.

You’ll encounter a wide range of teaching approaches, from lectures and group work to practical sessions and interactive workshops and tutorials.

Each year of study is worth 120 credits, with each credit equivalent to 10 learning hours. The learning hours may include but are not limited to lectures, seminars, tutorials, lab sessions, practicals, online activity, reading, other independent study, reflecting on assignment feedback, field trips and work placements.

Assessments
We utilise a wide range of assessments linked to learning outcomes, such as:

exams
essay writing
practical and laboratory reports
presentations
peer assessment.

What learning facilities can I expect?
Extensive and well-equipped laboratories with a variety of equipment designed to support your learning in an industry-relevant environment.
3D computer laboratories for virtual anatomy practicals.
Refurbished lecture theatres and seminar rooms.

Computer laboratories and a virtual learning environment used for general study, revision and assessment. This platform allows you to access a comprehensive range of study materials, scientific journals, e-journals, databases and Aston Library, fully refurbished and equipped for the digital age. Open 24 hours a day at key points throughout the year with a variety of study spaces, academic support advisors on hand and course texts available electronically or in book form.

Tuition fees

Select where you currently live to see what you'll pay:

England
£9,250
per year
International
£20,700
per year
Northern Ireland
£9,250
per year
Scotland
£9,250
per year
Wales
£9,250
per year

The Uni


Course location:

Aston University, Birmingham

Department:

School of Biosciences

Read full university profile

What students say


We've crunched the numbers to see if overall student satisfaction here is high, medium or low compared to students studying this subject(s) at other universities.

63%
Biomedical sciences

How do students rate their degree experience?

The stats below relate to the general subject area/s at this university, not this specific course. We show this where there isn’t enough data about the course, or where this is the most detailed info available to us.

Biomedical sciences (non-specific)

Teaching and learning

69%
Staff make the subject interesting
78%
Staff are good at explaining things
71%
Ideas and concepts are explored in-depth
65%
Opportunities to apply what I've learned

Assessment and feedback

Feedback on work has been timely
Feedback on work has been helpful
Staff are contactable when needed
Good advice available when making study choices

Resources and organisation

77%
Library resources
92%
IT resources
81%
Course specific equipment and facilities
52%
Course is well organised and has run smoothly

Student voice

Staff value students' opinions
Feel part of a community on my course

Who studies this subject and how do they get on?

96%
UK students
4%
International students
25%
Male students
75%
Female students
93%
2:1 or above
1%
First year drop out rate

Most popular A-Levels studied (and grade achieved)

C
C
B

After graduation


The stats in this section relate to the general subject area/s at this university – not this specific course. We show this where there isn't enough data about the course, or where this is the most detailed info available to us.

Biomedical sciences (non-specific)

What are graduates doing after six months?

This is what graduates told us they were doing (and earning), shortly after completing their course. We've crunched the numbers to show you if these immediate prospects are high, medium or low, compared to those studying this subject/s at other universities.

£17,440
low
Average annual salary
99%
med
Employed or in further education

Top job areas of graduates

99%
Health professionals
0%
Health associate professionals
0%
Sales assistants and retail cashiers

What about your long term prospects?

Looking further ahead, below is a rough guide for what graduates went on to earn.

Biomedical sciences (non-specific)

The graph shows median earnings of graduates who achieved a degree in this subject area one, three and five years after graduating from here.

£23k

£23k

£29k

£29k

Note: this data only looks at employees (and not those who are self-employed or also studying) and covers a broad sample of graduates and the various paths they've taken, which might not always be a direct result of their degree.

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This information comes from the National Student Survey, an annual student survey of final-year students. You can use this to see how satisfied students studying this subject area at this university, are (not the individual course).

This is the percentage of final-year students at this university who were "definitely" or "mostly" satisfied with their course. We've analysed this figure against other universities so you can see whether this is high, medium or low.

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This information is from the Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA), for undergraduate students only.

You can use this to get an idea of who you might share a lecture with and how they progressed in this subject, here. It's also worth comparing typical A-level subjects and grades students achieved with the current course entry requirements; similarities or differences here could indicate how flexible (or not) a university might be.

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Post-six month graduation stats:

This is from the Destinations of Leavers from Higher Education Survey, based on responses from graduates who studied the same subject area here.

It offers a snapshot of what grads went on to do six months later, what they were earning on average, and whether they felt their degree helped them obtain a 'graduate role'. We calculate a mean rating to indicate if this is high, medium or low compared to other universities.

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Graduate field commentary:

The Higher Education Careers Services Unit have provided some further context for all graduates in this subject area, including details that numbers alone might not show

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The Longitudinal Educational Outcomes dataset combines HRMC earnings data with student records from the Higher Education Statistics Agency.

While there are lots of factors at play when it comes to your future earnings, use this as a rough timeline of what graduates in this subject area were earning on average one, three and five years later. Can you see a steady increase in salary, or did grads need some experience under their belt before seeing a nice bump up in their pay packet?

Have a question about this info? Learn more here