BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science course preparation
To help you feel confident and ready to begin your BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science studies, we’ve put together everything you need to start preparing. Below you will find key department contacts, where you’ll be learning and practical tips to help you make a smooth transition to university. Read on to find out what’s waiting for you.

Where your learning will take place:
You’ll be based in our BioSciences building, which includes facilities and resources such as:
- impressive, modern laboratories – some of the best equipped facilities in the country
- fluorescence and scanning electron microscopes
- DNA extraction and analysis equipment
- climate controlled insectaries
You’ll also benefit from our brand-new £17.4m Life Sciences Building. Here you’ll find dedicated student research labs. And you’ll also find a number of the best nature reserves in the country are closeby so you can take your learning off campus too.
Prepare for university
We know that you’re aware that studying at university will include hard work. But succeeding at university is more than academic ability alone. There are a few skills that you can start developing now, so that you’re a pro when it comes to the start of your studies in September.
- Time management – you may have to juggle assessments, lectures, work and social activities. Developing strong time management skills early on will help you to prioritise deadlines, stay organised and make the most of your time.
- Critical thinking – university study encourages you to question ides, evaluate evidence and form your own informed decisions. You’ll be expected to engage critically with the work you’re studying in a professional, academic manner. Your opinions matter, so don’t be afraid to share them.
- Teamwork – some modules may require you to work with others on your course to complete tasks and discuss analytical findings. Learning how to contribute confidently and work collaboratively as part of a team is a key professional skill.
- Independent work – in contrary to the above, it’s also important to be able to work independently. The majority of your work will need to be submitted individually, so it’s important you take ownership of your learning. And if there is something that you don’t understand, make sure you ask your tutor.
- Self-motivation – you’ll be encouraged manage your own workload. That means you won’t have a teacher chasing you for deadlines. So it’s important that you hold yourself accountable and make the decision to put the work in.
To remind yourself of your modules, please visit your course page:
If you’d like to complete any preparatory reading, you can search for any reading related to your course on our online reading list.

Useful websites:
- Visit the Institute for Biomedical Science (IBMS) webpage and learn what’s on right now. The IBMS is the professional body for all biomedical scientists in the UK. You can also access the free monthly ‘British Journal of Biomedical Science‘ to learn more about current research, diagnostic matters and career options.
- Use the BBC and Guardian websites to follow science stories in the press.
- For great articles and insights, visit NewScientist.com
- You could try comparing news articles to scientific papers you can find on Google Scholar – this is a useful skill for your studies.
- Create an online to-do list on Trello.com
- Research future careers in Bioscience at: www.prospects.ac.uk
Useful podcasts:
The following podcasts are a great way to catch up on recent milestones in biomedical, medical and biological development:
- Listen to IMBS educational podcasts.
- Sarah Gilberts, and her Oxford team, on how to develop the Covid-19 vaccine: Listen to ‘The Life Scientific’ from September 15 2020.
- If you’re interested in brain research (neurosciences), listen to Professor Peter Goadsby, a neurologist at King’s College London. Hear how his team has developed a fantastic new treatment for migraines.
Materials you may need:
It’s a good idea to wait until you start your course to buy any books or specific equipment as your tutor will be able to provide more details about what is essential. And our library may be able to provide you with reading materials. But there are few things you may want to consider.
- Academic diary – a staple to help you with your time management as well as upcoming tasks in both your academic and personal life.
- Notepads and pens – some people prefer to do this digitally rather than on paper, whichever you prefer, make sure you have the resources to complete any notes you’d like to take. If you like to write on a physical notepad, consider an A5 size so that it’s easier to carry around.
- Journal – it’s a good idea to start keeping a journal now so you can get practicing for writing a lab book.
And of course, anything else that you like to use for your academic studies, like highlighters, flashcards and folders.
Before you arrive, check out our UniSkills workshops. These sessions are designed to help you to build the academic skills that you’ll use throughout your time with us and beyond. Keep an eye on your emails for more information.

Making friends
Starting somewhere new can feel daunting and that is completely normal. Once you arrive, you’ll be able to find out what activities and clubs/societies are available for you to get involved with. These are the perfect way to meet like-minded individuals who share your passions.
Make sure to use our Students Life portal keep up to date with all the student events happening at Edge Hill.
Your department contact:
Accessibility
At Edge Hill, we want you to feel supported and comfortable so that you can thrive. To help you achieve your goals, we offer a wide range of resources, both online and on campus.
Through our Assistive and Accessible Technologies Toolkits, all students have access to software and apps on their devices, including Mind Mapping, Text-to-Speech, Help and learn, and Note-taking on their devices. You can find out how to use these toolkits here:
Assistive technology | Library and Learning Services | Edge Hill
We pride ourselves in being accessible to all, helping you make the best out of your university experience. With over £350m invested, Edge Hill offers state-of-the-art facilities, dedicated study spaces and on-campus accommodation.
We also have created a range of guides to help you plan and navigate life at Edge Hill. You can gain access to these guides here:
Accessibility on Campus – Edge Hill University
Our Brand Story
Earlier this year, Edge Hill’s brand evolved, introducing a fresh, modern look while continuing to represent our suffragette roots and pioneering spirit. The rebrand is not a reinvention, but a progression. An evolution of our identity, not an erasure of our past.
It builds on what has always made Edge Hill distinctive, expressing who we are today with greater clarity, confidence and ambition. Our brand honours our heritage while looking decisively to the future.
We are excited to introduce our rebrand to you and you can learn more about our brand story here: Edge Hill University Brand Story
