Cut to the heart of health and disease. Learn to understand the biological and medical principles of life, how diseases develop and are diagnosed, as we ask: how can we create new therapies? All on our biomedical science degree.
How do our cells and organs tell us when something’s wrong? And how can we understand and eliminate the illness at its source? Our biomedical science course covers a broad range of disciplines, including anatomy, biochemistry, pathology and immunology. With good molecular and macroscopic knowledge of the human body, you’ll be able to research new therapies or work in medical technology.
Theory and practice complement each other, and your time in the laboratory will help you develop an expansive range of professional skills. During labwork, you’ll learn key research techniques that will be essential to independent study in your final year.
Everything you learn on this course will help you take your first steps after graduation. Especially if you’re looking for work in a hospital laboratory, biotechnology, or the pharmaceutical industry.
Trace the evolution of life, examining the diversity of plants and animals, including humans. Take part in residential fieldwork, where we’ll show you how to complete biological research. And broaden your knowledge of the discipline through modules in cell biology and genetics.
Biology in Practice looks at the nature of biological enquiry, the ways that biological knowledge develops, and the contribution biology makes to society. Part of this module will be delivered during a field trip (costs included in fees).
Module code: SCI1107
Credits: 20
Genetics and Evolution
Genetics and Evolution introduces the genetic and environmental control of an individual’s characteristics. The module outlines how variation at the DNA and chromosomal level leads to variation in the phenotype and genotype and the potential consequences of this variation including speciation. Taking a largely population genetics approach, you will study mutation, genotypic and phenotypic variation, meiosis, Mendelian inheritance, phylogeny and speciation.
Module code: SCI1116
Credits: 20
Introduction to Cell Biology
Introduction to Cell Biology focuses on the cell is the basic biological unit. Using a range of activities, you will examine the molecular components that determine the structure, biochemical nature and physiology of different cells. This will then enable you to appreciate the significance of a range of environmental influences. Practical activities, including a number of core biological exercises, will be used to reinforce these aspects and equip you with skills and confidence in scientific laboratory techniques. The aim is to equip you with an appreciation of scientific method and enhance your understanding of what constitutes a valid scientific investigation.
Anatomy and Physiology focuses on developing your knowledge of the structure and function of the human body. The module will equip you with an understanding of the inter-relationship between the systems of the body in the context of human health and disease. There will be a considerable emphasis on laboratory-based activities, including molecular techniques and practical physiological investigations.
Module code: SCI1118
Credits: 20
Biodiversity
Biodiversity provides an overview of the diversity of life, the major taxonomical groups and their phylogenetic relationship. Sub-divided into distinctive microbial (including viral, bacterial and archaeal), plant, fungal, and animal sections, the module covers key findings on the definition, the origin, and the evolution of life. You will develop a range of subject-specific and transferable skills to enhance your employability, including microscopy and slide preparation, as well as information retrieval.
Module code: SCI1113
Credits: 20
Chemistry for Biologists
Chemistry for Biologists introduces the basics of chemistry, involving clear and lucid explanations of chemical concepts with a coherent problem solving approach. Building your understanding of the periodic table, atomic and molecular structures, pH, solutions, chemical reactions, model buildings and practical skills are the core elements of this module. The aim is to provide you with a toolkit of knowledge and practical skills within chemistry and linking to wider concepts within biological and physical sciences. Appropriate mathematical knowledge will be embedded throughout the module.
Module code: SCI1115
Credits: 20
Ecology
Ecology introduces concepts fundamental to populations and communities using examples from across habitats and ecosystems. You will learn the basic skills required for employment and further ecological study including plant and animal identification, field surveying, microscopy, safe laboratory and field practice, and, data handling. Half and full-day field trips include sampling animals and plants to develop concepts such as energetics, food webs, limiting factors and ecosystem functioning. You will gain an appreciation of the application of the subject to environmental, medical and resource issues in real-world scenarios. By undertaking group work, such as a poster presentation, you will learn how to communicate scientific ideas to a non-specialised audience, while through reporting on field experiments you will learn how to handle and interpret data.
Module code: SCI1112
Credits: 20
Language 1
Language 1 is ideal if you want to learn a new language, or further develop your current language skills, as an integrated part of this degree. You can study French, German, Arabic, Italian, Mandarin, Japanese or Spanish (subject to minimum numbers for your preferred language). Delivered at the Edge Hill Language Centre, the module will be taught in an interactive, communicative manner, using authentic materials in the target language. Emphasis will be placed on all four areas of reading, writing, speaking and listening. You will play an active role in the weekly two-hour classes, engaging in role-plays, short conversations, videos, authentic texts and listening materials. You will also be encouraged to reflect on your own learning needs. On enrolment to the module, you will complete a language induction form and be placed into a language level group appropriate for your prior knowledge of your chosen language. Please note, while we will endeavour to accommodate varying language levels per module, this is not always possible. While you can join the module with some prior experience of your target language, you will not be able to study a language you are already fluent or proficient in.
Module code: TLC1010
Credits: 20
During the second year of your biomedical science course, you’ll cover more specific topics, including biochemistry and metabolism. You’ll have opportunities to specialise in areas like human genetics and immunology. There’s an independent mini-project where you’ll gain advanced skills for working in labs. At the end of the year, you can take a 12-month work placement abroad or in industry.
Biochemistry and Metabolism enhance your understanding of several advanced concepts in the field of life sciences. The module provides a global perspective on biomolecules, the different types of anabolic and catabolic pathways, as well as basic concepts in enzymology and eukaryotic and prokaryotic cellular energetics. In addition to the theoretical aspects of the module, you will develop a range of transferable and subject specific skills, such as basic laboratorial techniques, recording and analysis of experimental data, information retrieval and research, synthesis capabilities, and presenting scientific information to both specialised and non-specialised audiences.
Module code: SCI2334
Credits: 20
Laboratory Masterclass
Laboratory Masterclass provides extensive experience and underpinning theory in such fundamental tools as microscopy, microbial techniques and DNA technologies to provide a thorough insight into the use and application of such equipment.
Module code: SCI2319
Credits: 20
Molecular Genetics
Molecular Genetics provides an understanding of several aspects of the regulation of gene expression both in prokaryotes and eukaryotes. The module is essential preparation for studying more advanced topics in the fields of genetics and biotechnology. You will explore and acquire practical skills in molecular techniques such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR), gene expression monitoring and genome editing by cloning. Basic concepts in bioinformatics will be introduced and you will gain hands-on experience of essential web-based tools and software for handling, analysing and interpreting molecular data.
Module code: SCI2332
Credits: 20
Research Methods in Biology
Research Methods in Biology develops essential biological research methods and data analysis skills, providing a sound base for a future dissertation. The module begins with sessions on experimental design and statistical analysis, working with varied types of data, and culminates with the design and implementation of a one-week research project.
Human Genetics involves the study of inherited and acquired genetic conditions at a variety of levels. The module builds on the fundamental principles of molecular biology and genetic inheritance studied to introduce you to inborn errors caused by inherited and acquired mutations, both in nuclear and mitochondrial DNA. You will consider modes of inheritance and their impact on families and personal lives. Human-related genetics will also be discussed on a molecular, clinical and pathological level, closing with a focus on the role of epigenetic effects, as well as environmental and population genetics studies.
Module code: SCI2343
Credits: 20
Immunology and Infectious Diseases
Immunology and Infectious Diseases recognises that humans live in an environment with a baffling array of infectious agents. These are of diverse composition, shape and size and seek to use the human body as a rich shelter to propagate their own genes. The effects of this are limited, however, by a series of defence mechanisms, whose action provides the basis of immunology. This module examines our defence mechanisms that lead to immunity. It also examines a number of infectious diseases and assesses how they influence normal physiology and impair bodily functions. You will consider both external factors, such as invading organisms, as well as internal dysfunctions, such as autoimmune diseases, and environmental factors.
Module code: SCI2344
Credits: 20
Introduction to Biotechnology
Introduction to Biotechnology provides a basic understanding of the principles of biotechnology and its practical applications. You will be introduced to the advances in biotechnological applications and their importance in a wide range of disciplines including agriculture, industry and medicine. The limitations of biotechnological applications will also be considered.
Module code: SCI2335
Credits: 20
Nutrition
Nutrition develops your understanding of the properties of food constituents. The acquisition of food and the anatomy of the digestive system will be investigated. You will gain an appreciation of the effects of nutrient deficiency and excess on the human body, as well as disease and disorders of the digestive process.
Module code: SCI2324
Credits: 20
Study Abroad Placement
Study Abroad Placement enables you to enhance your employability by spending a period of time studying abroad. The module involves undertaking part of your studies at a partner university in another country, experiencing a different culture and a different education system. It provides an opportunity to improve your language skills, stand out in the professional job market, and open up new opportunities in the competitive international marketplace. You will be asked to describe and reflect upon scientific techniques and investigations undertaken at the partner institution, where the curriculum content studied will be highly relevant to your degree.
Module code: SCI2900
Credits: 40
Language 2
Language 2 is ideal if you want to learn a new language, or further develop your current language skills, as an integrated part of this degree. You can study French, German, Arabic, Italian, Mandarin, Japanese or Spanish (subject to minimum numbers for your preferred language). Delivered at the Edge Hill Language Centre, the module will be taught in an interactive, communicative manner, using authentic materials in the target language. Emphasis will be placed on all four areas of reading, writing, speaking and listening. You will play an active role in the weekly two-hour classes, engaging in role-plays, short conversations, videos, authentic texts and listening materials. You will also be encouraged to reflect on your own learning needs. On enrolment to the module, you will complete a language induction form and be placed into a language level group appropriate for your prior knowledge of your chosen language. Please note, while we will endeavour to accommodate varying language levels per module, this is not always possible. While you can join the module with some prior experience of your target language, you will not be able to study a language you are already fluent or proficient in.
Module code: TLC2000
Credits: 20
There are even more opportunities for specialisation, in areas like pathology, epidemiology, and advanced tissue applications. Using our laboratories, you’ll complete a significant piece of independent research. You can choose to conduct your research with us at or at another organisation. You’ll have the support of our expert advisers for this.
Biomedical Science Research Project enables you to develop an initial idea into a suitable project through the planning, execution and reporting of an individual research report. You will begin by writing a concise project application which will include both health and safety and ethical considerations. Once your research proposal is approved, you will undertake practical work in a state-of-the-art research environment. You can conduct your research either at Edge Hill University or at collaborative organisations elsewhere. You will be expected to summarise and analyse your data appropriately, place it in the wider context of the subject, and present your findings both orally and in written form.
Advanced Tissue Applications provides an in-depth understanding of the use of different cell and tissue-based applications in research, medical diagnostics and at the lab-clinic interface. You will obtain a wide perspective of the processing and analysis of protein-derived samples, including human and animal cells and tissue.
Module code: SCI3327
Credits: 20
Applications of Genetics
Applications of Genetics explores the cutting-edge advances in molecular technologies including gene expression quantification, next generation sequencing and genome editing. You will learn about the latest developments and novel applications in this exciting field through exploring the current primary literature. You will also generate and interpret your own molecular data through a series of practical sessions. The module covers a number of important fields including medicine, disease diagnostics and therapy, population genetics, biotechnology and drug discovery.
Module code: SCI3014
Credits: 20
Epidemiology
Epidemiology is the study of factors affecting the health and illness of populations. You will investigate how disease patterns are monitored both nationally and globally, how changes in disease patterns are studied and how public health strategies are formulated. This is an important contemporary field of biology.
Module code: SCI3324
Credits: 20
Food Technology
Food Technology provides you with a comprehensive understanding of the utilisation of science in the production of crops, their harvesting, storing and processing such that they are modified and converted into saleable items of significant commercial importance. The manipulation of products through modern methods will be examined and this will be underpinned by a consideration of legal and ethical issues. alongside issues of scaling and quality assurance.
Module code: SCI3339
Credits: 20
Genomics and Bioinformatics
Genomics and Bioinformatics centres on how the combination of sequencing and increased computational power has led to a revolution in the way genetic information is utilised and applied. From a human perspective, the sequencing of entire genomes will allow more precise diagnosis and intimations of risk, with attendant tailored treatments. Beyond humans the complex interplay between genome, epigenetic and life history is starting to be unravelled. This module takes you to the leading edge of the discipline and to the forefront of conservation and medicine.
Module code: SCI3015
Credits: 20
Medical Microbiology
Medical Microbiology recognises that humans live in an environment with a baffling array of infectious agents. These are of diverse composition, shape and size and seek to use the human body as a rich shelter to propagate their own genes. The module will provide an overview of medical microbiology including bacteriology, virology, mycology and parasitology. The relationship between microbes and humans both in health and disease will be investigated. You will gain an understanding of the normal human microbiota and situations where they may become pathogenic. In addition, you will be introduced to all pathogenic microorganisms that have the potential to cause human diseases including bacterial, viral and fungal diseases. The module will look at diseases of the urinogenital system, respiratory system, gastrointestinal tract, skin, blood and brain, while also equipping you with an understanding of the diagnosis, pathogenesis and prevention of sexually transmitted diseases.
Module code: SCI3359
Credits: 20
Pathology
Pathology details the fundamental cellular processes that lead to the development of disease. The module also explores how these processes relate to dysfunction within tissues and organs and ultimately the presentation of typical pathological phenotypes and patient symptoms. Diseases with genetic origins (such as congenital ichthyosis) and environmental origins (such as lung disease) will be considered, as will the interactions between the two (as in cardiovascular disease). There is a significant emphasis on delivering career-relevant laboratory skills used in the diagnosis of disease, particularly histological approaches as well as molecular techniques. Real-life case studies are considered throughout each topic, helping you to gain confidence in the identification of common disease traits through regular diagnostic lab simulations in class.
Module code: SCI3316
Credits: 20
Pharmacology
Pharmacology details the development, application and action of drugs on the human system through a combination of practical and theoretical work.
Module code: SCI3321
Credits: 20
Visualising Science
Visualising Science is a field, laboratory and studio-based module that includes a series of workshops where you will learn to communicate and simplify complex scientific concepts using both traditional and modern techniques. Communication of complex concepts and evidence by scientists to non-specialist audiences is a fundamental need for society. Science communication is a fast-growing industry whose role is to take difficult scientific concepts and present them in a form that can be easily interpreted by non-experts. Jobs in this sector are commonly made up from those with scientific or media training. This module develops skills in the art and science of communicating science through visualisation. Covering three core areas of illustrations, microscope image modification, and film, you will gain skills in image manipulation such as colour tinting, image stacking and 3d modelling. You will also learn drawing techniques, how to use a camera, and gain experience of film editing and presentation. The module will culminate in eight practical sessions in documentary making techniques.
Module code: SCI3356
Credits: 20
Language 3
Language 3 enables you to build on and develop your previous language knowledge in French, German, Arabic, Italian, Mandarin or Spanish. You must have either studied the prior language module in the previous year or be able to demonstrate equivalent knowledge of your target language (though you will not be able to study a language you are already fluent or proficient in). The language levels available will be determined by the continuation of corresponding groups from the previous language module. You will gain the language skills necessary to become a more proficient user of the language. Classes will be taught in an interactive and communicative manner using authentic materials to promote meaningful communication. They will be conducted in the target language as much as possible. Emphasis will be on speaking and listening, with appropriate attention also being paid to other communication skills. Other work will include a variety of tasks which may be completed in the Language Centre.
Module code: TLC3000
Credits: 20
Where your course includes optional modules, these are to provide an element of choice within the course curriculum. The availability of optional modules may vary from year to year and will be subject to minimum student numbers being achieved. This means that the availability of specific optional modules cannot be guaranteed. Optional module selection may also be affected by timetabling requirements. Some restrictions on optional module choice or combinations of optional modules may apply.
How you'll study
You will study via a combination of lectures, practical work and tutorials. The programme has a strong practical base and, in addition to the taught sessions, you will be expected to hone your skills using the excellent departmental facilities in your own time. By the final year of the programme you will be working as an independent laboratory scientist.
Timetables for your first week are normally available at the end of August prior to enrolment in September. You can expect to receive your timetable for the rest of the academic year during your first week. Please note that while we make every effort to ensure that timetables are as student-friendly as possible, scheduled teaching can take place on any day of the week. Wednesday afternoons are normally reserved for sports and cultural activities.
How you'll be assessed
Modules are assessed by a mixture of coursework and examinations. A wide range of coursework is employed, from practical write-ups and essays to laboratory log books and even a biochemistry animation.
Who will be teaching you
Edge Hill University has over 30 years’ experience in delivering Biosciences degrees and has a wealth of experienced tutors, technical staff and field and laboratory equipment to support the study of biomedical science. The Biology department is friendly and approachable and of a size that enables us to know our students personally.
You will be taught by research-active experts in biomedical sciences who take pride in the quality of their teaching and academic studies. The programme team are up-to-date with current developments in their areas of interest, with expertise in areas such as cystic fibrosis, placental biology, disease vector biology and the genetic basis of skin conditions. Staff frequently share this knowledge by directly engaging students in their research.
An extensive network of relationships has been established with relevant biomedical organisations and other universities in the UK and overseas, ensuring a rich, diverse and rewarding student experience. Visiting speakers assist in the delivery of the programme, often presenting unique or novel aspects of subjects.
Entry criteria
Entry requirements
Typical offer 112-120 UCAS tariff points, preferably to include Biology or a related subject, such as Chemistry, Geography or Psychology, plus GCSE Mathematics at Grade C or Grade 4 or above (or equivalent).
Other subjects will be considered if you have demonstrable interest or experience in biology.
Example offers
Qualification
Requirement
A Level
BBC-BBB.
BTEC Extended Diploma (or combination of BTEC QCF qualifications)
Distinction, Merit, Merit (DMM).
T Level
Overall grade of Merit.
International Baccalaureate (IB)
We are happy to accept IB qualifications which achieve the required number of UCAS Tariff points. Subject-specific requirements at Higher Level (HL) Grade 5 may apply.
Access to Higher Education Diploma
45 credits at Level 3, for example 15 credits at Distinction and 30 credits at Merit or 24 credits at Distinction and 21 credits at Merit. The required total can be attained from various credit combinations.
Please note, the above examples may differ from actual offers made. A combination of A Level and BTEC awards may also be accepted.
If you have a minimum of two A Levels (or equivalent), there is no maximum number of qualifications that we will accept UCAS points from. This includes additional qualifications such as Extended Project Qualification (EPQ), AS Levels that haven't been continued to A Level, and General Studies AS or A Level awards.
English language requirements
International students require IELTS 6.0, with a score no lower than 5.5 in each individual component, or an equivalent English language qualification.
If your current level of English is half a band, one band, or one-and-a-half bands lower, either overall or in one or two elements, you may want to consider our Pre-Sessional English course.
Please see our international student pages for further information about how to apply as a prospective international student.
Should you accept an offer of a place to study with us and formally enrol as a student, you will be subject to the provisions of the regulations, rules, codes, conditions and policies which apply to our students. These are available at www.edgehill.ac.uk/studentterms.
Did you know?
If you join a full time undergraduate degree at Edge Hill University, we will guarantee you the
offer of a room in our halls of residence for the first year of your course.
Our BioSciences building incorporates impressive, modern laboratories, offering exciting and highly relevant practical experience in some of the best equipped facilities in the country. Resources include fluorescence and scanning electron microscopes, DNA extraction and analysis equipment, and climate controlled insectaries.
The University may administer a small inflationary rise in tuition fees, in line with Government policy, in subsequent academic years as you progress through the course.
EU/EEA and Swiss students who have settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme, as well as Irish nationals, may be eligible for the UK tuition fee rate.
Financial support
Subject to eligibility, UK students joining this course can apply for a Tuition Fee Loan from the Government to cover the full cost of tuition fees. UK students enrolling on the course may also be eligible to apply for additional funding to help with living costs.
Please view the relevant Money Matters guide for comprehensive information about the financial support available to eligible UK students.
EU/EEA and Swiss students who have settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme may be eligible to apply for financial support. Irish nationals can ordinarily apply to Student Universal Support Ireland (SUSI).
If you are an EU student who does not have settled or pre-settled status, or are an international student from a non-EU country, please see our international student finance pages.
Your future career
Our graduates take on industry and academic roles such as, medical laboratory assistant, and clinical trials research practitioner. They also work for the likes of Perfectus Biomed and Eurofins Forensic Services, as well as with the NHS.
We have also seen our graduates working in industrial, educational and academic research. Some have taken on roles in diagnostics and entry level teaching. Others are now working in medical writing, support and advisory roles, or even scientific training programmes within the NHS.
This biomedical science course provides you with high-standard lab skills, including cell culture training. These skills will help strengthen your applications for roles in research, education, and diagnostics, in industrial and academic workplaces.
You might also consider pursuing postgraduate study after completing this course. This is something many of our graduates have done. You can find them on Masters of Research (MRes) and PhD courses in biomedical sciences and other similar subjects.
Course changes
Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of this information, however our courses are subject to ongoing review and development. Changing circumstances may necessitate alteration to, or the cancellation of, courses.
Changes may be necessary to comply with the requirements of professional bodies, revisions to subject benchmarks statements, to keep courses updated and contemporary, or as a result of student feedback. We reserve the right to make variations if we consider such action to be necessary or in the best interests of students.
Track changes to this course
New Modules Added - 19 May 2022
SCI3356 Visualising Science (20 credits) and SCI3359 Medical Microbiology (20 credits) added as optional modules in Year 3.
Withdrawal of Module - 17 January 2022
SCI2340 Food Microbiology (20 credits) removed as an optional module in Year 2.
Our BioSciences building incorporates impressive, modern laboratories, offering exciting and highly relevant practical experience in some of the best equipped facilities in the country. Resources include fluorescence and scanning electron microscopes, DNA extraction and analysis equipment, and climate controlled insectaries.
