Course Overview
Attendance
* Price per 20-credit module
Course summary
Our Applied Biomedical Science BSc offers an integrated approach to the study of human health and disease, with an emphasis on the diagnosis and understanding of disease processes from a medical diagnostic perspective. This course is only open to you if you are employed in a suitable accredited biomedical laboratory able to support work-based learning, and you'll need a written statement of support from your employer.
The course builds on the practical knowledge developed within the workplace and provides underpinning knowledge essential to the development of practising biomedical scientists.
Initially, you'll study the important fundamental sciences, including biochemistry, cell biology, and human anatomy and physiology.
You'll develop your understanding of disease processes and the biology of the associated molecular changes, combined with the principles of laboratory procedures used to aid diagnosis.
As the course progresses, you'll focus increasingly on the complex nature of disease as it affects particular biological systems, and the study of disease processes.
Top reasons to study with us
- An accredited course – the degree is approved by the Health and Care Professions Council and accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science and the Royal Society of Biology
- Professional teaching staff – many staff in Biomedical Sciences are also members of the Institute of Biomedical Science, and some are also HCPC Registered
- Career-led learning – the course helps students develop the practical skills they need for work undertaken in laboratory settings and produces graduates capable of carrying out scientific research
- Award-winning training - The University of Westminster has been announced to be the provider of the Best Apprenticeship in Healthcare at the Apprenticeship Guide Awards 2024.
Course structure
Teaching includes lectures and seminars, practical laboratory work, group activities and tutorials, and supervised use of facilities.
Assessment is through a combination of exams and coursework (including essays, practical work, group work, presentations and reports).
The following subjects are indicative of what you will study on this course. Integrated with this programme is the Institute of Biomedical Science Registration Training Portfolio. This must be completed by the final year (Year 4).
Please note: this course is also offered as part of a degree apprenticeship programme. Further details are available on our Degree apprenticeships page.
Subjects of study include:
- Biochemistry
- Cell Biology
- Functional Anatomy
- Human Physiology
- Learning in Professional Practice
- Professional Development in Science
Credit Level 4
Subjects of study include:
- Advanced Learning in Professional Practice
- Applied Pathobiology
- Infection and Immunity
- Medical Genetics and Genomics
- Metabolic Biochemistry
- Research Methods
Credit Level 5
Subjects of study include:
- Cellular and Molecular Pathology
- Clinical Immunology and Immunohaematology
- Diagnostic Biochemistry and Haematology
- Final Year Project in Life Sciences
- Medical Microbiology in the Genomics Era
- Registration Training Portfolio
Credit Level 6
Professional accreditation
The degree is approved by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) and accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS), enabling you to fulfil all requirements for HCPC registration and membership of the Institute.
This course is accredited by the Royal Society of Biology for the purpose of meeting in part the academic and experience requirement for the Membership and Chartered Biologist (CBiol). This programme has been accredited by the Royal Society of Biology following an independent and rigorous assessment. Accredited degree programmes contain a solid academic foundation in biological knowledge and key skills, and prepare graduates to address the needs of employers. The accreditation criteria require evidence that graduates from accredited programmes meet defined sets of learning outcomes, including subject knowledge, technical ability and transferable skills.
For more details on course structure, modules, teaching and assessment Download the programme specification (PDF).
To request an accessible version please email [email protected]
Get your copy of the University of Westminster prospectus and browse the range of courses on offer.
Contact us for general course enquiries:
+44 (0)20 7911 5000 EXT 65511
(Mon–Fri, 10am–4pm GMT)
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Careers
An IBMS and RSB accredited course
This course is accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS) and the Royal Society of Biology (RSB).
An HCPC approved course
This course is approved by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).
Work experience opportunities
Our London location helps students to find relevant work experience in biomedical laboratories, often at a high professional level.
Career development
Students on the Applied Biomedical Science degree pathway need to already be employed as healthcare professionals in approved laboratories, whether in hospital or private diagnostic practices. Many students also undertake work experience at other stages of the course, often at a high professional level. Our location in London facilitates you in finding such experience, with numerous opportunities available within the biomedical laboratories in London, the UK and abroad.
Our aim is to foster a culture of gathering expertise, building professional networks, and expanding academic learning with the knowledge and skills gained in laboratory environments.
International Opportunities
Many of our courses offer international study and work experiences, and the University provides other global opportunities that all students can apply for - so whatever you're studying, you'll have the chance to go abroad.
Opportunities could include:
- Taking part in semester or year-long exchanges at institutions around the world
- Attending an international summer school or field trip
- Developing your CV through volunteering or work placements abroad
International experience broadens horizons, boosts self-confidence, and improves global understanding, alongside being fantastic for your career.
Find out more about our international opportunities, including funding options and where you can go.
Course Leaders
Guidance and support received to reach a well-planned goal, makes learning so much more enjoyable. The attitude towards learning allows learning to take place.
Dr Anjali Ghosh
Lecturer
Anjali's background and main area of study has been recombinant gene technology in microorganism. She completed a MSc in Animal Biotechnology and Biomedical Science. She then went on to study her PhD where her thesis focused on recombinant DNA technology with genes acquired for heavy metals in strains of Salmonella. Anjali's research interests lie in cancer cell biology and gene polymorphism studies, linked to ACE gene, as well as biofilm studies in Salmonella. She is also a trained Biomedical Scientist and completed her IBMS training portfolio in 2011. Anjali has been teaching in higher education for 15 years at various institutes in UK. Since moving to University of Westminster, she has taken on the role of deputy module leader for Foundation Applied Biomedical Science, module leader for Advanced learning in Professional Practice and co-course leader for Applied Biomedical Science.
More about meSee full profile of Dr Anjali GhoshDr Nilu Kannangara
Lecturer
Nilu is a molecular and biochemical parasitologist and Lecturer in Clinical Microbiology, with a background in Biochemistry and Molecular biology. She is course leader for the Biomedical and Physiological Sciences FDSc and co-course leader of Applied Biomedical Science BSc (Apprenticeships).
Nilu is passionate about teaching and has over 11 years of experience on a range of degree programmes in Biomedical, Biological, Life and Health Sciences and foundation degrees. She is a fellow of the Higher Education Academy and Institute of Biomedical Science. Nilu is an active member of HUCBMS and ESLTIS and involved in knowledge exchange and networking activities. She is keen in developing and widening participation with industry, NHS and community aligned with the sustainable development goals.
More about meSee full profile of Dr Nilu Kannangara
Enjoy your science studies, do your best, be proud of your achievements and most importantly know that this is just the start of a lifetime of inspiration.
Course Team
- Dr Ian Locke - Assistant Head of School
- Dr Sarah Coleman - Senior Lecturer
- Dr Adele McCormick - Reader
- Dr Bradley Elliott - Senior Lecturer in Physiology
- Dr Linda Percy - Senior Lecturer
- Dr Lorna Tinworth - Senior Lecturer
- Dr Paul Curley - Senior Lecturer
- Professor Vinood Patel - Professor
- Dr Stipo Jurcevic - Senior Lecturer
- Dr Joan Liu - Senior Lecturer
- Dr Polly Hayes - Senior Lecturer
- Rumy Begum - Senior Lecturer
- Professor Sigrun Lange - Professor
- Dr Nilu Kannangara - Lecturer
Why study this course?
Practical knowledge and skills
Building on the practical knowledge you've developed in the workplace, this course will help you develop skills that are essential to practising biomedical scientists.
Professional teaching staff
Many staff within Biomedical Sciences are also members of the Institute of Biomedical Science and some are also HCPC Registered.
Career-based learning
A major project in your final year will allow you to develop skills for genuine scientific inquiry.
Entry Requirements
- A levels – BBC (112 UCAS Tariff points) to include two science subjects from Biology, Chemistry, Physics or Maths
- T levels – 112 UCAS Tariff points
- International Baccalaureate – 112 UCAS Tariff points from the IB, to include a minimum of 4 in two higher level science subjects. We also welcome applications from students taking the IB Career related Programme
- BTEC Extended Diploma – DMM in Applied Science
- BTEC Diploma – D*D*
- Access – 112 UCAS Tariff points from the Access course
In addition to one of the above, you should have:
- GCSE English Language grade 4/C – IB grade 4 Higher Level, GCSE Maths grade 4/C – IB grade 4
If your first language is not English, you will need an IELTS of 6.0 overall, with 5.5 in each component. Please note, however, that the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC), along with other requirements for registration, requires that students must be capable of attaining the equivalent to IELTS 7.0, with no component part scoring below 6.5, at the point of graduation. During the course of your degree you'll have the opportunity to practise and improve your command of the English language as you complete various assessment tasks including oral and written assessments. If you feel, however, that you would benefit from extra English support, the University has a number of options to help, including a pre-sessional English course and academic English modules, which may be taken as options during your Level 4 and Level 5 studies. For more details on the English language courses and support we offer, visit our English language support page.
We also welcome applications from students who are taking a combination of qualifications listed above. For further information, please contact Course Enquiries.
This course is only open to you if you are employed in a suitable accredited UK biomedical laboratory, able to support work-based learning. You will need a written statement of support from your employer. Applicants will also be required to provide an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service check certificate in addition to any academic conditions of their offer.
View more information about our entry requirements and the application process
Biomedical and Physiological Sciences Foundation Degree
If you are a healthcare professional in full-time employment in an NHS or private laboratory, but do not have the necessary qualifications for entry into the Applied Biomedical Science BSc Honours, you may choose to study the Biomedical and Physiological Sciences Foundation Degree, before progressing to the final two years of this degree.
- International Baccalaureate – 27 points to include a minimum of 4 in two Higher Level science subjects. You can refer to the UCAS calculator to determine your point score
English language requirements
If your first language is not English, you will need an IELTS of 6.0 overall, with 5.5 in each component. Please note, however, that the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC), along with other requirements for registration, requires that students must be capable of attaining the equivalent to IELTS 7.0, with no component part scoring below 6.5, at the point of graduation. During the course of your degree you'll have the opportunity to practise and improve your command of the English language as you complete various assessment tasks including oral and written assessments. If you feel, however, that you would benefit from extra English support, the University has a number of options to help, including a pre-sessional English course and academic English modules, which may be taken as options during your Level 4 and Level 5 studies. For more details on the English language courses and support we offer, visit our English language support page.
This course is only open to you if you are employed in a suitable accredited UK biomedical laboratory, able to support work-based learning. You will need a written statement of support from your employer. Applicants will also be required to provide an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service check certificate in addition to any academic conditions of their offer.
Biomedical and Physiological Sciences Foundation Degree
If you are a healthcare professional in full-time employment in an NHS or private laboratory, but do not have the necessary qualifications for entry into the Applied Biomedical Science BSc Honours, you may choose to study the Biomedical and Physiological Sciences Foundation Degree, before progressing to the final two years of this degree.
More information
What our students say
Lucy Harold
Applied Biomedical Science BSc - 2027
I opted for a degree apprenticeship (Applied Biomedical Science BSc) with the University of Westminster as it provides excellent career opportunities, and I'll be guaranteed employment upon completing my degree.
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Fees and Funding
UK tuition fee: £1,540 (Price per 20-credit module)
When you have enrolled with us, your annual tuition fees will remain the same throughout your studies with us. We do not increase your tuition fees each year.
Find out how we set our tuition fees.
Funding
As well as tuition fee loans, there is a range of funding available to help you fund your studies.
Find out about undergraduate student funding options.
Scholarships
The University is dedicated to supporting ambitious and outstanding students and we offer a variety of scholarships to eligible undergraduate students, which cover all or part of your tuition fees.
Find out if you qualify for one of our scholarships.
Additional costs information
To check what your tuition fees cover and what you may need to pay for separately, see our What tuition fees cover page.
International tuition fee: £2,830 (Price per 20-credit module)
When you have enrolled with us, your annual tuition fees will remain the same throughout your studies with us. We do not increase your tuition fees each year.
Find out how we set our tuition fees.
EU Qualifications Welcome Award Scheme
If you are an international student accepted on an undergraduate programme starting in September 2024 or September 2025 at level 3 (Foundation) or level 4 (first year) on the basis of an eligible EU qualification only, you will be awarded a tuition fee reduction which will align your fee more closely to the one for UK students. For more information, see the EU Qualifications Welcome Award Scheme.
International student funding
Find out about funding for international students.
Additional costs information
To check what your tuition fees cover and what you may need to pay for separately, see our What tuition fees cover page.
Teaching and Assessment
Below you will find how learning time and assessment types are distributed on this course. The graphs below give an indication of what you can expect through approximate percentages, taken either from the experience of previous cohorts, or based on the standard module diet where historic course data is unavailable. Changes to the division of learning time and assessment may be made in response to feedback and in accordance with our terms and conditions.
How you'll be taught
Teaching methods across all our undergraduate courses focus on active student learning through lectures, seminars, workshops, problem-based and blended learning, and where appropriate practical application. Learning typically falls into three broad categories:
- Scheduled hours: examples include lectures, seminars, practical classes, workshops, supervised time in a studio
- Placement: placement hours normally include placement opportunities, but may also include live projects or virtual activity involving employers
- Independent study: non-scheduled time in which students are expected to study independently. This may include preparation for scheduled sessions, follow-up work, wider reading or practice, completion of assessment tasks, or revision
How you'll be assessed
Our undergraduate courses include a wide variety of assessments.
Assessments typically fall into three broad categories:
- Practical: examples include presentations, videos, podcasts, lab work, creating artefacts
- Written exams: end of semester exams
- Coursework: examples include essays, reports, in-class tests, portfolios, dissertation
Data from the academic year 2022/23
Supporting you
Our Student Hub is where you’ll find out about the services and support we offer, helping you get the best out of your time with us.
- Study support — workshops, 1-2-1 support and online resources to help improve your academic and research skills
- Personal tutors — support you in fulfilling your academic and personal potential
- Student advice team — provide specialist advice on a range of issues including funding, benefits and visas
- Extra-curricular activities — volunteering opportunities, sports and fitness activities, student events and more
Course Location
With state-of-the-art science and psychology labs and refurbished computer suites, our Cavendish Campus offers our science and technology students a range of learning spaces that are both dynamic and inspiring.
Located in central London, our Cavendish Campus is just a five-minute walk from Oxford Street and Tottenham Court Road.
For more details, visit our Cavendish Campus page.
Contact us
Call our dedicated team on:
+44 (0)20 7911 5000 ext 65511
Opening hours (GMT): 10am–4pm Monday to Friday
Opening hours (GMT): 10am–4pm Monday to Friday
More information
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