| UCAS code | B111 |
|---|---|
| Duration | 3 years |
| Entry year | 2025 |
| Campus | St Luke's Campus |
| Discipline | Biomedical and Medical Sciences |
| Contact | Web: Enquire online |
| Typical offer | A-Level: ABB |
|---|---|
|
A-Level: ABC |
| UCAS code | B112 |
|---|---|
| Duration | 4 years |
| Entry year | 2025 |
| Campus | St Luke's Campus |
| Discipline | Biomedical and Medical Sciences |
| Contact |
| Typical offer | A-Level: ABB |
|---|---|
|
A-Level: ABC |
| UCAS code | B113 |
|---|---|
| Duration | 4 years |
| Entry year | 2025 |
| Campus | St Luke's Campus |
| Discipline | Biomedical and Medical Sciences |
| Contact | Web: Enquire online |
| Typical offer | A-Level: ABB |
|---|---|
|
A-Level: ABC |
Overview
- Biomedical Science is at the heart of healthcare, underpinning much of modern medicine. Study a degree where you can help shape the future of health and the next generation of treatments.
- Tailor your degree to your interests and career aspirations with our bespoke suite of modules developed in collaboration with biomedical sciences researchers.
- Benefit from research-led teaching by academics and researchers at the forefront of their field.
- Explore the way research transforms into progress in clinical practice by gaining hands-on experience in our specialised facilities and cutting-edge laboratories.
- Benefit from the opportunity to undertake a professional placement or spend a year studying abroad. Gain knowledge of medicine beyond national borders, develop valuable lived experience and expand your professional network.
Biomedical Sciences begins in 2025/26, replacing our long-established Medical Sciences degree. It will retain all the high-quality core teaching values of the former programme but will adapt some of the modules to simplify course pathways and allow more flexibility for students.
Top 20 in the UK for Biomedical Sciences
20th in the Complete University Guide 2025
State-of-the-art laboratories and specialised facilities
Hands-on practical laboratory work forms an essential part of the course
Spend a year studying abroad or on a professional placement
Option to continue on to the MSci Biomedical Sciences (Human Genomics) course
Top 20 in the UK for Biomedical Sciences
20th in the Complete University Guide 2025
State-of-the-art laboratories and specialised facilities
Hands-on practical laboratory work forms an essential part of the course
Spend a year studying abroad or on a professional placement
Option to continue on to the MSci Biomedical Sciences (Human Genomics) course
Entry requirements (typical offer)
| Qualification | Typical offer | Required subjects |
|---|---|---|
| A-Level | ABB | Either A in Biology and B in another accepted Science* subject, or B in Biology and A in another accepted Science* subject. |
| IB | 32/655 | Either HL6 in Biology and HL5 in another accepted Science subject, or HL5 in Biology and HL6 in another accepted Science subject. |
| BTEC | DDM | Applicants studying a BTEC Extended Diploma will also require one grade A and one grade B in GCE A-Level science subjects, one of which must be Biology. |
| GCSE | C or 4 | Grade C or 4 in English Language |
| Access to HE | 24 L3 credits at Distinction Grade and 21 L3 credits at Merit Grade | 15 L3 Credits at Distinction Grade and 12 L3 Credits at Merit Grade in Biology and another suitable science subject area. |
| T-Level | T-Levels not accepted | N/A |
| Contextual Offer | A-Level: ABC |
Specific subject requirements must still be achieved where stated above. Find out more about contextual offers. |
| Other accepted qualifications | ||
| English language requirements |
International students need to show they have the required level of English language to study this course. The required test scores for this course fall under Profile B2. Please visit our English language requirements page to view the required test scores and equivalencies from your country. |
|
NB General Studies is not included in any offer.
Grades advertised on each programme webpage are the typical level at which our offers are made and provide information on any specific subjects an applicant will need to have studied in order to be considered for a place on the programme. However, if we receive a large number of applications for the programme we may not be able to make an offer to all those who are predicted to achieve/have achieved grades which are in line with our typical offer. For more information on how applications are assessed and when decisions are released, please see: After you apply
*GCE A level/AS science includes: Biology/Human Biology^; Chemistry; Computing; Design and Technology; Electronics; Environmental Science; Environmental Studies; Geography; Geology; Maths/Pure Maths/Further Maths^; Life and Health Sciences; Physical Education; Physics; Psychology; Science (applied); Statistics; IB Higher Level Sport Science. ^If more than one of these is taken they would only count as one ‘science’.
Course content
The interdisciplinary nature of the BSc Biomedical Sciences course at Exeter means that you will explore a range of areas such as biochemistry, genetics, cell biology, physiology, immunology and infection, neuroscience and diabetes.
In the first year, you’ll gain a wide-ranging insight into how the human body normally works. We study this through small-group sessions, lectures and hands-on laboratory practicals.
As the course progresses, we build upon this foundation to see how things can go wrong in the body due to disease and trauma and how normal function might be restored. We are keen that you develop a holistic understanding of human health. You will then specialise in the area that interests you most, tailoring your degree to match your specific career ambitions.
The modules we outline here provide examples of what you can expect to learn on this degree course based on recent academic teaching. The precise modules available to you in future years may vary depending on staff availability and research interests, new topics of study, timetabling and student demand.
Stage 1: 120 credits of compulsory modules
Compulsory modules
| Code | Module | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| CSC1013 | Skills for Biomedical Sciences | 15 |
| CSC1011 | Experimental Design and Analysis | 15 |
| CSC1012 | Fundamentals of Pharmacology | 15 |
| CSC1010 | Cardiorespiratory Physiology | 15 |
| BIO1332 | Biochemistry | 15 |
| BIO1334 | Genetics | 15 |
| BIO1337 | Microbiology | 15 |
| BIO1339 | Cells | 15 |
Stage 2: 45 credits of compulsory modules, 60 credits taken from a set of constrained optional modules (see notes below) and 15 credits from the list of options.
Compulsory modules
| Code | Module | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| CSC2034 | Statistics for Biomedical Sciences | 15 |
| CSC2033 | Research Skills and Data Analysis | 15 |
| CSC2032 | Neuroendocrine Physiology | 15 |
Optional modules
aYou must select either CSC2035 Immunology of Infectious Diseases or BIO2101 Advanced Microbiology
bYou must select either CSC2026 The Biology of Cancer or BIO2088 Advanced Cell Biology
cYou must select either CSC2004 Medical Genetics or BIO2089 Molecular Biology of the Gene
dYou must select either CSC2027 Experimental Pharmacology or CSC2037 Introduction to Toxicology
| Code | Module | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| CSC2035 | Immunology of Infectious Diseases (a) | 15 |
| BIO2101 | Advanced Microbiology (a) | 15 |
| CSC2026 | The Biology of Cancer (b) | 15 |
| BIO2088 | Advanced Cell Biology (b) | 15 |
| CSC2004 | Medical Genetics (c) | 15 |
| BIO2089 | Molecular Biology of the Gene (c) | 15 |
| CSC2027 | Experimental Pharmacology (d) | 15 |
| CSC2037 | Introduction to Toxicology (d) | 15 |
| CSC2030 | Coding for Biomedical Scientists | 15 |
| BIO2092 | Genomics and Introductory Bioinformatics | 15 |
| NEU1006 | Introduction to Neuroscience | 15 |
| CSC2031 | Diabetes - Genes to Environment | 15 |
| CSC2029 | Biomedical Entrepreneurship | 15 |
Find out more about placement and study abroad options under Course variants.
with Professional Placement
Stage 3: 120-credit professional placement module
Compulsory modules
| Code | Module | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| CSC3003 | Professional Training Year | 120 |
with Study Abroad
Stage 3: 120-credit study-abroad module
Compulsory modules
| Code | Module | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| CSC3032 | Medical Sciences Study Abroad | 120 |
Stage 3: 15 credits of compulsory modules, 45 constrained optional modules (see note below) and 60 credits of optional modules.
Compulsory modules
aYou must select either Research Project in Biomedical Sciences or Capstone Project
| Code | Module | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| CSC3037 | Research Project in Biomedical Sciences (a) | 45 |
| CSC3036 | Capstone Project (a) | 45 |
| CSC3038 | Analytical Thinking for Biomedical Sciences Research | 15 |
Optional modules
| Code | Module | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| CSC3009 | Pharmacogenomics | 15 |
| CSC3010 | Rational Drug Design | 15 |
| CSC3011 | Medical Genomics | 15 |
| CSC3018 | Health Economics | 15 |
| CSC3030 | New Therapeutic Targets in Cancer | 15 |
| CSC3031 | Applied Data Science | 15 |
| BIO3086 | Cell Biology of Disease | 15 |
| BIO3078 | Cellular Basis of Immunity | 15 |
| BIO3092 | Bioinformatics | 15 |
| BIO3058 | Beyond the Frontiers of Medical Mycology | 15 |
| BIO3059 | Molecular Biology of Bacterial Infection | 15 |
| NEU2019 | Neuropharmacology | 15 |
| NEU3030 | Neuroimmunology | 15 |
| NEU3028 | Science Communication | 15 |
| CSC3034 | Immunopathology | 15 |
| CSC3035 | Tropical Medicine | 15 |
| CSC3033 | Diabetes Research | 15 |
Course variants
UCAS code: B112
Why choose a professional placement year?
The ‘with professional placement’ degree course accommodates an industrial placement year during the third year of your degree, making a four-year degree overall.
You’ll spend a year working on a research project in the biotechnology or pharmaceutical sectors, gaining valuable experience, improving personal and transferable skills, making new contacts and enhancing your employability.
Where can I do my placement?
We have established collaborations with local, national and multinational companies, and have successfully placed students within multinational organisations.
Previous placement destinations include:
- Abbott Diabetes
- Astra Zeneca
- Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (DSTL)
- GlaxoSmithKline
- Jansen Pharmaceuticals
- Johnson and Johnson
- Merck Sharp & Dohme
- Pfizer
- PricewaterhouseCoopers
- Shell
- Vertex Pharmaceuticals
What support is available during my placement?
During your placement you are paid by the company and take two modules: Learning from Industrial Experience and Industrial Placement and Report. You will have regular contact with an academic supervisor in addition to an industrial supervisor at the company.
Is the placement paid?
It is your responsibility to decide which placements will be suitable for you financially. We present ideas of paid placements and those that have a stipend and/or accommodation.
How does it affect my tuition fee?
If you spend a full year on a work placement (in the UK or abroad) you will pay a reduced fee. Find out more information.
How do I apply?
You can apply to BSc Biomedical Sciences with Professional Placement directly through UCAS using the code above. Once at Exeter, progression to the Industrial Experience year is dependent upon successful completion of your Year 1 studies, with an average mark of at least 60%.
How are the placements organised?
The placements are sought during the second year of study and commence the following October. You are responsible for applying for positions, with direct guidance from the Industrial Placements Co-ordinator.
UCAS code: B113
Why study abroad?
Students who have studied abroad demonstrate initiative, independence, motivation and, depending on where they stay, may also have gained a working knowledge of another language – all qualities employers are looking for.
Where can I study abroad?
If you choose to take the four-year ‘with Study Abroad’ degree, you have the option to spend your third year abroad, studying in a university with which we have established links. We have over 30 partner institutions around the globe; you can find a complete list of International Exchange partner universities on the Study Abroad website.
What will I study whilst I am abroad?
All of our study abroad partners offer approved training in relevant subjects and also include new opportunities (e.g. palaeontology), programmes with specialisms (e.g. natural sciences) and courses with local expertise (e.g. shark biology). Students are also encouraged to choose subjects outside science for a (programme-specific) fraction of each term. Scuba diving, comparative theology, photography and astronomy are a few recent choices by Exeter students.
Does it count towards my degree?
Credit for academic work during your year abroad is arranged by agreement between the University of Exeter and the host institution. These marks are then translated back into your degree at Exeter.
Transferring to a Study Abroad programme
If you are not sure about studying abroad when you apply for your degree, it may be possible to apply to transfer to a four-year programme at the end of the first year of a three-year programme. Permission to take part in Study Abroad in all cases will depend on your academic progress and the places available in your chosen country.
How does it affect my tuition fee?
If you spend a full academic year studying abroad you will pay a reduced fee. Find out more information.
How do I apply?
You can apply to BSc Biomedical Sciences with Study Abroad directly through UCAS using the code above. Once at Exeter, progression to the Study Abroad year is dependent upon successful completion of your Year 1 studies, with an average mark of at least 60%.
Further information
For further information on where you can go and all the issues surrounding study abroad, see the Study Abroad website.
Integrated Masters: MSci Biomedical Sciences (Human Genomics)
You can potentially transfer to our four-year MSci Biomedical Sciences (Human Genomics) course at the end of your second year (subject to performance).
The first three years of the programme will provide you with a wide-ranging insight into how the human body normally works. We then build upon this foundation to see how things can go wrong in the body due to disease and trauma and how normal function might be restored.
We are keen that you develop a holistic understanding of human health. You will then specialise in the area that interests you most, tailoring your degree to match your specific career ambitions.
If you transfer to the MSci, you will study the 3 years of BSc modules, plus an additional fourth year. The module breakdown can be found below.
MSci Biomedical Sciences (Human Genomics) modules
Stage 1: 120 credits of compulsory modules
Compulsory modules
| Code | Module | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| CSC1013 | Skills for Biomedical Sciences | 15 |
| CSC1011 | Experimental Design and Analysis | 15 |
| CSC1012 | Fundamentals of Pharmacology | 15 |
| CSC1010 | Cardiorespiratory Physiology | 15 |
| BIO1332 | Biochemistry | 15 |
| BIO1334 | Genetics | 15 |
| BIO1337 | Microbiology | 15 |
| BIO1339 | Cells | 15 |
Stage 2: 45 credits of compulsory modules, 30 credits of optional modules.
If you wish to transfer to the MSci Biomedical Sciences (Human Genomics) programme after Stage 2, you must take 45 credits of optional modules, at least 15 credits of which must be from the Biosciences options (and 30 credits of Biosciences must be taken in total in second and final year).
In order to be eligible to graduate with an MSci Biomedical Sciences (Human Genomics), you must have passed (not condoned) at least 90 credits in the discipline optional modules. Students for whom this is not the case will still be able to graduate with BSc (Hons) Biomedical Sciences, provided that the required number of overall credits (including condoned modules) is met. Specialist designation of all modules, projects, dissertations etc. will be confirmed by the University of Exeter Medical School and may be granted, withdrawn or amended by accordingly.
Compulsory modules
| Code | Module | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| CSC2034 | Statistics for Biomedical Sciences | 15 |
| CSC2033 | Research Skills and Data Analysis | 15 |
Optional modules
aYou must select either CSC2035 Immunology of Infectious Diseases or BIO2101 Advanced Microbiology
bYou must select either CSC2026 The Biology of Cancer or BIO2088 Advanced Cell Biology
cYou must select either CSC2004 Medical Genetics or BIO2089 Molecular Biology of the Gene
dYou must select either CSC2027 Experimental Pharmacology or BIO2090 Analytical Techniques in Biochemistry
| Code | Module | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| CSC2035 | Immunology of Infectious Diseases (a) | 15 |
| BIO2101 | Advanced Microbiology (a) | 15 |
| CSC2026 | The Biology of Cancer (b) | 15 |
| BIO2088 | Advanced Cell Biology (b) | 15 |
| CSC2004 | Medical Genetics (c) | 15 |
| BIO2089 | Molecular Biology of the Gene (c) | 15 |
| CSC2027 | Experimental Pharmacology (d) | 15 |
| BIO2090 | Analytical Techniques in Biochemistry (d) | 15 |
| CSC2030 | Coding for Biomedical Scientists | 15 |
| BIO2092 | Genomics and Introductory Bioinformatics | 15 |
| NEU1006 | Introduction to Neuroscience | 15 |
| CSC2031 | Diabetes - Genes to Environment | 15 |
| CSC2032 | Neuroendocrine Physiology | 15 |
| CSC2029 | Biomedical Entrepreneurship | 15 |
Stage 3: 75 credits of compulsory modules, 45 credits of optional modules.
To transfer and progress to Stage 3 you must achieve a credit-weighted stage average of at least 60% in Stage 2, otherwise you will be required to continue on the relevant three year BSc programme.
If you wish to continue on the MSci Biomedical Sciences (Human Genomics) programme, you are required to complete 120 credits at Stage 3, made up of 75 credits of compulsory modules, including the 15 credit compulsory pathway module CSC3011 (Medical Genomics); you must also select at least 15 credits from the pathway-specific optional modules CSC3009 (Pharmacogenomics) and BIO3092 (Bioinformatics). The remaining 15 credits may be chosen from the optional modules from the table.
Compulsory modules
| Code | Module | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| CSC3038 | Analytical Thinking for Biomedical Sciences Research | 15 |
| CSC3011 | Medical Genomics | 15 |
| CSC3038 | Analytical Thinking for Biomedical Sciences Research | 15 |
Optional modules
aYou must select either Research Project in Biomedical Sciences or Capstone Project
| Code | Module | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| CSC3037 | Research Project in Biomedical Sciences (a) | 45 |
| CSC3036 | Capstone Project (a) | 45 |
| CSC3009 | Pharmacogenomics | 15 |
| CSC3010 | Rational Drug Design | 15 |
| CSC3018 | Health Economics | 15 |
| CSC3030 | New Therapeutic Targets in Cancer | 15 |
| CSC3031 | Applied Data Science | 15 |
| BIO3079 | Molecular Basis of Infection | 15 |
| BIO3086 | Cell Biology of Disease | 15 |
| BIO3078 | Cellular Basis of Immunity | 15 |
| BIO3092 | Bioinformatics | 15 |
| NEU2019 | Neuropharmacology | 15 |
| NEU3030 | Neuroimmunology | 15 |
| NEU3028 | Science Communication | 15 |
| CSC3034 | Immunopathology | 15 |
| CSC3035 | Tropical Medicine | 15 |
| CSC3033 | Diabetes Research | 15 |
Year 4 (Stage 4)
In Year 4 (Stage 4) students must take 120 credits from the modules listed below including either HPDM042 Research Project (60 credits) or HPDM043 Research Project (Literature) (30 credits). Where students have done a literature review as their Research Project at Stage 3 we recommend they opt for HPDM042 at Stage 4.
Compulsory modules
| Code | Module | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| HPDM036 | Omics Techniques and their Application to Genomic Medicine | 15 |
| HPDM041 | Bioinformatics, Interpretation and Data Quality Assurance in Genome Analysis | 15 |
| HPDM037 | Genomics of Common and Rare Inherited Diseases | 15 |
Optional modules
aStudents who have taken CSC3009 Pharmacogenomics in Year 3 (Stage 3) may not take the module HPDM039 Pharmacogenomics in Year 4 (Stage 4).
bStudents selecting this module must also do HPDM044
| Code | Module | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| HPDM042 | Research Project - Data | 60 |
| HPDM043 | Research Project - Literature | 30 |
| BIOM567 | Application of Genomics in Infectious Disease | 15 |
| HPDM038 | Molecular Pathology of Cancer and Application in Cancer Diagnosis, Screening and Treatment | 15 |
| HPDM039 | Pharmacogenomics and Stratified Healthcare (a) | 15 |
| HPDM045 | Counselling Skills for Genomics (b) | 15 |
| HPDM044 | Ethical, Legal and Social Issues in Applied Genomics | 15 |
| HPDM046 | Advanced Bioinformatics | 15 |
| HPDM088 | Health Economic Evaluation in Genomics | 15 |
| HPDM049 | Epigenetics in Human Health and Diseases | 15 |
Fees
Tuition fees for 2025 entry
UK students: £9,535 per year
International students: £30,900 per year
Year Abroad and Professional Placement
If, as part of your four-year, full-time degree programme, you spend a full academic year studying abroad, you will pay a reduced fee of 15 per cent of the maximum fee for that year. If you spend a full year on a work placement (in the UK or abroad) you will pay a reduced fee of 20 per cent of the maximum fee for that year.
Scholarships
The University of Exeter has many different scholarships available to support your education, including £5 million in scholarships for international students, such as our Global Excellence Scholarships*. Financial support is also available for students from disadvantaged backgrounds, lower income households and other under-represented groups to help them access, succeed and progress through higher education.
* Terms and conditions apply. See online for details.
Learning and teaching
Throughout the programme, you'll benefit from a careful blend of innovative and traditional teaching methods employed by both the Medical School and the Biosciences department. A variety of stimulating, cutting-edge resources are also available to support your learning.
Structured small-group learning sessions
In tutor-led groups of 8-12 students you will investigate key scientific concepts and systems presented in the form of triggers. The style of trigger varies week by week but will include patient-based clinical case studies, current media-worthy medical science breakthroughs and extracts from research papers.
Life Sciences Resource Centre activities
You’ll be supported in your exploration of the human biomedical science that is presented in your small group sessions by the rich variety of state-of-the-art resources available in the Life Sciences Resource Centre. These resources include anatomical models, multimedia and IT resources, and a well-stocked library. Tutor-led activities will drive your engagement with selected resources in order to increase your understanding of the small group triggers.
Lectures and seminars
Large group lectures and cutting-edge research seminars delivered by academics as well as external speakers will complement your studies. Lectures may contain students from a variety of different programmes for which the lecture content is relevant.
Practical laboratory sessions
You will develop your laboratory skills in the biosciences teaching laboratory on the Streatham Campus and the new teaching lab at the St Luke’s Campus, which are equipped with instruments for observational, experimental and numerical aspects of biosciences including a range of biochemical, molecular, physiological and electronic apparatus.
Online learning
Your learning will be supported by the University’s virtual learning environment. You will have individual access to electronic journals, content-rich study guides, and interactive online learning materials covering various science disciplines, formative online assessments and group discussion forums.
Assessment
Regular assessment is used to help provide you with frequent feedback, enabling you to identify your strengths, as well as areas for improvement. Feedback is provided in a number of different ways including online written feedback and self, peer, tutor or small group feedback.
Assessment formats include multiple-choice tests, essays, structured practical exams, reflective essays, oral and poster presentations, scientific report writing, short-answer question tests and independent project work.
Optional modules outside of this course
Each year, if you have optional modules available, you can take up to 30 credits in a subject outside of your course. This can increase your employability and widen your intellectual horizons.
Proficiency in a second subject
If you complete 60 credits of modules in one of the subjects below, you may have the words 'with proficiency in [e.g. Social Data Science]' added to your degree title when you graduate.
- A Foreign Language
- Data Science
- Entrepreneurship
- Innovation
- Law (Penryn Campus only)
- Leadership
- Management
- Social Data Science
Your future
BSc Biomedical Sciences has been developed in consultation with industry employers, the NHS and academia and provides a firm foundation in biomedical science, alongside an insight into medical practice and the biotechnologies used to prevent, test and diagnose disorders and treat patients.
You’ll develop an integrated, scientific knowledge that you can put into practice in a clinical setting and robust research skills, plus creative and inquisitive communication, leadership, critical appraisal and problem-solving skills.
These key skills will prepare you for a career helping to progress scientific discovery into clinical and medical practice, ultimately to improve human health.
Career paths
Future career pathways include:
- postgraduate study, either at a university or with the NHS;
- employment in knowledge industries, such as pharmaceuticals or medical technology (with roles in research and development, clinical trials, or sales and marketing);
- training and employment to become a Scientific Officer in the Civil Service;
- NHS management; postgraduate training for the NHS Scientist Training Programme (STP);
- or graduate entry to professional degrees such as medicine, radiotherapy or other accredited healthcare programmes.
