MSc Human Resource Management (Top Up)
The MSc Human Resource Management (Top-Up) program at the University of Gloucestershire...
BSc Hons Biomedical Science (Placement)
Francis Close Hall, Cheltenham
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science (Placement) at the University of Gloucestershire offers a comprehensive four-year full-time program, including a valuable placement year. This degree is meticulously designed to provide students with a robust understanding of human health and disease, focusing on the underlying biological processes at a cellular and molecular level. The program is particularly well-suited for those aspiring to careers as biomedical scientists within clinical service laboratories across various specialisms, including Blood Science, Cellular Pathology, Clinical Microbiology, or Molecular Science. Furthermore, it provides an excellent foundation for students interested in biomedical research or the pharmaceutical industry. A distinctive feature of this course is the emphasis on practical skills development and the integration of state-of-the-art tools relevant to precision medicine, such as bioinformatics and genomics. Graduates are well-prepared for high-level employment or further postgraduate studies due to the course's strong reputation and focus on developing both scientific knowledge and essential personal and interpersonal skills.
Curriculum: The curriculum of the BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science (Placement) is structured to provide a progressive and in-depth learning experience. The first year typically establishes a strong foundation in core biomedical science disciplines, including Biochemistry, Human Physiology & Anatomy, Medical Cell Biology, Chemistry and Pharmacology, and Practical and Laboratory Skills. This initial stage equips students with the fundamental knowledge and techniques essential for subsequent study. In the later years of the program, the curriculum delves into more specialized areas. While the specific modules can vary, typical second-year modules might include Medical Microbiology, Genomics & Bioinformatics, Clinical Immunology, Haematology, Clinical Biochemistry, and Cell & Tissue Pathology. A significant aspect of the program is the third year, which is dedicated to a work placement. This placement provides students with invaluable real-world experience in a relevant industry or research setting. The final year typically involves advanced studies in specialized areas, with students undertaking an independent, laboratory-based research project (Dissertation) in a chosen area. The assessment strategy is designed to evaluate both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, encompassing a mix of coursework, practical reports, written assignments, class tests, presentations, case studies, and sessional written examinations.
Research Focus: The University of Gloucestershire's Biomedical Science program emphasizes practical exploration and the development of research capabilities. Students are encouraged to engage in enquiry-led learning, fostering their ability to formulate hypotheses, design experiments, critically evaluate data, and develop research proposals. The final-year dissertation provides a significant opportunity for students to conduct their own in-depth laboratory-based research, contributing to their development as independent researchers. The program's focus on practical learning, coupled with access to well-equipped laboratories, helps students build the necessary skills and confidence to undertake research. The faculty includes experienced academics with PhDs in their subject fields, contributing to a learning environment that is grounded in research knowledge.
Industry Engagement: A key strength of the BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science (Placement) program is its strong emphasis on industry engagement. The program is designed in collaboration with NHS clinical laboratories and is accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS). This close collaboration ensures that the curriculum is relevant to the needs of the healthcare sector. The highlight of the program in terms of industry engagement is the mandatory placement year, which typically takes place in the third year. For students aspiring to become Registered Biomedical Scientists, a placement year in a UKAS-accredited NHS hospital laboratory is particularly crucial as it allows them to complete their IBMS Registration Training Portfolio. The university provides support to students in finding suitable placements. This practical experience provides students with a significant competitive edge in the job market, allowing them to gain firsthand experience, build professional networks, and apply their academic knowledge in a real-world setting.
Global Perspective: While the primary focus of the Biomedical Science (Placement) program at the University of Gloucestershire is on the UK context, there are opportunities for students within the wider Biosciences subject area to gain a global perspective. Although the Biomedical Science (Placement) program specifically emphasizes the UK-based placement for IBMS registration, other bioscience courses at the university may offer opportunities for overseas field research or a period of study abroad at partner universities in various countries. The program's curriculum itself aims to provide students with a broad understanding of human health and disease, which inherently involves consideration of global health challenges and advancements in biomedical science worldwide. The development of transferable skills like analytical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills also prepares graduates for a diverse range of careers in an increasingly globalized world.
Location
Francis Close Hall, Cheltenham
Score
IELTS 6
Tuition Fee
£ 16600
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed their secondary education with a minimum overall score of 65% or equivalent in their respective country's grading system.
English language proficiency:
- IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.0 or 6.5 with no individual component below 5.5.
- TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 80.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 64.
- Some programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
The University of Gloucestershire offers a range of scholarships designed to support international students in their academic journey. These scholarships are aimed at making education more accessible and affordable, allowing students to focus on their studies and enjoy their time in the UK without financial stress. The university provides several merit-based, need-based, and country-specific scholarships to help ease the cost of tuition fees for international students.
International Scholarships: The University of Gloucestershire offers International Scholarships for students coming from various countries across the globe. These scholarships typically range from £1,000 to £3,000 per year, based on academic achievement and the chosen course of study. The scholarship is automatically awarded to eligible students upon acceptance of their offer to study at the university. These awards are designed to make studying in the UK more affordable and are available for both undergraduate and postgraduate international students.
Excellence Scholarships: For international students who demonstrate outstanding academic performance, the University of Gloucestershire offers Excellence Scholarships. These scholarships are awarded to students who have achieved exceptional academic results in their previous studies. The Excellence Scholarship can be worth up to £3,000 and is designed to recognize and support high-achieving students who show great potential in their chosen field of study.
Country-Specific Scholarships: In addition to general international scholarships, the University of Gloucestershire offers country-specific scholarships to students from certain regions. These scholarships are tailored to students from specific countries, helping to promote international diversity at the university. The scholarships vary in amount, eligibility criteria, and application processes.
The inclusion of a placement year in the BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science program at the University of Gloucestershire offers a significant advantage in the job market. This practical experience equips graduates with enhanced skills, industry connections, and a deeper understanding of real-world applications of their knowledge. The program is designed to provide students with a strong scientific foundation and the professional competencies needed for a successful career in a variety of fields, primarily within healthcare, research, and related industries. The placement year is particularly beneficial for those aiming to become registered Biomedical Scientists or to pursue careers in clinical research and development.
Registered Biomedical Scientist: This is the most direct career path, and the placement year is often essential for this role. Completing the IBMS Registration Training Portfolio during the placement year in a UKAS-accredited NHS hospital laboratory is a crucial step towards registration. Graduates analyze patient samples to aid in the diagnosis, monitoring, and treatment of diseases in various specializations (e.g., Blood Sciences, Infection Sciences, Cellular Sciences). The placement provides invaluable practical experience and skills, making graduates highly competitive for these positions.
Clinical Research Associate (CRA): The hands-on experience gained during the placement year makes graduates even more attractive to pharmaceutical companies and research organizations. They are involved in the planning, conducting, and monitoring of clinical trials, ensuring ethical and regulatory compliance. The placement experience provides practical insights into trial methodologies and data collection, significantly boosting their employability.
Research Scientist: While further study (MSc or PhD) is often required, the placement year demonstrates a commitment to research and provides practical experience in a laboratory setting. This hands-on research exposure, in addition to academic knowledge, makes graduates stand out when applying for research positions in universities, research institutes, or pharmaceutical companies.
Toxicologist: The placement year could involve some exposure to laboratory analysis and data interpretation related to the effects of substances on living organisms, strengthening their skills in this area. Graduates can work in various sectors, including government, pharmaceuticals, and environmental consultancies, assessing product safety and investigating poisoning cases.
Microbiologist: Placements in clinical or public health laboratories offer direct experience in identifying and studying microorganisms, crucial for controlling infectious diseases. The placement year provides practical experience in microbiological techniques and potentially exposure to disease outbreaks, making them highly qualified for this role.
Forensic Scientist: Though competitive, a placement year can involve developing key analytical skills and working with complex datasets, directly applicable to forensic analysis. The rigor and precision gained during the placement enhance their suitability for analyzing evidence from crime scenes.
Biotechnologist: Placements in biotechnology companies allow graduates to apply their knowledge of biological systems to develop new products and technologies. The practical experience gained during the placement is highly valued in this innovative and rapidly developing field.
Pharmaceutical Sales Representative: The placement year provides a deeper understanding of the pharmaceutical industry and the application of scientific knowledge in a practical setting. This enhances their ability to communicate effectively with healthcare professionals about pharmaceutical products.
Science Writer/Communicator: The ability to communicate scientific information effectively is honed during the placement year through report writing, presentations, and potentially communication with non-specialist audiences. The placement provides real-world examples and experience to draw upon in their writing.
Progression to Further Study (Medicine, Dentistry, Physician Associate): The robust scientific background and enhanced practical skills acquired during the placement year make graduates exceptionally well-prepared for demanding postgraduate programs. The placement experience demonstrates a commitment to healthcare and provides valuable insights into the realities of working in a medical setting.
