Biomedical Science

Biomedical Science provides an integrated study of the structure and function of the entire human body. This degree programme has two unique aspects: the scientific content of pre-clinical medicine, plus the opportunity to study cellular processes from this whole-body perspective.

Why Aberdeen?

• Provides a thorough grounding in the core medical sciences of human structure and function, and a topic chosen from Physiology, Pharmacology, Molecular Biology, Developmental Biology or Anatomy
• Biomedical scientists in Aberdeen have made major medical advances, including co-discovery of insulin (receiving a Nobel Prize) and discovery of the brain’s morphine-like chemicals
• The integrated course is taught by a School awarded a maximum ‘Excellent’ in the Teaching Quality Assessment Exercise
• The final year ten-week, full-time project in research-active laboratories provides a valuable insight into academic research
• Graduates acquire core skills and knowledge vital to the modern workplace, and an ideal training for progress to graduate programmes in medical research, medicine and physiotherapy

Programmes

Accreditation

The Biomedical Sciences degree offered by the University of Aberdeen is NOT accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Sciences (IBMS). IBMS accredited courses must focus on the specific vocational training required to pursue a career as a biomedical scientist in a pathology or biomedical laboratory within (or serving) the NHS. The Biomedical Sciences degree programme in Aberdeen aims to underpin a much greater range of potential career choices to our graduates. These would include future individual IBMS accreditation following a further one year conversion course.

Study Abroad

Study abroad information

The opportunity to take Enhanced Study options as part of your degree and participate in co-curricular activities. See www.abdn.ac.uk/thedifference for more information.

The Biomedical Science programme has its own degree regulations and higher entry requirements but students may transfer to other schemes at any stage, provided progress requirements are met.

First Year

In first year there are courses in Chemistry and Medical Sciences, plus optional courses from the normal science programme and other areas.

Second year

Second year covers: Human Gross Anatomy (dissection of human cadaver), Human Physiology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry combined with courses delivering key skills applicable to Biomedical Sciences.

Third Year

A compulsory Molecules, Membranes and Cells course plus specialised courses in Physiology, Pharmacology, Molecular Biology, Developmental Biology or Anatomy.

Fourth Year (Honours)

One half of the year explores Biomedical topics of the chosen specialist topic. The other half comprises a full-time, ten-week research project within a research institution, experiencing original research work in an active environment.

Teaching and Assessment

In the early years, teaching involves attendance at lectures, practicals and tutorials. In the later years a rather greater proportion of the students’ time is taken up with private study involving writing essays and reports, and also in laboratory or library work relating to specific projects. The final year incorporates the preparation and presentation of a research-based thesis.

Careers

This degree primarily prepares graduates to follow careers in science relating to medicine. The degree can also be a basis for an application to enter graduate Medicine or Dentistry. However, the number of places available for graduate entry to Medicine and Dentistry is unpredicatable and the competition extremely fierce. Thus students should read a BSc in Biomedical Sciences for its own sake and not as a possible entry route into Medicine or Dentistry. In addition, transfer after commencing a Biomedical Science degree is not a route into medicine that can be considered.

Finding your direction

There are many opportunities at the University of Aberdeen to develop your knowledge, gain experience and build a competitive set of skills to enhance your employability. This is essential for your future career success.  The Careers Service can help you to plan your career and support your choices throughout your time with us – from first to final year – and beyond.

• More information on employability at the University of Aberdeen.
• More information on the Careers Service.
• More information on careers prospects and employability with a degree in Biological Science.

Entrance Requirements

SQA Highers - AABB*
A Levels - ABB*
IB - 32 points, 5 at HL*
ILC - BBBB
*Chemistry or Biology at Grade A and another Mathematics/Science subject required.

Advanced Entry - Advanced Highers AAB or A Levels AAB, or IB 36 points (6 at HL) including Biology and Chemistry, one of which must be at A-grade.

For more detailed information on entrance requirements please click here

Please click on the links below to find out more information on funding in your area.

• Scotland and EU (Excluding England, Wales and Northern Ireland)
• Rest of UK (England, Wales and Northern Ireland)
• International
• Scholarships

Related Links

• Scholarships
• Entrance Scholarships
• Funding Database
• England Wales and Northern Ireland Finance Guide