Leading department

Bristol is in the UK's top 10 for Biological Sciences (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2023).

Turn science into medicine

Work with experts to understand the cellular and molecular basis of disease and how discoveries can be translated into life-changing applications.

First-class facilities

Gain practical experience in specialist labs with state-of-the-art Human Patient Simulators and a unique online lab manual.

Biomedical Sciences courses for 2024

Single Honours

Biomedical Sciences at Bristol

During a critical time for the study of human health and disease, this stimulating degree allows you to gain a firm foundation in a broad variety of subject areas, from biochemistry to virology. You will experience biomedical research first-hand, developing critical and analytical skills.

You will be taught by renowned research scientists and clinicians in outstanding facilities. We offer state-of-the-art teaching and research laboratories, well-equipped lecture theatres and a specialist library.

We provide you with an environment in which you learn to think like a scientist, developing skills that are highly valued by employers in the field.

We welcome applications from students who are also applying for medicine. For degrees with a more focused approach, view our Cellular and Molecular Medicine courses.

We also offer Biochemistry, Biological Sciences, Neuroscience, Pharmacology, Physiological Science and Psychology.

I wanted to be in the scientific world where I could help people. The lab I'm working in is looking at how Parkinson's disease could be cured by a mutation that's been found by one of the team in the lab. Knowing that we are contributing to science is fascinating.

Rhodri, BSc Biomedical Sciences

Career prospects

Students using pipettes in a laboratory.

We provide an excellent foundation for careers in the biotechnology, pharmaceutical or food industries; biomedical research; patient examination; science communication or medicine.

Many of our graduates go on to pursue a PhD or MSc as the first stage of a career in biomedical research. Other graduates find employment in industrial, academic or clinical laboratories or choose to use their transferable and problem-solving skills in non-scientific careers. A significant number of our graduates go on to study medicine.

What our students do after graduating

Course structure

Three students work together in a laboratory class.

You'll take a broad, common first year including practical lab training and a range of units that introduce you to biochemistry; cell biology; medical microbiology and infectious diseases; pharmacology; and physiology of body systems.

Year two will build on the foundation of year one, with a Recombinant DNA Technology unit and another called Biomedical Research, Employability and Enterprise Skills, which prepares you for your research project and future employment. You will also choose optional units on one of three pathways which will prepare you for the final year.

In the final year, you will complete an original research project, giving you invaluable experience applying your skills to real-life problems. In addition, you will take optional units chosen from those available on your pathway.

Sample units may include:

  • Cancer Mechanisms and Therapeutics
  • Frontiers in Infectious Diseases
  • Advanced Immunology
  • New Horizons in Medicine
  • Neurological and Psychiatric Disorders.

Forefront of knowledge

A student uses a pipette in a laboratory.

At Bristol, current innovative practices and industry developments enhance our research-informed teaching. You'll join a close-knit and supportive community. Our staff take pride in being friendly and approachable and will always be available to support you.

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