Overview

This programme aims to equip you with the skills and attributes needed to succeed in the dynamic field of Biomedical Sciences research. You will develop knowledge and understanding of key areas of contemporary research in human health and disease. You will be taught by experts with a diverse range of expertise and will consider different approaches to addressing global health challenges.

Optional units and project choices allow some flexibility within the programme, giving you the opportunity to pursue your interests. Reflecting the dynamic nature of our research within the Biomedical Sciences, project options vary each year, with previous students carrying out exciting research in areas ranging from biochemistry, cancer biology, cell biology, immunology, microbiology, neuroscience, pharmacology and physiology, to stem cell biology and virology.

You will gain experience of important laboratory techniques and develop data analysis skills. You will also develop critical thinking skills and become confident in communicating science. Throughout the programme, we will support you to reflect on your personal development, helping you to develop attributes desirable to a range of future employers, both in and beyond Biomedical Sciences research.

Programme structure

The programme currently includes a mandatory Core Skills unit, Literature Review and Project Proposal, as well as two optional units. You will also complete a research project.

Visit our programme catalogue for full details of the structure and unit content for our MSc in Biomedical Sciences Research.

 

Entry requirements

You will typically need an upper second-class honours degree or an international equivalent in a Life Sciences subject, for example Biomedical Sciences, Biochemistry, Cell Biology, Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Pharmacology, Bioengineering, Biotechnology or similar, or in Dentistry, Medicine, or Veterinary Science.

If you graduated more than five years ago, you will also need to show in your application that you have relevant practical lab-based experience.

If you are currently completing a degree, we understand that your final grade may be higher than the interim grades or module/unit grades you have achieved during your studies to date.

We will consider your application if your interim grades are currently slightly lower than the programme's entry requirements and may make you an aspirational offer. This offer would be at the standard level, so you would need to achieve the standard entry requirements by the end of your degree.

We will also consider your application if your final overall achieved grade is slightly lower than the programme's entry requirement. If you have at least one of the following, please include your CV (curriculum vitae / résumé) when you apply, showing details of your relevant qualifications:

  • evidence of significant, relevant work experience, minimum of six months paid/unpaid work in Biomedical Science Research within the last five years.
  • a relevant postgraduate qualification in a Life Sciences subject, for example Biomedical Sciences, Biochemistry, Cell Biology, Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Pharmacology, Bioengineering, Biotechnology or similar.

See international equivalent qualifications on the International Office website.

Read the programme admissions statement for important information on entry requirements, the application process and supporting documents required.

Go to admissions statement

If English is not your first language, you will need to reach the requirements outlined in our profile level B.

Further information about English language requirements and profile levels.

Fees and funding

Home: full-time
£14,500 per year
Overseas: full-time
£29,000 per year

Fees are subject to an annual review. For programmes that last longer than one year, please budget for up to an 8% increase in fees each year.

More about tuition fees, living costs and financial support.

Bench fees

£2,160. Further information about bench fees can be found on our webpages. Confirmation of bench fees will be stated in the offer letter sent to applicants.

Alumni discount

University of Bristol students and graduates can benefit from a 25% reduction in tuition fees for postgraduate study. Check your eligibility for an alumni discount.

Funding and scholarships

Further information on funding for prospective UK and international postgraduate students.

Career prospects

You will develop skills and attributes valuable to a range of employers within the Biomedical Sciences and beyond. Several students have contributed to published research papers and many have gone on to PhD-level studies at the University of Bristol or other leading universities. Others have gone on to research assistantships, clinical trials coordination, medicine, biomedical scientist training or non-scientific careers, such as teacher training, consulting, accountancy and patent law.