MSc Biomedical Science

• Choose to specialise in either Cancer Biology, Clinical Neuroscience* or Infection and Immunity.
• Dedicated core content covering genomics, proteomics and transcriptomics.
• 50+ hours of practical-based learning on each pathway (laboratory and computational-based).
• 15-week, independent wet- or dry-laboratory research projects available, supported by a dedicated supervisor.
• Significant financial investment in laboratory infrastructure including our recently built Derriford Research Facility.
• Programme professionally accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS).
• An international reputation in translational research; ranked 1st in the UK for Research Output in Clinical Medicine for REF 2014.
• 100% overall student satisfaction in the 2019-20 Postgraduate Taught Experience Survey (University of Plymouth).
• Ranked 41st best UK University in the Guardian best UK universities 2022 rankings.

• Programme structure

• The MSc Biomedical Science programme enables you to specialise in one of three areas through our research-aligned, biomedical pathways:
  

  • Cancer Biology
  • Clinical Neuroscience*
  • Infection and Immunity

  Each pathway comprises two discipline-specific modules covering specialist and application teaching, along with three core modules in molecular genetics and proteomics, project design and development, and a research dissertation project aligned to your pathway choice. All modules are assessed through a variety of coursework types, including written elements, presentations and timed/practical elements, and a written project dissertation. This enables you to gain broad, transferable skills and experience.
  

  Core modules

  • BIOM5001 Molecular Biology: Genomics, Transcriptomics and Proteomics
  • BIOM5005 Project Design and Development
  • BIOM5006 Research Project

  Students also select one dedicated pathway from the following three options:

  1) Cancer Biology pathway
  

  • BHCS5009 Cancer Biology and Therapeutics
  • BHCS5010 Contemporary Applications in Cancer Biology and Therapeutics

  
  2) Clinical Neuroscience pathway*
  

  • BHCS5011 Basis & Clinical Neuroscience
  • BHCS5012 Contemporary Applications in Neurobiology

  
  3) Infection and Immunity pathway
  

  • BHCS5008 Infection and Immunity
  • BIOM5003 Contemporary Science of Infection and Immunity

  Every postgraduate taught course has a detailed programme specification document describing the programme aims, the programme structure, the teaching and learning methods, the learning outcomes and the rules of assessment.

  * Clinical Neuroscience pathway has been approved by the University for a September 2021 start and is undergoing IBMS accreditation.
  

  We recommend that you apply as early as possible stipulating your desired pathway. Once a pathway is full, we are unable to guarantee further pathway-specific projects so reserve the right to close applications or offer out an alternative project.
  

Every postgraduate taught course has a detailed programme specification document describing the programme aims, the programme structure, the teaching and learning methods, the learning outcomes and the rules of assessment.

The following programme specification represents the latest programme structure and may be subject to change:

MSc Biomedical Science Programme Specification 4797

• Applicants require a minimum of an upper second-class UK honours degree in biomedical sciences, life sciences or related subject with a genetics component, or an overseas qualification of an equivalent standard. Intercalating or graduate medical/dental/veterinarian applicants or those with substantial relevant work-based experience are encouraged to apply and will be considered on an individual basis. University of Plymouth alumni who do not meet this requirement can contact the programme lead in the first instance. Please list the pathway you are applying for in your application. A short interview may be undertaken as part of the applications process.
  

• This programme accepts applications from medical, dental and veterinary students who wish to intercalate their studies.

• For overseas applicants, you can check how your qualification compares with the UK equivalent through UK ECCTIS, who provide an advisory service.

If your first language is not English, you will be required to provide evidence of competence in English language:

• International English Language Testing System (IELTS) score of 6.5 or above with no less than 6.0 in each category (speaking, listening, reading, & writing) will be required.
• Please visit our entry requirements for international students page for more information.

We welcome applicants with international qualifications. To view other accepted qualifications please refer to our tariff glossary.

When to apply

Most of our taught programmes begin in September. Applications can usually be made throughout the year, and are considered until programmes are full. 

Before you apply

• evidence of qualifications (degree certificates or transcripts), with translations if not in English, to show that you meet, or expect to meet the entry requirements
  
• evidence of English language proficiency, if English is not your first language
  
• a personal statement of approximately 250-400 words about the reasons for your interest in the course and outlining the nature of previous and current related experience. You can write this into the online application form, or include it as a separate document
  
• your curriculum vitae or résumé, including details of relevant professional/voluntary experience, professional registration/s and visa status for overseas workers
  
• proof of sponsorship, if applicable.
  

Disability services

If you have a disability and would like further information about the support provided by University of Plymouth, please visit our Disability Services website. 

International students

Support is also available to overseas students applying to the University from our International Office via our how to apply webpage or email admissions@plymouth.ac.uk.

Submitting an application

Once you are happy that you have all of the information required you can apply using our online postgraduate application form (the blue 'Apply now' icon on this page).

What happens after I apply?

You will normally receive a decision on your application within four weeks of us receiving your application. You may be asked to provide additional information; two academic/professional references, confirming your suitability for the course; or to take part in an interview (which in the case of overseas students may be by telephone or video conference) and you will be sent a decision by letter or email.

We aim to make the application procedure as simple and efficient as possible. Our Admissions and Course Enquiries team is on hand to offer help and can put you in touch with the appropriate faculty if you wish to discuss any programme in detail.

If you would like any further information please contact the Admissions and Course Enquiries team:

Telephone: +44 (0)1752 585858
Email: admissions@plymouth.ac.uk 

Admissions policy

More information and advice for applicants can be referenced by downloading our Student Admissions Policy Prospective students are advised to read the policy before making an application to the University.