School of Biomedical Sciences

MSc Biomedical Science

Biomedical science focuses on the understanding of human health and disease, developing diagnostics and treatments that inevitably save and improve lives. Our research-informed MSc Biomedical Science programme aligns to our research strengths within our newly formed Plymouth Institute of Health and Care Research and offers the opportunity for students to focus their MSc Biomedical Science programme in of our three specialist areas: Cancer Biology, Clinical Neuroscience, Infection & Immunity.

Undertaking one of these specialist pathways combined with core teaching covering genetics and proteomics, provides students with a broad knowledge and practical skill set that supports those interested in pursuing a career in research.

First choice for health logo

First choice for health

Delivered by professional experts, our programmes are tailored to you and your career. Together, we address today's most challenging healthcare issues, through research-informed teaching and active, real-world learning.#firstchoiceforhealth

MSc Biomedical Science (specialist) pathway options:

Students choose one of the following pathway-specific programmes:
  • MSc Biomedical Science – Cancer Biology
  • MSc Biomedical Science – Clinical Neuroscience
  • MSc Biomedical Science – Infection & Immunity
Each of the specialist programmes comprises five modules (3 core modules and 2 pathway-specific modules):
  • Molecular Biology (core module)
  • Research Design & Development (core module)
  • Research project (core module)
  • Specialist module 1 (pathway specific)
  • Specialist module 2 (pathway specific)
Cancer Biology pathway: examines the fundamentals of various cancers and real-world diagnostics to set you up for a future career in advanced cellular science.
Clinical Neuroscience pathway: teaches the essentials of neurobiology with special focus on cause and treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.
Infection & Immunity pathway: explores molecular and cellular basis of infections and disease pathogenesis, antibiotic resistance, and immune system response.
We invite applications up until the beginning of September for UK applicants or mid-August for international applicants, with the programme commencing the 3rd week of September. A pathway may be closed early if all available spaces are taken. A two-year part-time route is also available for this programme starting at the same time in September. Please contact the programme lead, Philip.Warburton@plymouth.ac.uk for further information.

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

Course details

  • 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

The modules shown for this course or programme are those being studied by current students, or expected new modules. Modules are subject to change depending on year of entry.

Entry requirements
  • 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.

Fees, costs and funding
Student 2023-2024 2024-2025
Home £10,500 £11,000
International £17,500 £19,000
Part time (Home) £580 £610
Full time fees shown are per annum. Part time fees shown are per 10 credits. Please note that fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them shown in the prospectus are correct at the time of going to print. Fees shown on the web are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about fees and funding.

How to apply
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
Familiarise yourself with the information required to complete your application form. You will usually be required to supply:
  • 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.
If you require further information take a look at our application guidance. 
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.
International students
Support is also available to overseas students applying to the University from our International Office. Take a look at our how to apply information 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 weeksof 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 in our admissions policy which can be found on the student regulations, policies and procedures page. Prospective students are advised to read the policy before making an application to the University.
Soraya Williams

Soraya Williams – MSc Biomedical Science graduate

Biomedical science can be a broad subject to narrow down, so it is essential to find what you enjoy by putting yourself out there.
James Butler

James Butler – MSc Biomedical Science graduate

There is an active research community in the School of Biomedical Sciences which I knew would provide me with the mentoring, guidance and resources I needed to develop my research skills and run my own project.

Student insight

The programme has given me a vast amount of knowledge in many medical and scientific approaches. It has made me into a more critical-thinking person in regards to what is written and in the presented arguments.
Fatemah Alqallaf is a current student of the MSc Biomedical Science programme
Current masters Biomedical Healthcare student, Fatemah Alqallaf.
Plymouth University Peninsula School of Medicine

Biomedical Research at the University of Plymouth

Our research is aimed at understanding the molecular and cellular processes underlying human health and disease with a key aim to translate this research into diagnostic and therapeutic applications.
Investment in state-of-the-art genomic, proteomic and imaging technologies have allowed a systems-led approach to explore the interacting networks of genes, molecules and cells underpinning disease processes.
Our research in Diagnostics utilises interdisciplinary approaches to identify novel molecular disease markers and therapies.
 
Scientist In laboratory
Biomedical science 

Meet our staff

Specialising in a range of research areas, from stem cell transplantation to skeletal pathology, our team reflects the multi-disciplinary nature of biomedical science. You’ll benefit from their knowledge, expertise and insights during your course.
Focused research is the foundation of biomedical science.
Biomedical science research

MSc Biomedical Science staff

Careers

Students from around the world study biomedical science at the University of Plymouth. We offer the latest facilities, research, support and teaching expertise. So you’ll leave ready for your career, or to further your academic study.
Career possibilities for our graduates include healthcare science, research support, government science and areas relating to scientific media.
Systems biology facility