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Postgraduate taught programme
PgDip
Biomedical Science
Biomedical science is fast‑moving and ever‑evolving. Deepen your theoretical knowledge, strengthen clinical skills and expand professional experience – with flexible award pathways to explore research areas and develop your specialisms.Advance your clinical and research career
Gain specialist skills in research methods, project development and emerging technologies, with a programme ideal for intercalating medical students or graduates aiming for masters‑level study.
Learn from active researchers
Teaching is delivered by academics and NHS experts developing cutting‑edge techniques, ensuring your learning is rooted in real, current scientific advancement.
Train in high‑spec, research‑intensive facilities
Access regularly updated laboratories supporting post‑genomics, proteomics, cell biology and imaging, strengthened by the Centre for Biomedical Research and the Systems Biology Centre.
Details
Year 1
You’ll take five modules: the core module (molecular biology: genomics, transcriptomics and proteomics), at least one diagnostic research applications module and one discipline-specific module to determine your final award. Options for the diagnostic research applications include bioinformatics, contemporary applications of cell biology, and contemporary science of infection and immunity. Focussing in on the discipline that interests you the most for your final award, you can choose from a range of modules including: clinical immunology, clinical microbiology, haematology and transfusion, medical genomics and personalised medicine, molecular and cellular pathology and clinical biochemistry.
This course is delivered by the Faculty of Health and can also be taken as a full-time intercalated degree.
Accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science.
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:
Careers, industry and research
Hear from our graduates
Studying at Plymouth has been special because of the quality of the facilities, the supportive teaching staff, and the hands-on, practical nature of the course. The labs are well-equipped, allowing us to train with the same tools used in professional research and diagnostics. The academics are not only knowledgeable but genuinely passionate about their fields, which makes learning more engaging and inspiring. What also stands out is the emphasis on real-world experience – especially through placements and practical modules, which gave me a deeper understanding of how biomedical science is applied beyond the lecture hall.
Bradley, MSc Biomedical Science graduate
“My decision to study at Plymouth was based on its good reputation and the MSc Biomedical Science programme. I feel fortunate to have been offered at place on this course where I can gain scientific knowledge, particularly in contemporary techniques and applications in cell biology and genetics.
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.
Before applying here I had been working in the criminal evidence department in Kuwait, having previously studied medical genomics and personalised medicine and now I'm thinking about applying for a job in the Genetics Centre in Kuwait.
The programme provides you with contemporary knowledge, which will be beneficial in your career.”
Fatemah, MSc Biomedical Science graduate
Research-informed teaching
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.
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.
James, MSc Biomedical Science graduate
Hands-on learning
Our students in the School of Biomedical Sciences have access to some of the best-resourced laboratories in the UK, pursuing research grounded in the real world of clinical, applied and basic science.
Meet your lecturers
Dr Philip Warburton
Associate Professor of Medical Microbiology
Programme Lead
Dr Simon Fox
Associate Professor in Molecular Pathology (Education)
Dr Andrew Foey
Associate Professor of Immunology
Postgraduate student life
Postgraduate study at the University of Plymouth is about more than just getting a qualification — it’s a chance to explore your subject in greater depth, challenge yourself intellectually, and grow both personally and academically.
With a supportive learning environment and flexible study options — including part-time and January start dates — you can shape your studies around your personal and professional commitments. Our supportive teaching, and welcoming student community, means you’ll be part of an environment that encourages curiosity, collaboration and independent thinking. Whether you're continuing from undergraduate study or returning to education, Plymouth offers the space, resources and inspiration to help you thrive.
The University takes every single step to ensure that students are supported. There are continuous workshops on referencing, a writing café and peer-supported learning sessions. Furthermore, lecturers are generally aware and sensitive to transitioning to university therefore they are always offering support when needed.
Joyita
Postgraduate student
Postgraduate student
Your Plymouth community
At the University of Plymouth, you get the same access to support, sports, and societies as undergraduate students. That means everything available to undergraduates is open to you too, whether it’s joining a sports club, attending events, taking part in student societies, or accessing health and wellbeing services.
You’re a full member of the Plymouth community, and that comes with all the benefits. So take advantage of what’s on offer — get involved, stay connected, and make the most of your time here.
Enrich your studies with the Postgrad Society
The Postgrad Society welcomes all postgraduate students – whether full-time, part-time, taught or research-based – offering a supportive space to connect beyond academic pressures. Join a vibrant community where you can unwind, celebrate achievements and meet likeminded peers through a wide range of activities – from pub quizzes, movie nights and beach cleans to trips along the South West coastal path and the annual Postgraduate Christmas Ball.
Events are thoughtfully planned around key postgraduate milestones and often in collaboration with other societies, so you can try new things and make the most of your university experience.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
Tuition fees for UK students starting in 2026-2027 academic year
Full-time study
£7,775 per year
£7,775 per year
Part-time study
£650 per 10 credits
£650 per 10 credits
Tuition fee price changes
Our fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about
Fees and costs of studying .
Tuition fees for full-time international students starting in 2026-2027 academic year
Full-time study
£13,430 per year
£13,430 per year
Tuition fee price changes
Our fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about
fees and costs of studying .
UK Government announcement on tuition fees
The UK Government has announced that a levy on tuition fee income in the region of 6% of an international student’s tuition fees may be introduced. If implemented, the University reserves the right to increase your tuition fees accordingly. The Government has made it clear that it has not officially decided on its stance and it is possible that the eventual levy amount or arrangements may differ from the initial proposal. Therefore, the University reserves the right to adjust tuition fees in accordance with the Government’s final position on this levy.
We understand that clarity around tuition fees is important when planning your studies. Therefore, please note that the tuition fee shown on this page may change as a result of the introduction of a levy. We advise you to monitor this page regularly to stay informed of any updates to your tuition fees.
Fund your studies
As a postgraduate at Plymouth, there are plenty of funding options available, including postgraduate masters loans, scholarships, bursaries and support funds.
Postgraduate Masters Loans (PGML)
You may be eligible to apply for a Postgraduate Masters Loan to help with course fees and living costs while you study a postgraduate masters course.
Tuition fee discount for University of Plymouth graduates
If you studied your undergraduate degree at Plymouth, you may be eligible for a fee discount if you complete your postgraduate studies here as well.
- 10% or 20% discount on tuition fees for home students
Supporting students with the cost of living
The cost of living in the UK has risen faster than household income, meaning that most people will have less to spend on essential goods and services. This is an ongoing situation that is likely to affect everyone in some way.
The University provides advice and guidance and has a range of services, facilities and offers to help students with rising everyday costs.
Apply
Entry requirements
You should have either:
- A good honours degree (at least 2:2), or equivalent UK university or institute of higher education qualification in a relevant subject with a significant biomedical, biological or biochemical content related to the specialist subject(s) to be studied.
- If you have overseas qualifications you can check how they compare with the UK equivalent through UK ENIC, who provide an advisory service.
Or:
- Other qualifications and experience that the programme manager deems equivalent in subject content and level of attainment to any of the above.
English language:
- If you did not complete your secondary or tertiary education in English you will need the equivalent of an IELTS score of at least 6.5.
Please note that the deadline for those wishing to apply for this programme as an intercalating Masters student, is 31 March during the year of entry.
We welcome applicants with international qualifications. To view other accepted qualifications please refer to our tariff glossary.
Extended entry requirements
- a suitable English language qualification. The minimum IELTS score for acceptable English proficiency for entry is 6.5 (with a minimum of 5.5 in each element).
English language requirements - evidence of qualifications (degree certificates or transcripts), to show that you meet, or expect to meet the entry requirements
- 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.
Ready to apply?
After you 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 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.
Duration
1 year
Course type
Full-time
Study location
Plymouth
Plymouth
Entry requirements
We welcome applicants with international qualifications and we accept a range of qualifications from across the globe.
BSearch entry requirements for your country
5
Extended entry requirements
- a suitable English language qualification. The minimum IELTS score for acceptable English proficiency for entry is 6.5 (with a minimum of 5.5 in each element).
English language requirements - 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
- 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.
Ready to apply?
As an international student, you can apply for this course directly through the University of Plymouth or
through an agent in your country.
Need support with your application?
- Personal statement guidance
- Student visa support
- Travel and arrival information
- and more
After you 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.
Duration
1 year
Course type
Full-time
Study location
Plymouth
Plymouth
Visit us at a postgraduate on-campus open evening
Visit us on campus to find out more about postgraduate study, speak to academic staff, and take a look around our campus and facilities.
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