School of Biomedical Sciences

BSc (Hons) Human Biosciences

UCAS tariff 104 - 120 Contextual offers
A contextual offer is an offer to study at university that takes personal circumstances that may affect grades into account.
UCAS course code C190
Institution code P60
Duration

3 years

(+ optional placement)
Course type

Full-time

Study location Plymouth

Will gene therapy become an established treatment for cancer? What are the potential benefits of stem cell research? How has the revolution in genome sequencing provided insights into human biology? On this flexible course, you’ll develop skills and knowledge across the spectrum of subject disciplines – enabling an understanding of these and other key questions relating to human biology, health and disease. You'll have the opportunity to enhance your employability with an optional placement year

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

Careers with this subject

Careers options include: biomedical research, biomedical NHS and public health laboratory assistants, medical laboratory technology, health counselling, pharmaceutical sales and marketing, health product research and development, environmental agencies, food quality control, cosmetics industry, scientific writing and publishing, teaching profession and further postgraduate study (MSc, MRes, PhD).
With regards to career options, in addition to the five ring-fenced places for transfer to medicine and dentistry after year 1 for BMS or HB, we also have the additional route for graduates of all our undergraduate programmes.
The programme also has an enhanced admissions process for medicine and dentistry. So if you are considering applying for either of these courses you may wish to consider applying to Plymouth in light of the following. Further information regarding admissions and interviews etc. is available from the medical and dental school admissions team meddent-admissions@plymouth.ac.uk.
  • A tranche of students on track to gain 1st Class (>70 per cent) will be guaranteed an interview (NDSL)
  • Waive the requirement for GAMSAT
  • Entry requirement – > 70 per cent in final degree score
  • Satisfactory in Interview
  • OH or DBS satisfactory reports
  • Two year currency

Key features

  • Delivered by the School of Biomedical Sciences in the Faculty of Health and enhanced by links with healthcare professionals.
  • A strong foundation in a broad range of bioscience disciplines underpinned by a biomolecular knowledge-base relevant to contemporary human biosciences today.
  • Opportunities to include optional elements of psychology at each stage of the programme.
  • Enables students to explore themes of personal interest within the biosciences at all stages.
  • Staff with expertise in a wide range of biomedical research topics directly inform learning and teaching.
  • Strong international reputation in translational research with significant financial investment in laboratory infrastructure.
  • Emphasis on practical laboratory skills relevant to research and other scientific careers.
  • Benefit from a rich and varied interdisciplinary learning environment, which includes collaboration with a wider health care education community at the University.
  • Optional placement opportunities provide students with relevant work experience.
  • Personal tutoring in modules throughout the programme of study.
  • Equips graduates with the confidence, knowledge, skills and other attributes suitable for a wide variety of careers within this rapidly expanding field.
  • This course has competitive entry for up to ten ring-fenced places at the end of stage one for progression onto medicine and dentistry. Applicants must meet minimum academic requirements for consideration. e.g. A levels - Minimum of AAB to include A grades in Biology, one other science from Chemistry, Maths, Physics or Psychology. General Studies will not be accepted.

Progression options

This course has up to ten ring-fenced places available at the end of year 1 for progression onto medicine and dentistry. Applicants must meet the following requirements for consideration:
  • Minimum of AAB at A level to include A grades in Biology and one other science from Chemistry, Maths, Physics, or Psychology. General Studies will not be accepted.
  • >70% average across all Year 1 modules.
  • Satisfactory DBS check and Occupational Health screening.
We also have an additional route for our Biomedical Science graduates. This involves an enhanced admissions process, as follows:
  • On track to gain 1st Class (>70%) OR already holds a 1st Class Biomedical Science degree with us achieved in the two years prior to applying.
  • GAMSAT requirement waived.
  • Satisfactory performance in Interview.
  • Satisfactory DBS check and Occupational Health screening.
For further information regarding admissions and interviews please contact us at meddent-admissions@plymouth.ac.uk.

Course details

  • Year 1

  • In your first year, a foundation of theory and practicals will introduce you to the most important organism – Homo sapiens, and you'll develop key graduate skills in communication, data analysis and IT.

    Core modules

    BHCS1001
    Biomedical Investigation and Experimentation 20 credits

    To introduce the learner to key elements of investigation and experimentation within the biomedical sciences and to support the development of the basic skills and knowledge required for effective practice in these discipline areas

    50% Coursework

    50% Practicals

    BHCS1002
    Human Anatomy and Physiology: Cells to Systems 20 credits

    This module offers an introduction to the key anatomical features of the body and how physiological function is controlled to maintain homeostasis and health. It will commence with an exploration of cell and tissue biology and the founding principles of genetics, embryology and human development. The module will conclude with an exposition of anatomy and physiology of the major human organ systems.

    50% Coursework

    50% Examinations

    BHCS1003
    Human Metabolism 20 credits

    This module offers an introduction to the biochemistry underlying human metabolism. In particular, the module explores the cellular and molecular mechanisms by which the human body extracts energy from nutrients to sustain life. The significance of metabolic dysfunction in relation to human disease pathology and diagnosis is emphasised.

    50% Coursework

    50% Examinations

    BHCS1005
    Human Disease 20 credits

    Concepts associated with altered health states due to environmental, developmental and genetic causes are explored. Pathological changes at the cellular, tissue and organ level are discussed. Genomic and bioinformatic technologies are introduced, and their application to clinical and personalised medicine considered.

    50% Coursework

    50% Examinations

    BHCS1006
    Infection and Immunity 20 credits

    This module introduces the student to infection & immunity and the study of microorganisms with a particular emphasis on food-borne pathogens. It explores concepts of food safety, gut organisms, infectious disease and the body's ability to resist and repel such disease via a range of immune responses.

    50% Coursework

    50% Examinations

    BHCS1011
    Study skills and personal development 0 credits

    This module supports the development of key study and learning skills. Timetabled tutorials will help promote self-reflection and provide a framework for personal development planning and careers.

    HIPL400
    Interprofessional Learning 1

    PSYC427
    Psychobiological and Cognitive Aspects of Health Behaviour 20 credits

    This module introduces the psychology of choices and behaviour, with an emphasis on health. We will examine health behaviours, choices, and risks with a particular consideration of how these are influenced by biological and social factors. Students will have the opportunity to design and conduct research projects in groups, with presentation of this project forming the assessment for the module, in addition to assessment by Multiple Choice Test.

    100% Coursework

  • Year 2

  • The focus in your second year will be to develop a deeper understanding of human physiology and neurobiology, genetics and molecular cell biology, metabolism, infection and immunology. You'll also enhance your knowledge and practical skills in experimental and investigative techniques with a methods module.

    Core modules

    BHCS2003
    Genetic Continuity and Diversity 20 credits

    Processes which maintain genetic stability or promote genetic variation at various levels of biological organisation are considered. Applications of advances in genetics are examined in topics such as developmental genetics, epigenetics, genomics and proteomics, recombinant DNA technology, and human genetic diversity.

    50% Coursework

    50% Examinations

    BHCS2004
    Cell Biology in Health and Disease 20 credits

    This module examines the fundamental principles of cell biology in health and disease. It will include the theory and practice of cellular laboratory science and introduce the scope and practice of light microscopy and histology in clinical investigation and cellular pathology.

    50% Coursework

    50% Examinations

    BHCS2006
    Infection, Immunity and Disease 20 credits

    This module is to develop an in-depth understanding of the immune system and pathogenic infection. It highlights the integrated cellular responses that prevent infection and the underlying principles that govern these actions, and it looks at measures to prevent and control infections, including health protection measures, antimicrobial therapy and vaccination.

    50% Practicals

    50% Examinations

    BHCS2018
    Systems Physiology: Function and Dysfunction 20 credits

    This module examines human physiological mechanisms of function of major body systems at the cellular, tissue, organ and organism level. It also explores mechanisms of dysfunction at the cellular, organ and systems level. The module will emphasize relationships between structure and function and will emphasize correlations between normal physiology and pathophysiology, normal anatomy and pathology, and homeostasis and homeostatic imbalances.

    50% Coursework

    50% Examinations

    BHCS2027
    Placements and Employability 0 credits

    HIPL500
    Interprofessional Learning 2

    BHCS2002
    Evidence-Based Practice in Biomedical Science

    This module continues the processes of understanding, acquisition and development of the skills and personal attributes necessary for a biomedical sciences practitioner. It also provides a greater understanding of research theory and methodology.

    Optional modules

    PSYC522
    Individual Differences in Behaviour 20 credits

    The aim of this module is to give an overview of how individuals vary in thinking, behaviour, and emotion, and the consequences this may have for their physical and mental health. This module consists of four strands. 1 Personality & Intelligence (development, measurement) 2 Health Psychology (physical health, behaviour change) 3 Clinical Psychology (definition, therapy) 4 Positive Psychology (mental health improvement)

    50% Coursework

    50% Examinations

    BHCS2005
    Clinical Haematology and Biochemistry

    Clinical laboratory tests for a wide variety of biochemical and haematological parameters play an important role in disease diagnosis. This module will investigate both the scientific theory underlying commonly used tests and their application in biochemistry, haematology and transfusion science laboratories.

  • Year 3

  • Enrich your experience and boost your career prospects by taking an optional work placement for a minimum six months full-time (or part-time equivalent). Once completed, you’ll receive the Certificate of Work Experience as valuable evidence for future employers.

    Core modules

    BHCS3030
    Biomedical Sciences: Placement 0 credits

    This module provides an opportunity for professional training of at least 26 weeks duration with an approved placement provider or host organisation between Stage 2 and 4. While on placement, students will gain work experience related to their degree programme, be able to apply their knowledge and expertise, and learn further skills and relevant techniques.

  • Final year

  • In your final year, you will have a choice of two personal research project modules to suit your career aspirations. A wide range of modules will develop your critical understanding of cutting-edge research.

    Core modules

    BHCS3001
    Personal Research Project 40 credits

    The module requires students to perform a self-directed research study project that includes the design, implementation, collection, analysis and interpretation of scientific data. It also involves the evaluation and interpretation of scientific literature, evaluation of current issues and concepts and the ability to reflect upon continuing professional and personal development.

    80% Coursework

    20% Practicals

    BHCS3031
    Personal Development and Employability 0 credits

    The module aims to provide personal academic support and careers guidance. It will provide a forum for students to discuss their achievements and develop plans to address potential areas of weakness and achieve future career and professional goals.

    HIPL600
    Interprofessional Learning 3

    Optional modules

    BHCS3003
    Clinical Microbiology 20 credits

    This module provides knowledge and skills that will enable students to operate effectively in a modern infection sciences laboratory. The module will develop an in-depth understanding of the commonly encountered infections, tests to identify the disease agents and the principles of antimicrobial therapy.

    50% Examinations

    50% Tests

    BHCS3006
    Cellular Basis of Immunity 20 credits

    This module provides theoretical skills that will enable students to explore immune processes focussing on the role of immune cells and their molecules in host immune defences to pathogens and chronic diseases. Contemporary immunology research issues and their translation to clinical practice will be explored in a critical manner.

    50% Coursework

    50% Examinations

    BHCS3007
    Current Issues in Neurobiology 20 credits

    This module provides an in depth understanding of the molecular, cellular and systems mechanisms that underlies nervous system function and dysfunction related to key contemporary issues in neuroscience

    50% Coursework

    50% Examinations

    BHCS3009
    Medical Genetics 20 credits

    Medical genetics explores how genetics affects human health. Techniques for human genetic analyses are considered, and chromosomal, single gene and multifactorial disorders reviewed. The relevance of modern genetic and genomic technologies for public health and personalised medicine are examined.

    50% Coursework

    50% Examinations

    BHCS3014
    Reproductive Science 20 credits

    This module provides the theoretical underpinning that will enable students to operate effectively in a modern reproductive science laboratory. Current concepts and techniques in reproductive biology and pathology, with particular reference to infertility and assisted reproduction, will be explored in a critical manner.

    50% Practicals

    50% Examinations

    BHCS3022
    Contemporary Issues in Human Health 20 credits

    Rapid developments in the biomedical sciences are affecting many aspects of human health, and there are profound economic, social, legal and ethical implications of many recent advances. This module allows students to select topics of personal interest for in-depth study and encourages effective communication to peers and other audiences, providing good skills for future career development

    70% Coursework

    30% Examinations

    BHCS3024
    Diet, Exercise and Chronic Disease 20 credits

    This module examines the roles of diet and exercise in the development and management of chronic disease states. The focus is on the major chronic diseases - obesity, CVD, type2 diabetes, cancer, osteoporosis.

    50% Coursework

    50% Examinations

    PSYC608
    Applied Topics in Psychology 1 20 credits

    This course allows students to develop an in depth and critical appreciation of two areas of psychological research (four topics drawn from the current research programmes of the School's staff).

    50% Coursework

    50% Examinations

The modules shown for this course are those currently being studied by our students, or are proposed new modules. Please note that programme structures and individual modules are subject to amendment from time to time as part of the University’s curriculum enrichment programme and in line with changes in the University’s policies and requirements.

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

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

BSc (Hons) Human Biosciences programme specification_1391

Entry requirements

UCAS tariff

104 - 120

Contextual offers: Typically, the contextual offer for this course is 8 points below the advertised tariff. A contextual offer is an offer to study at university that takes into account individual circumstances that are beyond your control, and that can potentially impact your learning and your exam results, or your confidence in applying to university.

Check your eligibility for a contextual offer

GCSE: Grade C/4 or above in Mathematics and English. Consideration may be given to equivalent qualifications such as Functional Skills.
Plus one of the following:
A levels: 104–120 Tariff points to include a minimum of three A levels, including Grade B in Biology/Human Biology, and Grade C in a relevant second science. General Studies excluded.
Relevant second sciences: Chemistry, Physics, Maths, Applied Science, Environmental Science, Environmental Studies, Geology, Geography, and Psychology.
Access to HE Diploma: Pass an Access to HE Diploma with 33 Level 3 credits at Merit or Distinction, including 15 Level 3 credits in Biology and 18 Level 3 credits in Chemistry, Maths, or Physics.
BTEC RQF National Extended Diploma/QCF Extended Diploma: DDM – depending on the BTEC and units studied. If you hold a BTEC qualification it is vital that you provide our Admissions team with details of the exact modules you have studied as part of the BTEC. Without this information we may be unable to process your application quickly and you could experience significant delays in the progress of your application to study with us. Please explicitly state the full list of modules within your qualification at the time of application or contact Admissions for further advice.
T level: Accepted – preference pathways would be Health or Science. Typical offer will be confirmed once an application is received.
International Baccalaureate: 28 points overall to include Grade 5 in Higher Level Biology and Grade 5 in a second relevant science. English and Mathematics accepted within as GCSE equivalent at higher level = 4, standard level = 5
International qualifications: We welcome applicants offering a wide range of international qualifications. Applications are considered on an individual basis, depending on the subjects studied.
IELTS: Overall average score of at least 6.0, with a score of at least 5.5 in all elements.
Other qualifications: Applicants with other qualifications should contact the Admissions Office for advice.
Students must be 18 years old or over at the start date of this programme.

Fees, costs and funding

New student 2024-2025 2025-2026 *
Home £9,250 £9,535
International £18,100 £18,650
Part time (Home) £770 £795
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.

* UK Government announcement on tuition fees

On Monday 4 November 2024, the UK Government announced a proposal to increase tuition fees for home undergraduate students from £9,250 to £9,535 per annum from September 2025 onwards. The University of Plymouth intends to apply this new fee from September 2025. However, implementation of this increase will be subject to parliamentary procedure. This change applies to new students starting their studies in September 2025. For current and returning students, the University is reviewing fees and will update you as soon as possible.

Additional costs

This course is delivered by the Faculty of Health and more details of any additional costs associated with the faculty's courses are listed on the following page: Faculty of Health additional costs .

Tuition fees for optional placement years

The fee for all undergraduate students completing any part of their placement year in the UK in 2024/2025 is £1,850.
The fee for all undergraduate students completing their whole placement year outside the UK in 2024/2025 is £1,385.
Learn more about placement year tuition fees

How to apply

All applications for undergraduate courses are made through UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service).
UCAS will ask for the information contained in the box at the top of this course page including the UCAS course code and the institution code.
To apply for this course and for more information about submitting an application including application deadline dates, please visit the UCAS website.
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.

Progression routes

International progression routes

The University of Plymouth International College (UPIC) offers foundation, first-year and pre-masters programmes that lead to University of Plymouth degrees. Courses are specially designed for EU and international students who are missing the grades for direct entry to the University, and include full duration visa sponsorship. You can start in January, May or September, benefitting from small class sizes, top-quality tuition and 24/7 student support.
Find out more at plymouth.ac.uk/upic or contact our team at info@upic.plymouth.ac.uk

Doctor and patient using digital tablet in hospital - Getty images 838723420
Our facilities
Trudie McCombs, PhD student and BSc (Hons) Human Biosciences graduate

My favourite parts were definitely the laboratory practicals and modules about microbiology. I love being in the lab and am happiest with a pipette in hand!

 
 
 

Meet our alumni

Harriet Saunders, BSc Human Biosciences Graduate
Harriet Saunders, alumni
“I would definitely encourage you to carry out a placement year as it gave me a fantastic insight into how to prepare for life after graduation.”
“I am extremely grateful for the time I spent at Plymouth and thanks to the support of the fantastic staff, the diversity of the modules and the quality of the teaching, I am leading a successful career in genetics.
“I completed my placement year in Radboud UMC, Nijmegen, The Netherlands, where I was a student intern in molecular neurogenetics, with support from the Erasmus scheme. This was a fantastic opportunity, being able to live abroad, meet amazing people and gain important international contacts.
“Shortly after, the research I carried out was published in the Molecular Genetics and Genomic Medicine journal and I was named joint first author.”
 
“I successfully got a place on the University's summer research bursary scheme allowing me to spend two months working alongside one of my lecturers and PhD students researching how macrophages behave in some gut diseases, setting up my own experiments from scratch.”
“After that, I chose to do a six-month placement in Derriford Hospital's diagnostic laboratories. I spent most of my time in flow cytometry, using lasers and fluorescent tags for proteins to test for certain types of blood cancer. I also rotated in tissue typing with the transplant and transfusion lab team, molecular biology and genetic testing, and histopathology with brightly coloured tissue dyes.
“It was fascinating to see the inside of an NHS lab and it inspired my final year dissertation in cancer immunology.”
Freya Teesdale
Freya Teesdale, alumni
“I came into higher education through a non-traditional background, so studying at Plymouth opened a host of new possibilities for me. It allowed my curiosity to flourish and I could pursue my interest in human biology.”
“During my undergraduate degree, I became fascinated by the complexity and ubiquitousness of the immune system, so when I graduated I wanted to continue my exploration of immune cell function, combined with my background in dentistry. After completing a PhD, I became a lecturer in biomedical sciences, where I continue to pursue my research interests.”
Dr Louise Belfield
BSc (Hons) Human Biosciences and PhD Immunology graduate
Dr. Louise Belfield, who leads this research project
 
 
 
 
 

Research

Learn about our varied research topics within the Biomedical Research Group, which include:
Non-invasive pre-natal testing, new targets for cancer treatment, understanding macrophages, combating sepsis and self-disseminating vaccines.
Researcher looking down a microscope in a laboratory 

Immunologist’s teaching excellence recognised in national award

Dr Andy Foey, Associate Professor in Immunology in the School of Biomedical Sciences, won the inaugural Teaching Excellence Award given by the British Society for Immunology (BSI).
The BSI established the award to recognise immunologists who use excellent communication skills to convey immunology concepts to a range of students in an engaging and accessible manner, and inspire the next generation of experts in the profession.
Dr Andy Foey with Dr Helen Collins, BSI Education Secretary and head of the judging panel that awarded the prize
Dr Andy Foey with Dr Helen Collins, BSI Education Secretary and head of the judging panel that awarded the prize
*These are the latest results from the National Student Survey. Please note that the data published on Discover Uni is updated annually in September.
The results of the National Student Survey (NSS) and the Graduate Outcomes survey (GO) are made available to prospective students and their advisors through the Discover Uni website.