The University of Sheffield
Department of Biomedical Science

BSc in Biomedical Science

We currently offer the degree course Biomedical Science as a three year BSc.

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Biomedical sciences are concerned with the understanding of our bodies and our ability to control them during health and disease. It is the basic science which underpins medicine. Breakthroughs in biomedical sciences now regularly feature in the news, from radical new treatments for cancer patients to controversial advances in reproductive technologies.  Over the last twenty years, research into the human genome and molecular processes have revolutionised our understanding of biological systems. The course covers subject areas such as cancer, cell biology, developmental genetics, functional genomics, neuroscience, physiology and stem cells.

Why study this degree?

This degree is designed for those with a strong general interest in modern biology who want to study at the forefront of the discipline. It provides a thorough background to the subject as well as opportunities to work with world-class scientists doing research into the development and function of various cells, systems and individuals, in both health and disease. Our degree covers subject areas such as cancer, cell biology, developmental genetics, functional genomics, neuroscience, physiology and stem cells.

Our students have an excellent employability record in a wide range of graduate careers. Many enter science-related industries such as working for pharmaceutical companies, the NHS and in science communication. Others go into non-science graduate careers, using the graduate level skills they gained from their degree. Many choose further study, doing masters and PhDs in the UK and abroad, studying medicine, dentistry, veterinary science, dietetics, physiotherapy, and teaching.

Flexibility and choice

Levels 1 and 2 comprise all core (compulsory) lecture and practical modules, as a result there is room for significant choice at Level 3.

We work closely with other related departments within the University and Level 3 choices are constantly under review. There are also opportunities for study abroad and industrial placements.

Course structure

UCAS University Code: BMSU02
JACS Code: B900

Please note module choices can vary slightly each year.

Level 1

Provides the basic theory and practice that underpins biomedicine, including cell and molecular biology, genetics, physiology, anatomy, developmental biology, neuroscience and systems biology. Tutorials are designed to encourage generic skills such as literature searching, critical analysis, presentation skills and teamwork.

Modules

Core lectures

Core practicals

Level 2

Contains more detailed experiences of laboratory work and lecture topics, based on developments in current biomedical research. Tutorials continue to develop generic skills including written, numeric, analytic and oral presentation skills.

Students also have the chance to study abroad, take a year out gaining subject-related work experience in industry, or apply for summer placements in research laboratories within the department.

Modules

Core lectures

Core practicals

*please note these two modules include supervised human dissection undertaken by the student.

Level 3

Gives an opportunity to specialise in defined routes of study that cover particular areas of interest such as medical sciences, physiology with pharmacology, neuroscience, developmental and cell biology, tissue engineering and functional genomics and stem cell science. Study at this level is based on our understanding of current research and includes a research project supervised by a member of staff.

We expect more critical thinking, better understanding of the knowledge base and increased independent learning from students. Assessments include written essays, courses work and various presentations.

Routes

Students choose modules from a variety of routes that reflect the research interests of the department and include the following areas:

These specialist routes cover recent advances in biosciences. They are therefore reviewed and updated on a regular basis, and change in response to new advances and developments in biomedical research.

Choice of Routes

Physiology with Pharmacology route

This route allows students to focus on human physiology and pathophysiology, working from the level of the gene, protein, cell and organ to the whole body. Modules also cover the effects of drugs on physiological function in health and disease.

Typical core modules:

Examples of optional modules:

Please note module choices can vary slightly each year.

Neuroscience route

This route allows students to focus on the development and function of the human nervous system. Modules cover the role of genes and proteins in neuronal growth and differentiation, and also their role in neuronal signalling and function.

Typical core modules:

Examples of optional modules:

Please note module choices can vary slightly each year.

Developmental and Cell Biology route

This route allows students to focus on the development of the human body and the role cellular and molecular mechanisms play in this process. Modules cover areas such as cell-cell signalling and the regulation of gene expression.

Typical core modules:

Examples of optional modules:

Please note module choices can vary slightly each year.

Medical Science route

This route allows students to gain a broad understanding of biomedical science. Modules cover both developmental and functional aspects of the subject, and also advanced anatomical dissection.

Typical core modules:

Examples of optional modules:

Please note module choices can vary slightly each year.

Biomedical Science with Biomaterials and Tissue Engineering route

This route allows students to gain a broad understanding of biomedical science together with the use of biomaterials in medicine and dentistry.

Typical core modules:

Examples of optional modules:

Please note module choices can vary slightly each year.