Biomedicine

Course overview

Biology is a rich and dynamic field that explores everything from the structure of living organisms and their life cycles to how they adapt and interact with their environment. Biomedicine builds on this foundation, diving deeper into fascinating areas such as biochemistry, biotechnology, genetics, microbiology, and human physiology.

At Aston University’s School of Biosciences, studying biomedicine means more than just lectures and textbooks. You'll benefit from expert teaching, cutting-edge research, and the chance to gain valuable real-world experience through an optional placement year. Our course is accredited by the Royal Society of Biology, recognising the strength of our curriculum and the high standard of graduate outcomes. High-performing students in their second year may also have the opportunity to progress onto our integrated master’s programme — preparing you to become a future innovator and leader in bioscience research and development.

Why Biomedicine at Aston University?

Accredited programme

Accredited by the Royal Society of Biology (RSB)

Professional experience

Opportunity for valuable real-world placement experience

Cutting-edge specialist lab

Advanced lab equipment for hands-on learning

ASTON POWER SKILLS

Built into every undergraduate degree

Gain the skills employers look for worldwide.

AI & Digital

Innovation & Entrepreneurship

Inclusive Leadership

Environmental Sustainability

Discover Power Skills

Course description

BSc (Hons) Biomedicine

A degree in biomedicine from Aston University will equip you with the knowledge, practical skills, and confidence to thrive as a biological scientist. You’ll be prepared to tackle some of today’s most pressing global challenges – from driving scientific breakthroughs and improving health, to protecting ecosystems and advancing sustainable solutions in agriculture and biotechnology.

What we will provide
First-class teaching in the UK's second-largest city, delivered by a diverse array of staff who will inspire and excite you, fantastic facilities that will bring your course to life through hands-on, practical experience; years of close industry collaboration that is harnessed to provide you with learning based on real-world needs.

What you will provide
It is important you learn how to adapt a growth mindset to your studies - understand that intelligence and success come from applying yourself, you must be able to demonstrate critical thinking and have ambition and drive to excel.

What skills we teach
As a biomedicine student at Aston, you’ll gain the scientific knowledge and practical skills needed to succeed in a wide range of professional environments. Our degree is accredited by the Royal Society of Biology (RSB), ensuring it meets rigorous standards set by the industry. This accreditation reflects our commitment to developing graduates who are not only knowledgeable and technically skilled but also equipped with the transferable skills employers are looking for.

Placement year
Designed to give you a competitive edge, this course offers the opportunity to complete a placement in a hospital, industrial, research, or even non-laboratory setting. You’ll gain valuable hands-on lab experience, work alongside leading researchers, and benefit from expert guidance throughout your studies – preparing you to make a real impact in the ever-evolving field of biological sciences.

Career prospects
Our biosciences graduates are highly sought after by leading organisations across healthcare, research, and industry. Recent alumni have launched successful careers with employers such as Abbott Laboratories, Asterand Bioscience, NHS Trusts, The Binding Site, IVC Brunel Healthcare, National Milk Laboratories, secondary schools, and universities including Aston and Warwick.

How you will learn

Our teaching is modern, interactive, and deeply practical – designed to bridge the gap between academic theory and real-world application. You'll have the opportunity to apply your knowledge as you learn, through hands-on experiences and case-based learning that prepare you for life beyond university and a successful career in science.

What you will learn

Year 1 – Building Foundations

In your first year, you’ll explore core topics that form the basis of biomedicine. You’ll gain a solid understanding of biomolecules – their structure, function, synthesis, and breakdown – along with how genetic material is stored and inherited. You’ll also develop essential laboratory skills and learn how to work safely and confidently in practical settings.

Year 2 – Deepening Knowledge and Skills

In your second year, you’ll build on your knowledge developed in Year 1 and explore new and exciting areas of biomedicine. You’ll begin to apply scientific principles to experimental design and real-world scenarios, further developing your analytical, practical, and problem-solving skills.

Integrated Master's Option (MBiol Biomedicine)

Students achieving a minimum average of 65% in Year 2 will have the option to transfer onto the integrated MBiol Biomedicine programme. This extended degree is available as a four-year course (without placement) or a five-year course (with placement), offering an advanced route for those aiming for research-focused or leadership roles in biomedicine.

Placement Year – Real-World Experience

Between your second and final year, you can choose to undertake an optional placement year to gain valuable, hands-on experience in a professional environment. This is your opportunity to put your knowledge into practice, build your network, and strengthen your CV. Our biosciences students have completed placements in a wide range of settings, including:

Clinical trial companies
Research institutes
Breweries and the food industry
Pharmaceutical companies (e.g. AstraZeneca and GlaxoSmithKline)
Medical sales
Biotechnology companies

Final Year / Penultimate MBiol Year – Specialisation and Research

In your final year, you’ll develop the skills needed to carry out a substantial original research project. You'll also have the flexibility to tailor your studies by selecting from a range of advanced topics aligned with your interests and career goals – helping you transition smoothly into employment or further academic study.

Facilities

You’ll benefit from access to a wide range of modern, specialist facilities designed to support practical, hands-on learning. From advanced laboratories to collaborative study spaces, you’ll develop essential skills in professional environments that mirror real-world scientific settings. Workshops and lectures are led by experienced academics, industry professionals, and expert technicians – ensuring your learning is grounded in current scientific practice.

Specialist facilities include:

High specification well-equipped specialist teaching laboratories
Cell culture teaching facilities including laminar flow hoods, CO2 incubators and EVOS cell imaging systems for advanced cell biology work.
3D virtual anatomy labs – interactive computer-based environments for studying human anatomy in detail.
Extensive library resources – both digital and print, ideal for research, literature reviews, and assignment support.
Dedicated study spaces – including quiet zones and group work areas to support collaborative and independent learning.

Advanced, cutting-edge laboratory equipment, including:

Light, fluorescence, and electron microscopes
Spectrophotometers for analysing light absorbance and emission
Electrophoresis and gel imaging systems for DNA, RNA, and protein analysis
Thermal cyclers for performing polymerase chain reaction experiments
High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) and Gas Chromatography (GC) systems for analysing complex mixtures

These facilities are designed to help you gain the practical skills and technical confidence needed to thrive in scientific research, industry, and healthcare settings.

Aston School of Biosciences Cell Culture Lab

An interactive look at some of the brand-new clinical teaching facilities available to Biomedicine students at Aston University, don't forget to click and drag for an immersive view of the facilities!

Discover more with our campus virtual tour

Course objectives

Provides you with the opportunities to realise your academic potential through a range of learning experiences.
Encourages you, through a practical approach, to have a passion for biomedicine and an enthusiasm for learning.
Increases your understanding of the living world with particular emphasis on the human species.
Develop your knowledge, skills and understanding of the professional biologist.
Promote an awareness of the application of biological knowledge to human health and welfare.
Provides you with an up-to-date and professionally focused curriculum satisfying the accreditation requirements of the Royal Society of Biology (RSB).
Develop your creativity and innovation to become a graduate with skills and qualities for research, appropriate employment and a valuable contribution to society in healthcare professions.

Modules

Modules and learning outcomes

Year 1 modules

In your first year, you will study the following core modules:

Module Title	Credits
Biomolecules - Explore key biomolecules (sugars, lipids, DNA, RNA, amino acids and proteins), how they are formed, their structure and function. Includes a large practical laboratory component giving hands-on experience of key biochemical techniques that can be used to study these biomolecules.	30
Cells to Systems - Examine the basic structure, organisation and function of cells and sub-cellular structures. How cells communicate, the cell cycle, cell death, and how cells come together to forms tissues and organs with specialised functions.	30
Microbiology and Genetics - A comprehensive introduction to the basic principles and fundamental skills of microbiology, as well as the core concepts of genetics and the use of model organisms.	30
Metabolic Physiology for Biology - Explore the major metabolic pathways at the molecular level and the relationships between metabolism and physiology. Learn the basic anatomy of the human body and look at the structure and function of key body systems, such as the nervous system, the cardiovascular system, the respiratory system and the urinary system.	30
Total	120

Year 1 outcomes

On successful completion of the first year, you will be able to:

Demonstrate knowledge of the structure, function, synthesis and degradation of biomolecules.
Describe how biomolecules assemble into complex structures including cells.
Describe the structures and key components of cells.
Describe how genetic material is stored and inherited.
Demonstrate knowledge of fundamental microbiological concepts.
Demonstrate knowledge of cellular metabolism and anatomy and how they relate to physiology.
Safely undertake laboratory work and demonstrate a range of transferable practical skills.
Demonstrate numeracy, oral and written communication skills including use of IT software and professionalism.

Year 2 modules

In your second year, you will study the following core modules:

Module Title	Credits
Molecular Biology and Biotechnology - Find out how microbes, enzymes, mammalian cells and molecular genetic techniques can be utilised for biotechnology applications, molecular diagnostics, and therapeutics	30
Mechanisms of Pathology - Investigate the principles underlying pathology of a variety of diseases, how the immune system responds to infection or damage, and the ability of pathogens to cause cellular and tissue pathology.	30
Human Disease - Explore the biological basis for human disease: causes, molecular mechanisms and currently available treatments. Develop transferable and research skills such as science communication, problem-solving, group work, and experimental design	30
Cell Signalling and Physiology - In-depth coverage of the role of homeostasis in endocrinological (hormone) systems and the cell signalling pathways that underpin them.	30
Total	120

Year 2 outcomes

On successful completion of the second year, you will be able to:

Integrate molecular knowledge to explain disease states.
Demonstrate an understanding of molecular biology, microbiology and cell biology and how they are applied in a variety of biotechnological applications.
Apply fundamental biological concepts to experimental and real world problems.
Explain the role that cell signalling plays in life processes.
Select appropriate experimental approaches and test hypotheses including the application of statistical tests.
Apply critical thinking for problem-solving and demonstrate team-working skills.

Year 3 modules

In your third year, you will undertake a placement:

Module Title	Credits
Biosciences Placement	120
Total	120

Year 3 outcomes

On successful completion of the third year, you will be able to:

Reflect on their own performance and identify their strengths and limitations within a working environment.

Final year modules

In your final year, you will study the following core modules:

Module Title	Credits
Research Project Preparation - Demonstrate practical competency in a range of fundamental biosciences techniques. Select and critically analyse relevant scientific literature for your project, including elements of health and safety legislation and appraisal of the ethical impacts of research.	15
Research Project - Undertake an independent research project. Generate, analyse, interpret, draw conclusions, and present your findings in both written and oral formats.	30
Professional Development for Biomedicine - Develop a range of research and translational skills, such as critical analysis of data, good practice, and self-reflection, that will equip you to undertake scientific careers and demonstrate professional behaviour.	30
Total	75

and three of the following optional 15-credit modules:

Module Title	Credits
Applied Microbiology - Examine protein engineering techniques including site directed mutagenesis, high throughput mutagenesis, molecular evolution and gene editing, alongside other core molecular biology techniques including next generation sequencing, QPCR, and gene cloning.	15
Advanced Molecular Biology - Gain an in-depth understanding of the use and study of microorganisms in research and biotechnology, including mechanisms of action of antibiotics, drug resistance and antibiotic drug discovery, as well as bacterial gene regulation and biogenesis.	15
Bench to Bedside - This module provides in-depth knowledge and understanding of the principles and processes that are involved in translational research. It also focuses upon the challenges to overcome in order to successfully bring a therapeutic intervention from the bench to the bedside. In essence, how we go from basic science discoveries, to delivery in patients.	15
Cancer Biology - This module provides an enhanced understanding of the biology of cancer, from its nomenclature and causes, to the mechanisms behind cancer metastasis (cancer spread). You will be introduced to conventional and novel cancer treatments, in addition to drug resistance in cancer.	15
Immunology and Inflammation - The aim of this module is to provide advanced theoretical knowledge of the role of the immune system in health and disease.	15
Metabolic Disease - Explore the biology that underpins metabolic disease, including the causes and consequences of obesity and associated metabolic conditions.	15
Pharmacology and Toxicology - Understand pharmacological and toxicological concepts and apply these with team working and self-directed learning skills using problem-based learning approaches to interpret and communicate scientific data.	15
Trends in Molecular Biosciences - Design and create materials to effectively communicate a complex biological research topic to different kinds of non-specialist audiences.	15
Total	45

Final year outcomes

On successful completion of the final year, you will be able to:

Critically review scientific literature.
Create and test hypotheses using appropriate methodologies.
Gather, analyse and interpret data from your own studies and those of others.
Critically reflect on their own research and development to identify pathways for improvement.
Communicate effectively through a variety of media to a range of audiences.
Work within health and safety and ethical regulations within a research environment.

We regularly review our modules to provide the best possible teaching and learning experience, incorporating academic developments, student feedback and employer feedback.

There may be some change to some of the modules on this course for 2025/26 entry.

We’ll make sure to let you know of any changes to modules at the earliest opportunity by updating our course webpages.

We’ll do our best to provide as much optional choice as we can, but timetabling constraints may mean it isn’t possible to take some module combinations. The structure of some courses means that the order of modules or the streams you choose may determine whether modules are core or optional. This means that your core modules or options may differ from what’s shown here.

Aston Power Skills

ASTON POWER SKILLS

Built into every undergraduate degree

Gain the skills employers look for worldwide.
As an Aston student, you will develop expertise in four key areas:

AI & Digital

Join the rise of the humans. Don't fear AI, master it and use it for good. Develop digital skills for the future, whatever career you want to pursue.

Innovation & Entrepreneurship

Don't follow the rules, rewrite them. Today’s fast-changing world needs original thinkers. Creators. Innovators. Risk takers. So get ready to think smart and reach the next level.

Inclusive Leadership

Make space for every voice to be heard. Be the one who brings people together with a shared vision. Learn to break down barriers and be the leader the future needs.

Environmental Sustainability

It's not game over for our planet. It's game on. Together we can create a greener tomorrow. The world urgently needs graduates who can shape more sustainable and ethical ways of working. The future depends on it.

Entry requirements

A Levels

BBB in three A Level subjects including Biology.
BBC in three A Level subjects including Biology and B in either Core Maths or Extended Project Qualification (EPQ).
BCC in three A Level subjects including Biology for our contextual offer scheme.*

Contextual offers

Aston Ready is our contextual offer scheme that could reduce your undergraduate offer by one or two grades. Assessed at the point of application, there are no additional forms to fill in.

Contextual offer criteria

Contextual offer applicants need to achieve a grade C as listed below.

BTEC Qualification Name	BTEC grades required	A-Level Requirements
Extended Diploma (QCF) / National Extended Diploma (RQF)	Distinction, Distinction, Distinction* OR Distinction, Distinction, Distinction plus A Levels	This BTEC must be RQF – National in Applied Science DDD* (you do not require an additional A Level) OR This BTEC must be QCF in Applied Science DDD and you must also achieve grade B in A Level Biology OR If you are studying a non-science subject in this BTEC which is QCF or RQF – National then you must achieve DDD and grade B in A Level Biology.
Diploma (QCF) / National Diploma (RQF)	Distinction, Distinction (DD)	With this BTEC you must also achieve grade B in A Level Biology.
Subsidiary Diploma (QCF) / National Extended Certificate (RQF)	Distinction (D)	With this BTEC you must also achieve grades BB in two A Levels of which one must be Biology.
90 Credit Diploma (QCF)	Distinction (D)	With this BTEC you must achieve grade BB in two science subjects including Chemistry PLUS Biology, Physics or Maths.
90 Credit Diploma (QCF)	Distinction, Distinction (DD)	With this BTEC you must also achieve grades BB in two A Levels of which one must be Biology.
National Foundation Diploma	Distinction (D)	With this BTEC you must also achieve grades BB in two A Levels of which one must be Biology.

*Please note that on the UCAS application form QCF BTEC Extended Diploma appears under the name BTEC Extended Diploma (QCF) and the RQF BTEC Extended Diploma appears under the name Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma (1080) (2016 to Present). If you are unsure of which qualification you are taking, please contact your school or college provider to confirm.

Standard offer: 31 points overall in the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma, which must include 5, 5, 5 in Higher Level subjects. These subjects must include Chemistry and one other science subject from Biology, Maths OR Physics. You must also have Standard Level grade 5 in both Maths and English Language.

Contextual offer: 31 points overall, three Higher Level subjects at 5 5 5. These subjects must include Chemistry and one other science subject from Biology, Maths OR Physics. You must also have Standard Level grade 5 in both Maths and English Language for contextual offer students.*

Successful completion of the QAA-recognised Access Diploma with 45 credits at Level 3. You must obtain a minimum of 15 distinctions and 30 merits. Please note that we do not accept the English and Maths components within the Access qualification and you must meet the GCSE entry requirements.

This qualification is not accepted for this course.

Five GCSEs which must include Maths and English Language or English Literature all at grade C/4. Please note we do not accept Key skills or Functional skills in place of these.

International students

Aston University is a diverse, close community and welcomes international students on many of our undergraduate programmes. Students from over 120 countries choose to study with us every year. Based in the centre of Birmingham, Aston is not only a great place to study, it’s also a great place to live.

Qualifications in your country

Applicants whose first language is not English will be required to provide evidence of an English language qualification.

English language requirements

Aston University provides a range of opportunities for international students to join our community and study on our campus. A key part of our strategy is our relationships with teaching partners, providing multiple pathways to Aston.

Aston’s professional work placements can improve your chance of securing a graduate job. Placements give you experience, confidence and opportunities and, as an Aston student, you’ll be better prepared for your future career. One of the great things about Aston is our focus on employability. Our close links with businesses, industries and professions make this possible.

Find out more about applying

Post-study work visa

Aston University welcomed the creation of a new Graduate Immigration Route which enables international students to remain in the UK for two years after you complete your studies to find work. This new post-study work visa applies to international students completing full-time undergraduate and postgraduate courses.

Graduate Immigration Route

Pathway Programmes

If you don’t meet our entry requirements, we have a range of pathway programmes offered by our partner, ONCAMPUS Aston, which you can complete to progress onto one of our degrees.

Transfers / Foundation

Degree transfer

We consider applicants for year 1 entry who are undertaking a degree in a related field elsewhere. You must meet the GCSEs and A level (or equivalent) requirements as listed. Alongside this you must have gained (or be expected to gain) 60% overall and 120 credits with no fails at another recognised university.

Please note we do not accept year 2 transfers in any circumstance. This is due to integrated placements aspect of the course which starts from year one and also the accreditation of the content is for the whole course.

View our Transfers Policy

For further information regarding the transfers policy and Student Transfer Arrangements please check: https://www2.aston.ac.uk/study/student-transfer

Age of qualifications

Applicants must normally have achieved their eligible academic qualifications for entry onto this course within the last two years. Applicants presenting qualifications older than two years will be considered on a case-by-case basis by the Academic Admissions Lead.

External Foundation Programmes

We consider external foundation programmes for entry into our year 1 programmes on a case-by-case basis. We will always require applicants to have met the following criteria prior to application:

5 GCSEs at grade C/4 or above including Maths and English. You need achieve a total of three A Levels, BBB in any subjects OR CCC including one science from Chemistry, Biology, Physics, or Maths.

Any conditional offers made will be based on meeting a specific grade in your foundation programme. In order to be considered you will need to submit a UCAS application as we do not accept direct applications.

Fees and scholarships

Course fees

UK students
(2026/27)

Annual tuition fees:	£9,535*
During placement year:	£1,250

International students
(2026/27)

Annual tuition fees:	£22,575
During placement year:	£2,500

UK students (Home Undergraduate)

The annual tuition fee for the programme commencing in academic year 2026/27 will be £9,535 (subject to the passing of legislation implementing the Government’s policy to increase the maximum tuition fee from £9,250, payable by Home Undergraduate students on full-time courses). The fee for the placement year is £1,250.

International students (Overseas Undergraduate)

The annual tuition fee for the programme commencing in academic year 2026/27 will be £22,575. The fee for the placement year is £2,500.

All students

The duration of your programme is set out at the top of this course page and you will be responsible for the payment of an annual tuition fee in each of these years. The University reserves the right to increase tuition fees annually in accordance with its Terms and Conditions and subject at all times to the maximum tuition fee caps set by Government from time to time. This means that your total tuition fee may be higher than stated above, but your total tuition fee will never increase by more than 6% year on year. An increase in fees will allow the University to cover the increased costs of delivering the course and ensure it is able to maintain high standards of education and facilities.

More information on fees

For Home students: Tuition fees for UK/Home students may change in line with government policy.

For International students: The International students fee is a fixed annual fee for the duration of the Programme, except whilst on placement when a placement year fee applies.

Scholarships

At Aston University we are committed to supporting the most talented and hardworking students to achieve their potential by providing a range of scholarships to help lower tuition and living costs.

Explore our scholarships

Assessment

Your learning journey is structured around 120 credits per academic year, with each credit representing approximately 10 hours of learning. These hours can include a blend of lectures, seminars, tutorials, lab work, practical sessions, online learning, independent study, reading, field trips, and even work placements – all designed to support your academic and professional development.

Assessment is continuous and varied, helping you build a diverse skill set and stay engaged throughout the course. You’ll be evaluated through a combination of methods tailored to different learning outcomes, including:

Written exams and coursework
Scientific essays and laboratory reports
Practical assessments
Presentations and group projects
Peer review and reflective assignments

This balanced and supportive approach ensures you graduate with the confidence, knowledge, and experience needed to succeed in a range of bioscience careers.

Career prospects

A degree in biomedicine from Aston University opens the door to a wide range of exciting and meaningful career paths across the public, private, and non-profit sectors. Whether you're interested in scientific research, healthcare, education, or industry, you'll graduate with the skills, experience, and confidence to thrive.

Our biosciences graduates go on to secure roles in research, health, biotechnology, and biological industries – with job titles including laboratory technician, research assistant, clinical trials associate, and more. Others pursue careers in general management, product development, marketing, education, or further academic study, including MSc and PhD programmes. Recent graduate destinations include:

Abbott Laboratories
Asterand Bioscience
Aston University
Berwick Partners
IVC Brunel Healthcare
National Milk Laboratories
NHS Trusts
The Binding Site
Secondary Schools
University of Warwick

Whether you choose to enter the workforce directly or pursue further qualifications, you’ll be well prepared to make a meaningful contribution in a fast-evolving global landscape.

Be part of our community

Once you have joined us at Aston University, you’ll always be part of our community, even beyond graduation.

Alumni services

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the difference between BSc Biomedicine and BSc Biomedical Science?

Biomedicine provides you with a deep understanding of the biological systems that underpin human health. You will also learn how these systems function in pathological disease states and during acquired infections. Biomedical Science is similarly very focused on human health and disease but specifically prepares you for a career as a Biomedical Scientist and therefore this course also contains professional training relevant to practice in that health and care profession.

What accreditation does the course have?

Our Biomedicine BSc course is accredited by the Royal Society of Biology (RSB). This means that when you graduate, you’ll have met a defined set of learning outcomes, including subject knowledge, technical ability and transferable skills. Our MBiol Biomedicine degree holds Advanced Degree Accreditation by the RSB.

What careers can I expect to move into?

After graduating, you will have all you need (including optional industry experience) to move into

research
health
welfare
biological industries in roles such as laboratory technician and research assistant.

Why should international students choose Aston University?

Study at Aston University and you will be part of a multi-cultural community located at the heart of the dynamic city of Birmingham. Our courses are practical, inspired by industry and many have internationally recognised accreditations. Renowned for our employability prospects and connections to business and industry, we provide outstanding career support, advice and placement opportunities.

For those interested in working in the UK after they have graduated, the UK Government has created a new post-study work visa.

Is Birmingham a good place to study?

Our campus is based in the centre of Birmingham, the youngest major city in Europe and a great place to live, work and study.

Great music and entertainment with a vibrant nightlife. Bars, clubs, pubs, live music, festivals, concerts. Whatever your tastes, there's something here for everyone.
Fantastic food. Birmingham's diverse community means you can try anything from the famous Balti triangle, the Chinese Quarter, high street chains, halal and vegan food, and Michelin-star dining.
World-class shopping. The Bullring and Grand Central is a shopper's paradise. From the world's biggest Primark to luxury brands at the Mailbox.
Arts and culture. Museums, galleries, theatres, concerts and Birmingham's art collection is as wide as it is impressive - not to be missed.
Green, open spaces. One of the greenest cities in Europe, Birmingham has hundreds of publicly accessible parks and green spaces across the city.
Sporting action. Birmingham has some of the most exciting venues for watching or participating in sport in the UK.

Discover Birmingham