Healthcare Science (Cardiac Physiology) BSc

Course overview

Why choose Leeds?

• The only cardiac physiology course in the UK that sits within a School of Medicine.
• Use of simulation computer technology for enhanced ECG learning.
• Work with patients from the Patient Carer Community group to help prepare you for placement.
• Clinical placements are undertaken within departments across the Yorkshire and Humber region.
• Develop your clinical skills through practical sessions utilising dedicated simulation equipment.
• Study specialist areas of interest undertaking a research project in your final year.
• We are based within the globally renowned Leeds Institute of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine meaning that our students have access to leading researchers and can attend and participate in academic research seminars alongside practising cardiologists and senior medical researchers.
• There are opportunities to present your research at conferences and in professional journals.

Visit our Cardiac Physiology website to find out more >

Facilities

The School has a dedicated cardiac physiology clinical skills area. The rooms consist of a separate ambulatory monitoring room where students can be taught and can practise fitting, downloading and analysing ambulatory information.

There is a larger room for dedicated clinical skills teaching, with the equipment to perform ECGs, basic spirometry and blood pressure monitoring – all basic skills required for cardiac physiologists. The programme has also invested in cardiac catheterisation and pacing VR simulator to support student learning as well as echocardiography simulation equipment.

The course is accredited by the National School of Healthcare Science (NSHCS).

Course details

The course is developed to meet the necessary standards required by Academy of Healthcare Science and National School of Healthcare Science for registration as a cardiac physiologist on successful completion of the programme. You will develop the required skills and knowledge through a combination of university and clinical placement learning.

Year 1

You will gain a broad understanding of the principles of healthcare science. Alongside this, you’ll be introduced to the theory and practice of cardiovascular, respiratory and sleep studies. You’ll also learn about professional working and will start to develop your independent and critical thinking skills.

Your skills will focus on a range of non-invasive cardiac procedures including ECG performance and interpretation, and the fitting of ambulatory monitoring equipment. You will complete clinical placements to support your learning.

Year 2

You will continue to develop key skills in a range of non-invasive procedures while also progressing onto invasive cardiac diagnostic assessments, preparing you for your specialist clinical placement. Clinical skills training will focus on ambulatory monitoring report writing, functional imaging and basic coronary angiography. These are procedures you will learn about during your clinical placement. In addition, you will study the pathophysiology of cardiac and respiratory diseases.

Year 3

You will learn about a range of advanced invasive cardiac diagnostic and therapeutic procedures, and explore more deeply a wide range of cardiac disorders and the options available to treat and manage these conditions. You will also conduct a research project in one particular area of cardiology while you continue to develop your practical skills in both our on-site clinical laboratories and on your dedicated final clinical placement. Within your 3rd year, there will be a focus on supporting your transition from student to graduate cardiac physiologist.

Throughout the programme, you will develop the skills necessary to become a cardiac physiologist, whilst also gaining more general skills such as critical thinking, problem solving, independent learning, scientific enquiry, professional working and reflective practice.

Year 1 compulsory modules

Year 2 compulsory modules

Year 3 compulsory modules

Modules

The course information shown below represents typical modules/components studied and may change from time to time. Read more in our terms and conditions.

The course consists of compulsory modules to allow sufficient time to complete the nationally required curriculum.

For more information please read Healthcare Science (Cardiac Physiology) BSc in the course catalogue.

Year 1 Compulsory modules

• Cardiovascular Science (20 credits)– This module will look at the basic principles associated with cardiovascular science, including anatomy and physiology, physiological measurements and diagnostic procedures to assess cardiovascular status.
• Cardio-Respiratory Practice (20 credits)– This module is where you will gain hands on experience, both through simulation and with patients in a clinical setting. It’s an opportunity to practice techniques to obtain optimal diagnostic recordings, as well as to develop key skills of a healthcare professional such as patient communication and empathy.
• Respiratory and Sleep Science (20 credits) – This module focuses on the basic principles related to respiratory and sleep physiology. You will cover topics such as anatomy and physiology, respiratory and sleep disorders and diagnostic procedures utilised in this setting. This module will be closely linked to the impact of respiratory and sleep disorders on the cardiovascular system and cardiovascular disease.
• ECG Interpretation (20 credits) –This module will focus on interpreting ECGs from basic principles to complex cardiac conditions. The focus is on accurate measurements and interpretation in line with current guidelines.
• Introduction to Biological Principles (20 credits) – This introductory module will provide an overview and reinforcement of key concepts with respect to the organisation, structure and function of the body, and important areas such as clinical pharmacology and therapeutics, genomics, personalised/precision medicine and clinical bioinformatics.
• Professional Practice for Healthcare (20 credits) – This interprofessional module seeks to introduce you to the healthcare setting. It focuses on the role you will have as a healthcare professional, both as an individual and as a member of the team. This will allow you to begin to establish your contribution within the healthcare setting focusing on patient-centred care.

Year 2 Compulsory modules

• Clinical Practice 2 (40 credits) –This module is where you will gain hands on experience in the clinical setting to further develop your skills in performing and reporting diagnostic tests. You will be involved in ECG, BP, ambulatory monitoring, functional imaging and cardiac catheterisation procedures in your Year 2 clinical placements.
• Research Methods and Evaluation (20 credits) – The objective of this module is to help you develop an understanding of how clinical practice is informed by evidence, and to provide you with the knowledge and tools to appraise both practice and published work. This module will introduce you to the skills you will need to carry out research effectively including how to formulate research questions, gather information from a range of sources, make judgements on the quality of data gathered and draw conclusions.
• Pathophysiology of Common Cardiovascular & Respiratory Conditions (20 credits) – Understanding the pathophysiology behind cardiovascular and respiratory conditions allows you to broaden your understanding of the data captured through diagnostic testing. This module therefore helps you develop your understanding of key pathophysiology associated with common disorders.
• Functional Cardiac Testing (20 credits) –This module will focus on the varying functional imaging techniques utilised for assessment of cardiovascular status, these tests are utilised to assess perfusion and function both at rest and after stress. Functional imaging procedures are used clinically to assess cardiac perfusion, and are essential to aiding treatment strategies for cardiac disease.
• Cardiac Catheterisation (20 credits) – This module will focus on all aspects of cardiac catheterisation utilised to assess and treat various cardiac conditions. The module will cover both right and left heart catheterisation for both the diagnosis, assessment and treatment of cardiac disease.

Year 3 Compulsory modules

• Research Project (40 credits) –This interprofessional module is the culmination of the research thread that has run through your degree programme. You may carry out one of a range of projects in this module including audit and systematic review, as well as the possibility of a piece of original research. You will be supported by a named supervisor.
• Advanced Cardiac Principles (40 credits) –This module will focus on advanced cardiac principles, including cardiac device implantation and follow up as well as introduce cardiac ultrasound. Within this module you will be able to choose a topic of your own relating to cardiology; the aim will be to investigate the topic in detail. Options include (but are not limited to) clinical conditions, treatment options, diagnostic processes and management of a cardiac condition. This will allow you to develop your independent working.
• Clinical Practice 3 (40 credits) – This is your final clinical placement of the programme, and the focus will be on developing your advanced skills as a cardiac physiologist. This module will enable you to develop skills in both invasive and non-invasive cardiac procedures, and will prepare you for working as a qualified cardiac physiologist. Additionally, as healthcare professionals you will become a member of a multidisciplinary team within a healthcare organisation. You will also be called upon to make decisions and be accountable for them. Therefore, within this module there will be interprofessional components where you will be able to consider the transition from student to healthcare professionals. You will also prepare for your first graduate post and these demands.

Learning and teaching

On this course, you’ll be taught by our expert academics, from lecturers through to professors. You may also be taught by industry professionals with years of experience, as well as trained postgraduate researchers, connecting you to some of the brightest minds on campus.

Assessment

Entry requirements

A-level: ABB including a science subject (Biology, Human Biology, Chemistry, Maths and Physics). Other science-based subjects will be considered.

We consider all A-level subjects for the remaining grades, except general studies or critical thinking.

EPQs are not considered within our scoring.

GCSE: A minimum of 5 GCSEs grade C or above (or 4 or above) required in Maths, English Language, and Science. Please note that we normally expect two science GCSEs. Candidates with only one science GCSE which meets our grade requirements will only be shortlisted if admissions tutors are satisfied their overall academic profile meets the minimum entry criteria.

Other course specific tests:

Age

Please note that applicants must be 18 years of age or over by the first day of the programme.

Evidence of Study

Applicants will need to show evidence of study within the last 5 years.

DBS Checks

As part of the student offer for our clinical programmes, an Enhanced DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) certificate is required for students to undertake clinical placements as part of their studies within the Faculty of Medicine and Health. The certification process is undertaken on entry to the programme and repeated once every three years whilst they are still undertaking the same programme of study.

The Enhanced DBS certificate can only include background checks for time in the UK. Students who have been resident outside the UK will require a criminal record check from each relevant country

The University of Leeds is obliged to refuse admission to applicants for certain courses, which are regulated by national or statutory bodies, where an Enhanced DBS certificate or International Criminality check reveals prior criminal behaviour giving rise to concern for the protection of the public. Clinical placements cannot be attended by those who fail to comply with the clearance processes.

Occupational Health Clearance

All students will complete a pre-registration screening questionnaire which allows our occupational health team at the University to support you to meet your true potential on the programme despite any pre-existing health concerns you may have. It is important that you notify us even if your symptoms are currently under control as we can ensure that you continue to be supported even if you are moving from different areas of the country.

The process also allows our occupational health team to check your immunity requirements so we can ensure that both patients and you are protected and kept safe. This will involve understanding your immunisation record to date.

Further details can be found on https://medicinehealth.leeds.ac.uk/medicine-undergraduate/doc/occupational-health-requirements-students-applicants-faculty-medicine-health

HEOPS offers guidance on occupational health resources and health surveillance.

Alternative qualification

Read more about UK and Republic of Ireland accepted qualifications or contact the School’s Undergraduate Admissions Team.

Alternative entry

We’re committed to identifying the best possible applicants, regardless of personal circumstances or background.

Access to Leeds is a contextual admissions scheme which accepts applications from individuals who might be from low income households, in the first generation of their immediate family to apply to higher education, or have had their studies disrupted.

Find out more about Access to Leeds and contextual admissions.

Typical Access to Leeds Deadline

In order for us to give your application due consideration, we'll need you to submit your Access to Leeds (A2L) application at the same time as you submit your UCAS application.

Applications for 2025 entry will open in late September 2024 and details are accessible here. Please note we're unable to accept applications for A2L after the deadline of 8th February, so get your applications in as early as possible, ideally by the UCAS deadline of 29th January 2025.

Typical Access to Leeds Offer

GCSEs

A minimum of 5 GCSEs grade C or above (or 4 or above) required to include Maths, English Language, and Sciences.

A-levels

BBC and must still include a science subject to grade B (Biology, Human Biology, Chemistry, Maths and Physics). Other science-based subjects will be considered.

Scottish Highers

CC at Advanced Higher level and AABBB at Higher level.

Or

C at Advanced Higher level and AABBB at Higher Level.

For applicants without Advanced Highers, we require BBBBBB at Higher level.

Each of these options requires 1 science, from Biology, Human Biology, Chemistry, Maths or Physics

Irish Highers (leaving certificate)

Require a minimum of 6 subjects taken at Higher level (not ordinary IO) and must include English Language and Maths plus 2 sciences from Biology, Physics or Chemistry, grades required are minimum BBBBBB (or H3H3H3H3H3H3).

Cambridge Pre-U

Three Merits (M2) in 3 Principal Subjects, one of which must be a science.

IB

33 points overall, including 2 higher level subjects at minimum of grade 5, one of which must be a science subject.

BTEC

DDM, with at least one-third science content which must be at distinction. We normally recommend the Applied Science route and strongly advise you to contact the School to discuss the suitability of your chosen BTEC course.

Foundation year or OU module candidates are not eligible for A2L offers

Alternative Entry Scheme for mature applicants

If you are a mature applicant and you don’t have the required A Levels or GCSE English and maths qualifications, you can complete our Alternative Entry Scheme (subject to meeting the eligibility criteria for the scheme). As part of this, you may be asked to take tests in English and maths and to write an essay.

Contact the Lifelong Learning Centre for more information

English language requirements

IELTS 7.0 overall, with no less than 6.5 in any component. For other English qualifications, read English language equivalent qualifications.

Fees

UK: To be confirmed

International: To be confirmed

Tuition fees for UK undergraduate students starting in 2025/26
The fee for UK undergraduate students is decided by the Government and may vary if policy changes. The fee may increase in future years of your course in line with inflation, and as permitted by law.

Tuition fees for UK undergraduate students starting in 2025/26 will be £9,535.

The tuition fee for the following programmes with an integrated foundation year is £5,760 for the foundation year, and £9,535 for subsequent years of study:
•    Business Studies with Foundation Year BSC
•    Arts and Humanities with Foundation Year BA
•    Interdisciplinary Studies with Preparation for Higher Education BA
•    Social Science (foundation year) BA
 

Tuition fees for international undergraduate students starting in 2025/26
Tuition fees for international students for 2025/26 are available on individual course pages.
 

Read more about paying fees and charges.

Additional cost information

Travel and accommodation costs you incur in attending your clinical placements must be paid for by the student. Contributions to these costs is considered on an annual basis by NHS England.

Three sets of uniforms will be provided free of charge at the beginning of your programme but any replacements required must be paid for.

There may be additional costs related to your course or programme of study, or related to being a student at the University of Leeds. Read more on our living costs and budgeting page.

Scholarships and financial support

If you have the talent and drive, we want you to be able to study with us, whatever your financial circumstances. There is help for students in the form of loans and non-repayable grants from the University and from the government. Find out more in our Undergraduate funding overview.

Studying in the School of Medicine at Leeds is an amazing opportunity, but we know that the cost can be difficult for many people to meet. If you are keen to join us, a range of funding opportunities are available.

Applying

Apply to this course through UCAS. Check the deadline for applications on the UCAS website.

Values based recruitment is carried out across our vocational programmes. Candidates who apply to more than one vocational course in the School of Medicine will only be considered for one course. Please note that if a candidate demonstrates motivation and insight for another non-School of Medicine vocational course (e.g. nursing or dentistry) they will be rejected without further consideration.

Where possible, candidates who apply for multiple programmes within the School of Medicine will be informed that they must choose one course only.

Please see the latest School of Medicine Admissions Appeals and Complaints Procedure.

The UCAS referee should be someone who knows you academically from your most recent period of academic study and who can share supporting information relevant to the course you are applying for. References from paid and unpaid employment will not be accepted.

We shortlist applicants against agreed criteria, using the information you submit on your UCAS form only. You must meet the academic entry requirement for the programme, at application or within the academic cycle. Your academic background and personal statement help us to assess your interest in the academic subject and are an important part of the process. The reference you provide on the UCAS form must also support your application.

Shortlisted applicants will be invited to a face-to-face interview in the School of Medicine. These will take place in early March 2026. Using a multiple mini interview (MMI) format, we will further assess applicants’ non-academic qualities and their interest in the course. All interviews for home applicants will take place face to face.

There are currently six interview stations and the format of stations varies. A single interviewer will award marks for each station according to a pre-determined standardised scale.

If shortlisted, candidates will receive a written invitation from the School to attend a selection event on a specific time and date. If this date is unsuitable, contact the School and where possible we'll offer an alternative date. Candidates who don't notify us and don't attend a interview event will be rejected.

Offers are made on the basis of merit and the decision to make an offer after interview depends entirely on performance at mini-interview, not on predicted or achieved academic performance, or other scores.

Unfortunately, because of the nature and volume of applications and interviews, we are unable to provide specific individual feedback.

Admissions policy

School of Medicine undergraduate admissions policy 2025

This course is taught by

School of Medicine

Contact us

Healthcare Science Undergraduate Admissions

Email: healthcarescienceadmissions@leeds.ac.uk
Telephone:

Career opportunities

Cardiac disease is a leading cause of death in the Western world. In the UK the demand for cardiac physiologists is high – there's never been a greater time to shape your future as a registered cardiac physiologist!

The NHS employs the majority of cardiac physiologists. Some cardiac physiologists work in the private sector and in GP surgeries. Opportunities arise for cardiac physiologists to work in industry as application specialists, and to support clients in using equipment.

Cardiac physiologists work mainly independently, making clinical decisions and providing clinical reports. As well as conducting diagnostic assessments and providing treatment, the role of a cardiac physiologist may also cover that of a consultant; a counsellor; an advisor; an educator; a facilitator; a researcher and a therapist.

Careers support

We encourage you to prepare for your career from day one. That’s one of the reasons Leeds graduates are so sought after by employers.

The Careers Centre and staff in your faculty provide a range of help and advice to help you plan your career and make well-informed decisions along the way, even after you graduate. Find out more about Careers support.

Study abroad and work placements

Clinical placements