Biomedical Sciences MBiol, BSc

Course overview

Become an expert in biomedical sciences, a rapidly growing area, and develop solutions to a range of challenges linked to maintaining health and wellbeing at each stage of life. You’ll gain an integrated knowledge of the human body, how its organs, tissues and cells work together to keep you healthy, and what goes wrong in disease.

Explore cutting-edge research in areas such as regenerative medicine, tissue engineering, drug discovery, cancer biology and dementia. You’ll be part of an engaging learning experience, informed by our research and delivered by world-leading academics.

Staff in our school are leaders in the disciplines of biomedical sciences – including anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, neuroscience, biochemistry and microbiology – with many working in conjunction with other disciplines such as medical engineering, advanced materials science, computing and robotics.

Our focus will be on preparing you for the workplace. You'll undertake an independent capstone or research project, bringing together the knowledge and skills developed throughout your degree.

This integrated Masters (MBiol) gives you an additional year of specialist training. You will study advanced research topics and undertake your own extended research project within one of the major research laboratories in the School of Biomedical Sciences or an appropriate period of work-based practice. You may also choose to apply for our 3 year BSc and transfer to an MBiol up until the end of your second year, subject to suitable academic performance, and availability. 

Course highlights

• Designed to give a broad scientific knowledge and key graduate skills for those interested in biomedical sciences.
• Explore cutting-edge biomedical research delivered by world-leading researchers.
• Delivered using inspirational, engaging and inclusive approaches. Develop the key skills and attributes you’ll need to become one of the next generation of thinkers, innovators and leaders, equipped to make a positive difference in a complex and ever-changing interconnected world.
• Across the first two years of the course, experimental skills modules teach you to identify problems, and design and conduct experiments to find answers to key biomedical questions.
• The opportunity to undertake an independent capstone research project under the supervision of a field-leading academic, further developing key skills and attributes that will set you apart in both the competitive graduate job market and/or when seeking to commence a Masters degree or PhD.
• Our year in industry programme allows you to gain experience working with organisations, developing new skills for your CV.
• Experience life and learning in a different country through our study abroad programme, where you'll gain fresh perspectives and develop skills valued by employers.

Flexible degrees

Biomedical sciences is a broad-based degree within the School of Biomedical Sciences, which provides significant flexibility to choose what you wish to study.

Some of our programmes share a common first year which means that at the end of year 1, there are opportunities to transfer on to other suitable and related degree courses, subject to approval. Additional degree courses may be available depending on your academic background.

Wellbeing and support

The University of Leeds features an extensive network of excellent services dedicated to you and your wellbeing. We are here to help throughout your time in higher education, ensuring you have everything you need to succeed. For more information on the different facets of support you will have access to, please see our Wellbeing and Support page.

Wellbeing afternoons

Here at the University of Leeds, we are acutely aware that teaching is only part of a healthy, engaging university lifestyle. Activities which contribute to your wellbeing are vital, and so we have created Wednesday Wellbeing Afternoons.

These afternoons are a period with as much teaching as possible removed to give you the chance to pursue your passions. This may be a competitive sport for the university, a social sporting activity, or indeed any activity which contributes to positive mental health. We want your degree to be as flexible as possible so that you can make the most of your time here with us.

Accreditation

Accredited by The Royal Society of Biology

This programme has been accredited by the Royal Society of Biology. Advanced Degree Accreditation by the Society recognises academic excellence in the biosciences, and highlights degrees that educate the research and development leaders and innovators of the future. The Advanced Accreditation criteria require evidence that graduates from the programme meet defined sets of learning outcomes, including gaining a substantial period of research experience.

This accreditation is applicable to the following course variants: BSc Biomedical Sciences (Industrial); MBiol Biomedical Sciences; MBiol Biomedical Sciences (Industrial); MBiol Biomedical Sciences (International).

Course details

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

Most courses consist of compulsory and optional modules. There may be some optional modules omitted below. This is because they are currently being refreshed to make sure students have the best possible experience. Before you enter each year, full details of all modules for that year will be provided.

For more information and a list of typical modules available on this course, please read MBiol, BSc Biomedical Sciences in the course catalogue.

Year 1

In year 1, you will be provided with an enhanced knowledge and understanding of the principal body systems, processes and functions in health and disease, and gain hands-on practical experience of the experimental approaches used to generate this knowledge.

You’ll be introduced to a range of topics across the biomedical sciences, including essential anatomy & physiology of human systems, biochemistry of the cell, microbiology, pharmacology, and neuroscience. This is delivered in a structured and facilitated way to support your learning.

Should you be interested in Biomedical Sciences but do not yet want to decide on a specialisation, the first year of this course will equip you with the comprehensive knowledge and transferable skills needed to take on more specialised topics in later years.

You’ll also develop the fundamental practical laboratory skills and techniques that will underpin the rest of your studies. This is in addition to essential academic and professional skills to help you progress successfully through the course and into further study or employment.

At the end of year 1, our flexible degree structure may offer you the opportunity to transfer onto other suitable, related degree courses within the School of Biomedical Sciences, subject to suitable academic performance and availability.

Compulsory modules

Team-Based Solutions for Local Challenges in Human Sciences (20 credits) - This module allows you to address health-related challenges in a facilitated team-based environment. It will be related to your specific course of study, helping you develop the core skills needed to address the challenge. What you learn will align with content in other first-year modules.

Practical Application of Clinical, Laboratory and Field Skills for Human Sciences (20 credits) - This module introduces the key skills for scientific research into sports, human physiology, neuroscience and pharmacology. You’ll take part in hands-on application of these skills, spending time in both laboratories or the field. You’ll also develop supporting skills such as research design, scientific writing and data analysis.

Structure and Function of Human Body Systems (20 credits) - This module introduces you to the structure and function of the systems in the human body. You'll focus on how these systems interact with each other and discover how they can be disturbed by outside factors such as exercise, disease and our environment.

The Basis of Life (20 credits) - Interested in understanding how genes are switched on and off, and how this makes your cells work? This module explores the connection between genes, proteins and the functions of cells. We also look at how cells generate and store energy, how they communicate with each other. You will apply your knowledge of biology, chemistry, physic and maths to understanding these fundamental processes.

Biology of the Mind (10 credits) - This module introduces you to key concepts in neuroscience, using examples drawn from across the human nervous system. You'll also explore how we study the nervous system's structure and function, at the cellular, circuit and network level.

Introduction to Pharmacology (10 credits) - In this module, you'll be introduced to the foundational concepts of pharmacology. These will be studied through examples from different areas of the field, such as drugs used to treat common diseases and conditions. You'll also learn how we discover and develop drugs within today's pharmaceutical industry.

Evidence Based Reports (Assessment) (30 credits) - This module covers two assignments. The first assesses how well you connect different concepts discussed on the course. The second examines your understanding of things such as clinical pharmacology, the discovery and development of drugs, and how we experimentally measure things like structure and function.

Application of Knowledge (Assessment) (30 credits) - This module sees you explaining various topics that you’ve explored on the course so far. You will take an in-course assessment, write two reflective essays and sit an exam.

Optional modules

20 credits from the following, at least one module from list 1

List 1

Candidates will be required to study a minimum of 20 credits but up to 40 credits of optional modules:

Introduction to Immunology (10 credits) - You’ll review fundamental immune mechanisms with a particular emphasis on human immunology and its relationship to health and disease. You’ll discover how we protect ourselves from infection through our immune defences and learn about the role of different types of leukocytes and antibodies and complement in our immune defences.

The Microbial World (10 credits) - The module introduces you to the diversity of microbial life and viruses on this planet, with an emphasis on how we interact with microbes that are responsible for infections. You’ll explore how microorganisms interact with each other and how they influence more complex organisms, and how fungi, bacteria and viruses are safely manipulated.

Introduction to Genetics (10 credits) - You’ll be provided with essential foundational knowledge in genetics, exploring the different meanings of ‘genetics’ and how this concept has changed over time. More importantly, you’ll explore what genetics means for us as organisms. To what extent do genes determine our inheritance? And how do our genes make us the distinct and unique organisms we are?

If only one module is selected from list 1, choose an optional module from list 2

List 2

Candidates can study up to 20 credits from the following list of optional modules:

Elements of Human Nutrition (10 credits) - You’ll be introduced to the underpinning physiological processes that govern health, such as nutrient function and metabolism, dietary intakes and food sources, deficiency diseases and nutritional requirements. You’ll also learn how to apply nutritional recommendations within the context of health and special populations.

Discovery Module (10 credits) - As well as the compulsory and optional modules that make up your programme of study, you may be able to choose something different to your main subject as a Discovery Module. These can be selected within a pool of modules hosted in a different School or Faculty (subject to availability).

Year 2

You will gain a more detailed exposure to the systems, processes or functions of the body in areas of key research at Leeds through core and optional modules. In year 2, there is more choice in the topics you may choose allowing you to tailor your degree.

Modules are taught using an integrated method that brings together normal structure and function, with changes in disease and treatment. Advanced biomedical science concept units include aspects of cardiovascular sciences, molecular pharmacology, neurobiology, and regenerative medicine.

In year 2 the modules are taught via facilitated and independent learning. You’ll have a range of optional modules to choose from, including human diseases, molecular neuroscience, bioinformatics, or tissue engineering, and develop your understanding of research methods and your experimental skills.

You will further develop your personal and professional skills including critical thinking, creative problem solving, team-working, and critical reasoning skills. You’ll then be given the opportunity to apply the knowledge and skills to evaluate scientific evidence and create solutions to biomedical problems.

At the end of year 2 you will have the opportunity to complete an industrial work placement, study abroad, or combined study and work abroad. This will add an additional year of study to your degree.

Compulsory modules

Team-Based Solutions to Global Challenges in Human Science (20 credits) – In line with key complex global challenges related to United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) | you’ll build skills in knowledge application, analysis, and scientific data presentation. You’ll work as a team to research and create biomedical solutions to a global grand challenge or UN SDG.

Advanced Concepts in Biomedical Sciences (40 credits) – This module introduces advanced concepts underpinning the study of Biomedical Sciences. This will include cardiac, circulatory and respiratory physiology, effects of disease, the impact of exercise on these systems, the drug discovery process, and neuroanatomy and cellular neuroscience.

Optional modules

Candidates will be required to study the one of the following 4 modules (all pass for progression):

Experimental Skills in Medical Sciences or Pharmacology or Neuroscience or Human Physiology (20 credits) – The module provides you with opportunities to further develop your experimental, technical and computational skills. Working in teams, you’ll plan and carry out a range of practical activities, including laboratory-based experimental projects and computational work. You’ll explore principles of experimental design; hypothesis testing and develop more advanced skills in data evaluation using statistical methods.

List 1: Candidates will be required to study a minimum of 20 credits but up to 40 credits of optional modules:

The Imprinted Brain (10 credits) -You’ll apply an interdisciplinary approach to investigate the genetics, pathology, socio-economic costs and cultural differences associated with disorders such as autism and psychosis. The module is run by Utrecht University in collaboration with University of Leeds and will involve distance learning in mixed teams of students from both universities.

Sensory and Motor Neuroscience (10 credits) - This module explores the anatomy and physiology of sensory and motor systems, as well as integration across different systems. Some aspects of this module will be framed in the context of disorders and conditions that alter sensory and motor functions. This content builds on topics covered in Year 1 of the course, as well as integrating the neuroanatomy and cellular neuroscience covered in Semester 1 of Year 2.

Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine Essentials (10 credits) - This module introduces the interdisciplinary field of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. The need for and challenges of tissue engineering will be covered, along with the fundamentals of immunology and transplantation, tissue and matrix biology, biomaterials and cellular interactions, in vitro and in vivo models.

Applied Concepts in Drug Development (20 credits) - This module explores the preclinical and clinical processes involved in evaluating whether optimised lead compounds (or other drug types) are likely to be safe and efficacious as a drug. The preclinical stages include evaluating drug efficacy and ADME in in vitro assays and in vivo, in animal disease models.

Medical Immunology (10 credits) - You’ll gain detailed knowledge of the immune system, focusing on human health, from infectious and auto-immune diseases to treatment.

List 2: Candidates can study up to 20 credits from the following list of optional modules:

Fundamentals of cell and cancer biology (20 credits) - This module explores the foundations in Human cell biology, the molecular basis of human cancers and approaches to therapeutic treatments.

Human Diseases (10 credits) - You will cover a range of human diseases, both inherited and environmentally linked. These include heart and vascular disease, diabetes, neurodegenerative diseases, dermatitis, and diseases linked to diet deficiencies.

Candidate wishing to select a discovery module as part of list 2 should consider the modules presented here:

Skills in Communicating Research Beyond the University (10 credits) - You’ll gain skills in communicating research to audiences from outside the University which are highly valued by graduate employers and the research community. You'll design and implement activities to communicate research to a general audience. Skills covered include an overview of aims and purposes of engaging a wider audience, event management, marketing and communication.

Year 3

In year 3 of the MBiol programme, you will prepare for your year 4 extended project by carrying out an extended literature review of a topic of your interest. In addition, you will gain knowledge in contemporary practical skills and research topics in Biomedical Sciences, together with how to apply the skills gained throughout the first 2 years of the programme.

Compulsory modules

Practial Research Skills (20 credits) - You will gain an understanding of current research techniques and methods used in the field of Biomedical Sciences. You will also learn how to link different technical approaches to address a research question. Throughout the module, you will be exposed to interpreting experimental data, literature searching, reading and reviewing and report writing. The module will conclude with the integration of the data to generate a more holistic understanding.

Extended Research Project Preparation (20 credits) - You’ll be required to carry out a literature review according to the specific project that will be studied in Year 4. The project will be assessed on the basis of a written literature review, project proposal and an oral presentation.

Research Skills and Professional Development (20 credits) - This module will support you to apply the skills, experience and knowledge you have gained earlier in your degree to your Capstone Research Project or MBiol project, through a series of Skill Units focusing on specific methodologies, techniques and transferable skills. This module will also provide the opportunity to develop and enhance skills and experiences to support the next stage of your career or education.

Candidates will need a minimum of 20 credits from the following list of optional modules, and a maximum of 40 credits:

Research Topics in Biomedical Sciences 1 (20 credits) - This module will introduce you to some contemporary research in the field of Biomedical Sciences. You will study a number of ‘research topic units’, each of which will contain a series of workshops, screencasts, and other teaching sessions relating to a particular research topic within the field of Biomedical Sciences. You will do additional reading on at least two of these topics.

Research Topics in Biomedical Sciences 2 (20 credits) - This module will introduce you to some additional contemporary research in the field of Biomedical Sciences.

Candidates can study 20-40 credits from the following list of optional modules:

Cancer Biology (20 credits) - A comprehensive treatment of human cancer from the molecular basis of cancer through the alterations in cells and tissues in cancers to current therapies for a range of human cancers.

Reproductive Medical Science (20 credits) - This module will provide a broad overview of the history, present context and future prospects for research-led intervention in human reproduction. It will include basic reproductive biology (gamete biology, fertilisation, embryology, implantation, placentation and gestation) and more advanced aspects of molecular and cellular developmental biology with consideration of the associated molecular genetics and epigenetics including preimplantation screening and diagnosis and corrective gene therapy. This module will also look at the causes of infertility then cover key aspects of Assisted Reproduction Technologies (ART) such as in vitro fertilisation (IVF) that are used to treat it alongside the scientific, technical and ethical foundations on which ART depends. The module will also cover key aspects of stem cell biology, cloning and related reproductive technologies. Finally, some of the ethical challenges that arise by virtue of the use of ART and reproductive technologies will be discussed.

Neurophysiology (20 credits) - This module will provide an understanding of the neuronal control of the gastrointestinal and cardiorespiratory systems with an emphasis on networks and neuronal integration. We will also investigate how activity in these networks may contribute to disease states and potential treatments for some diseases based on manipulations of these networks and/or their targets.

Inherited Disorders (20 credits) - This module will provide a general introduction to the study of inherited disorders and the general principles involved in the study of inherited disorders. Inherited disorders of the following receptors, enzymes and channels will be covered in detail: insulin receptor, vasopressin V2 receptor, thyroid stimulating hormone receptor, factor V, cystathione betasynthase, parkin, CFTR chloride channel, alpha1S calcium channel, EnaC sodium channel, lipoprotein lipase.

Animal models in Discovery Biology and Drug Development (20 credits)- This module will provide a broad knowledge and understanding of the use of animals in different areas of discovery biology and pre-clinical drug development research. It will include the law, ethics and ethical review, an understanding of societal attitudes to animal research, and animal welfare. You will also gain hands-on experience of working with research animals and in evaluating data from animal studies.

The objectives of this module are to provide students with a broad knowledge and understanding of the use of animals in discovery biology and pre-clinical drug development, to develop their ethical awareness, and provide experiential learning in the use of animals for scientific and medical research.

Diet and Cardiovascular Health (10 credits) - This module aims to provide you with the knowledge and understanding of the functions of food and nutrients and their relationship to health and disease, and you will become aware of recent advances in specific topics, such as endothelial function and dysfunction, the role and mechanism of dietary fats in atherosclerosis and more.

Food and Cancer (10 credits) - This module will explore the molecular and cell biology of cancer and the link between foods/dietary patterns and cancer. You will learn what cancer is, and what the hallmarks of cancer are and explore the evidence behind cancer prevention recommendations. You will also learn how some dietary derived compounds are being used as bioactive nutraceuticals to prevent or ameliorate cancer. The module also covers cancer causing agents found in food, how they are classified and what measures are in place to limit exposure. You will also explore the role of the diet-immune interactions and obesity in cancer risk. At the societal level, you will learn about why reports linking food and cancer may vary, the variables that lead to apparently contradicting evidence, and explore media reporting of scientific data. By the end of this module, students will be confident in interpreting a range of data types that have informed public policy on cancer prevention, and be competent to discuss the links between food and cancer in an informative manner.

Year 4

Your extended research project or appropriate period of work-based practice (a project taken in the workplace), will focus on an original, cutting-edge research topic specific to your area of interest. This will equip you with the skills necessary for a career in research, in addition to ensuring you stand out in the graduate job market. These projects are linked to research programmes of academics in our School, thereby allowing students to actively contribute to current research outcomes and discoveries.

Examples of previous research projects include:

• The ANO1-activated channel represents a mechanism of amplifying pain signals.
• Upregulating Kv4.2 ion channel complexes: a novel therapeutic strategy for dementia.
• Investigating modulation of postnatal neurogenesis in the mouse spinal cord.

Compulsory modules

Advanced Research Topics (30 credits) – You’ll develop the research skills to support your laboratory or other research or enquiry-based activities that you will undertake as part of your extended research project and to prepare for a career in a research environment. You’ll develop skills to critically analyse published research. It will also expose you to current research trends in the biosciences, and to leading researchers in the field.

Extended Research Project (90 credits) – You’ll choose an independent project of interest, which will be mentored by one of the world leading academics in their field, conducting an individual extended research or enquiry-based project. This will also incorporate experiences of working as part of a team in a research environment and interacting with research scientists.

Learning and teaching

Our teaching is delivered through a combination of large and small group workshops and practicals. We take a student-centred approach to learning and so our teaching is designed to enable student engagement through active learning approaches that include creative problem-solving, team-work activities and mini-projects. In this way, you are able to apply the theoretical knowledge learnt to practical, real-life contexts. We put a high value on practical teaching and so a core part of your teaching will focus on developing hands-on practical and associated research skills.

Independent study is an important part of University learning and you will be expected to undertake private study. We will support you in becoming independent learners through our teaching approaches and through regular meetings with your personal tutor who is there to advise you academically.

We use a range of digital tools to enhance your learning. Through our Minerva learning management system, you will be able to access our extensive library of online materials, some of it designed specifically to support preparation prior to attending classroom sessions and discuss content with peers and teachers. In the classroom, educators use a variety of interactive digital tools to help you learn through discussion and debate. Laboratory practicals are accompanied by detailed online preparation guides and use of electronic laboratory notebooks to ensure you get the most out of your time and develop workplace skills.

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

Assessment on the course is a varied mix of course work submitted during the semester and exam periods (Jan and May) each year. A portfolio of assessment approaches is used.

There is also a mixture of multiple choice questions, short answer questions and longer essay questions used in an online time limited assessment.

Many modules adopt authentic assessment approaches where appropriate. These assessments aim to develop the personal and professional skills required in the workplace. This includes:

• writing laboratory or other reports
• evidence-based reports
• grant applications
• oral presentations (individual and group)
• poster presentations
• reflective accounts and portfolios

Communicating science to a wider audience is a key skill. In some circumstances there may be a choice of assessment piece to make it more relevant, meaningful and engaging for you.

Assessments in the school are prepared in a fair and inclusive manner adhering to relevant and up to date guidance.

Entry requirements

A-level: AAA

Including biology or chemistry, plus another science or science-related subject. Critical thinking and general studies excluded.

We accept the following:

• Science: biology, human biology, chemistry, mathematics, physics, PE.

• Science-related: computing, environmental science, food science, geography, geology, psychology, statistics.

Applicants taking a Science A-level (in England) will be required to achieve a pass in the practical element in addition to the standard A-level grade requirement.

When an applicant is taking the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ), the Cambridge International Project Qualification (Cambridge IPQ) or Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced Skills Challenge Certificate, this can be considered alongside A-levels and may attract an alternative offer in addition to the standard offer. If you’re taking A-levels, this would be a 1 grade drop from the standard offer. For example A in one of the above qualifications with AAB at A-level (MBiol applicants).

GCSE: Grade 6 (B) or above at GCSE maths and Grade 4 (C) or above at GCSE English. The Faculty of Biological Sciences will accept Level 2 Functional Skills as equivalent to C/4 in GCSE English.

Alternative qualification

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 offer

Specific A Level subjects required – see entry requirement section above.

GCSE: Grade 6 (B) or above at GCSE Maths and Grade 4 (C) or above at GCSE English.

Access to Leeds: Pass

International Foundation Year

International students who do not meet the academic requirements for undergraduate study may be able to study the University of Leeds International Foundation Year. This gives you the opportunity to study on campus, be taught by University of Leeds academics and progress onto a wide range of Leeds undergraduate courses. Find out more about International Foundation Year programmes.

English language requirements

IELTS 6.0 overall, with no less than 5.5 in any component.. For other English qualifications, read English language equivalent qualifications.

Improve your English
If you're an international student and you don't meet the English language requirements for this programme, you may be able to study our undergraduate pre-sessional English course, to help improve your English language level.

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.
 

Tuition fees for a study abroad or work placement year
If you take a study abroad or work placement year, you’ll pay a reduced tuition fee during this period. For more information, see Study abroad and work placement tuition fees and loans.

Read more about paying fees and charges.

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.

Applying

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

International students apply through UCAS in the same way as UK students. Our network of international representatives can help you with your application. If you’re unsure about the application process, contact the admissions team for help.

Read about visas, immigration and other information in International students. We recommend that international students apply as early as possible to ensure that they have time to apply for their visa.

Admissions guidance

Visit our admissions guidance page for more information about applying to undergraduate courses in the Faculty of Biological Sciences.

Application process

The Faculty of Biological Sciences may consider applications submitted after this date. Availability of courses in UCAS Extra will be detailed by UCAS at the appropriate stage in the cycle.

Alternative Entry Scheme for mature applicants

As per the information detailed in the corresponding section of the University of Leeds Taught Admissions Policy the Faculty of Biological Sciences will consider prospective students via the Alternative Entry Scheme run by the Lifelong Learning where appropriate applicants will be referred to the Lifelong Learning Centre, who will advise the applicant further.

Interviews

Except for those courses detailed below, interviews do not form part of the Faculty of Biological Sciences’ standard admissions process however, in some cases, an applicant may be invited for an interview if it will help inform whether or not an offer should be made.

Admissions policy

University of Leeds Admissions Policy 2025

This course is taught by

Faculty of Biological Sciences

Contact us

Faculty of Biological Sciences Undergraduate Admissions Office

Email: fbsadmissions@leeds.ac.uk
Telephone:

Career opportunities

As well as providing you with subject-specific knowledge, we aim to equip you with the best possible skills for a variety of future careers. All of our degrees have a strong emphasis on practical based teaching, small group teaching, online learning and problem solving.

Throughout the degree, you’ll gain a wide range of transferable skills which are highly valued by employers. Supported by the faculty student opportunity team, Leeds for Life scheme and your academic and personal tutor, you’ll be ideally placed to focus on your personal development and make the most of your time at university.

Studying biomedical sciences at the University of Leeds will prepare you for a wide range of biomedical and science-related careers, or careers in the wider community or Society. This could be a career in laboratory-based science, whether in the field of research or clinical healthcare or as the foundation for further study in medical fields.

Typical graduate careers include:

• academic researcher
• biomedical scientist
• clinical research associate
• clinical scientist
• physician associate
• medical communications

Examples of recent graduate destinations include:

• Labcorp
• PwC
• Ministry of Justice
• Wellcome Trust
• University Hospitals
• NHS Blood and Transplant
• Fortrea

This course can open up opportunities in other careers outside science where scientific skills are required and relevant to success for example global health policy, public engagement, accountancy and finance.

Careers support

We have a dedicated student opportunity team in the Faculty of Biological Sciences who work closely with the University’s Careers Centre.

We offer numerous opportunities in addition to volunteering and placements. This includes our annual student-alumni networking event, where graduates are invited back to talk about their work and network with our students, and our STEM Careers Fair. The fair is an amazing opportunity for you to meet bioscience employers, such as AstraZeneca, Labcorp, GSK, Nuffield and NHS Ecological consultancies. You will be able to speak to alumni, attend workshops and more.

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

Study abroad

On this course you have the opportunity to apply to spend time abroad, usually as an extra academic year. We have over 300 University partners worldwide and popular destinations for our students include Europe, the USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Hong Kong, South Africa and Latin America. 

Find out more at the Study Abroad website.

If you choose to undertake a study abroad option, you will spend the third year of the your course studying abroad. This will extend your studies by 12 months.

Work placements

Practical work experience can help you decide on your career and improve your employability. On this course you have the option to apply to take a placement year module with organisations across the public, private and voluntary sectors in the UK, or overseas.

Find out more about work experience on the Careers website.

Industrial placements are taken after your second year. This will extend your studies by 12 months. For your work placement in industry, the staff at Leeds will help you with your CV and recruitment process and provide details of organisations.

Placements abroad are possible. We work together with your industrial supervisors to make sure you get the most out of this year. A year working in industry gives you an excellent opportunity to get used to the demands of the world of work, to develop new skills and to augment your CV.

Combined study and working abroad

Our new module allows you to combine both a study abroad and industrial work placement into one additional year of study. Over the year you will study for a semester at one of our partner universities and complete an industrial work placement for 6 months abroad or in the UK.

Find out more about Combined study and work abroad.