Course summary

Discover how biomedical scientists diagnose and treat diseases by studying for an accredited degree in Biomedical Science in our world-class laboratories in Cambridge. As a biomedical science student at ARU, you’ll learn about the human body at molecular, organ and systems levels, and how to investigate and treat disease. Our passionate, highly-qualified lecturers will teach you the latest findings about conditions such as cancer, diabetes, antibiotic resistance and haemostasis. Biomedical science is an exciting and dynamic subject, where research is constantly leading to breakthroughs and medical advances that have an impact on the health and wellbeing of society. In Cambridge you’ll study in our state-of-the-art Science Centre, in lecture theatres and laboratories, where you’ll have the opportunity to use specialist equipment. (We also plan to offer this course in Peterborough from September 2022. Please note that facilities at ARU Peterborough, which is a brand-new university, will differ. We'll add more details as soon as they're confirmed.) Biomedical science is the field that underpins modern medicine. It’s always changing and developing, so it’s an exciting and rewarding subject to study. We’ll begin by studying general biology, human anatomy and physiology, microbiology and cellular and molecular biology. Then we turn our attention to modern diagnostic techniques, and learn about biomedical disciplines including haematology and transfusion science, clinical biochemistry, cellular pathology, medical genetics, medical microbiology and clinical immunology. In your final year, with support from a supervisor, you’ll carry out a research project and explore an area of biomedical science that’s of particular interest to you. There’s also the option to take a placement year as part of this degree, and gain valuable work experience. Our three-year course in Cambridge is accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science, setting you up for a trainee position in an NHS laboratory as a Health and Care Professions Council-registered biomedical scientist. Both our three-year and four-year (placement) courses in Cambridge are accredited by the Royal Society of Biology. As well as preparing you for a career in biomedical science, they’ll equip you for further study in science or medicine. We are currently seeking accreditation for this course in Peterborough, from September 2022. There's a limited opportunity to transfer to Year 1 of our MBChB Medicine degree, following successful completion of your first year of Biomedical Science, application and interview.