Biomedical Science - BSc (Hons)

with a Sandwich Year

Standard option
with a Year Abroad
with a Sandwich Year

Our degrees are accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS) and the Royal Society of Biology (RSB). The course is informed by our cutting-edge research and extensive network of clinical collaborations. Our Biomedical Science degree prepares you for a career focused on human disease, whether it is in research, diagnostics or treatment.

Our modules include guest lecturers who are practicing Biomedical Scientists and clinicians to help put your learning into context and provide networking opportunities. Upon graduation you will have acquired the practical experience, scientific knowledge and transferable skills to be highly competitive for a wide range of jobs including the health service, pharmaceutical industry, postgraduate study and medicine. You will benefit from our expert careers advice to give you the best possible start when deciding on your future career.

Our degree programme

During your studies you explore the biochemical processes that occur in the human body, learn how they respond to diseases and how this knowledge can be used to identify and treat diseases. In your future career, this scientific knowledge could be put to practical use within medical healthcare.

In your first and second years, you develop your skills as a bioscientist, covering areas including biological chemistry, genetics, molecular and cellular biology, human physiology and disease, and metabolism.

After two years you undertake a placement in industry, helping you put into practice the skills you're learnt in our labs. This year gives you great opportunities to gain real-world experience as well as making contacts in industry and increasing your confidence ahead of completing your degree.

In your final year, your modules cover areas such as immunology, haematology and blood transfusion, and pathogens. Optional modules cover areas including the biology of ageing, neuroscience and cancer biology.

You also complete your own research project. Our research funding of around £4.5 million a year means that you are taught the most up-to-date science and this allows us to offer some exciting and relevant final-year projects.

We also offer between 20 and 30 paid Summer Studentships each year. You can apply to work in our research labs during the summer holiday and gain hands-on research experience before your final year of study.

By undertaking an accredited course, you will receive a wide-ranging, research informed scientific education and develop practical skills and experience that employers value.

Our facilities

We recently spent £2 million on our laboratories to ensure that you develop your practical skills in a world-class environment, getting hands on time with equipment used in industry. We give you extensive practical training and you spend up to two days a week in the laboratory.

Year abroad

You can choose to work or study abroad for a year. You are taught in English and previous destinations include universities in the US, Canada, Europe, Hong Kong and Malaysia. For more details, see Biomedical Science with a Year Abroad.

Extra activities

We have a huge range of student societies at Kent, including BioSoc, where you meet other people, indulge your passion and learn extra-curricular skills. Our societies run social events as well as industry and research talks. Find out more about the wider experience for Biomedical science students at Kent.

The world of work

Our school collaborates with research groups in industry and academia throughout the UK and Europe. It also has excellent links with local employers, such as:

NHS
GSK
MedImmune
Eli Lilly
Lonza
Aesica Pharmaceuticals
Sekisui Diagnostics
Cairn Research
Public Health England.

You are more than your grades

At Kent we look at your circumstances as a whole before deciding whether to make you an offer to study here. Find out more about how we offer flexibility and support before and during your degree.

Find out more

Entry requirements

The University will consider applications from students offering a wide range of qualifications, typical requirements are listed below. Students offering alternative qualifications should contact the Admissions Office for further advice. It is not possible to offer places to all students who meet this typical offer/minimum requirement.

A level

BBC including Biology or Human Biology grade B or Double Award Applied Science at grade BB including the practical endorsement of any science qualifications taken.
GCSE

Mathematics grade C
Access to HE Diploma

The University of Kent will not necessarily make conditional offers to all access candidates but will continue to assess them on an individual basis. If an offer is made candidates will be required to pass the Access to Higher Education Diploma with 36 level 3 credits at distinction and 9 at merit, and to obtain a proportion of the total level 3 credits in particular subjects at distinction or merit grade.
BTEC Nationals

Distinction, Distinction, Merit in Applied Science or Biomedical Science. Please contact us for advise if you are taking a different BTEC subject.
International Baccalaureate

34 points overall or 15 points at HL including Biology 5 at HL or 6 at SL and Mathematics 4 at HL or SL
International Foundation Programme

Pass all components of the University of Kent International Foundation Programme with a 60% overall average including 60% in Skills for Bioscientists, Fundamentals of Human Biology and Life Sciences (plus 50% in LZ013 Maths and Statistics if you do not hold GCSE Maths at 4/C or equivalent).
Apply now

Please contact the School for more information at study-bio@kent.ac.uk.

International students should visit our International Student website for further specific information. International fee-paying students who require a Student visa cannot study part-time due to visa restrictions.

English Language Requirements

Please see our English language entry requirements web page.

If you need to improve your English language standard as a condition of your offer, you can attend one of our pre-sessional courses in English for Academic Purposes before starting your degree programme. You attend these courses before starting your degree programme.

Course structure

Duration: 4 years full-time

Modules

The following modules are indicative of those offered on this programme. This listing is based on the current curriculum and may change year to year in response to new curriculum developments and innovation.

On most programmes, you study a combination of compulsory and optional modules. You may also be able to take ‘elective’ modules from other programmes so you can customise your programme and explore other subjects that interest you.

Stage 1

All modules in Stage 1 are compulsory - but you only take one of the Biological Chemistry B modules (BIOS3220 OR BIOS3221).

Compulsory modules currently include

BIOS3000 - Introduction to Biochemistry (15 credits)

This course will provide an introduction to biomolecules in living matter. The simplicity of the building blocks of macromolecules (amino acids, monosaccharides, fatty acids and purine and pyrimidine bases) will be contrasted with the enormous variety and adaptability that is obtained with the different macromolecules (proteins, carbohydrates, lipids and nucleic acids). The nature of the electronic and molecular structure of macromolecules and the role of non-covalent interactions in an aqueous environment will be highlighted. The unit will be delivered though lectures, formative practicals and related feedback sessions to ensure students fully understand what is expected of them. Short tests (formative assessment) will be used throughout the unit to test students' knowledge and monitor that the right material has been extracted from the lectures.

BIOS3010 - Enzymes and introduction to Metabolism (15 credits)

This course aims to introduce the 'workers' present in all cells – enzymes, and their role in the chemical reactions that make life possible.

The fundamental characteristics of enzymes will be discussed – that they are types of protein that act as catalysts to speed up reactions, or make unlikely reactions more likely. Methods for analysis of enzymic reactions will be introduced (enzyme kinetics). Control of enzyme activity, and enzyme inhibition will be discussed.

Following on from this the pathways of intermediary metabolism will be introduced. Enzymes catalyse many biochemical transformations in living cells, of which some of the most fundamental are those which capture energy from nutrients. Energy capture by the breakdown (catabolism) of complex molecules and the corresponding formation of NADH, NADPH, FADH2 and ATP will be described. The central roles of the tricarboxylic acid cycle and oxidative phosphorylation in aerobic metabolism will be detailed. The pathways used in animals for catabolism and biosynthesis (anabolism) of some carbohydrates and fat will be covered, as well as their control. Finally how humans adapt their metabolism to survive starvation will be discussed.

BIOS3020 - Molecular and Cellular Biology I (15 credits)

This module addresses key themes and experimental techniques in molecular and cellular illustrated by examples from a range of microbes animals and plants . It covers basic cell structure, and organisation including organelles and their functions, cytoskeleton, cell cycle control and cell division. The control of all living processes by genetic mechanisms is introduced and an opportunity to handle and manipulate genetic material provided in the laboratory. Monitoring of students' knowledge and progress will be provided by a multi-choice test and the laboratory report, with feedback.

BIOS3070 - Human Physiology and Disease I (15 credits)

This module will consider the anatomy and function of normal tissues, organs and systems and then describe their major pathophysiological conditions. It will consider the aetiology of the condition, its biochemistry and its manifestation at the level of cells, tissues and the whole patient. It may also cover the diagnosis and treatment of the disease condition. Indicative topics will include:

Cells and tissues

Membrane dynamics

Cell communication and homeostasis

Introduction to the nervous system

The cardiovascular system

The respiratory system

The immune system and inflammation

Blood cells and clotting

The Urinary system

The digestive system, liver and pancreas.

BIOS3080 - Skills for Bioscientists (15 credits)

Subject-based and communication skills are relevant to all the bioscience courses. This module allows you to become familiar with practical skills, the analysis and presentation of biological data and introduces some basic mathematical and statistical skills as applied to biological problems. It also introduces you to the computer network and its applications and covers essential skills such as note-taking and essay writing.

BIOS3220 - Biological Chemistry B (30 credits)

Students with A2 Chemistry (equivalent) on entry take Phases 2+3+4. Biology students with A2 Chemistry (or equivalent) will obtain additional chemical concepts (Phase 4) as their chemistry qualification at A2 will already furnish them with concepts from Phase 1. All students will participate in the core section: Phase 2.

Phases 2+3+4 students will use the Phase 1 coursework test as a formative assessment to recognise their required chemical knowledgebase as obtained at A2 level. This provides an opportunity to identify students requiring additional support.

This module links to Biological Chemistry A with identically designed phases (1, 2 and 3) to maximise teaching efficiency across all programs in the School of Biosciences.

Phase 2: Autumn Term (9 lectures, 2 x 2 hr Workshop, 3 extra support lectures)

Chemical and biochemical thermodynamics. Topics covered are: (i) energetic and work, (ii) enthalpy, entropy and the laws of thermodynamics (iii) Gibbs free energy, equilibrium and spontaneous reactions, (iv) Chemical and biochemical equilibrium (including activity versus concentration and Le Chatelier's principle). The two hour workshop is designed to be delivered as small group sessions to cover the applications and practice of thermodynamics concepts.

Chemistry applied to biological concepts: bonding, valence, hybridisation as well as biological applied thermodynamic process (biomolecular association/dissociation).

Assessment feedback (1 session/lecture)

Phase 3: Spring Term (17 lectures, 2 x 2 hr workshop)

Fundamental organic chemistry with biological examples. Topics covered: (i) Introduction and basic functional chemistry, (ii) Isomerism and stereochemistry, (iii) Reaction mechanisms, (iv) Alkanes/alkyl halides/alkenes/alkynes, (v) Aromatic compounds, (vi) Heterocyclic compounds, (vii) Amines and alcohols (viii) Carbonyl compounds and carboxylic acids and (ix) Biological inorganic chemistry. The two workshops is designed to be delivered as small group sessions to cover the applications of reaction mechanisms and reaction schemes.

Phase 4: Spring Term (8 lectures, 2 x 1 hr workshop).

BIOS3221 - Biological Chemistry B (30 credits)

Students without A2Chemistry (equivalent) on entry take Phases 1+2+3. N.B. Students with A2Chemistry or equivalent below grade C will follow Phases 1+2+3This approach allows fundamental concepts (Phase 1) to be taught to non-A2Chemistry students. All students will participate in the core section: Phase 2.This module links to Biological Chemistry A with identically designed phases(1, 2 and 3) to maximise teaching efficiency across all programs in the Schoolof Biosciences.Phase 1: Autumn Term (5 lectures, 6 x 2 hr Workshops)Basic chemical concepts for biology will be taught and applied through examplesin a workshop atmosphere. The five workshop topics covered are: (i) Atoms andstates of matter (ii) valence and bonding (iii) basic organic chemistry forbiologists (iv) molecular shapes and isomerism in biology and (iv) chemicalreactivity and chemical equations.Assessment feedback of basic chemistry (1 session/lecture)Phase 2: Autumn Term (9 lectures, 2 x 2 hr Workshop, 3 extra support lectures)Chemical and biochemical thermodynamics. Topics covered are: (i) energetic andwork, (ii) enthalpy, entropy and the laws of thermodynamics (iii) Gibbs freeenergy, equilibrium and spontaneous reactions, (iv) Chemical and biochemicalequilibrium (including activity versus concentration and Le Chatelier'sprinciple). The two hour workshop is designed to be delivered as small groupsessions to cover the applications and practice of thermodynamics concepts.Chemistry applied to biological concepts: bonding, valence, hybridisation aswell as biological applied thermodynamic process (biomolecularassociation/dissociation).Assessment feedback (1 session/lecture)Phase 3: Spring Term (17 lectures, 2 x 2 hr workshop)Fundamental organic chemistry with biological examples. Topics covered: (i)Introduction and basic functional chemistry, (ii) Isomerism andstereochemistry, (iii) Reaction mechanisms, (iv) Alkanes/alkylhalides/alkenes/alkynes, (v) Aromatic compounds, (vi) Heterocyclic compounds,(vii) Amines and alcohols (viii) Carbonyl compounds and carboxylic acids and(ix) Biological inorganic chemistry. The two workshops is designed to bedelivered as small group sessions to cover the applications of reactionmechanisms and reaction schemes.

BIOS3240 - Genetics and Evolution (15 credits)

This module is an introduction to Mendelian genetics and also includes human pedigrees, quantitative genetics, and mechanisms of evolution.

Stage 2

Compulsory modules currently include

BIOS5050 - Infection and Immunity (15 credits)

This module will consider the anatomy and function of the immune system and immunopathology and then consider the diseases and microorganisms that affect the different organs and tissues of the human body. Indicative topics will include inflammation, innate and adaptive immunity to pathogens, immune defence mechanisms against bacterial, viral and parasitic infections, antibody classes and functions, antigen processing and presentation, complement, the generation of antibody diversity, cell communication and immunopathology, including autoimmunity, hypersensitivity and transplant rejection. In the medical microbiology section of the module, indicative topics will include epidemiology, virology, parasitology, fungal infections, skin infections, GI tract infections, CNS infections, respiratory tract infections, UTI and STD infections.

BIOS5130 - Human Physiology and Disease 2 (15 credits)

Reproductive System: Male and female reproductive systems; Endocrine control of reproduction; Fertilisation; Early embryogenesis; Pregnancy and Parturition; Reproductive disorders.

Muscle: Muscle types: skeletal, smooth and cardiac; Structure of muscle; Molecular basis of contraction; Regulation of contraction including neural control; Energy requirements of muscle; Types of movement: reflex, voluntary, rhythmic; Muscle disorders.

Nervous System: Cells of the nervous system- neurons and glia; Electrical properties of neurons- action potential generation and conduction; Synaptic structure and function- transmitters and receptors; Structural organization of the central nervous system (CNS) and function of individual regions; Organization and function of the peripheral nervous system (PNS)- somatic motor, autonomic (sympathetic and parasympathetic) and sensory; Sensory systems- vision, hearing, taste, smell, pain. Disorders of the nervous system.

Endocrine System: Endocrine glands; Classes of hormones; Mechanisms of hormone action; Regulation of hormone release; Endocrine disorders.

BIOS5140 - Pharmacology (15 credits)

Introduction and basic principles of drug action: key drug targets including major receptor subtypes, ion channels, transporters, and structure-function relationships.

Systems pharmacology: the biological basis of diseases states affecting different physiological systems, therapeutic approaches to treating these diseases, and the cellular/molecular mode of action of drugs used. Indicative diseases may include hypertension, asthma, Parkinson's disease, schizophrenia, infertility, depression and anxiety.

BIOS5200 - Metabolism and Metabolic Disease (15 credits)

This module covers the general principles of metabolic disorders and focuses on pathways, enzyme mechanisms, and diseases associated with:

Energy metabolism

Amino acid/nucleotide metabolism

The urea cycle

Cholesterol metabolism

Vitamin metabolism

Heme synthesis/breakdown.

BIOS5250 - Investigation of Disease (15 credits)

This module will introduce the student to two of the four main branches of laboratory medicine, Clinical Biochemistry and Cellular Pathology, and begin to develop the skills students will require to work effectively and safely within a clinical setting.

Clinical Biochemistry:

The use of the laboratory, quality assurance and techniques (including Instrumentation and Automation, Clinical Applications, Antigen-Antibody Reactions, Separation techniques) will be introduced using the various screening and testing procedures as below.

Screening for disease – concepts, rationale and screening programmes, application of biochemical techniques to paediatrics and inborn errors of metabolism, tumour markers, liver function, iron and porphyrias, enzymes and their use in laboratory medicine, clinical applications of protein biochemistry, nutrition in health and disease, lipids and atherosclerosis.

Cellular Pathology:

Application of histological and cytological techniques in a clinical setting including cell and tissue sampling techniques for histological and cytological diagnosis.

Use histochemical and immunohistochemical stain techniques for diagnosis and selection of treatment.

Microscopic methods used in cellular pathology.

Quality control and quality assurance.

BIOS5320 - Skills for Bioscientists 2 (15 credits)

"Communication Skills in Biosciences: Essay writing

BIOS5480 - Microbial Physiology and Genetics I (15 credits)

Introduction: The ecological, medical, scientific and commercial importance of bacteria. Bacterial evolution and taxonomy.

Microbial biodiversity at the structural level: Composition of the average bacterial cell and basic bacterial cell structure. Gram positive and gram negative. Archea. Organisation of DNA. Membranes and the transport of small molecules into and out of the cell. Peptidoglycan and LPS and their importance in pathogenesis. The location and function of proteins. Capsule, flagella and adhesins.

Introduction to growth, fuelling and biosynthesis: Division by binary fission, including growth equations. Growth in batch and chemostat cultures; liquid vs. solid media. Nutritional and non-nutritional factors affecting growth (temperature, osmolarity, pH and antibiotics). Physiological state and balanced growth. Adaptation to extreme conditions.

Microbial biodiversity at the physiological and biochemical level: The diversity in bacterial metabolism (nutrient sources (particularly carbon and nitrogen), photosynthesis, aerobic and anaerobic growth and alternative terminal electron acceptors. Fermentation. The inverse relationship between growth factor requirements and biochemical complexity. The ecological significance of bacteria.

Synthesis, localisation and assembly of macromolecular structures: DNA replication and transcription. Translational and protein localisation, assembly of flagella and adhesins. Membranes, including LPS. Peptidoglycan. Antibiotics that inhibit peptidoglycan biosynthesis. Capsules.

Microbial communities and ecology: growth and survival in the real world (e.g. soils and sediments), studying populations and individuals. Biofilms and complex communities. Diauxie and growth.

Signalling and physiological control: Introduction to bacterial genetics. The regulation of gene expression at the transcriptional and post-transcriptional level in response to environmental factors Chemotaxis.

Practical: 'Antibiotics' in which students follow the growth of bacteria upon treatment with bacteriostatic and bactericidal antibiotics and answer questions about data concerning the mode of action of antibiotic resistance presented in the laboratory manual.

Workshop: 'Growth and viable counts' in which the students are given numerical data + growth equations and have to define factors such as (i) dilutions needed to give specific cell numbers, (ii) generations of growth to achieve specific cells numbers (iii) growth rate/doubling time. Designed to give students the skills required to manipulate bacterial cells to achieve correct cell density and growth phase for practical work.

Optional modules may include

BIOS5010 - Gene Expression and Its Control (15 credits)

The module deals with the molecular mechanisms of geneexpression and its regulation in organisms ranging from viruses to man. Thisinvolves descriptions of how genetic information is stored in DNA and RNA, howthat information is decoded by the cell and how this flow of information iscontrolled in response to changes in environment or developmental stage.Throughout, the mechanisms in prokaryotes and eukaryotes will be compared andcontrasted and will touch on the latest developments in how we can analyse geneexpression, and what these developments have revealed.

BIOS5030 - Cell Biology (15 credits)

Thecell is the fundamental structural unit in living organisms. Eukaryotic cellsare compartmentalized structures that like prokaryotic cells, must performseveral vital functions such as energy production, cell division and DNAreplication and also must respond to extracellular environmental cues. Inmulticellular organisms, certain cells have developed modified structures,allowing them to fulfil highly specialised roles. This module reviews theexperimental approaches that have been taken to investigate the biology of thecell and highlights the similarities and differences between cells of complexmulticellular organisms and microbial cells. Initially the functions of thecytoskeleton and certain cellular compartments, particularly the nucleus, areconsidered. Later in the unit, the mechanisms by which newly synthesisedproteins are secreted or shuttled to their appropriate cellular compartmentsare examined.

BIOS5210 - Metabolism andMetabolic Regulation (15 credits)

"Principles of metabolic regulation: Allostery

Year in industry

Biomedical Science offers the possibility of doing a one-year placement away from the University between Stages 2 and 3. Sandwich placements provide an excellent opportunity to gain relevant work experience, usually in the pharmaceutical industry or a research institute. These placements can be in the UK or abroad. You are paid by your employer and produce an independent research project.

On a sandwich placement you acquire additional skills and gain first-hand experience of a particular type of work, which will help to inform your career decisions at the end of your degree. Our students have completed placement years with a range of companies including the NHS, GlaxoSmithKline MedImmune, Lonza, BASF and Eli Lilly.

Progression:

Finding a work placement is a competitive process and we advise that you achieve an overall average of 65% in Stage 1 to increase your likelihood of success. If you are unable to find a suitable placement, you will transfer onto the equivalent three-year programme which is identical except for the year spent away from the University.

Visit the School of Biosciences web pages for more information about the sandwich option, including comments from past students.

Compulsory module

BI797 - Sandwich Year Assessment

Compulsory modules currently include

BIOS7970 - Sandwich Year Assessment (120 credits)

A placement typically is a 9-12 month internship with a commercial or public sector or charity organisation which provides opportunities for the student to develop graduate level subject-specific and generic employability skills. Choice of placement by student will be guided and facilitated at UoK with the learning outcomes listed above in mind. It is requested by UoK that the student be closely guided in work (usually with a named supervisor) involving specialist training. Placements are expected to have a scientific research focus and incorporate a project element that may be written up as a scientific report, however, the specific type of work undertaken may vary significantly from placement to placement. The research project should occupy not less than thirty percent of the sandwich year.

Find out more about BIOS7970

Stage 3

Compulsory modules currently include

BIOS6000 - Research Project (30 credits)

Early in the Autumn term,projects are assigned to students by the project co-ordinator (a member ofacademic staff), where possible in accordance with student choice. Studentsthen meet with their project supervisor to discuss the objectives of theproject and obtain guidance on background reading. During the Autumn termstudents write a brief formative literature review on the project topicproviding them with a good background before embarking on the projectwork. At the end of the formal project time, students are allowed time tocomplete the final project report, although they are encouraged to startwriting as early as possible during the Spring term. The supervisor providesfeedback on content and style of a draft of the report. In addition, studentsare expected to deliver their findings in presentation lasting 10 minutes with5 minutes of questions.

BIOS6060 - Pathogens &Pathogenicity (15 credits)

This module will cover fourtopics: Eukaryotic pathogens (parasites); Bacterialpathogens; Viral pathogens; and Human fungal pathogens.

BIOS6220 - Advanced Immunology (15 credits)

The aim of this Advanced Immunology module is to reviewtopical aspects of advanced immunology with emphasis on the regulation of theimmune response, and the role of dysfunctional immune systems in the aetiologyof a variety of disease states. Indicative topics include antigen processingand presentation, transplant rejection, autoimmunity, hypersensitivity, cellmigration homing and extravasation, cytokines, tumour immunology, mucosalimmunology and autophagy.

BIOS6270 - Haematology and BloodTransfusion (15 credits)

This module describes the anatomy,physiology, pathology, and therapy of the blood and blood forming tissues,including the bone marrow. It covers a wide range of disorders includinghaematological malignancies, infection with blood-borne parasites that causemalaria, and inappropriate clotting activities such as deep veinthrombosis.

Optional modules may include

BIOS6020 - Cell Signalling (15 credits)

The module begins byoverviewing the diverse mechanisms used by cells to communicate, consideringthe main modes of cell-cell communication, the major classes of signallingmolecules and the receptor types upon which they act. It then focuses on nuclear,G-protein coupled, and enzyme linked receptors covering in molecular detailthese receptors and their associated signal transduction pathways.

BIOS6040 - Biological Membranes (15 credits)

Cells and subcellular compartments are separated from theexternal milieu by lipid membranes with protein molecules inserted into thelipid layer. The aim of this module is to develop understanding of both thelipid and protein components of membranes as dynamic structures whose functionsare integrated in cellular processes.

BIOS6200 - Frontiers in Virology (15 credits)

The module aims to develop understanding and analyticalskills in virology, based around interactive seminars wherein students willanalyse, present, and discuss the relevant research literature. The studentswill gain experience in scientific design, literature analysis, scientificcommunication, and the analysis of experimental data.

BIOS6280 - Microbial Physiologyand Genetics II (15 credits)

A synopsis of the curriculum1. Outline of microbial physiology and genetics part II2. Microbial taxonomy and phylogenetics3. Microbial homeostasis - regulation of primary and secondary metabolism4. Genomic regulation - Transcriptional and post-transcriptional regulation ofgene expression5. Experimental approaches used to study microbial physiology, microbialgenomes and gene expression6. Microbial biochemistry7. Microbial biodiversity and complex signalling in the environment8. Application of microbes in biotechnologyPractical on bacterial transcriptional regulation using gene-expressionreporter fusionsGroup presentation of a research paper relating to topic areas onMicrobial biodiversity at the physiological and biochemical level."

BIOS6380 - Bioinformatics and Genomics (15 credits)

Bioinformatics Data sources & Sequence analysis:Databases and data availability. Using sequence data for analysis – sequencesearching methods, multiple sequence alignments, residue conservation, Proteindomains and families. Protein Bioinformatics Methods: Protein structure andfunction prediction. Prediction of binding sites/interfaces with small ligandsand with other proteins. Bioinformatics analyses using protein data. Genomics:An introduction to the analysis of genomic data, primarily focussing on thedata available from genome sequencing – how it can be used to study geneticvariants and compare genomes (i.e. comparative and functional genomics).

BIOS6420 - Cancer Biology (15 credits)

This module will look at Cancer formation andprogression; underlying factors, cancer cell heterogeneity, uncontrolled celldivision, invasive growth/ metastasis formation; as well as the MolecularBiology of Cancer: (Proto-)Oncogenes, tumour suppressor genes, cell cyclecontrol, cell death; and Cancer therapies.

BIOS6430 - Neuroscience (15 credits)

The module deals with basic neuroanatomy and molecular and cellularneurobiology, such as transmission of signals within the nervous system andsensory perception. It explores more complex functions of the nervous system,e.g. behavioural and cognitive functions including learning, memory, emotionsand appetite control. Throughout the module both the normal nervous system anddisorders that arise as a consequence of abnormalities will be covered.

BIOS6440 - Biology of Ageing (15 credits)

The module overviews the importance of studying ageing,the organisms and methods used to do so and considers how organisms agetogether with providing a detailed understanding of the processes and molecularmechanisms that govern ageing.

BUSN6120 - New Enterprise Development (15 credits)

This module is designed to provide students across the university withaccess to knowledge, skill development and training in the field ofentrepreneurship with a special emphasis on developing a business plan in orderto exploit identified opportunities. Hence, the module will be of value forstudents who aspire to establishing their own business and/or introducinginnovation through new product, service, process, project or businessdevelopment in an established organisation. The module complements students'final year projects in Computing, Law, Biosciences, Electronics, Multimedia,and Drama etc.

BIOS6003 - Science Communication and Public Engagement (15 credits)

Recent events have illustrated the importance of ensuring that science iscommunicated effectively to non-scientific audiences. This module considersbest practice in science communication, making use of case studies thatillustrate its importance in developing an informed and empowered public, whiledeveloping skills in different modes of communication that enhance futureemployability.

Home full-time £9250
EU full-time £15400
International full-time £20500

For details of when and how to pay fees and charges, please see our Student Finance Guide.

For students continuing on this programme, fees will increase year on year by no more than RPI + 3% in each academic year of study except where regulated.*

Your fee status

The University will assess your fee status as part of the application process. If you are uncertain about your fee status you may wish to seek advice from UKCISA before applying.

Fees for Year in Industry

Fees for Home undergraduates are £1,385.

Fees for Year Abroad

Fees for Home undergraduates are £1,385.

Students studying abroad for less than one academic year will pay full fees according to their fee status.

Additional costs

General additional costs

Find out more about accommodation and living costs, plus general additional costs that you may pay when studying at Kent.

Funding

University funding

Kent offers generous financial support schemes to assist eligible undergraduate students during their studies. See our funding page for more details.

Government funding

You may be eligible for government finance to help pay for the costs of studying. See the Government's student finance website.

Scholarships

General scholarships

Scholarships are available for excellence in academic performance, sport and music and are awarded on merit. For further information on the range of awards available and to make an application see our scholarships website.

The Kent Scholarship for Academic Excellence

At Kent we recognise, encourage and reward excellence. We have created the Kent Scholarship for Academic Excellence.

The scholarship will be awarded to any applicant who achieves a minimum of A*AA over three A levels, or the equivalent qualifications (including BTEC and IB) as specified on our scholarships pages.

Scholarships

We have a range of subject-specific awards and scholarships for academic, sporting and musical achievement.

Search scholarships

Teaching and assessment

You will be taught in a range of ways including lectures, workshops, problem-solving sessions and tutorials as well as learning and practising skills in our world-class labs, where you’ll have hands on time with equipment used in industry.

You have an Academic Adviser to support your studies and ensure that you reach your full potential, as well as access to our in-house and University wide student support teams and peer mentoring scheme.

For a student studying full time, each academic year of the programme will comprise 1200 learning hours which include both direct contact hours and private study hours.

Most modules are assessed by a combination of continuous assessment and end-of-year exams. Exams take place at the end of the academic year and count for 50% or more of the module mark. Stage 1 assessments do not contribute to the final degree classification, but all stage 2 and 3 assessments do, meaning that your final degree award is an average of many different components. On average, 26% of your time is spent in an activity led by an academic; the rest of your time is for independent study.

The Sandwich Year is assessed by a presentation and a written report and contributes 10% to the overall mark.

Contact hours

For a student studying full time, each academic year of the programme will comprise 1200 learning hours which include both direct contact hours and private study hours. The precise breakdown of hours will be subject dependent and will vary according to modules. Please refer to the individual module details under Course Structure.

Methods of assessment will vary according to subject specialism and individual modules. Please refer to the individual module details under Course Structure.

Programme aims

The programme aims to:

instil a sense of enthusiasm for biomedical science, confront the scientific, moral plus ethical questions and engage in critical assessment of the subject material
provide an understanding of scientific investigation of human health and disease
provide a stimulating, research-active environment in which students are supported and motivated to achieve their academic and personal potential
educate students in the theoretical and practical aspects of biomedical science
facilitate the learning experience through various teaching and assessment methods
give students the experience of undertaking an independent research project
prepare students for further study, or training, and employment in science and non-science based careers, by developing transferable and cognitive skills
develop the qualities needed for employment in situations requiring the exercise of professionalism, independent thought, personal responsibility and decision making in complex and unpredictable circumstances
provide access to as wide a range of students as practicable
provide an opportunity to gain experience as a biomedical scientist working in a professional environment such as hospital, government and industrial research laboratories
to develop employment skills, including an understanding of how you relate to the structure and function of an organisation, via the sandwich year.

Learning outcomes

Knowledge and understanding

You gain knowledge and understanding of:

the structure, function and control of the human body
the main metabolic pathways used in biological systems in catabolism and anabolism, understanding biological reactions in chemical terms
the variety of mechanisms by which metabolic pathways can be controlled and the way that they can be co-ordinated with changes in the physiological environment
the genetic organisation of various types of organism and the way in which genes can be expressed and their expression controlled
molecular genetic techniques and the causes and consequences of alterations of genetic material
the structure and function of the main classes of macromolecules such as DNA, RNA, proteins, lipids and polysaccharides
the immune response in health and disease
the structure, physiology, biochemistry, classification and control of microorganisms
the main principles of cell and molecular biology, biochemistry and microbiology
the microscopic examination of cells (cytology) and tissues (histology) for indicators of disease
the qualitative and quantitative evaluation of analytes to aid the diagnosis, screening and monitoring of health and disease (clinical biochemistry).
immunological disease/disorders
the different elements that constitute blood in normal and diseased states (haematology)
the identification of blood group antigens and antibodies (immunohaematology and transfusion science)
pathogenic microorganisms
the main methods for communicating information on biomedical sciences
the way that a professional biomedical scientist can contribute to the organisation in which they work.

Intellectual skills

You gain the following intellectual abilities:

understand the scope of teaching methods and study skills relevant to the biomedical sciences degree programme
understand the concepts and principles in outcomes recognising and applying biomedical specific theories, paradigms, concepts or principles. For example, the relationship between biochemical activity and disease
acquire the skills for analysis, synthesis, summary and presentation of biomedical information.
demonstrate competence in solving extended biomedical problems involving advanced data manipulation and comprehension using biomedical specific and transferable skills
integrate scientific evidence, to formulate and test hypotheses
structure, develop and defend complex scientific arguments
plan, execute and interpret data from a short research project
recognise the moral and ethical issues of biomedical investigations and appreciate the need for ethical standards and professional codes of conduct.

Subject-specific skills

You gain subject-specific skills in the following:

to handle, biological material and chemicals in a safe way, thus being able to assess any potential hazards associated with biomedical experimentation
perform risk assessments prior to the execution of an experimental protocol
to use basic and advanced experimental equipment in executing the core practical techniques used by biomedical scientists
to find information on biomedical topics from a wide range of information resources and maintain an effective information retrieval strategy
plan, execute and assess the results from experiments using acquired subject-specific knowledge
identify the best method for presenting and reporting on biomedical investigations using written, data manipulation/presentation and computer skills.

Transferable skills

You gain transferable skills in the following:

the ability to receive and respond to a variety of sources of information
communicate effectively to a variety of audiences using a range of formats and approaches
problem-solve by a variety of methods, especially numerical, including the use of computers
use the internet and other electronic sources critically as a means of communication and as a source of information
interpersonal and teamwork skills that allow you to identify individual and collective goals, and recognise and respect the views and opinions of others
self-management and organisational skills and the capacity to support life-long learning
awareness of information sources for assessing and planning future career development
function effectively in a working environment.

Independent rankings

Biological Sciences at Kent was ranked 24th out of 103 institutions in The Complete University Guide 2021. It was also ranked 5th for graduate prospects.

Careers

We are committed to helping you to make the best possible start in your career. As well as learning in industry standard labs, what you’re taught is shaped by our cutting-edge research, meaning our degrees are modern, up-to-date and show you the real-world impact of biomedical science.

Career-enhancing skills:

You graduate with an excellent grounding in scientific knowledge and extensive laboratory experience. In addition, you also develop the key transferable skills sought by employers, such as:

excellent communication skills
teamwork
the ability to analyse problems
time management.

You can also gain new skills by signing up for one of our Kent Extra activities, such as learning a language or volunteering.

Specialist support:

We have a dedicated employability and placements team who as well as helping you to secure a placement, are on-hand with specialist careers advice and guidance. We also arrange talks with industry and have a vibrant alumni community who give talks about the world of work and can help with support and guidance.

Graduate destinations:

Our recent graduates have gone on to careers including:

healthcare in the NHS
medical research based in academic, government, industrial and medical labs
biotechnology
teaching
industry and commerce
scientific publishing
marketing
information technology.

Professional recognition

Our Biomedical Science degree programme is accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS) and the Royal Society of Biology (RSB). For future employers, this accreditation helps to demonstrate a wide-ranging scientific education with practical skills and experience.

Contact us

Discover Uni is designed to support prospective students in deciding whether, where and what to study. The site replaces Unistats from September 2019.

Discover Uni is jointly owned by the Office for Students, the Department for the Economy Northern Ireland, the Higher Education Funding Council for Wales and the Scottish Funding Council.

It includes:

Information and guidance about higher education
Information about courses
Information about providers

Find out more about the Unistats dataset on the Higher Education Statistics Agency website.

Biomedical Science - BSc (Hons)

with a Sandwich Year

Overview

Our degree programme

Our facilities

Year abroad

Extra activities

The world of work

Flexible tariff

Entry requirements

A level

medal-empty GCSE

medal-empty Access to HE Diploma

medal-empty BTEC Nationals

medal-empty International Baccalaureate

medal-empty International Foundation Programme

English Language Requirements

What's it like to study Biomedical Science?

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