Biomedical Science (with a Foundation Year) BSc Hons

The Biomedical Science (with a Foundation Year) BSc Hons program is designed for students who do not meet the standard entry grades to prepare for a STEM degree at Lancaster University.

Overview

• The program is ranked 3rd for Biomedical Sciences in The Guardian University Guide 2026.
• It is ranked 4th for Subjects allied to Medicine in The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2025.
• The program offers a foundation year for Home students who don't meet the standard entry grades, providing an opportunity to prepare for a STEM degree at Lancaster University.
• Students will study their Foundation Year at the Lancaster University School of Mathematics, based at Cardinal Newman College in Preston.
• The foundation year follows the same semester dates as Lancaster University, with taught sessions taking place at Cardinal Newman College on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays.

Your Department

• The department is part of the Faculty of Health and Medicine, specifically the Biomedical and Life Sciences.

Careers

• The IBMS-accredited Biomedical Science BSc is a path to employment as a Biomedical Scientist in the NHS.
• The degree also opens up research-based careers investigating causes and treatment of human diseases and conditions.
• Graduates have gone on to various roles, including:
  • Clinical Trials Coordinator
  • Haematology Associate Practitioner
  • Healthcare Science Assistant
  • Histology Scientist
  • Graduate-entry medical degree programmes
  • Physician Associate (after further training)
• Others have pursued careers beyond the sciences, using transferable skills developed during their degree, such as:
  • NHS Managers
  • Finance Managers
  • Roles in accountancy firms
• Possible career paths also include:
  • Analytical Chemist
  • Research Scientist
  • Biotechnologist
  • Crime Scene Investigator
  • Dental Therapist
  • Environmental Engineer
  • Genetic Counsellor
  • Medical Chemist
  • Medical Science Liaison
  • Nanotechnologist
  • Neuroscientist
  • Science Writer
  • Toxicologist
  • Medical Writer
  • Postgraduate study
  • Clinical Scientist (with further training)

Employability at Lancaster

• Lancaster University is dedicated to ensuring that students gain a highly reputable degree and relevant life and work-based skills.
• The university offers The Lancaster Award, which provides opportunities to complete activities such as work experience, employability/career development, campus community, and social development.

Entry Requirements

Qualifications and Typical Requirements

• A levels: CCC, including Biology and one other science subject from Chemistry, Mathematics, or Physics.
• Access to HE Diploma: Considered on a case-by-case basis, with a typical requirement of 45 Level 3 credits at Merit.
• Advanced Skills Baccalaureate Wales: Accepted in place of one A level, or equivalent qualification, as long as subject requirements are met.
• BTEC Extended Diploma: MMM considered on a case-by-case basis, with sufficient science units at Distinction.
• BTEC in combination with A levels: Typical requirement of A level grade C plus BTEC(s) at MM, or A levels at grade CC plus BTEC at M.
• International Baccalaureate: 26 points overall, with 14 points from the best 3 HL subjects, including 4 in Biology HL and 4 in one further HL science subject.
• Scottish Highers and Advanced Highers: Five Highers, with an Advanced Higher in a specific subject if required.
• T levels: May be considered on a case-by-case basis.
• GCSE requirements: Mathematics grade 6/B, English Language grade 4/C.
• English language requirements: IELTS score of 6.5 overall, with at least 6 in each component.

Course Structure

• The foundation year includes three subject-specific modules designed to align with the intended undergraduate degree.
• Students study one compulsory module in Biology and pick two additional STEM modules from:
  • Additional Maths
  • Chemistry
  • Scientific Maths
  • Physics
• The structure ensures a strong academic foundation in subjects most relevant to future studies.

Modules

• Additional Maths (Optional): Develops maths skills, understanding patterns, structures, and logical thinking.
• Biology (Compulsory): Introduction to biology, developing key scientific skills, including practical investigation.
• Chemistry (Optional): Explores essential chemical principles, boosting confidence in solving problems and gaining practical experience.
• Physics (Optional): Builds a solid understanding of key physics concepts, learning to apply maths skills to real-world situations.
• Scientific Maths (Optional): Develops skills in algebra and statistics, exploring topics like probability, data interpretation, and modelling.

Fees and Funding

• Annual tuition fee for 2026/27: £9,790 for Home students.
• Additional costs may include:
  • Books, stationery, printing, photocopying, binding, and general subsistence on trips and visits.
  • Professional body subscriptions for some chosen careers.
  • College membership fee: £40 for undergraduates and research students, £15 for students on one-year courses.
  • Computer equipment and internet access: Students require access to a computer and reliable internet access.
  • Study abroad courses: Travel and accommodation costs, potential costs for travel documents, tests, and vaccines.
  • Placement and industry year courses: Possible commuting costs, clothing suitable for the workplace, accommodation costs.

Scholarships and Bursaries

• Students are automatically considered for main scholarships and bursaries when applying.
• Eligible funding opportunities depend on fee status, including:
  • Lancaster Bursary: £1,000 in each year of study, based on household income.
  • Undergraduate Excellence Scholarship – Home: £3,000 in the first year of study, based on entry grades.
  • International Undergraduate Excellence Scholarship: £3,000 as a tuition fee reduction per year of study, based on entry grades.
  • Undergraduate International Regional Scholarship: £3,000 as a tuition fee reduction per year of study, based on nationality or country of domicile and entry grades.
  • International Study Centre Progression Scholarship: £3,000 as a tuition fee reduction per year of study, based on nationality or country of domicile and entry grades.
  • India Scholarship – Undergraduate: £3,000 as a tuition fee reduction per year of study, based on nationality or country of permanent residence.
  • Lancaster Sanctuary Scholarship: Full fees, up to £5,000 per year living costs, based on refugee/humanitarian protection status.

Similar Courses

• Biomedical Science BSc Hons: B990
• Biomedical Science MSci Hons: B992
• Biomedical Science (Study Abroad) BSc Hons: B991
• Biomedicine BSc Hons: C701
• Biomedicine MSci Hons: C703
• Biomedicine (Placement Year) BSc Hons: C708
• Biomedicine (Study Abroad) BSc Hons: C709
• Biomedicine (with a Foundation Year) BSc Hons: C71F

Important Information

• The information provided relates primarily to the stated entry year and is subject to change.
• The University reserves the right to make changes to advertised courses due to exceptional circumstances beyond its reasonable control (Force Majeure Events).
• In the event of changes, the University will take reasonable steps to minimize disruption to studies and provide reasonable notice.
• Students are entitled to request consideration for an alternative course or withdraw their application if a course is withdrawn or fundamentally changed.

Our Students' Charter

• The University believes in a strong and productive partnership between students and staff.
• The Students' Charter articulates this relationship and the standards to which the University and its students aspire.
• The charter is available, outlining the expectations and responsibilities of both the University and its students.

Lancaster University

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Overview:

Lancaster University is a public research university located in Lancaster, England. It is consistently ranked among the top 10 universities in the UK and is recognized for its high-quality teaching, research, and student experience.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

Lancaster University offers a vibrant and diverse campus experience. Students can enjoy a range of facilities, including a library, sports center, and arts venues. The university also has a strong sense of community, with a variety of student societies and clubs to join.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

High Rankings and Reputation:

Lancaster University is consistently ranked among the top 10 universities in the UK, demonstrating its academic excellence.

Excellent Teaching and Learning:

The university is known for its high-quality teaching and learning, with a focus on student engagement and support.

Vibrant Student Life:

Lancaster University offers a wide range of opportunities for students to get involved in extracurricular activities, including sports, societies, and arts events.

Beautiful Campus:

The university is situated on a beautiful campus with modern facilities and green spaces.

Strong Career Support:

Lancaster University provides excellent career support services to help students prepare for their future careers.

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Academic Programs:

Lancaster University offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including: * Arts and Social Sciences * Health and Medicine * Management School * Science and Technology