Biomedical Sciences MSc

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Course Overview

Attendance

UK Fees £9,500 *
International Fees £17,000 *
Alumni Discount See details
Duration 1 year

* Price per academic year

Course summary

Our Biomedical Sciences MSc allows you to plan your own course to match your interests and experience by selecting from a diverse range of option modules offered in the School of Life Sciences, with the advice of the Course Leader. For example, you could combine modules on microbiology and molecular biology or those on haematology and clinical chemistry.

Alternatively, you can combine basic science with study of the communication or commercialisation of science. You'll also have the opportunity to consider the increasing role of automation in diagnostic laboratories. 

Whatever the combination, you'll be able to expand your understanding of human diseases and their investigation and therapy, and develop your competence in the design and execution of a laboratory-based project.

Top reasons to study with us

  • You'll develop the ability to use and critically evaluate a wide range of literature in the field, to research practically an area of interest in biomedical sciences
  • You’ll gain a range of transferable skills that will enhance your employability and open up research opportunities both in the UK and internationally
  • The course has been designed to provide you with the broad range of skills and knowledge needed for diagnostic, academic and industrial laboratory practice

Course structure

To be awarded the MSc in Biomedical Sciences, you'll need to study modules for 180 credits. If you choose to take the Postgraduate Project, you'll study two core modules and six options. The Postgraduate Project may be exchanged with the Extended Postgraduate Project (subject to prior agreement with the Course Leader and the proposed subject supervisor). In this case, you'll take two core modules and five option modules. 

The following modules are indicative of what you'll study on this course.

Core modules

Postgraduate Project 

This module aims to enhance your skills of self-management, experimental design, critical analysis and interpretation of data, enabling you to present and justify your research.

Extended Postgraduate Project 

This module gives you the opportunity to investigate an appropriate research topic, generate and critically analyse data, and present your results and discuss findings in the context of previously published work. The project proposed and undertaken must include rigorous and critical analysis of data with a high level of initiative. This module is intended for students wishing to gain greater research experience and includes an extended period of research activity and extended assessment regime.

You will be able to develop your skills in information retrieval, critical analysis and presentation relevant to your research topic, and form a clear plan for your project.

Option modules

This module will explore the role of common signalling pathways and other molecular mechanisms implicated in carcinogenesis, including the role of cancer stem cells in disease progression and metastasis. Recent advances in diagnostic methods and therapeutic strategies will be discussed as well as ways in which public health initiatives can lower the risk of cancer development, and how issues related to cancer are reported in the media.

This module will engage with modern pathology practice in the cellular pathology specialty. You will evaluate advances in diagnostic, prognostic and predictive testing in the laboratory, discussed in the light of developments in our underpinning understanding of pathology and of evolving technologies.

This module will explore the current and potential impact of laboratory automation on the practice of biomedical science in the context of diagnosis and research. You will explore automation from the perspectives of technology, quality, impact on skill requirements, cost/benefit and laboratory organisation. The module will include site visits to laboratories using state-of-the-art automation.

Bioinformatics lies at the heart of modern biology. This module introduces the discipline and shows how bioinformatics can help answer practical questions and solve problems in biology, medicine and pharmacology. Topics include DNA and protein databases, DNA and protein sequence alignment, protein structure prediction, drug discovery and molecular modelling.

This module provides up-to-date information on cell signalling processes coupling surface receptor engagement to changes in gene expression. Transcriptional, post-transcriptional and post-translational mechanisms are discussed in relation to selected cell-signalling pathways responsible for controlling cell functions such as cell cycle, cell differentiation and cell death. Examples of defective cell signalling through inherited and somatically acquired mutations in signalling components will be highlighted in relation to human disease

This module will enable you to understand how blood cells are produced and how they function in normal and pathological situations. You will consider the causes, consequences and laboratory features of a range of red cell disorders and haematological malignancies, and be able to evaluate and interpret the relevant diagnostic testing procedures.

The module aims to enable you to analyse critically aspects of microbial physiology, metabolism and chemotherapy and relate these to appropriate areas of medical microbiology, such as pathogenicity, disease diagnosis, treatment and control.

This module aims to emphasise the intellectual skills and knowledge you require to understand endocrine function, assays of hormone concentration, pathologies and their laboratory investigation. Emphasis is placed on developing a deep understanding of the cellular and biochemical processes which underlie pathology.

Introducing you to key concepts in science communication, its challenges, rewards and applications, this module is designed to incorporate scenarios related to your interests, such as health, drug discovery and water science. The roles of science and scientists in society and how the public perceives, interacts with and responds to the information produced by scientists are explored, with the history of communicating science used to contextualise current issues in disseminating information.

This module introduces you to the basic concepts and principles of nutritional science that underpin the theory and practice of public health nutrition. You will explore the role of macro- and micro-nutrients in maintaining health, and their effects when consumed in excess or when deficient, through the appraisal of scientific information relating to their structure, function, sources and bio-availability. This module emphasises the skills required to develop a critical understanding of the scientific basis of nutritional requirements, factors that influence them, and how they are applied to populations throughout the life cycle.

This module provides you with a clear understanding of the science, practice and scope of routine diagnostic cellular pathology. The module will encourage you to evaluate disease pathogenesis at the molecular, cellular and tissue levels with particular reference to the diagnosis of disease in the cellular pathology laboratory.

An in depth study of the aetiology, pathogenesis and laboratory investigation of selected pathologies and their laboratory investigation. Principles of key and current analytical methods in the field are also included as well as the latest developments in diagnostic clinical biochemistry.

This module will cover clinically important blood group systems and laboratory techniques used to identify blood group antigens and antibodies, and to ensure safety of blood components for transfusion and transplantation. In addition you will examine the various components of the haemostasis system together with clinical disorders leading to increased risk of bleeding or thrombosis. Anticoagulant therapy and relevant laboratory techniques for investigation of haemostasis will also be covered.

Immunopathology (Haemathology-Cancer)

This module comprises lectures, tutorials and case studies to give you an understanding of modern advances in fundamental immunology and immunopathology, strategies available for the diagnosis of inherited and acquired immunological disorders. The module also covers normal and pathological immune responses to extracellular and intracellular pathogens. Transplantation of organs and tissues are discussed at a molecular level with a special focus on immune surveillance of tumours, autoimmune and immunodeficiency disorders.

Immunopathology (Infectious Diseases)

This module comprises lectures, tutorials and case studies to give an understanding of modern advances in fundamental immunology and immunopathology, strategies available for the diagnosis of inherited and acquired immunological disorders. The module also covers normal and pathological immune responses to extracellular and intracellular pathogens. Transplantation of organs and tissues are discussed at a molecular level with a special focus on immune responses to bacterial, viral and parasitic infections and vaccination.

The module aims to investigate the role of immunological tools such as vaccines, monoclonal antibodies and cytokines in the treatment of human disease.

The module explores the factors determining the importance of infectious diseases and the role of surveillance in their control. You will develop a critical approach to contemporary literature on selected diseases, evaluating the relative importance of epidemiology, routine laboratory investigations, laboratory-based research, clinical diagnosis and control of infectious diseases.

This module will explore the discovery and development of pharmacological therapies from target identification through to pre-clinical models of disease. The module will look at cellular signalling cascades, genetics, pharmacology and toxicology relevant to exemplar diseases. This will provide an understanding of drugs and therapeutics at the molecular and genetic level. Content will include detailed analysis of the molecular basis of cellular signalling cascades, and stress the need for improving pharmacotherapy.

This module is designed to make you aware of the impact of molecular biology on the diagnosis of human diseases. You will critically review the technologies and determine the advantages and disadvantages associated with each diagnostic strategy. Issues of accuracy, implementation, ethics and safety will be addressed.

This module is designed to make you aware of the impact of molecular biology on the diagnosis of human diseases. You will critically review the technologies and determine the advantages and disadvantages associated with each diagnostic strategy. Issues of accuracy, implementation, ethics and safety will be addressed.

The module provides you with a critical appreciation of the human genome, its regulation, functional significance of gene mutations and current approaches of identification of human genetic disorders. Topics covered include: molecular basis of host-pathogen interaction; molecular pathology of disease with simple genetics; molecular genetics of disease; complex systems, immunogenetics and disease; and molecular genetics of cancer.

You will gain an insight into the scope of commercial biotechnology, starting and financing a company, the role of intellectual property protection, writing a business plan, assessing projects, managing a company, managing company finances, and coping with industrial safety legislation.

This module will introduce the theoretical and practical underpinnings of systems biology. The emphasis is on studies of entire systems, assisted by the use of bioinformatics and how the knowledge from these may be applied to medicine. The module will examine databases and other resources as well as discuss issues key to the studies of entire systems.

Professional accreditation

The course is accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS). Please note: potential applicants without an IBMS-accredited undergraduate degree in Biomedical Sciences who want to become HCPC-registered Biomedical Scientists in the UK should contact the IBMS for advice on the suitability of their qualifications for HCPC registration. The IBMS assesses non-accredited qualifications against HCPC education standards to determine whether individuals will need to undertake supplementary education or top-up modules to meet HCPC standards of proficiency for biomedical scientists.

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Programme specification

For more details on course structure, modules, teaching and assessment Download the programme specification (PDF).

To request an accessible version please email [email protected]

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Get in touch

Contact us for general course enquiries:

+44 (0)20 7911 5000 EXT 65511
(Mon-Fri, 10am-3pm GMT)

[email protected]

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(Mon-Fri, 10am-4pm GMT)

Open evenings

Join us at an open evening online or on campus. Get a feel for student life at the University of Westminster and talk to course leaders and our support teams.

Careers

Graduates from our Biomedical Sciences MSc courses have gone on to a variety of research and employment destinations. These have included beginning their research career by entering into a PhD programme or entering research and development roles in research institutes or industry. Those already working in research or healthcare laboratories have gained additional or translational skills to enhance their current roles. Our graduates have also entered the commercial field in technical support roles and sales in the research and healthcare markets. 

Enhance your career prospects

On graduating, you'll be equipped for your career whether you're entering a PhD programme or seeking employment in academia, research institutes, or pharmaceutical and related industries.

Tailor the course to your interests

With a wide variety of option modules to choose from, you can adapt the course to fit your chosen research interests.

3,000

Employers around the world

The University’s Careers and Employability Service has built up a network of over 3,000 employers around the world, helping all our students explore and connect with exciting opportunities and careers.

Westminster Employability Award

Employers value graduates who have invested in their personal and professional development – and our Westminster Employability Award gives you the chance to formally document and demonstrate these activities and achievements.

The award is flexible and can be completed in your own time, allowing you to choose from a set of extracurricular activities. 

Activities might include gaining experience through a part-time job or placement, signing up to a University-run scheme – such as mentoring or teaching in a school – or completing online exercises.

Read more about our Westminster Employability Award.

Westminster Employability Award

Course Leader

Why study this course?

Excellent laboratory facilities

You'll learn in a thriving research environment and will have access to excellent laboratory facilities within the School of Life Sciences. 

Develop your knowledge of biomedical sciences

Studying this course, you'll improve your understanding of human diseases and their investigation and therapy.

Fantastic central London location

You'll be based at our Cavendish Campus in the heart of multicultural central London, with easy access to London's huge range of scientific, library and cultural resources. 

Entry Requirements

A minimum of a lower second class honours degree (2:2) in biomedical sciences or a closely related discipline. Professional qualification of equivalent status and associated work experience or an equivalent qualification deemed suitable by the course team. 

If your first language is not English, you should have an IELTS 6.5 with at least 6.5 in writing and no element below 6.0.

Applicants are required to submit one academic reference. If part-time and intending to do your project in the workplace, an additional letter of support from your employer is required.

Recognition of prior learning and experience

If you have previously studied at university level, or have equivalent work experience, academic credit may be awarded towards your course at Westminster. For more information, visit our Recognition of Prior Learning page.

Application process 

Visit our How to apply page for more information on:

  • the application process
  • what you need to apply
  • deadlines for application

A minimum of a lower second class honours degree (2:2) in biomedical sciences or a closely related discipline. Professional qualification of equivalent status and associated work experience or an equivalent qualification deemed suitable by the course team. 

If your first language is not English, you should have an IELTS 6.5 with at least 6.5 in writing and no element below 6.0.

Applicants are required to submit one academic reference. If part-time and intending to do your project in the workplace, an additional letter of support from your employer is required.

Recognition of prior learning and experience

If you have previously studied at university level, or have equivalent work experience, academic credit may be awarded towards your course at Westminster. For more information, visit our Recognition of Prior Learning page.

Application process 

Visit our How to apply page for more information on:

  • the application process
  • what you need to apply
  • deadlines for application

More information

Studying the Biomedical Sciences MSc

Learn new skills

Volunteer and gain new skills

We offer a number of different volunteering opportunities for you to learn new skills, create connections, and make a difference in the community.

Develop your entrepreneurial skills

Our award-winning Westminster Enterprise Network offers industry networking events, workshops, one-to-one business advice and support for your start-up projects.

Get extra qualifications

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Fees and Funding

UK tuition fee: £9,500 (Price per academic year)

When you have enrolled with us, your annual tuition fees will remain the same throughout your studies with us. We do not increase your tuition fees each year.

Find out how we set our tuition fees.

Paying your fees

If you don't wish to pay the whole amount of your fees at once, you may be able to pay by instalments. This opportunity is available if you have a personal tuition fee liability of £2,000 or more and if you are self-funded or funded by the Student Loans Company.

Find out more about paying your fees.

Alumni discount

This course is eligible for an alumni discount. Find out if you are eligible and how to apply by visiting our Alumni discounts page.

Funding

There is a range of funding available that may help you fund your studies, including Student Finance England (SFE).

Find out more about postgraduate student funding options.

Scholarships

The University is dedicated to supporting ambitious and outstanding students and we offer a variety of scholarships to eligible postgraduate students.

Find out if you qualify for one of our scholarships.

Additional costs

See what you may need to pay for separately and what your tuition fees cover.

International tuition fee: £17,000 (Price per academic year)

When you have enrolled with us, your annual tuition fees will remain the same throughout your studies with us. We do not increase your tuition fees each year.

Find out how we set our tuition fees.

Paying your fees

If you don't wish to pay the whole amount of your fees at once, you may be able to pay by instalments. This opportunity is available if you have a personal tuition fee liability of £2,000 or more and if you are self-funded or funded by the Student Loans Company.

Find out more about paying your fees.

Alumni discount

This course is eligible for an alumni discount. Find out if you are eligible and how to apply by visiting our Alumni discounts page.

Funding

There are a number of funding schemes available to help you fund your studies with us.

Find out more about funding for international students.

Scholarships

The University is dedicated to supporting ambitious and outstanding students and we offer a variety of scholarships to eligible postgraduate students.

Find out if you qualify for one of our scholarships.

Additional costs

See what you may need to pay for separately and what your tuition fees cover.

Teaching and Assessment

Below you will find how learning time and assessment types are distributed on this course. The graphs below give an indication of what you can expect through approximate percentages, taken either from the experience of previous cohorts, or based on the standard module diet where historic course data is unavailable.  Changes to the division of learning time and assessment may be made in response to feedback and in accordance with our terms and conditions.

How you’ll be taught

Teaching methods across all our postgraduate courses focus on active student learning through lectures, seminars, workshops, problem-based and blended learning, and where appropriate practical application. Learning typically falls into two broad categories:

  • Scheduled hours: examples include lectures, seminars, practical classes, workshops, supervised time in a studio
  • Independent study: non-scheduled time in which students are expected to study independently. This may include preparation for scheduled sessions, dissertation/final project research, follow-up work, wider reading or practice, completion of assessment tasks, or revision
Year
1
24%76%
Scheduled hoursIndependent study

How you’ll be assessed

Our postgraduate courses include a variety of assessments, which typically fall into three broad categories:

  • Written exams: end of semester exams
  • Practical: examples include presentations, podcasts, blogs
  • Coursework: examples include essays, in-class tests, portfolios, dissertation
Year
1
21%11%68%
Written examsPracticalCoursework

Data from the academic year 2022/23

Supporting you

Our Student Hub is where you’ll find out about the services and support we offer, helping you get the best out of your time with us.

  • Study support — workshops, 1-2-1 support and online resources to help improve your academic and research skills
  • Personal tutors — support you in fulfilling your academic and personal potential
  • Student advice team — provide specialist advice on a range of issues including funding, benefits and visas
  • Extra-curricular activities — volunteering opportunities, sports and fitness activities, student events and more

Visit our student hub

Course location

With state-of-the-art science and psychology labs and refurbished computer suites, our Cavendish Campus offers our science and technology students a range of learning spaces that are both dynamic and inspiring,

Located in central London, our Cavendish Campus is just a five-minute walk from Oxford Street and Tottenham Court Road.

For more details, visit our Cavendish Campus page.

Contact us

Call our dedicated team on:

+44 (0)20 7911 5000 ext 65511

Opening hours (GMT): 10am–4pm Monday to Friday

[email protected]

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Opening hours (GMT): 10am–4pm Monday to Friday

More information

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