Course overview

As key contributors to modern healthcare, including disease diagnosis, monitoring of therapy and research into disease mechanisms, specialist and senior biomedical scientists are in great demand both within the NHS and private hospital laboratories.

This master’s course offers you the chance to focus your studies by selecting a specific course pathway – Haematology and Blood Transfusion Science, Clinical Biochemistry and Immunology, Cellular and Molecular Pathology or Infection Science.
The Biomedical Science MSc with Professional Experience aims to produce master’s graduates who are not only knowledgeable about their chosen field of study but also have the skills and competencies, backed by real world experience², to apply these to the workplace.
This course aims to advance your skills and knowledge in laboratory management, together with modern scientific developments, such as genomics and stem cell technology.

You can study this course via multiple pathways:

HLST289 - Haematology and Blood Transfusion Sciences pathway
HLST290 - Haematology and Blood Transfusion Sciences pathway with Professional Experience
HLST291 - Clinical Biochemistry and Immunology pathway
HLST292 - Clinical Biochemistry and Immunology pathway with Professional Experience
HLST293 - Infection Science pathway
HLSU294 - Infection Science pathway with Professional Experience
HLST295 Cellular and Molecular Pathology pathway
HLST296 Cellular and Molecular Pathology pathway with Professional Experience

Joint Top Modern University for Career Prospects

Guardian University Guide 2021 and 2022

5 QS Stars for Teaching and Facilities

QS Stars University Ratings

Top 5 UK Student City (Coventry)

QS Best Student Cities Index 2023

Why you should study this course

You’ll be taught by an experienced teaching team, many of whom have worked in NHS laboratories as scientists or doctors. They bring their professional and research expertise into their teaching through clinical case studies as the basis for problem-based learning activities (staff may be subject to change).

There is a focus on developing laboratory and other scientific skills, giving you the opportunity to learn key experimental techniques and develop essential experimental, data handling and reporting skills required in biomedical, biological and other careers. Our multi-million pound Alison Gingell Building features a suite of analytical and biological laboratories where you can gain hands-on experience in cutting-edge industry techniques⁴. Other scientific skills, such as literature research, information technology, bioinformatics, data processing and the use of statistics are integrated within the course.

A key feature of this course is its engagement with current developments in the area of disease diagnosis as well as updated information in areas such as quality assurance, laboratory accreditation, and work-based training.

This course appeals to recent graduates who have progressed from an undergraduate degree in Biomedical Science, as well as those who may be working as Biomedical Science practitioners. For those students on the course who are working as Specialist Biomedical Science practitioners, the course aims to provide a link to their Specialist portfolio training programme and provide professional development opportunities to enhance development into more senior roles. The course will also appeal to overseas students who want to work in laboratories in their own country or perhaps open up a diagnostic laboratory; this course should provide the academic and skills background needed to supply a safe and accountable service. The Biomedical Science MSc can also be considered an excellent foundation for those wishing to pursue research in the area at PhD level.

The course offers four pathways, which are taught with the expectation of some prior knowledge of the specialisms.

If you choose the extended ‘With Professional Experience’ route, you will have the opportunity to gain substantive professional experience and have the option of applying for a placement with a host of different organisations² or participate in supervised, campus-based roles. Placements have previously been organised within the public and private sector, including the NHS, private laboratories, healthcare providers, medical research, university research centres and more. While all students are assured of a professional experience placement which may be campus-based, the range of opportunities available varies from year to year. Some are also competitive and selective, so it is not possible to guarantee a specific professional experience². Students on Biomedical Science MSc with Professional Experience are given additional support and are assisted to apply for, and secure, professional experience opportunities during their first two semesters of study by our Talent Team and the course director.

Accreditation and professional recognition

This course is accredited¹ and recognised by the following bodies:

This course (all pathways) is accredited by the IBMS for the 2023/24 intake. Please note that the course is not IBMS-accredited specifically as a qualification suitable for registration with the HCPC, although it is possible some modules may contribute to subject-specific requirements. Prospective students wishing to become HCPC-registered are advised to consult the IBMS directly for assessment of their undergraduate degree and additional requirements for registration.

Chartered Management Institute (CMI)

As part of this course, you will undertake a professional development module which is currently accredited by the Chartered Management Institute (CMI) Chartered Management Institute (CMI) for the 2023-24 intake. Upon successful completion of the module, you will gain the CMI Level 7 Certificate in Strategic Management and Leadership Practice at no additional cost. Further details can be found on the Professional Development module homepage.

Our Award-winning Green Superlab

With space for over 250 students and packed full of industry-standard equipment, the Coventry University Superlab is an amazing place to learn, experiment and discover. Find out what we’re doing in our Superlab to make it greener and reduce our waste and carbon emissions.

What you'll study

All modules are compulsory unless stated (note - you will only complete one of the four pathway modules).

Modules

Laboratory and Professional Skills for Biomedical Science - 30 credits

This module aims to support you to develop and refine both your technical and professional skills to support your study of Biomedical Science MSc and your future career plans. It is recognised that students will have diverse prior knowledge and experiences and this module will encourage you to initiate and implement a personalised skills development programme. Concepts of professional integrity, behaviours and conduct of a biomedical scientist, articulated through the IBMS and HCPC standards, will be discussed and form part of the student’s development plan.

The module has an extensive laboratory programme, ensuring that all students are well-prepared for further laboratory work and potential laboratory-based research projects. The laboratory experience will include contemporary cellular and molecular analysis methods, underpinned by understanding of disease mechanisms, the theoretical basis of techniques and the use of bioinformatics databases to inform assay design and analysis. You will utilise statistical packages for data analysis and will be supported to develop critical appraisal and interpretation skills.

Compulsory
Laboratory Leadership and Quality Management - 20 credits

This module aims to introduce you to the management, training and quality assurance processes that are integral to the effective functioning and accreditation of biomedical science laboratories, but which are also more widely applicable to industrial, commercial and research settings. Internationally agreed standards for laboratory quality management in health-related laboratories will be introduced including ISO 15189. The module will consider leadership and management approaches with particular reference to NHS laboratory provision, staff training and competency via IBMS-verified training portfolios, quality policies, quality audit and ISO standards. Contemporary developments such as Point of Care testing and the associated quality processes will be explored.

Compulsory
Global Professional Development – Leading Diverse Workforces - 10 credits

This module aims to provide you with a framework of knowledge and understanding of how to effectively lead and develop people in a strategically diverse and inclusive way whatever the master’s degree of specialisation you elect to follow. You will explore for example, the influence and impact of leadership theories, culture, wellbeing, and approaches to developing better equality, diversity and inclusion strategies and practices that can be used creatively within a leadership role in different types of organisational scenarios.

Ultimately, you will be given the opportunity to develop strategic priorities for leadership, equality, diversity and inclusion.

Finally, the module requires you to reflect critically on your personal learning and development needs and how they work with others, from an ethical and professional standpoint to encourage your continuing professional development.

The question key to this module is: How can I create effective strategies that can be utilised in developing and sustaining an equal, diverse and inclusive culture where everyone feels valued, talents are fully utilised and organisational goals are met?

Compulsory
Genomic and Regenerative Medicine - 20 credits

This module will consider the impact of modern cell and molecular analysis and manipulation methods on our understanding of disease pathophysiology and the diagnosis and therapy of both common and rare inherited diseases and cancer. The development of novel DNA sequencing technologies to drive initiatives such as the 100,000 Genomes Project and International Cancer Genome Consortium and identify disease-associated variation across different populations and ethnic backgrounds will be considered. Stem cell biology (embryonic, induced pluripotent and cancer) will be covered, with an emphasis on the applications of stem cell technology in understanding disease mechanisms and development of personalised medicine. Modern genome editing technologies and their potential global impact on genomic and regenerative medicine will be discussed. The NHS genetic care pathway, including the role of the Regional Genetics Services and genetic counsellors will also be considered. The module will additionally provide a forum for discussion of global perspectives concerning legal, ethical and social issues surrounding stem cell and genomic research.

Compulsory
Integrated Biomedical Science Case Study - 0 credits

This is an assessment-only module which requires students to work together to integrate their respective knowledge and skills across the Clinical Biochemistry and Immunology, Haematology and Blood Transfusion Science, Infection Science and Cellular and Molecular Pathology pathway modules. You will be supported to comprehensively investigate, in groups that include students from different pathway modules, a patient case study that requires cross-disciplinary diagnostic and healthcare approaches. The research and analysis will be reported as a group presentation.

Compulsory
Research Principles and Preparation - 10 credits

This module provides a detailed consideration of the complex processes necessary to formulate, develop and test a scientific/clinical hypothesis. You will apply these principles to the design of an individual research question in a chosen area pertinent to their degree title, including the consideration of appropriate controls and replicates and suitable data analysis approaches. The module will enhance skills in selecting and applying appropriate statistical methods, and will encompass guidance on health and safety and ethical considerations. You will be required to submit your proposal for ethical and health and safety approval, and to consider key aspects of project management and logistics. You will be supported through the module by regular project planning meetings with your designated supervisor.

Compulsory
Research project - 60 credits

In this module, you will carry out a series of investigative, analytical or experimental studies in your selected discipline area, analyse and present your findings in a scientific report. Normally, the project undertaken in this module reflects the proposal generated in the Research Principles and Preparation module. You are required to demonstrate critical analysis of the literature, authentic data collection and recording, appropriate data analysis and data presentation and critical evaluation with reference to published literature. You are supported and guided by your supervisor, but are expected to work independently with limited supervision, be able to deal with complexity and uncertainty and identify and troubleshoot problems. Approval of ethical and health and safety aspects must be complete before data collection is permitted.

Compulsory
Pathway module (it is compulsory to choose one of the following modules):
- Haematology and Blood Transfusion Science - 30 credits - This module aims to advance your knowledge and understanding of haematology and transfusion science with particular emphasis on the role of molecular diagnosis. Specialist contributions from biomedical science practitioners will provide in-depth evaluation of both underpinning scientific rationale and current laboratory practice and procedures. The haematology aspect of the module includes the investigation and management of red cell disorders, disorders of haemostasis, and white cell malignancies. Transfusion Science will consider molecular aspects of blood grouping and advances in antibody investigation. The provision of a safe transfusion service will be discussed. Both elements will review emerging technologies and techniques used in routine and reference laboratories, and the impact on patient care from a global perspective.
  10 assessment credits from this module will be used for an integrated course-based assessment (assessed in the Integrated Biomedical Science Case Study module). Students on varying specialist pathways within the Biomedical Science MSc degree will form multidisciplinary teams to analyse, evaluate and report a complex patient scenario, from varying discipline viewpoints.
- Clinical Biochemistry and Immunology - 30 credits - This module aims to demonstrate the important role of biochemical and immunological-based investigations for disease diagnosis and to identify global challenges and potential solutions. Specialist contributions from biomedical science practitioners will provide in-depth evaluation of both underpinning scientific rationale and current laboratory practice and procedures (subject to availability). The scientific basis of routine tests will be discussed with emphasis on both the underlying pathophysiology and the contribution that these tests make to the diagnosis and management of the patient. Specialist investigations in the areas of enzymology, allergy and toxicology will be covered. Emphasis will be placed on scientific advances in the areas of molecular diagnostics, technology and personalised medicine. Opportunities will be provided to discuss the social, ethical and economic implications of modern clinical diagnostics. 10 assessment credits from this module will be used for an integrated course-based assessment (assessed in the Integrated Biomedical Science Case Study module). Students on varying specialist pathways within the Biomedical Science MSc degree will form multidisciplinary teams to analyse, evaluate and report a complex patient scenario, from varying discipline viewpoints.
- Infection Science - 30 credits - This module aims to advance your knowledge and understanding of microbial pathogens and their impact on human health and disease. The module will cover aetiology, pathophysiology, epidemiology, clinical presentation, laboratory diagnosis, control, therapy and management of a number of clinically important bacterial, viral, fungal and parasitic infections. Specialist contributions from biomedical science practitioners will provide in-depth evaluation of both underpinning scientific rationale and current laboratory practice and procedures (subject to availability). Issues related to healthcare associated infections, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), infections in immunocompromised hosts and challenges to tackle global issues in infectious diseases will be discussed. 10 assessment credits from this module will be used for an integrated course-based assessment (assessed in the Integrated Biomedical Science Case Study module). Students on varying specialist pathways within the MSc Biomedical Science degree will form multidisciplinary teams to analyse, evaluate and report a complex patient scenario, from varying discipline viewpoints.
- Cellular and Molecular Pathology - 30 credits - This module aims to demonstrate the critical role that molecular and cellular pathology-based investigations play in the diagnosis and treatment of disease. Specialist contributions from biomedical science practitioners will provide in-depth evaluation of both underpinning scientific rationale and current laboratory practice and procedures (subject to availability). The module will investigate histopathology and cytology-based evaluations of major organs and tissues, from initial sample processing through to final diagnosis. Cytogenetics and the emerging discipline of molecular pathology will be discussed in depth. The implications of automation within pathology will be considered. The management and impact of national screening programmes and global challenges related to molecular pathology initiatives will also be assessed. 10 assessment credits from this module will be used for an integrated course-based assessment (assessed in the Integrated Biomedical Science Case Study module). Students on varying specialist pathways within the MSc Biomedical Science degree will form multidisciplinary teams to analyse, evaluate and report a complex patient scenario, from varying discipline viewpoints.
Compulsory
MSc with professional experience only - the modules above plus:
- Professional Experience Preparation 1 - 0 credits
  The module, together with Professional Experience Preparation 2, aims to support you to prepare for your professional experience placement. This placement requires you to undertake an approved professional experience placement (which could be campus-based) for a minimum of 20 hours per week for 20 weeks, over two semesters². Within this module, you will be encouraged to discuss your own aspirations and expectations of the professional experience placement and consider the value for your own development and career goals. The challenges of undertaking a professional experience placement and concerns and anxieties will be explored. The expectations of placement providers, understanding of professional behaviours and attributes and enhancement of workplace communication skills will be discussed.
  You will be supported by the Talent Team which has a strong track record, working closely with academic colleagues and employers, research organisations and professional bodies, to enable you to benefit from relevant professional experience and career development opportunities. The Talent Team also has specialist international student advisory services, supporting international students to undertake a valuable UK-based professional experience as part of their programme of study. Academic staff work closely with the Talent Team to develop your professional skills and support you through the application processes (e.g. CV/cover letter writing, effective communications, interview techniques and self-presentation, and networking).
  Although this module does not contribute to the credits for the degree award, a pass in this module and in Professional Experience Preparation 2 are mandatory requirements for enrolment on Professional Experience in Life Sciences 1. You are required to establish a portfolio to demonstrate your active engagement with the professional experience preparation and application process. The module must be passed at first attempt - resit opportunities are NOT permitted for zero-credit-rated modules.
- Professional Experience Preparation 2 - 0 credits
  The module is a continuation of Professional Experience Preparation 1 and aims to continue to support you to prepare for your forthcoming professional experience. This requires you to undertake a placement for a minimum of 20 hours per week for 20 weeks, over two semesters (which could be campus-based)². This module explores the application and selection processes more fully including interview skills development and practice. Thus you will be supported to continue to make applications if necessary and to secure suitable professional experience opportunities. You will continue to be supported by the Talent Team and will identify a nominated academic tutor for ongoing support throughout the placement period. Once a placement has been secured, you will explore in more detail the particular requirements of your placement and the expectations and skills needed, ensuring that you are well prepared for the start of the placement.
  Although this module does not contribute to the credits for the degree award, a pass in this module and in Professional Experience Preparation 1 are mandatory requirements for enrolment on Professional Experience in Life Sciences 1. You are required to complete your Professional Experience planning portfolio with self-reflection on interview or other selection performance, Learning Contract agreement with a placement provider and forward planning for the placement itself in Semester 3. The module must be passed at first attempt- resit opportunities are NOT permitted for zero-credit-rated modules.
- Professional Experience Placement 1 - 0 credits
  This module, together with Professional Experience in Life Sciences 2, provides a substantive professional experience for students who are registered on the Extended Master’s programmes. This may take the form of a professional experience with a host organisation or a campus-based professional experience². The module will support the development of your personal and professional skills, including team working, time management, professional behaviours, communication, self-management and critical reflection, to enhance future employability. The module aims to encourage you to integrate theory and practice in an area relevant to your course discipline. The Professional Experience placement requires you to undertake an approved placement for a minimum of 20 hours per week for 20 weeks, spread over 2 semesters. Although this module does not contribute to the credits for the degree award, a pass in this module and in Professional Experience in Life Sciences 2 are mandatory requirements for award of MSc with Professional Experience.
- Professional Experience Placement 2 - 0 credits
  This module is a continuation of Professional Experience Placement 1. You will continue their professional experience into this semester. You are required to evidence a minimum of 20 hours per week for 20 weeks over two semesters in a professional experience placement (which could be campus-based)². Those registered on MSc degrees with Professional Experience are required to demonstrate ongoing engagement with the Professional Experience placement throughout the semester through regular reporting of attendance, activities and achievements. Although this module does not contribute to the credits for the degree award, a pass in this module and in Professional Experience Placement 1 are mandatory requirements for award of MSc with Professional Experience. The module must be passed at first attempt - resit opportunities are NOT permitted for zero-credit-rated modules.
Compulsory

Please note that we regularly review our course content, to make it relevant and current for the benefit of our students. For these reasons, course modules may be updated.

How you'll learn

The master’s course offers the opportunity to study one of the specialist areas in biomedical science, all of which aim to advance knowledge and link to the IBMS specialist training portfolio:

Clinical Haematology and Blood Transfusion
Clinical Biochemistry and Immunology
Infection Science
Cellular and Molecular Pathology.

Teaching and learning incorporates lectures, workshops, tutorials, presentations, group and individual problem-based learning projects, and practical laboratory sessions to improve your skills in data analysis and statistical evaluation. This is supported by an extensive suite of analytical and biological laboratories staffed by experienced technicians.

The university's online learning environment will be used for links to relevant resources and online discussions. Some modules will require you to collate and analyse data from your workplace or from the university and you will be expected to spend a significant proportion of your time in self-guided and guided study, discussing your learning with your peer group both informally in workshops and formally through seminars and other presentations.

Where possible, coursework uses applied tasks that mimic the skills needed in jobs to help ensure you are attractive to future employers, such as testing and critically analysing a range of genotyping techniques to report on the most suitable for diagnostic use. The course also offers the opportunity for industry visits and field trips within the UK (subject to availability and additional fees), which have previously included a subsidised day trip to look around the biotechnical laboratories within Nottingham’s BioCity, the UK’s largest bioscience business incubator, or other professional laboratories.

You will receive a series of lectures and seminars on selected contemporary topics in modern biomedical science, delivered by university teaching, research staff and specialist visiting lecturers, including HCPC-registered biomedical scientists from local hospitals (subject to availability). For example, we previously hosted a session on current blood transfusion methods with an HCPC-registered practitioner from the local hospital and an expert from a well-known toxicology department in the West Midlands. These may be delivered virtually.

The Biomedical Science MSc with Professional Experience course can be studied over five semesters (20 months) as an extended full-time course. This incorporates two additional professional experience modules, in which you gain experience through either an internship with an external organisation or with the university. Placements, subject to competitive application and selection, will normally be undertaken for three to five days (20 hours) per week for 20 weeks over two semesters².

Teaching contact hours

As a full-time student, you can expect to have approximately 12 hours per week of contact teaching. In addition, you will be expected to engage with approximately 4 hours per week of directed study and approximately 12 hours per week of self-directed study, plus preparation of assignments.

The contact hours may be made up of a combination of face-to-face teaching, individual and group tutorials, and online classes and tutorials.

As an innovative and enterprising institution, the university may seek to utilise emerging technologies within the student experience. For all courses (whether on-campus, blended or distance learning), the university may deliver certain contact hours and assessments via online technologies and methods.

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, we are prepared for courses due to start in or after the 2023/2024 academic year to be delivered in a variety of forms. The form of delivery will be determined in accordance with Government and Public Health guidance. Whether on campus or online, our key priority is staff and student safety.

Assessment

This course will be assessed using a variety of methods, which will vary depending upon the module.

Assessment methods include:

Essays
Laboratory or project reports
Group work
Individual assignments
Presentations
Posters
Data Analysis and case study exercises
Portfolio-based assessments
Time-restricted coursework

The Coventry University Group assessment strategy ensures that our courses are fairly assessed and allows us to monitor student progression towards achieving the intended learning outcomes.

Entry requirements

Typical offer for 2023/24 entry.

An Honours degree in a Biomedical Science undergraduate course; with a minimum of a lower second class (2:2) classification (2:1 for the professional experience course)

or

An equivalent appropriate qualification that includes substantial clinical or biomedical content. We would expect to see the study of one or more of the following modules in the final year of an undergraduate degree: clinical biochemistry, microbiology and virology, clinical immunology, haematology, histology, cytology, pathology.

We recognise a breadth of qualifications, speak to one of our advisers today to find out how we can help you.

Please refer to the full requirements in the disclaimer section⁵.

Chat with us

Select your region to find detailed information about entry requirements:

Russia and Central Asia

You can view our full list of country specific entry requirements on our Entry requirements page.

Alternatively, visit our International hub for further advice and guidance on finding in-country agents and representatives, joining our in-country events and how to apply.

Typical entry requirements

An Honours degree in a Biomedical Science undergraduate course; with a minimum of a lower second class (2:2) classification (2:1 for the professional experience course)

or

An equivalent appropriate qualification that includes substantial clinical or biomedical content. We would expect to see the study of one or more of the following modules in the final year of an undergraduate degree: clinical biochemistry, microbiology and virology, clinical immunology, haematology, histology, cytology, pathology.

Please refer to the full requirements in the disclaimer section⁵.

English language requirements

IELTS: 6.5 overall, with no component lower than 5.5
For the ‘with professional experience’ course IELTS: 7.0 overall (with at least 6.0 in each component area)

If you don't meet the English language requirements, you can achieve the level you need by successfully completing a pre-sessional English programme before you start your course.

For more information on our approved English language tests visit our English language requirements page.

Chat with us

Fees and funding

2023/24 tuition fees.

Student	Full-time	Part-time
UK, Ireland*, Channel Islands or Isle of Man	£11,200 \| £21,250 (with prof. experience)	Request fee information
EU	£11,200 \| £21,250 (with prof. experience) per year with EU support bursary £18,600 \| £21,250 (with prof. experience) per year without EU support bursary	Not available
International	£18,600 \| £21,250 (with prof. experience)	Not available

For advice and guidance on tuition fees³and student loans visit our Postgraduate Finance page.

We offer a range of International scholarships to students all over the world. For more information, visit our International Scholarships page.

Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching, assessments, facilities and support services. There may be additional costs not covered by this fee such as accommodation and living costs, recommended reading books, stationery, printing and re-assessments should you need them.

The following are additional costs not included in the tuition fees:

Any optional overseas ﬁeld trips or visits: £400+ per trip.
Any costs associated with securing, attending or completing a placement (whether in the UK or abroad).

*Irish student fees

The rights of Irish residents to study in the UK are preserved under the Common Travel Area arrangement. If you are an Irish student and meet the residency criteria, you can study in England, pay the same level of tuition fees as English students and utilise the Tuition Fee Loan.

**EU support bursary

Following the UK's exit from the European Union, we are offering financial support to all eligible EU students who wish to study an undergraduate or a postgraduate degree with us full-time. This bursary will be used to offset the cost of your tuition fees to bring them in-line with that of UK students. Students studying a Degree with a Foundation Year with us are not eligible for the bursary.

How do you know if you need to pay UK or international tuition fees?

We carry out an initial fee status assessment based on the information you provide in your application. Your fee status determines your tuition fees, and what financial support and scholarships may be available to you. The rules about who pays UK (home) or international (overseas) fees for higher education courses in England are set by the government's Department for Education. The regulations identify all the different categories of student who can insist on paying the home rate. The regulations can be difficult to understand, so the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) has provided fee status guidance to help you identify whether you are eligible to pay the home or overseas rate.

If you meet all the criteria required by any one category, including any residence requirements, your institution must charge you the home rate. You only need to find one category that you fit into.

Facilities

The Alison Gingell Building contains a state-of-the-art SuperLab⁴. The lab's facilities include equipment for flow cytometry, DNA analysis, microscopy and cell culture.

SuperLab

Our state-of-the-art SuperLab can hold up to 250 students at one time and has equipment that allows you to gain skills and experience with techniques and equipment that you will encounter in your graduate careers including biosafety hoods, flow cytometers and DNA sequencers.

Students in Analytical Chemistry female student using a petri dish

Analytical Chemistry suite

This is where you can apply your practical and theoretical knowledge to real-life working scenarios. We use a new generation chromatography technique to analyse products ranging from pharmaceutical agents, to cosmetics, drinks and toxins.

Careers and opportunities

The educational aims of the Biomedical Science MSc and Biomedical Science MSc with Professional Experience courses are to:

Enable you to advance your biomedical science knowledge and understanding through in-depth study of focused areas of the discipline.
Equip you to develop critical appraisal and evaluation skills and provide opportunities to apply these to contemporary topics informed by published literature and ongoing research.
Provide opportunities for development of research skills through the completion of a self-directed project, with due regard for health and safety and ethical issues.
Generate a stimulating and active learning environment allowing you to explore current issues and future developments in biomedical science, with a focus on real world global initiatives.
Facilitate the development of problem-solving skills in complex scenarios, utilising creativity and initiative, and fostering a continuing professional development ethos.
Equip you to understand, appreciate and apply leadership and management skills appropriate to your own career development goals.
Empower you to take ownership of your own learning, through structured self-reflection, independent approaches and professional responsibility and accountability.
Enhance your communication skills, enabling you to develop into confident presenters and collaborators, using written, oral, and digital formats.

In addition, Biomedical Science with Professional Experience MSc aims to:

Support you to successfully secure and complete an appropriate with Professional Experience placement², helping them to gain valuable workplace skills that will benefit their future employability.

On successful completion of Biomedical Science MSc and Biomedical Science MSc with Professional Experience, you will be able to:

Demonstrate in-depth and advanced knowledge and understanding of specialist areas of biomedical science practice.
Critically evaluate scientific literature and current research outcomes.
Apply knowledge of technological advances to critically appraise the current challenges and future opportunities for biomedical science on a global stage.
Apply principles of leadership and management to biomedical environments, understanding how such skills are key to career advancement.
Evaluate problems from diverse perspectives, propose creative solutions and reflect on personal learning experiences developed through such challenges.
Utilise a diversity of formats to effectively communicate with professional colleagues in a global community.
Devise, carry out, and report an independent hypothesis-driven biomedical research project, with due regard to health and safety and ethical requirements.
Recognise and demonstrate key professional skills and practices including independence, initiative, team working, professional integrity and ethical awareness.
Critically evaluate the principles for leading and developing people and equality, diversity and inclusion at a strategic level.

In addition, a graduate of Biomedical Science MSc with Professional Experience will be able to:

Demonstrate the ability to contribute effectively to a work environment, exhibiting professional conduct and behaviours and reflect on the learning experience.

The course aims to prepare you for a wide range of careers spanning government, academic, commercial, industrial and healthcare applications of biomedical sciences.

Examples of possible career routes include working in laboratory quality assurance and management, becoming a researcher or biomedical scientist for the NHS, or working in public health laboratories, commercial diagnostic laboratories, the Blood Transfusion service, university research laboratories and bioscience/life sciences private companies. Within the NHS, a master’s qualification is required for further career progression to apply for Senior Biomedical Scientist positions at Band 7 and above.

The scientific knowledge and skills you should acquire during and on successful completion of the course can be a useful basis for a career in teaching; technical and scientific writing (such as medical writing or writing for the media); clinical trials; drug registration, patenting or monitoring; medical publishing or other information services; regulatory affairs or sales and marketing. The course is also an excellent foundation for further studies leading to a PhD.

Throughout the world, there is an increasing demand for highly trained biomedical scientists who can supply a quality service based on UK NHS/IBMS standards for laboratory training linked to recognised Clinical Pathology Accreditation schemes and UK Assurance Standards. In China, India and especially Africa, for the diagnosis and treatment of HIV, healthcare and healthcare training with quality assurance of standards within laboratory practice is now a prime concern. Indeed, many of our international students plan to return to their home countries and work in - or open their own - diagnostic laboratories.

Coventry University is committed to preparing you for your future career and giving you a competitive edge in the graduate job market. The university’s Talent Team provide a wide range of support services to help you plan and prepare for your career.

Where our graduates work

Our previous graduates have gone on to careers in teaching, research and the NHS.

How to apply

UK students

To apply to study for a postgraduate course at Coventry University, you can apply online.

Full-time applications

Part-time applications

For further support or more information about your course get in touch with us today.

+44 (0)24 7765 2222

ukadmissions@coventry.ac.uk

Chat with our admissions team

Complete our contact form.
International students

Full-time international students applying to start in September should apply directly to the university. Read our application pages to find out your next steps to apply.
How to apply
For further support for international applicants applying for postgraduate degree view our International hub.

You can also download our International guide which contains lots of useful information about our courses, accommodation and tips for travel.

Get in touch with us today for further advice and guidance.

+44 (0)24 7765 2152

generalenquiries.io@coventry.ac.uk

Chat with our admissions team.

Complete our contact form.

Disclaimers

Coventry University together with Coventry University London Campus, CU Coventry, CU London, CU Scarborough and Coventry University Online come together to form part of the Coventry University Group (the “University”) with all degrees awarded by Coventry University.

¹Accreditations

The majority of our courses have been formally recognised by professional bodies, which means the courses have been reviewed and tested to ensure they reach a set standard. In some instances, studying on an accredited course can give you additional benefits such as exemptions from professional exams (subject to availability, fees may apply). Accreditations, partnerships, exemptions and memberships shall be renewed in accordance with the relevant bodies’ standard review process and subject to the university maintaining the same high standards of course delivery.

²UK and international opportunities

Please note that we are unable to guarantee any UK or International opportunities (whether required or optional) such as internships, work experience, field trips, conferences, placements or study abroad opportunities and that all such opportunities may be subject to additional costs (which could include, but is not limited to, equipment, materials, bench fees, studio or facilities hire, travel, accommodation and visas), competitive application, availability and/or meeting any applicable travel COVID and visa requirements. To ensure that you fully understand the visa requirements, please contact the International Office.

³Tuition fees

The University will charge the tuition fees that are stated in the above table for the first Academic Year of study. The University will review tuition fees each year. For UK (home) students, if Parliament permit an increase in tuition fees, the University may increase fees for each subsequent year of study in line with any such changes. Note that any increase is expected to be in line with inflation.

For International Students, we may increase fees each year but such increases will be no more than 5% above inflation. If you defer your course start date or have to extend your studies beyond the normal duration of the course (e.g. to repeat a year or resit examinations) the University reserves the right to charge you fees at a higher rate and/or in accordance with any legislative changes during the additional period of study.

⁴Facilities

Due to COVID-19, some facilities (including some teaching and learning spaces) and some non-academic offerings (particularly in relation to international experiences), may vary from those advertised and may have reduced availability or restrictions on their use.

⁵Placements

Satisfactory health clearance and enhanced criminal record disclosure may be required. As part of the health clearance checks you will be required to provide information about your immunity and vaccination status. You will also be required to provide information about your COVID-19 vaccination status. We therefore recommend that you are fully vaccinated including the COVID-19 vaccine. The information you provide will be used to determine your eligibility to go on placement(s). Placements are provided at the placement provider’s discretion. The University is therefore unable to guarantee the provision of placements or the location and type of placement offered.

Student Contract

By accepting your offer of a place and enrolling with us, a Student Contract will be formed between you and the university. A copy of the 2023/24 contract can be found here. The Contract details your rights and the obligations you will be bound by during your time as a student and contains the obligations that the university will owe to you. You should read the Contract before you accept an offer of a place and before you enrol at the university.

Biomedical Science MSc

Course overview