Biomedical Science MSc

Postgraduate

Enhance your expertise in biomedical science and develop specialist knowledge in scientific practices and principles. Build an understanding of leadership and management within medical laboratories and prepare for advanced roles.

Year of entry

2024-25 2025-26

Location

Coventry University (Coventry)

Study mode

Full-time
With Professional Placement

Duration

1 year full-time
Up to 2 years full-time with professional placement

Course code

EEST017 Biomedical Science (Cellular and Molecular Pathology)
EEST019 Biomedical Science (Clinical Biochemistry and Immunology)
EEST020 Biomedical Science (Haematology with Blood Transfusion Sciences)
EEST021 Biomedical Science (Infection Science)

Start date

September 2025
November 2025
January 2026
March 2026
May 2026
June 2026

How to apply

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Course overview

This course is ideal for those looking to specialise in biomedical science. We aim to provide valuable hands-on experience and learning opportunities that lay a strong foundation for careers in research, advanced diagnostic laboratory roles, or professional development.

Acquire hands-on experience in modern laboratory techniques, including genomics and stem cell technology. Develop the practical skills needed to excel in the rapidly evolving field of biomedical science.
Specialise in one of four routes: infection science, haematology and blood transfusion science, clinical biochemistry and immunology, or cellular and molecular pathology.
Develop advanced knowledge in disease diagnostics and laboratory management to prepare for progressive roles in this field.

5 QS Stars for Teaching and Facilities

QS Stars University Ratings

Ranked 9th Modern University in UK by the Times

The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2025

Ranked 8th for Overall Satisfaction in PTES

Postgraduate Taught Experience Survey (PTES) 2024

Why you should study this course

Choose from four specialist routes, each designed to deepen your expertise and advance your chosen field.
Demonstrate your learning by designing, implementing, analysing and reporting on a research project aligned with your specialism.
For biomedical scientists and bioscience graduates, specialising in a specific area could significantly enhance professional development, support career progression and open new opportunities in the field.
The course integrates two International Certificate of Digital Literacy (ICDL) modules, Data Analytics and Big Data. You will be awarded an ICDL certificate and electronic badge on successful completion of each ICDL module.
Gain practical experience and boost your CV with an additional professional placement. See the modules for more details.²

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

Acquire knowledge and laboratory skills relevant to all biomedical science disciplines, including genomics, stem cell technologies and big data analytics. Through an active learning environment, delve into current issues and future developments in biomedical science, emphasising global initiatives and specialising within your chosen field. Gain an understanding of management and regulation within medical laboratories and develop essential research skills by completing a self-directed project.

Modules

Theoretical Principles for Laboratory Scientists – 30 credits

Explore the broader aspects of laboratory work, including regulatory bodies, ISO standards, and health and safety procedures. Gain insight into the types of data generated, as well as the ethical implications of generating, storing and communicating this data. A key focus will be the role of big data in current and future scientific developments. This module integrates the International Certificate of Digital Literacy (ICDL) module Data Analytics. You will be awarded an ICDL certificate and electronic badge on successful completion of the course module.

Compulsory

Laboratory and Data Analysis Skills – 30 credits

Use an extensive laboratory program to equip you with fundamental techniques applicable across various disciplines and research projects. Understand theoretical principles and further develop your practical skills. This module integrates the International Certificate of Digital Literacy (ICDL) module Big Data. You will be awarded an ICDL certificate and electronic badge on successful completion of the course module.

Compulsory

Master’s with professional placement

If you successfully secure a placement in industry within your first semester, this master’s with professional placement option allows you to extend your 12-month master’s course up to an additional year to complete the placement before starting your final 60-credit module.

Gain valuable industry insights and skills as you apply your academic knowledge and skills to a professional placement.
The placement must be sourced and secured by you during your first semester. Our careers and employability team are available to support you with the sourcing process.
Start your professional placement after completing the first 120 credits of your course.
The professional placement will be integrated into your course learning and outcomes. This will take the form of a reflective diary demonstrating your learning and engagement with the placement experience.
The professional placement option is subject to additional fees, living costs, visa requirements, availability, competitive application and university approval of the placement.²

For full terms and conditions please visit the extended master’s landing page.

Optional

Research Project – 60 credits

Apply your acquired knowledge and skills to an independent research investigation, working under the guidance of an expert supervisor and contributing original findings to the field. This is designed to equip you with the theoretical understanding and practical expertise necessary to excel in a competitive scientific career.

Compulsory

Cellular and Molecular Pathology route additional modules

Cellular and Molecular Pathology – 30 credits

This module highlights the critical role of molecular and cellular pathology investigations in diagnosing and treating diseases. It provides an in-depth evaluation of both underpinning scientific rationale and current laboratory practices. You will investigate histopathology and cytology-based evaluations of major organs and tissues, from initial sample processing to final diagnosis. Cytogenetics and molecular pathology will also be discussed in depth.

Learn about leadership, management, training and quality management systems in medical laboratories, including ISO standards, UKAS and internal QC processes, and their impact on service users. The management and impact of national screening programmes and global challenges related to molecular pathology initiatives will also be assessed.

Compulsory

Genomic and Regenerative Medicine – 30 credits

Explore how modern cell and molecular analysis methods affect our understanding of disease pathophysiology, diagnosis, and therapy for common and rare inherited diseases. This includes the impact of the 100,000 Genomes Project, the International Genome Consortium, and the NHS genetic care pathway. Examine stem cell biology and its applications in genomic and regenerative medicine to understand disease mechanisms and develop personalised medicine.

Compulsory

Clinical Biochemistry and Immunology route additional modules

Clinical Biochemistry and Immunology – 30 credits

This module highlights the crucial role of biochemical and immunological investigations in disease diagnosis, addressing global challenges and potential solutions. Investigate the underpinning scientific rationale behind current laboratory practice and procedures with emphasis on both the underlying pathophysiology and the contribution that these tests make to patient diagnosis and management. You'll also cover specialist investigations in enzymology, allergy, and toxicology.

Learn about leadership, management, training and quality management systems in medical laboratories, including ISO standards, UKAS and internal QC processes, and their impact on service users.

Compulsory

Genomic and Regenerative Medicine – 30 credits

Compulsory

Haematology and Blood Transfusion Sciences route additional modules

Haematology and Transfusion Science – 30 credits

Enhance your understanding of haematology and transfusion science, focusing on molecular diagnosis, scientific rationale, and current laboratory practices. The haematology aspect will cover red cell disorders, haemostasis disorders and white cell malignancies. Transfusion science explores molecular blood grouping, antibody investigation advances and safe transfusion service provision. Both areas review emerging technologies and their global impact on patient care.

Learn about leadership, management, training and quality management systems in medical laboratories, including ISO standards, UKAS and internal QC processes, and their impact on service users.

Compulsory

Genomic and Regenerative Medicine – 30 credits

Compulsory

Infection Science route additional modules

Infection Science – 30 credits

Advance your understanding of microbial pathogens, their impact on human health, and the role of medical laboratories in monitoring and diagnosing infectious diseases. Study aetiology, pathophysiology, epidemiology, specimen processing, laboratory diagnosis, control, therapy, and management of key bacterial, viral, fungal, and parasitic infections. Address issues like healthcare-associated infections (HAIs), sexually transmitted infections (STIs), antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and new developments in disease monitoring and diagnosis.

Learn about leadership, management, training and quality management systems in medical laboratories, including ISO standards, UKAS and internal QC processes, and their impact on service users.

Compulsory

Genomic and Regenerative Medicine – 30 credits

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

Teaching and learning methods may include:

lectures
seminars
tutorials
workshops
quizzes
discussions
case studies
presentations
group work
asynchronous learning
reflective practice
self-guided
practical laboratory sessions.

Teaching contact hours

As a full-time postgraduate student, you will study modules totalling 180 credits each academic year. A typical 30-credit module requires a total of 300 hours of study. Study hours are made up of teaching contact hours, and guided and independent study.

Teaching hours

Teaching hours may vary, depending on where you are in your studies, but on average you will have between 8 and 12 teaching and learning hours each week. You will also have the opportunity to attend optional sessions including time with a Success Coach or to meet with staff for advice and feedback.

Guided and independent study

Throughout your studies, you will be expected to spend time in guided and independent study to make up the required study hours per module. You will be digging deeper into topics, reviewing what you’ve learnt and completing assignments. This can be completed around your personal commitments. As you progress to the end of your studies, you’ll spend more time on independent learning.

Online learning

As an innovative university, we use different teaching methods, including online tools and emerging technologies. So, some of your teaching hours and assessments may be delivered online.

Assessment

This course will be assessed using a variety of methods which could vary depending on the module. Assessment methods may include:

essays
laboratory or project reports
group work
individual assignments
presentations
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 entry requirements:

An honours degree 2:2 or above (or international equivalent) in a relevant discipline.

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

Select your region to find detailed information about entry requirements:

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 2:2 or above (or international equivalent) in a relevant discipline.

English language requirements

IELTS: 6.5 overall, with no component lower than 5.5

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.

Fees and funding

Student	Full-time	Part-time
UK, Ireland*, Channel Islands or Isle of Man	£11,200 £1,500 professional placement fee (if placement secured)	Not available
EU	£11,200 per year with EU Support Bursary £1,500 professional placement fee (if placement secured) per year with EU Support Bursary £18,600 per year without EU Support Bursary £1,800 professional placement fee (if placement secured) per year without EU Support Bursary	Not available
International	£18,600 £1,800 professional placement fee (if placement secured)	Not available

For advice and guidance on tuition fees³and student loans visit our Postgraduate Finance page and see the university's Tuition Fee and Refund Terms and Conditions.

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 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 is home to industry-standard facilities allowing you to work in a replicated, dynamic, professional environment from day one.

The Super Lab can hold up to 250 students, making it one of the largest educational laboratories in the UK. It is well-equipped with the latest industry-standard equipment including facilities for biochemistry, immunology, microbiology, haematology and cell and molecular biology.

People walking in front of a building which has a big library sign

Lanchester Library

The library is usually open 24/7, in term-time. It’s where you can access your course’s specialist Academic Liaison Librarian. It’s also home to specialist teams which can support you with your academic writing and maths and statistics questions.

Glass modern building with a spire in the background

The Hub

The Hub is the centre of student life on campus. Facilities include a food court, convenience store, multi-faith centre, medical centre, hairdresser, coffee shops and the Your SU offices. It has fully licensed function spaces and a bar.

Two people working together with a laptop in front of them

Careers and employability

Get one-on-one career and employability guidance lasting up to 36 months from the end of your course. We’ll help you find placements and graduate roles, offer CV and application checks, mentoring, skills workshops, employer events and more.

Facilities are subject to availability. Access to some facilities (including some teaching and learning spaces) may vary from those advertised and/or may have reduced availability or restrictions where the university is following public authority guidance, decisions or orders.

Careers and opportunities

Biomedical science is a rapidly involving field, incorporating digital technologies, omics and personalised medicine. Employers need professionals who can analyse and interpret big data, apply biological understanding, and communicate results effectively.

Learning experiences and assessments mirror real-world practices, including group projects, practical skills, presentations, scientific communication and independence, all relevant to various careers.

Graduates of this Biomedical Science MSc course could go on to a range of different careers. Those already working as Biomedical Scientists could opt to use this course to further their career within their specialism, which could allow them to progress into leadership roles within the NHS.

Other opportunities include working within industry as research assistants and technologists, management/leadership positions and scientific communication. Graduates could also go on to apply to scientist training programmes as well as further postgraduate study.

Where our graduates work

Successful graduates of this course have gone on to work in:

The NHS.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA).
PhD and Research.

How to apply

UK students

To apply to study for a postgraduate course at Coventry University, you can apply online. Please read the entry criteria page before applying.

Full-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

Complete our contact form.

International students

Full-time international students should apply directly to the university. Please read our application pages to find out your next steps to apply.

EEST017 Biomedical Science (Cellular and Molecular Pathology)

EEST019 Biomedical Science (Clinical Biochemistry and Immunology)

EEST020 Biomedical Science (Haematology with Blood Transfusion Sciences)

EEST021 Biomedical Science (Infection Science)

How to apply

For further support for international applicants applying for postgraduate degrees view our International hub.

You can also download our international mini guide for an overview of study options and why you should study with us.

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

+44 (0)24 7765 2152

applications.io@coventry.ac.uk

Complete our contact form.

Disclaimers

Coventry University together with Coventry University London, Coventry University Wrocław, 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, partnerships and memberships

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. See the relevant body website for more details). Accreditations, partnerships, exemptions and memberships are subject to successful renewal in accordance with the relevant bodies’ standard review process and subject to the university maintaining the same high standards of course delivery. If the accreditation, recognition or membership of this course changes, we will seek to notify applicants and students as soon as possible.

Where relevant, the Chartered Management Institute (CMI) module content is undergoing assessment by the CMI to confirm that all criteria are met to the required standard. Whilst it is expected that students who successfully pass the module will be eligible to be considered by CMI for the CMI Level 7 Certificate in Strategic Management and Leadership Practice as an additional qualification, we cannot confirm this until the accreditation is approved. This is a normal part of the continuous improvement process for our courses to ensure they remain up-to-date and reflect best practice.

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 unpaid and/or 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, public authority guidance, decisions or orders and visa requirements. To ensure that you fully understand any 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

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 current 2024/2025 contract is available on the website for information purposes however the 2025/2026 contract will apply for the 2025/2026 intake. 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.