Find the right course for you
The foundation year is a year before you start year one of your course. If you don't quite have the necessary qualifications or want to build your confidence in the subject this year prepares you for degree-level study, developing your knowledge of medical sciences together with essential academic, research, and laboratory skills.
What's the difference between 'Medical' and 'Biomedical' Science?
In both the Medical Sciences and Biomedical Science programmes, you’ll benefit from a common first year that builds a strong foundation in human biology, physiology, and the principles of disease. This common year ensures all students gain essential scientific knowledge and lab skills before progressing into more specialised areas of study. This also provides flexibility with students having the ability to transfer across programmes if they wish. Take a look below to see how these degrees differ and the different opportunities they could lead to.
Medical Sciences
Medical Sciences focuses on understanding human health and disease from both a clinical and scientific perspective. It’s ideal for students interested in the biological basis of disease and those considering a future in medicine or healthcare. The course is mapped to a pre-medical curriculum and explores the structure and function of the body’s major systems, as well as the abnormalities that lead to conditions such as diabetes, cancer, and liver disease.
Graduates of Medical Sciences are well-prepared for a variety of scientific and medical careers. The degree offers a strong foundation for postgraduate study in Medicine, Dentistry, or Veterinary Science. High-achieving students may also progress to ÑÇÖÞÉ«°É’s Graduate Entry Medicine programme in North Wales. The course is an excellent stepping stone to our MSc in Physician Associate Studies, among other clinical pathways or allied health roles.
The Medical Sciences degree is clinically focused and constantly updated to reflect the latest developments in healthcare and research. Students gain a deep understanding of disease mechanisms and clinical case studies, with teaching that bridges the gap between science and medicine.
After the common first year, from the second year onwards, Medical Sciences students explore topics aligned with a pre-medical curriculum. You’ll study clinical case-based modules and gain insight into the structure and function of major body systems, as well as the mechanisms of disease. Teaching includes lectures, small-group tutorials, and digital anatomy sessions using the Anatomage table – a cutting-edge tool for virtual dissection and clinical simulation. The course is designed to bridge the gap between science and the theory of clinical practice, preparing you for further study in medicine or healthcare.
Biomedical Science
Biomedical Science, delves into the scientific investigation of health and disease at a cellular and molecular level. It covers a broad range of key disciplines outlined by the Institute of Biomedical Science, with subjects including genetics, microbiology, cell pathology, immunology, and blood sciences. This course is designed for students who are passionate about laboratory science and want to contribute to medical advances through research and innovation.
Biomedical Science graduates are equipped with the skills needed for careers in the NHS, pharmaceutical companies, research institutions, and biotechnology firms. Many go on to work in clinical laboratories, medical research, or science communication. The course also opens doors to the NHS Scientist Training Programme and other specialist roles in healthcare and diagnostics.
In Biomedical Science, students explore the biology of disease through a strong laboratory-based curriculum. The course includes an optional Applied Biomedical Science route, which provides practical experience aligned with NHS training standards. This hands-on approach ensures graduates are ready for both research and clinical environments.
In Biomedical Science, you’ll dive deeper into the molecular and cellular basis of disease. The course places a strong emphasis on laboratory-based learning, with modules in genetics, microbiology, immunology, and diagnostics. You’ll develop hands-on skills in modern biomedical techniques and have the opportunity to undertake research projects. Students on the Applied Biomedical Science route also gain practical experience aligned with NHS laboratory training, enhancing employability in clinical and diagnostic settings.
360 Medical Sciences Virtual Tour
360 Medical Sciences Virtual Tour Transcript
Welcome to Fron Heulog one of the buildings used for Medical sciences, this first image is of Fron Heulog building taken outside on a warm sunny day.