(Full time) 2019 start
Medical Sciences MBiol, BSc
Overview
Medical Sciences studies the science of human beings, from the level of molecular activity inside cells to the holistic behaviour of individuals. You’ll gain an integrated knowledge of the human body and how it works in health and disease.
This course will equip you for a wide range of medical and science-related careers. You’ll explore core biomedical subjects such as anatomy, physiology, pharmacology and neuroscience, with teaching from expert researchers in world class facilities.
You’ll also develop your skills through practical training in specialised laboratories, including hands-on anatomy.
Alongside core modules, you’ll choose from a variety of optional modules to focus on the topics that suit your own interests and ambitions, such as chemotherapy, bioinformatics, exercise physiology, immunology and drug development.
Our integrated Masters offers you an additional year of specialist training. You’ll undertake an extended research project and study advanced medical sciences topics.
Course highlights
If you’re undecided about which degree to study, but know you're interested in Biomedical Sciences, our Medical Sciences degree is designed to give you a broad foundation as a scientist. You’ll benefit from:
- Choice: You’ll build a solid foundation in core biomedical subjects as well as choose from a wide range of modules to customise your degree to your interests.
- Flexibility: Common core modules in the first year of many of our courses mean you’ll have the flexibility to transfer onto a more specialised degree course as your interests develop.
- Employability: On this course you can undertake an industrial placement or study year abroad, a great chance to enhance your university experience and your CV.
- Research experience: You’ll experience a wide range of hands-on training in the labs and have the chance to carry out your own independent research project in your third year.
- Accreditation: Our MBiol and BSc with Industrial Placement courses have been awarded advanced accreditation by the Royal Society for Biology.
Accreditation
Our BSc with Industrial Placement Year and MBiol courses have been awarded Full Advanced Accreditation by the Royal Society of Biology. Degree accreditation by the Royal Society of Biology acknowledges academic excellence in the biosciences, and highlights degrees that educate the research and development leaders and innovators of the future. The accreditation criteria require evidence that graduates have met defined learning outcomes, including gaining substantial research experience.
Course content
This course equips you with a wide range of knowledge and also transferable skills. It’s a sensible choice if you know you’re interested in biomedical subjects but do not want to decide on specialisation, at least in the first year.
In Year 1, you’ll be introduced to the range of topics making up the medical sciences. This will include basic anatomy, physiology, microbiology and pharmacology, as well as endocrinology and neuroscience.
You’ll also develop the fundamental laboratory skills and techniques that will underpin the rest of your studies.
It may be possible to transfer to Pharmacology, Neuroscience or Human Physiology after Year 1 (subject to academic approval).
In Year 2, you will receive more detailed exposure to the systems of the body. You’ll study core modules that will build on your knowledge. These are taught in an integrated way that brings together normal structure and function with changes in disease and treatment. You’ll have a range of optional modules to choose from, including human diseases, toxicology and bioinformatics, and develop your understanding of research methods and experimental skills. You will further develop your critical reasoning skills, and learn how to apply your knowledge to evaluate scientific evidence.
You’ll also choose one area to specialise in from pharmacology, neuroscience, physiology and medical sciences more broadly – a pair of modules will allow you to study this area in greater depth and gain specific experimental skills.
The degree offers the opportunity to apply for an industrial placement or study abroad year at the end of Year 2, which will help broaden your experience, enhance your skills and improve your employment prospects.
In Year 3, you’ll choose research-centered modules that build on topics that interested you in earlier years. ‘Advanced Topics’ modules in particular allow you to choose from a menu of different research topics so you can focus more on your areas of interest. You can also choose specialist modules such as cancer biology or biomedical nanotechnology.
Much of the year will be focused on your own research project. Your research will concentrate on a completely original topic in the subject which will allow you to explore our latest research breakthroughs with leading academics in our specialised laboratories. For those whose career path is not into laboratory-based biosciences, a variety of different project types is available to help you to develop professionally-relevant skills.
Integrated Masters (MBiol)
Years 1 and 2 are the same as for the BSc and provide you with a foundation in the subject.
In Year 3 you’ll study compulsory and optional modules, a literature research project and a research preparation module that will underpin your final-year research project.
In Year 4 you’ll undertake an extended research project in an original topic while exploring specialised research topics and skills. This is complimented with Masters level modules that will prepare you for a career in research as well as equipping you with the cutting edge expertise needed in the general graduate job market.
Find out more about choosing between an integrated Masters and a BSc degree
Course structure
The list shown below represents typical modules/components studied and may change from time to time. Read more in our terms and conditions.
Learning and teaching
You’ll have access to the very best learning resources and academic support during your studies. We’ve been awarded a Gold rating in the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF, 2017), demonstrating our commitment to delivering consistently outstanding teaching, learning and outcomes for our students.
You’ll experience a wide range of teaching methods including lectures, tutorials and practicals. Your first and second years will focus on these three teaching methods, building your skills, understanding and knowledge in preparation for your final year research project, which will see you take on independent research and learning with the guidance of leading experts.
Across all years, additional workshop and seminar sessions will complement your lectures and lab practicals, and you will also undertake private study.
As a guide, a typical week in your first year includes nine to twelve hours of lectures, three to six hours of practical sessions in the laboratory, tutorials, workshop and seminar sessions, plus private study.
Independent study and research are also crucial to every year of the course. We have excellent library and computing facilities to support your learning, and the University Library offers training to help you make the most of them.
On this course you’ll be taught by our expert academics, from lecturers through to professors. You may also be taught by industry professionals with years of experience, as well as trained postgraduate researchers, connecting you to some of the brightest minds on campus.
Assessment
We use a variety of assessment methods to help you develop a broad range of skills. These include practical work, data handling and problem-solving exercises, multiple-choice tests, group work, online and face-to-face discussion groups, computer-based simulations, essays, posters and oral presentations.
Entry requirements, fees and applying
Entry requirements
A-level: AAA - AAB
BSc:
A-level: AAA - AAB
Including Biology or Chemistry, plus another science or science-related subject. Critical Thinking and General Studies excluded.
We accept the following science subjects: biology, human biology, chemistry, mathematics and physics. Science- related subjects: geography, PE, psychology, use of maths and statistics.
Applicants taking a Science A-level (in England) will be required to achieve a pass in the practical element in addition to the standard A-level grade requirement.
MBiol:
A-level: AAA
Including Biology or Chemistry, plus another science or science-related subject. Critical Thinking and General Studies excluded.
We accept the following science subjects: biology, human biology, chemistry, mathematics and physics. Science- related subjects: geography, PE, psychology, use of maths and statistics.
GCSE: Grade 6 (B) or above at GCSE Maths and Grade 4 (C) or above at GCSE English.
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Access to HE Diploma
BSc:
Pass 60 credits overall with 45 credits at Level 3, graded at D45M0P0 to D39M6P0 including distinctions in Biology and Mathematics or Chemistry. Accept Access courses in Applied Science and Science. Will also consider (depending on subject content):
- Biochemical Sciences
- Biological and
- Biological and Health Science
- Biological Sciences
- Biosciences
- Combined Sciences
- Life and Biological Science
- Physical Sciences
MBiol:
We do not accept Access to HE.
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BTEC
BSc:
Applicants with BTEC qualifications (Diploma or Extended Diploma) are required to have A2 level Biology (Maths, Chemistry and Physics may be acceptable alternatives depending on the BTEC subject). Distinctions in the BTEC subject and an A or B grade (BTEC subject dependent) for the A-level subject are required. Applicants with BTEC Subsidiary Diploma qualifications must have at least 2 A2 levels and at least one of these must be in Biology
MBiol:
We do not accept BTEC qualifications.
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Cambridge Pre-U
BSc:
D3/D3/D3-D3/D3/M1 including D3 in Biology or Chemistry plus one other science or science-related subject.
MBiol:
D3/D3/D3 including D3 in Biology or Chemistry plus one other science or science-related subject.
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International Baccalaureate
BSc:
35-34 (with 18-17 at higher level) including 6 in higher level Biology or Chemistry and another science or science-related subject at higher level.
MBiol:
35 (with 18 at higher level) including 6 in higher level Biology or Chemistry, and another science or science-related subject at higher level.
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Irish Leaving Certificate (higher Level)
BSc:
H2,H2,H2,H2,H2,H2 - H2,H2,H2,H2,H3,H3 including H2 in Biology or Chemistry, and another science at higher level.
MBiol:
H2,H2,H2,H2,H2,H2 including H2 in Biology or Chemistry, and another science at higher level.
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Scottish Highers / Advanced Highers
BSc:
Advanced Higher: 5 x Highers AABBB, with AA-AB in 2 Advanced Highers including Biology and another science or science-related subject. General Studies and Critical Thinking excluded.
We accept the following science subjects: biology, human biology, chemistry, mathematics and physics.Science-related subjects: geography, PE, psychology, use of maths and statistics.
Scottish Higher: Scottish Highers not accepted on their own.
MBiol:
Advanced Higher: 5 x Highers AABBB, with AA in 2 Advanced Highers including Biology and another science or science-related subject. General Studies and Critical Thinking excluded.
We accept the following science subjects: biology, human biology, chemistry, mathematics and physics. Science-related subjects: geography, PE, psychology, use of maths and statistics.
Scottish Higher: Scottish Highers not accepted on their own.
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Welsh Baccalaureate
Bsc:
AAA-AAB including Biology/Human Biology, or Chemistry plus another science or science-related subject. Critical Thinking and General Studies excluded.
We accept the following science subjects: biology, human biology, chemistry, mathematics and physics. Science- related subjects: geography, PE, psychology, use of maths and statistics.MBiol:
AAA including Biology/Human Biology, or Chemistry plus another science or science-related subject. Critical Thinking and General Studies excluded.
We accept the following science subjects: biology, human biology, chemistry, mathematics and physics. Science-related subjects: geography, PE, psychology, use of maths and statistics.
Read more about UK and Republic of Ireland accepted qualifications or contact the Schools Undergraduate Admissions Team.
Alternative entry
We’re committed to identifying the best possible applicants, regardless of personal circumstances or background.
Access to Leeds is a contextual admissions scheme which accepts applications from individuals who might be from low income households, in the first generation of their immediate family to apply to higher education, or have had their studies disrupted.
Find out more about Access to Leeds and contextual admissions.
International Foundation Year
International students who do not meet the academic requirements for undergraduate study may be able to study the University of Leeds International Foundation Year. This gives you the opportunity to study on campus, be taught by University of Leeds academics and progress onto a wide range of Leeds undergraduate courses. Find out more about International Foundation Year programmes.
English language requirements
IELTS 6.0 overall, with no less than 5.5 in any component.. For other English qualifications, read English language equivalent qualifications.
Improve your English
If you're an international student and you don't meet the English language requirements for this programme, you may be able to study our undergraduate pre-sessional English course, to help improve your English language level.
How to apply
Apply to this course through UCAS. Check the deadline for applications on the UCAS website.
We welcome applications from mature students. We welcome applications from mature students from all backgrounds onto both full-time and part-time programmes.
International students apply through UCAS in the same way as UK students. Our network of international representatives can help you with your application. If you’re unsure about the application process, contact the admissions team for help.
Read about visas, immigration and other information in International students. We recommend that international students apply as early as possible to ensure that they have time to apply for their visa.
Admissions policy
University of Leeds Taught Admissions Policy 2024
Fees
UK/EU: See fees section below
International: £22,750 (per year)
Tuition fees for UK undergraduate students starting in 2024/25
Tuition fees for UK full-time undergraduate students are set by the UK Government and will be £9,250 for students starting in 2024/25.
The fee may increase in future years of your course in line with inflation only, as a consequence of future changes in Government legislation and as permitted by law.
Tuition fees for UK undergraduate students starting in 2025/26
Tuition fees for UK full-time undergraduate students starting in 2025/26 have not yet been confirmed by the UK government. When the fee is available we will update individual course pages.
Tuition fees for international undergraduate students starting in 2024/25 and 2025/26
Tuition fees for international students for 2024/25 are available on individual course pages. Fees for students starting in 2025/26 will be available from September 2024.
Tuition fees for a study abroad or work placement year
If you take a study abroad or work placement year, you’ll pay a reduced tuition fee during this period. For more information, see Study abroad and work placement tuition fees and loans.
Read more about paying fees and charges.
There may be additional costs related to your course or programme of study, or related to being a student at the University of Leeds. Read more on our living costs and budgeting page.
Financial support
If you have the talent and drive, we want you to be able to study with us, whatever your financial circumstances. There is help for students in the form of loans and non-repayable grants from the University and from the government. Find out more in our Undergraduate funding overview.
The Faculty of Biological Sciences offer a range of scholarships for UK, EU and International students. Find out more about our scholarships
Career opportunities
As well as providing you with subject-specific knowledge, we aim to equip you with the best possible skills for a variety of future careers. All of our degrees have a strong emphasis on practical based teaching, small group teaching, online learning and problem solving.
Throughout the degree, you’ll gain a wide range of transferable skills which are highly valued by employers. Supported by the Leeds for Life scheme and your academic and personal tutor, you’ll be ideally placed to focus on your personal development and make the most of your time at university.
Many students go on to postgraduate entry medical or dental courses, while other graduates further develop their research skills by doing a PhD. The Medical Sciences degree is also attractive to those who envisage careers related to healthcare or medical research.
Examples include laboratory or clinical research, management in healthcare organisations and diagnostic roles (including the NHS Scientist Training Programme). Within the pharmaceutical industry, our graduates are involved in roles ranging from research and development of new drugs to clinical trials and medicines safety.
With a strong focus on wider skills such as data handling, problem-solving and communication skills, our graduates are also well equipped for a range of other careers.
Careers support
Dedicated employability team
We have a dedicated employability team in the Faculty of Biological Sciences who work closely with the University’s Careers Centre to support your development.
We offer a host of additional opportunities beyond core course content, including volunteering and placements. These include our annual Faculty Graduate Panel, where graduates are invited back to talk about their work and network with our students, and our STEM Careers Fair, which gives you the chance to meet bioscience employers, such as AstraZeneca, Covance, GSK, Nuffield Health, speak to alumni, attend workshops and get masses of information.
We encourage you to prepare for your career from day one. That’s one of the reasons Leeds graduates are so sought after by employers.
Leeds for Life is our unique approach to helping you make the most of University by supporting your academic and personal development. Find out more at the Leeds for Life website.
The Careers Centre and staff in your faculty provide a range of help and advice to help you plan your career and make well-informed decisions along the way, even after you graduate. Find out more about Careers support.
Study abroad and work placements
Study abroad
On this course you have the opportunity to apply to spend time abroad, usually as an extra academic year. We have over 300 University partners worldwide and popular destinations for our students include Europe, the USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Hong Kong, South Africa and Latin America.
Find out more at the Study Abroad website.
If you choose to undertake a study abroad option, you will spend the third year of the your course studying abroad. This will extend your studies by 12 months.
Work placements
Practical work experience can help you decide on your career and improve your employability. On this course you have the option to apply to take a placement year module with organisations across the public, private and voluntary sectors in the UK, or overseas.
Find out more about work experience on the Careers website.
Industrial placements are typically taken between your second and final year. If you choose to undertake a placement year, this will extend your studies by 12 months. For your work placement, staff at Leeds will help you with your CV and application letters and provide a list of organisations which may offer industrial placements.
Placements abroad are possible. We work together with your industrial supervisors to make sure you get the most out of this year. A year working in industry gives you an excellent opportunity to get used to the demands of the world of work, to develop new skills and to augment your CV.