Programme Specification for the 2025/6 academic year
BSc (Hons) Biomedical Sciences with Study Abroad
1. Programme Details
| Programme name | BSc (Hons) Biomedical Sciences with Study Abroad | Programme code | UFS4EMSEMS05 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Study mode(s) | Full Time |
Academic year | 2025/6 |
| Campus(es) | St Luke's (Exeter) |
NQF Level of the Final Award | 6 (Honours) |
2. Description of the Programme
One of the broadest fields of modern science, BSc (Hons) Biomedical Sciences forms the foundation of science which underpins modern medicine. The interdisciplinary nature of the programme means that the areas covered include biochemistry, cell biology, genetics, physiology, immunology and infection, neuroscience and diabetes. After a foundation first year, which covers the range of biology from molecules to physiology, you have freedom of module choice in your second and final years. You will be part of a research-led and engaging learning experience, informed by our world-renowned researchers and academics.
This four year version of the BSc (Hons) Biomedical Sciences degree includes a year studying abroad, between the second and final years. In this third year you study in a university with which we have established links, for example in North America or Singapore, and credit for this academic work counts towards your degree at Exeter.
Studying abroad offers you a fantastic opportunity to expand your educational and cultural experiences. Moreover, research indicates that 64% of employers consider an international experience important for recruitment and report that graduates with an international background are given greater responsibility more frequently. 92% of employers involved in a study conducted in 2014* indicated that they look for skills such as openness to and curiosity about new challenges, problem-solving and decision-making skills, confidence, and tolerance towards other personal values and behaviours. The study revealed that studying abroad had a positive impact on the development of these skills and concluded that the employability and competences of students greatly benefit from mobility.
Our Biomedical Sciences degree produces graduates of distinction with excellent training for research scientists. Future career pathways include postgraduate study, either at a university or with the NHS; employment in knowledge industries, such as pharmaceuticals or medical technology (with roles in research and development, clinical trials, or sales and marketing); training and employment to become a Scientific Officer in the Civil Service; NHS management; postgraduate training for the NHS Scientist Training Programme (STP); or graduate entry to professional degrees such as medicine, radiotherapy or other accredited healthcare programmes.
*European Commission (2014) The Erasmus Impact Study, Luxembourg: Publications Office of the European Union, 2014
Distinctive Features/Why study this course?
- The flexibility of the programme allows you to tailor your degree to your specific interest and career ambitions.
- Research-led teaching provided throughout the degree by academics and researchers eminent in their field.
- Take advantage of our cutting-edge laboratories: Explore the way research transforms into progress in clinical practice by utilising our specialised facilities and laboratories.
- Throughout the degree, modules on experimental skills aim to equip you with the ability to recognise issues, formulate and execute experiments to discover solutions to significant biomedical issues.
3. Educational Aims of the Programme
1. Possess a strong foundation in the fundamental concepts, terminology, and methodologies of biomedical sciences.
2. Value the importance of scientific inquiry and apply critical thinking to evaluate evidence, assess risk, and solve complex biological and medical problems.
3. Approach challenges with curiosity, creativity, and a commitment to innovation in research, diagnostics, and healthcare solutions.
4. Apply biomedical principles to real-world issues in healthcare, public health, and biotechnology, contributing to advancements that improve human health and well-being.
5. Adhere to ethical principles in research and professional practice, maintaining integrity and accountability in all aspects of biomedical science.
6. Be proficient in the use and evaluation of laboratory techniques, digital tools, and emerging technologies in biomedical research and clinical applications.
7. Communicate scientific concepts and findings effectively across diverse audiences, including peers, healthcare professionals, policymakers, and the public.
8. Recognise and appreciate the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusivity in biomedical research, healthcare, and global health initiatives.
9. Demonstrate self-awareness, adaptability, and a lifelong commitment to learning, ensuring continued professional and personal development.
The general aims of this programme are:
To provide education intended to give you competence in Biomedical Sciences, and to encourage you to develop your intellectual capabilities within an institution that is committed to advancing research, scholarship and learning, and to disseminating knowledge.
More specifically, this programme aims:
- To provide you with knowledge and understanding of biology from the fundamentals to the frontiers of the subject.
- To provide you with the basic scientific, intellectual, and practical training that will prepare you for lifelong learning, and, if you wish, for a career in biomedical research.
- To enable you to think critically, evaluate evidence, analyse, challenge, solve problems, work collaboratively, and communicate effectively.
- To enable you to experience a supportive learning environment that fosters your academic and personal development.
In doing so, we aim to encourage you to develop into individuals who, on graduation, will:
4. Programme Structure
BSc (Hons) Biomedical Sciences with Study Abroad programme is of 4-year duration and studied full time at National Qualification Framework (NQF) level 6 (as confirmed against the FHEQ), which is divided into ‘stages. Each stage is normally equivalent to an academic year. You will be located at St Luke’s and Streatham Campuses of the University of Exeter for the duration of your studies. You will be located at St Luke’s and Streatham Campuses of the University of Exeter for the duration of your studies. The programme is divided into units of study called ‘modules’ which are assigned a number of ‘credits’. The credit rating of a module is proportional to the total workload, with 1 credit being nominally equivalent to 10 hours of work.
For full details of the programme, including module details and career prospects, please visit the Faculty of Health Sciences website Faculty of Health and Life Sciences.
Exit Awards
If you do not complete the programme, you may be able to exit with a lower qualification. If you have achieved 120 credits, you may be awarded a Certificate of Higher Education in Biomedical Sciences, and if you achieve 240 credits, where at least 90 credits are at NQF Level 5 or above, you may be awarded a Diploma of Higher Education in Biomedical Sciences.
5. Programme Modules
The following tables describe the programme and constituent modules. Constituent modules may be updated, deleted or replaced as a consequence of the annual programme review of this programme.
The following tables describe the programme and constituent modules. Constituent modules may be updated, deleted or replaced because of the annual review of this programme. Details of the modules currently offered may be obtained from the Faculty website: https://www.exeter.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/courses/medicalsci/biomedical/
You may take optional modules as long as any necessary prerequisites have been satisfied, where the timetable allows and if you have not already taken the module in question or an equivalent module. Descriptions of the individual modules are given in full on the Study Information site.
You may take Elective Modules up to 30 credits outside of the programme, through the module change process, in stages 2 and 3 of the programme as long as any necessary prerequisites have been satisfied, where the timetable allows and if you have not already taken the module in question or an equivalent module.
Stage 1
Stage 1: 120 credits of compulsory modules
Compulsory Modules
| Code | Module | Credits | Non-condonable? |
|---|---|---|---|
| CSC1013 | Skills for Biomedical Sciences | 15 | No |
| CSC1011 | Experimental Design and Analysis | 15 | No |
| CSC1012 | Fundamentals of Pharmacology | 15 | No |
| CSC1010 | Physiology 1 | 15 | No |
| BIO1332 | Biochemistry | 15 | No |
| BIO1334 | Genetics | 15 | No |
| BIO1337 | Microbiology | 15 | No |
| BIO1339 | Cells | 15 | No |
Stage 2
Stage 2: 45 credits of compulsory modules, 60 credits taken from a set of constrained optional modules (see notes below) and 15 credits from the list of options.
Compulsory Modules
You are required to take a minimum of 30 credits of Bioscience modules across your second and final years of study. At least one module (15 credits) must be taken in Stage 2 as a prerequisite to be eligible for final year Biosciences modules.
| Code | Module | Credits | Non-condonable? |
|---|---|---|---|
| CSC2034 | Statistics for Biomedical Sciences | 15 | No |
| CSC2033 | Research Skills and Data Analysis | 15 | No |
| CSC2032 | Physiology II | 15 | No |
Optional Modules
aYou must select either CSC2035 Immunology of Infectious Diseases or BIO2101 Advanced Microbiology
bYou must select either CSC2026 The Biology of Cancer or BIO2088 Advanced Cell Biology
cYou must select either CSC2004 Medical Genetics or BIO2089 Molecular Biology of the Gene
dYou must select either CSC2027 Experimental Pharmacology or BIO2090 Analytical Techniques in Biochemistry
| Code | Module | Credits | Non-condonable? |
|---|---|---|---|
| CSC2035 | Immunology of Infectious Diseases (a) | 15 | No |
| BIO2101 | Advanced Microbiology (a) | 15 | No |
| CSC2026 | The Biology of Cancer (b) | 15 | No |
| BIO2088 | Advanced Cell Biology (b) | 15 | No |
| CSC2004 | Medical Genetics (c) | 15 | No |
| BIO2089 | Molecular Biology of the Gene (c) | 15 | No |
| CSC2027 | Experimental Pharmacology (d) | 15 | No |
| BIO2090 | Analytical Techniques in Biochemistry (d) | 15 | No |
| CSC2030 | Coding for Biomedical Scientists | 15 | No |
| NEU1006 | Introduction to Neuroscience | 15 | No |
| CSC2031 | Diabetes - Genes to Environment | 15 | No |
| CSC2029 | Biomedical Entrepreneurship | 15 | No |
Stage 3
Stage 3: 120-credit study-abroad module
Compulsory Modules
| Code | Module | Credits | Non-condonable? |
|---|---|---|---|
| CSC3032 | Medical Sciences Study Abroad | 120 | Yes |
Stage 4
Stage 4: 15 credits of compulsory modules, 45 constrained optional modules (see note below) and 60 credits of optional modules.
Compulsory Modules
aYou must select either Research Project in Biomedical Sciences or Capstone Project
| Code | Module | Credits | Non-condonable? |
|---|---|---|---|
| CSC3037 | Research Project in Biomedical Sciences (a) | 45 | Yes |
| CSC3036 | Capstone Project (a) | 45 | Yes |
| CSC3038 | Analytical Thinking for Biomedical Sciences Research | 15 | No |
Optional Modules
| Code | Module | Credits | Non-condonable? |
|---|---|---|---|
| CSC3009 | Pharmacogenomics | 15 | No |
| CSC3010 | Rational Drug Design | 15 | No |
| CSC3018 | Health Economics | 15 | No |
| CSC3030 | New Therapeutic Targets in Cancer | 15 | No |
| BIO3086 | Cell Biology of Disease | 15 | No |
| BIO3078 | Cellular Basis of Immunity | 15 | No |
| NEU3028 | Science Communication | 15 | No |
| CSC3034 | Immunopathology | 15 | No |
| CSC3035 | Tropical Medicine | 15 | No |
| CSC3033 | Diabetes Research | 15 | No |
6. Programme Outcomes Linked to Teaching, Learning and Assessment Methods
Intended Learning Outcomes
A: Specialised Subject Skills and Knowledge
| Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs) On successfully completing this programme you will be able to: | Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs) will be... | |
|---|---|---|
| ...accommodated and facilitated by the following learning and teaching activities (in/out of class): | ...and evidenced by the following assessment methods: | |
1. Confidently and accurately describe and critically discuss the key concepts and phenomena relevant to the course, using precise and appropriate terminology. Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the full breadth of Biomedical Sciences, spanning molecular and cellular levels and encompassing the spectrum from health to disease. | Within the programme, teaching and learning activities are designed to encourage a progressive acquisition of subject knowledge and skills by moving from study methods that have a greater degree of support and assistance towards more independent learning. The programme uses a diversity of teaching and learning methods: lectures; laboratory classes; research project and group work. Typically a 15 credit module would consist of 15-20 x 1 hour lectures in which the core subject material will be provided. The lecture notes will be available via the University of Exeter Virtual Learning Environment and references to outside reading will be made available. Laboratory classes will normally run for either 3 or 5 hours and you will be provided with a written schedule describing in detail the experimental procedures. You will normally work in groups (2-5 individuals depending on Stage) with an expectation the workload is divided equally. Some laboratory classes form the basis of assessment and require the submission of a final laboratory report. This will normally require data analysis in the form of tables and graphs. There is also an expectation that the data generated will be used in some subsequent calculations. Discussion of the findings or answers to short questions will be used to provide evidence of knowledge gained. The Stage 4 research project normally takes place over all terms. | The programme uses a diversity of assessment methods such as: essay examinations; short answer and multiple-choice tests (MCQ); practical work and reports; quantitative (numerical) problems; project report; oral presentations. |
Intended Learning Outcomes
B: Academic Discipline Core Skills and Knowledge
| Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs) On successfully completing this programme you will be able to: | Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs) will be... | |
|---|---|---|
| ...accommodated and facilitated by the following learning and teaching activities (in/out of class): | ...and evidenced by the following assessment methods: | |
5. Apply skills of critical thinking, problem- formulation, problem-solving, and rigorous scientific data handling to clinical science practice. | See above. | See above. |
Intended Learning Outcomes
C: Personal/Transferable/Employment Skills and Knowledge
| Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs) On successfully completing this programme you will be able to: | Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs) will be... | |
|---|---|---|
| ...accommodated and facilitated by the following learning and teaching activities (in/out of class): | ...and evidenced by the following assessment methods: | |
9. Identify, describe and apply effective and competent communication methods that will maximise professional relationships with patients, healthcare professionals, professional training placement teams, and lay audiences. | See above. | See above. |
7. Programme Regulations
To progress to Stage 2 you must achieve an average mark of at least 60% in Stage 1, otherwise you will be required to transfer to the three year programme. This is to ensure that only those students who are likely to succeed in their year in industry are selected for placement. If you are unsuccessful in your College-supported application for a competitive-entry industrial/business placement, you will normally be transferred to the three year programme.
The Professional Placement and Report module is a single 120-credit module and is not condonable; you must pass this module to graduate with the degree title of BSc (Hons)Biomedical Sciences with Professional Placement. If you fail the Professional Placement and Report module your degree title will be commuted to BSc (Hons) Biomedical Sciences.
Classification
Full details of assessment regulations for all taught programmes can be found in the TQA Manual, specifically in the Credit and Qualifications Framework, and the Assessment, Progression and Awarding: Taught Programmes Handbook. Additional information, including Generic Marking Criteria, can be found in the Learning and Teaching Support Handbook.
8. College Support for Students and Students' Learning
Academic tutoring : It is University policy that all Faculties should have in place a system of academic tutors. Their role is to both instil in you a sense of academic rigour and thinking, and to provide you with advice and support for the duration of the programme. This includes working with you to decide the appropriate optional module choices, and research project areas, and extends to providing you with details of how to obtain support and guidance on personal difficulties such as accommodation, financial difficulties and sickness.
At the Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, your performance in assessment is formally reviewed each term to ensure that any problems that you may be experiencing with your learning can be identified early. We seek to support students whose performance may be a cause for concern. If you need support you will be referred to trained staff and receive a confidential report containing recommendations on how changes to individual learning styles, techniques, assessment strategies and attitude to work may improve performance. All students are allocated an Academic Tutor who oversees your academic progress and personal and professional development. Your tutor is the first point of contact for academic support for the duration of the programme. We offer a friendly and supportive environment from your first day with us. Our Welfare team can provide assistance with non-academic issues.
Student Support: The University of Exeter Medical School offers its students a one-stop shop for all student queries, assessment submissions and concerns. Staff at the Information Point are able to make referrals for students to a wide-range of Faculty and University student support services. The Information Point is based at Info at St Luke’s on St Luke’s Campus. Support staff are also available to answer student queries and to make referrals at all of our student reception points across all of our locations in the South-West. You can contact the Information Point by telephone on 01392 724837 or by email info.stlukes@exeter.ac.uk
Students who are experiencing personal or health difficulties should, in the first instance, seek advice from the Education Welfare Advisors and Offices who are based in the Information Point. Appointments can be made at the Information Point reception, or by emailing welfare.stlukes@exeter.ac.uk
Student/Staff Liaison Committee enables students & staff to jointly participate in the management and review of the teaching and learning provision.
Careers Advice: Programme specific careers advice and guidance can be sought from the Academic Leads for Employability and Careers.
9. University Support for Students and Students' Learning
Please refer to the University Academic Policy and Standards guidelines regarding support for students and students' learning.
10. Admissions Criteria
Undergraduate applicants must satisfy the Undergraduate Admissions Policy of the University of Exeter.
Postgraduate applicants must satisfy the Postgraduate Admissions Policy of the University of Exeter.
Specific requirements required to enrol on this programme are available at the respective Undergraduate or Postgraduate Study Site webpages.
11. Regulation of Assessment and Academic Standards
Each academic programme in the University is subject to an agreed College assessment and marking strategy, underpinned by institution-wide assessment procedures.
The security of assessment and academic standards is further supported through the appointment of External Examiners for each programme. External Examiners have access to draft papers, course work and examination scripts. They are required to attend the Board of Examiners and to provide an annual report. Annual External Examiner reports are monitored at both College and University level. Their responsibilities are described in the University's code of practice. See the University's TQA Manual for details.
14. Awarding Institution
University of Exeter
15. Lead College / Teaching Institution
Faculty of Health and Life Sciences
16. Partner College / Institution
Partner College(s)
Not applicable to this programme
Partner Institution
N/A
17. Programme Accredited / Validated by
0
18. Final Award
BSc (Hons) Biomedical Sciences with Study Abroad
19. UCAS Code
B111
20. NQF Level of Final Award
6 (Honours)
21. Credit
| CATS credits | 480 |
ECTS credits | 240 |
|---|
22. QAA Subject Benchmarking Group
Level 1
23. Dates
| Origin Date | 20/05/2024 |
Date of last revision | 03/04/2025 |
|---|
