Using a microscope in a lab

Course details

Year of entry

2024

Duration

1 YR (FT) 2 YRS (PT)

Institution Code

G53

Location

Wrexham

*Subject to re-validation and re-accreditation

Course Highlights

Accredited

by the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS). 

Developed

in partnership with Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board (BCUHB).

Access

to state-of-the-art equipment at the Maelor Academic Unit of Medical & Surgical Sciences (MAUMSS)

Why choose? this course?

Developed in collaboration with Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board (BCUHB), this course gives students the opportunity to develop their research skills, explore specialist areas, and complete an independent research project integrating the study of the biology of disease, including modern concepts and applications of biomedical science.

  • Develop the skills which will enable you to practice at Higher Specialist Level.
  • Use state-of-the-art equipment, such as flow cytometry, fluorescence microscopy and molecular analysers at the Maelor Academic Unit of Medical & Surgical Sciences (MAUMSS).
  • Develop your existing knowledge and improve your analytical skills, by undertaking laboratory-based investigations employing sophisticated and advanced biomedical methodology.
  • Gain a professionally recognised qualification, being externally accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS).  
BCUHB logoIBMS accredited programmeMaelor Academic Unit of Medical & Surgical Sciences (MAUMSS)

Key course features

  • Biomedical Science is taught by enthusiastic academic and clinical professional staff in modern, spacious laboratories housed at the Maelor Academic Unit of Medical & Surgical Sciences (MAUMSS) based in Wrexham, and at Wrexham University.
  • Teaching will involve a range of learning methods including lectures, seminars, laboratory practicals, group discussions and presentations.
  • Experimental work is an integral part of the programme. The academic and clinical staff are research active, and continually thrive to promote research within areas of biomedical and clinical sciences, where they regularly publish their findings and discuss their work at national and international conferences. 
  • Blended learning is a feature of this course, enabling students to travel for the taught element of the course without having to commit to living in Wrexham or the locality full time. Each module takes the form of a learning package consisting of a three-day block of face-to-face teaching supported by online learning. This approach is favoured by employers who want to enable their employees to study whilst still meeting service needs.

What you will study

The MSc Biomedical Science programme provides an opportunity for in-depth study in all of the major disciplines covering biomedical science, as well as current regulatory frameworks, information communication technology and research methods. Topics of focus will include clinical chemistry, cellular and histopathology, haematology and transfusion as well as microbiology and immunology.

MODULES

  • Research Methods (20 credits)
  • Critically Exploring Professional Practice in the Context of Health & Society (20 credits)
  • Analytical & Molecular Techniques in Biomedical Science (20 credits)
  • Clinical Medicine: Pathology of Disease (20 credits)
  • Blood Sciences & Transfusion Medicine (20 credits)
  • Clinical Immunology & Microbiology (20 credits)
  • Research Project (60 credits)

The focus of most modules will be on understanding the biology of disease, concepts underlying disease pathogenesis, and the use of current biomedical science applications in the screening, diagnosis and management of disease conditions.

The information listed in this section is an overview of the academic content of the programme that will take the form of either core or option modules. Modules are designated as core or option in accordance with professional body requirements and internal academic framework review, so may be subject to change.

Entry requirements & applying

To be considered for the course, candidates must meet one or more of the following criteria prior to the commencement of the programme:

  • An initial honours degree from Wrexham University or another approved degree-awarding body.
  • A minimum of 2:2 honours degree, which has a significant content of biological science (e.g. Biomedical Science, Human Biology, Biochemistry, Biological Sciences, etc.).
  • Have relevant work experience at a senior level that is deemed to compensate for the lack of formal qualifications, and have held a position of management responsibility within the biomedical, clinical or healthcare sectors for a minimum of three years within the previous five years. In a case where there is a lack of clarity or a need to gain deeper insight into a candidate’s suitability for the programme of study, an informal interview with the candidate may be held.
  • In addition to the above, candidates must also have practical laboratory experience that would have already been gained from undertaking their undergraduate programme of study inclusive of relevant QAA benchmark standards such as Biomedical Science and Biological Sciences.

Prospective students may also apply for the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) against specific modules, in accordance with Wrexham University regulations.

Students undertaking a research project (dissertation) that entails working in an area other than their usual place of work must obtain a relevant DBS.

Students undertaking a research project (dissertation) who may be working with patients, vulnerable people and children must obtain an enhanced disclosure.

Teaching & Assessment

Students will be assessed through a variety of coursework projects, which may include laboratory reports, clinical reviews, poster or oral presentations, case studies, essays or data manipulation exercises.

Teaching and Learning

Wrexham University is committed to supporting our students to maximise their academic potential.

We offer workshops and support sessions in areas such as academic writing, effective note-making and preparing for assignments. Students can book appointments with academic skills tutors dedicated to helping deal with the practicalities of university work. Our Student Support section has more information on the help available.

In terms of particular needs, the University’s Inclusion Services can provide appropriate guidance and support should any students require reasonable adjustments to be made because of a recognised prevailing disability, medical condition, or specific learning difference.

Career prospects

Our Careers & Employability service is there to help you make decisions and plan the next steps towards a bright future. From finding work or further study to working out your interests, skills and aspirations, they can provide you with the expert information, advice and guidance you need.

The programme creates wide-ranging opportunities for employment in fields such as hospital pathology laboratories (NHS and private sector), biomedical and pharmaceutical industries, or public health laboratories.

It provides preparation for the Institute of Biomedical Science Higher Specialist examination, Advanced Practice in Biomedical Science, and those aspiring to achieve middle and senior management positions within the NHS.

Students on this programme will also be well placed for careers in research, teaching, or to pursue studies towards a PhD or graduate entry medical degree.

Fees & funding

You do not have to pay your tuition fees upfront.

The fees you pay and the support available will depend on a number of different factors. Full information can be found on our fees & finance pages. You will also find information about what your fees include in the fee FAQs.

All fees are subject to any changes in government policy, view our postgraduate fees.

Programme specification

You can see the full programme specification here.

Subject to re-validation and re-accreditation

The University reviews its courses on a regular basis to ensure that they reflect the needs of students and employers. Periodic review of the existing programmes is required every five years and major changes may be made to the programmes during the re-validation process. Courses shown as “subject to re-validation and re-accreditation” are existing courses which are in the process of re-validation and renewing recognition/accreditation with the Professional, Statutory and Regulatory Bodies (PSRBs). As soon as the programmes are re-validated and re-accredited, the details of the course will be confirmed. The majority of new courses that are still ‘subject to re-validation and re-accreditation’ are approved as expected however, this is not guaranteed and should the course not go ahead as planned, or be significantly amended, you will be informed by the University and assistance will be provided to those who have been offered a place to find a suitable alternative course either at Wrexham University or at another provider. 

International

If you are applying as an European / International Student, and live outside of the UK, you should make your application through our online application system, Centurus.

For information about the university’s entry requirements for EU/international students, please visit our international section