What can you do with a biomedical science degree?

A biomedical science degree offers an exciting field of study that opens the door to a variety of career and further study options, both in the UK and across the globe. Most roles centre around medical developments, improving the lives of others, and clinical research. With a vast array of career paths in medical, scientific and research roles, it can be difficult to know exactly where to start exploring.

In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at the many options available to biomedical science graduates, helping you decide on your next steps after studying. We’ll cover potential career paths, opportunities for further study, and help you learn more about what a biomedical science degree involves. 

What is a biomedical science degree?

Studying a biomedical science degree gives students the essential knowledge and skills to work in a vast array of healthcare roles. This type of degree focuses on understanding how medical treatments are used to diagnose, treat and prevent diseases, as well as exploring the structure and function of cells, organs and the body. These courses typically cover topics such as microbiology, pathology, genetics and biochemistry.

Biomedical science students are often given a broad scope of module options and will develop specialist knowledge in the areas of anatomy and physiology, disease biology, molecular pathology, and cell biology.

We offer a range of biomedical science degrees at the University of Wolverhampton, all designed to open up a variety of opportunities for students once they graduate, whilst examining a broad range of incredibly interesting topics.

Biomedical science courses we offer include:

• BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science
• BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science with Foundation Year
• MSc Biomedical Science

What will you study during your biomedical science degree?

During their studies, biomedical science students will gain an understanding of medical terminology and practice, human anatomy and physiology, as well as pharmacology. Courses may also cover practical elements such as laboratory techniques, clinical pathology, diagnostic imaging, DNA analysis, antibiotic resistance and much more. Students typically also learn how to perform lab tests on blood samples which are used to help identify diseases including cancer or infectious diseases.

If you study our BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science degree you will have the opportunity to complete an honours research project in your final year, allowing you to develop your skills in an area you are specifically interested in.

What skills will you gain from a biomedical science degree?

Now that we know what studying biomedical science involves and what you’ll learn, let's look at the many skills you’ll develop by studying a biomedical science degree, and how these will help you decide on your next steps. Some of the most valuable skills you’ll develop as a biomedical science student include:

• problem-solving skills
• statistical data analysis skills
• project management
• research skills
• oral/ written communication
• intellectual rigour
• team working skills

As a versatile degree, many of the skills you’ll learn are highly transferable, helping you progress into a variety of roles within biology and healthcare. For example, an analytical chemist, biomedical scientist, clinical researcher and many more.

Let’s take a look at some of these skills in more detail.

Team working skills

The development of teamwork skills can enable students to become more productive and efficient when working on tasks that require cooperative solutions. Effective teamwork allows for more creative problem-solving, which often leads to greater success than individual efforts alone. 

Additionally, the process of learning how to collaborate with colleagues provides valuable lessons in communication, personal growth, leadership development and conflict resolution - all of which are integral to any biomedical science-related role.

Statistical data analysis skills

Statistical knowledge allows students to effectively interpret data from surveys and other sources, identify meaningful patterns, draw reliable conclusions from the available evidence, and communicate these findings effectively. In addition, statistical data analysis skills can help with forecasting future trends by taking into account past performance combined with current information.

Project management

Project management skills are of increasing importance in the modern workplace. With so many organisations relying on successful project delivery to ensure their long-term sustainability, it is essential that students possess a comprehensive set of skills and project management knowledge for the future.

Biomedical science career paths

As a versatile area of study, a biomedical science degree offers no shortage of potential career opportunities. There are many different work fields that a biomedical science degree directly applies to, including:

• Biomedical scientist
• Clinical researcher
• Forensic scientist
• Toxicologist
• Biotechnologist
• Microbiologist
• Physician associate
• Laboratory technician

Biomedical scientist

Biomedical scientists play an integral role in helping to prevent, diagnose, and treat diseases. These professionals are at the forefront of medical science and can help to save lives. Becoming a biomedical scientist involves obtaining the necessary educational qualifications, as well as completing research, clinical trials and analysis on human tissue samples. 

Clinical research associate

Clinical research associates (CRAs) are responsible for managing and overseeing the various aspects of clinical trials. As such, they are an integral part of the success of clinical research initiatives within a healthcare facility. CRAs must be familiar with Good Clinical Practice (GCP) guidelines and ensure that all studies conducted follow these standards.

Forensic scientist

Forensic science is a field of study that involves the application of scientific principles to criminal justice and legal matters. A forensic scientist is a professional who uses their knowledge of scientific methodologies, such as chemistry and biology, to investigate crime scenes and analyse evidence.

Toxicologist

Toxicology is a field of science that studies the toxic effects of chemicals on human health, environment, and animals. It is a complex area of study that requires knowledge in many areas such as cell biology, biochemistry, physiology, and pharmacology. Toxicologists provide invaluable information to people working in industries where hazardous materials are present. 

What do most biomedical science graduates go on to do?

Biomedical science graduates are likely to use their knowledge of human anatomy and physiology to pursue various roles within the healthcare sector, such as clinical scientist or pharmacologist. Research from Luminate shows that common employers of biomedical science graduates include the Health and Safety Executive, the Medical Research Council and the NHS. Over half of graduates were in full-time education 15 months after graduating, whilst 22% were partaking in further study and 12.8% were working and studying, with almost half of all graduates going directly into a science-related career.

Careers where a biomedical science degree can be useful

A biomedical science degree can be useful in a number of careers, even if they aren’t directly related to the subjects studied during your degree. As you gain many skills from a biomedical science degree, you can apply these to a number of rewarding careers.

Crime scene investigator

A CSI is responsible for collecting, analysing, and preserving evidence related to criminal cases. This can involve taking photographs of the crime scene, gathering objects for further examination in the laboratory, and making detailed notes about evidence on site.

Neuroscientist

Neuroscientists use a combination of techniques such as imaging, electrophysiology, behaviour analysis, and molecular biology to investigate the complexities of our nervous system. It is an exciting yet challenging profession that requires dedication and commitment in order to make discoveries about how the brain works.

Teaching laboratory technician

A teaching laboratory technician is an important part of the educational environment. These technicians provide technical support, resources and guidance to students in a range of scientific fields. They play a vital role in ensuring that students receive quality education and are able to learn about the latest scientific developments. 

Final thoughts on studying for a degree in biomedical science

In conclusion, studying a degree in biomedical science is an immensely rewarding experience. It provides the opportunity to dive into the complexities of human health and diseases and to explore innovative ways to improve our understanding of medical conditions. Studying this degree requires dedication and hard work, but it also allows individuals to develop their critical thinking skills while mastering both theoretical and practical approaches to biomedical science.

Biomedical science gives you the opportunity to play an integral role in advancing medical technologies and treatments that will have far-reaching impacts on society. It is without a doubt an incredibly worthwhile investment for your academic career.