What is biomedical sciences?
Biomedical Science looks at how the human body works, in both a healthy and diseased state. It also examines the body from the molecular level up to full body systems.
They are the sciences that support medicine and research. They help us understand the ways in which we can prevent and treat disease.
Why study biomedical science with us?
Studying a biomedical sciences degree can prepare you for a wide range of careers. For example, you could work as a biomedical scientist in a research lab, or you could work in a healthcare setting.
You could also go into teaching, or work in the growing pharmaceutical industry. Many of our graduates study a biomedical science degree as the first stepping stone to entering a medical degree course.
The benefit of studying a biomedical degree with us is that you can try a range of areas, and then decide which interests you the most.
We have a shared curriculum across our life sciences degrees in the first two years. This covers areas like biological, biomedical, biochemical, or plant science, and bioinformatics. This helps you develop a wide range of knowledge and skills.
In later years we then offer a range of modules that allow you to choose the specialist areas you want to focus on. You may also be able to change to a different life sciences degree, such as neuroscience or pharmacology.
What you will learn
You will start by learning key theories of biology. This will take you from the molecular level right up to full body systems and beyond.
In years one and two you'll explore core areas such as:
genetics
cell biology
biological organisation
molecular mechanisms and processes
You will also develop your practical skills. These will include lab skills, data analysis, and experiment design.
In years three and four you'll focus on more detailed aspects of biomedical sciences. These will include systems physiology and therapeutic approaches to the treatment of diseases. You'll be able to choose modules in areas that interest you including:
cancer pharmacology and treatment
developmental biology
heart and circulation
immunology
Neuroanatomy and neurodegenerative disorders
Sensory and motor neuroscience
Science communication
In year four you will also take part in a research project. This will be in one of the areas of world-class research taking place in the School of Life Sciences.
Learn from our world-leading research
The work of our world-leading biomedical science researchers shapes what we teach and how we teach it. We ranked top in the UK for the quality of our biomedical sciences research in the Complete University Guide 2025.
This means you'll get a good understanding of the fundamentals of the field. It also means that you will learn the latest advances and be well-prepared for life after your degree.
You can apply to work on your final year Honours project in one of our research labs here in Dundee. This can give you experience of working on projects that are trying to tackle global issues.
Preparing you for work
We commit to doing all we can to boost your career opportunities and give you the experience you need. This includes giving you core skills in data analysis and experience in working safely in labs.
We offer a range of lab-based research traineeships or industry internships. These can be in our world-leading research labs or with external providers.
You can also choose to study abroad for either a semester or a full year or take an extra year working in industry.
Professional accreditation
The Royal Society of Biology has accredited this degree. Accredited degrees contain a solid academic foundation in biological science knowledge and key skills. They also prepare graduates to address the needs of employers.
This degree is not accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Sciences (IBMS).
