MSc Biomedical Sciences Research
- MSc
Overview
This Masters programme is designed to equip you with cutting-edge knowledge and practical skills in key areas of contemporary research in human health and disease. Taught by experts from across the biomedical sciences at our research-intensive university, you will explore innovative approaches to tackling global health challenges.
Optional units and a range of project choices give you the opportunity to tailor your studies around your interests and career goals. Project options vary each year, with previous students carrying out exciting research in areas such as:
- cell biology, cancer biology and stem cell biology
- immunology, microbiology and virology
- neuroscience, physiology and pharmacology.
You will gain valuable hands-on experience of important laboratory techniques and develop strong data analysis skills through practical classes and your research project. Alongside this, you will build confidence in critical thinking and scientific communication skills, supported by:
- interactive workshops and tutorials
- active learning groups
- journal clubs
- constructive feedback and support from academic staff.
Throughout the programme, we will support you in reflecting on and shaping your personal and professional development. You will build a rich portfolio of skills and attributes that are highly valued by employers across the biomedical sciences and beyond. Careers events and integrated skills workshops will help you to plan your next steps with confidence.
Programme structure
The programme includes a mandatory Core Skills unit, Literature Review and Project Proposal, as well as two optional units that allow you to shape your learning. You will also complete a research project, where a dedicated period over the summer allows you to immerse yourself in your research, applying your skills and knowledge to contribute to real-world challenges in the biomedical sciences.
Visit our programme catalogue for full details of the structure and unit content for our MSc in Biomedical Sciences Research.
Entry requirements
You will typically need an upper second-class honours degree or an international equivalent in a Life Sciences subject, for example Biomedical Sciences, Biochemistry, Cell Biology, Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Pharmacology, Bioengineering, Biotechnology or similar, or in Dentistry, Medicine, or Veterinary Science.
If you graduated more than five years ago, you will also need to show in your application that you have relevant practical lab-based experience.
We will consider your application if your interim grades are currently slightly lower than the programme's entry requirements and may make you an aspirational offer. This offer would be at the standard level, so you would need to achieve the standard entry requirements by the end of your degree. Specific module requirements would still apply.
We will also consider your application if your final overall achieved grade is slightly lower than the programme's entry requirement.
If your achieved grade is lower than our entry requirements, your application may be more likely to receive an offer if you have additional relevant work experience or qualifications. If you have at least one of the following, please include your CV (curriculum vitae / résumé) when you apply, showing:
- evidence of significant, relevant work experience, minimum of six months paid/unpaid work in Biomedical Science Research within the last five years
- a relevant postgraduate qualification in a Life Sciences subject, for example Biomedical Sciences, Biochemistry, Cell Biology, Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Pharmacology, Bioengineering, Biotechnology or similar.
See international equivalent qualifications on the International Office website.
Read the programme admissions statement for important information on entry requirements, the application process and supporting documents required.
If English is not your first language, you will need to reach the requirements outlined in our profile level B.
Further information about English language requirements and profile levels.
Fees and funding
- Home: full-time
- £15,400 per year
- Overseas: full-time
- £32,400 per year
Fees are subject to an annual review. For programmes that last longer than one year, please budget for up to an 8% increase in fees each year.
More about tuition fees, living costs and financial support.
Bench fees
£2,250. Further information about bench fees can be found on our webpages. Confirmation of bench fees will be stated in the offer letter sent to applicants.
Alumni discount
University of Bristol students and graduates can benefit from a 25% reduction in tuition fees for postgraduate study. Check your eligibility for an alumni discount.
Funding and scholarships
Further information on funding for prospective UK and international postgraduate students.
Career prospects
You will develop a strong portfolio of transferrable skills and attributes valued by employers across the biomedical sciences and beyond. Our graduates are equipped with strong problem-solving, data analysis and scientific communication skills that enable them to make meaningful contributions to their chosen fields. Several of our students have contributed to published research papers and many progress to PhD-level studies at leading universities, including the University of Bristol. Others go on to impactful roles in research, clinical trials, and healthcare, or apply their expertise in fields such as teaching, consulting, accountancy and patent law.
Dedicated careers sessions will support you in clearly communicating your skills to future employers, while your personal tutor will help you to reflect on your personal and professional development, enabling you to confidently plan your next steps after graduation.
Contact us
- Contact
- Enquiries Team
- Phone
- +44 (0) 117 394 1649
- choosebristol-pg@bristol.ac.uk