Flexible degree structure

All of our Biomedical and Biomolecular Sciences degrees are divided into two phases. Phase 1 is shared by all of our degrees and provides a broad introduction to biomolecular sciences, while Phase 2 provides specialist topics relating to your individual degree choice.

This flexible structure gives you the chance to try a broad range of topics, helping you to see where your interests in biomedical sciences lie before you specialise.

You can change between our degrees at the end of Year 1 if you wish.

Phase 1

All of your first year, and the first half of your second year.

We introduce you to biomolecular sciences through a series of modules covering: 

• cell biology
• biochemistry
• microbiology and immunology
• genetics
• pharmacology
• physiology
• practical skills in biomedical and biomolecular science
• Phase 2

The second half of your second year and the remainder of your degree.

This phase is specific to the individual degree that you choose. On our Biochemistry MSci degree, you study topics such as: 

• DNA replication, recombination and repair
• genetics of signalling and the cell cycle
• proteins and enzymes
• protein analysis
• protein trafficking and biological membranes
• biochemistry of cancer and chronic diseases
• biochemistry of gene expression
• applied and integrated biochemistry

You also complete a research project in an area linked to your degree that interests you.

In third year, you'll select one of the following modules, designed to boost your professional skills in an employment area that we know many of our graduates progress to: 

• Business Enterprise for the Bioscientist
• Healthcare Organisation and Practice
• Science Communication
• Research in Biochemistry and Genetics
• Bioethics
• Bioinformatics

Final year

You complete a fourth year of advanced study at Master's level.

This is designed to give students interested in a career in research more in-depth experience in the laboratory environment.

You will complete a year-long research project in an area linked to your degree that interests you. You will also choose 40 credits available from a range of Master’s level modules.

Although you're studying modules at Master's level, undergraduate fees and funding still apply for this final year.

Stage 1

Compulsory modules

• BGM1002 Biochemistry
• BGM1004 Genetics
• CMB1003 Microbiology and Immunology
• CMB1004 Cell Biology
• CMB1005 Practical Skills in Biomedical and Biomolecular Sciences 1
• CMB1006 Practical Skills in Biomedical and Biomolecular Sciences 2
• PED1003 Pharmacology
• PSC1002 Physiology

Stage 2

Compulsory modules

• BGM2002 Biochemistry and Genetics of Signalling and the Cell Cycle
• BGM2056 DNA Replication, Recombination and Repair
• BGM2062 Advanced Protein Analysis
• BGM2060 Proteins and Enzymes
• BGM2061 Protein Trafficking and Biological Membranes
• CMB2000 Essential Biomedical Research Skills
• CMB2001 Control of Eukaryotic Gene Expression
• CMB2004 Cell and Molecular Biology of the Immune System

Stage 3

Compulsory modules

You take one of the following compulsory project modules:  

• CMB3001 Research Design Project
• CMB3002 Research Project for Exchange Students
• CMB3004 Research Project for Stage 3 MSci Students

You take the following compulsory modules: 

• BGM3057 Integrated Biochemistry
• BGM3063 Biochemistry of Gene Expression 
• BGM3064 Applied Biochemistry 
• BGM3065 Biochemistry of Cancer and Chronic Diseases 

Optional modules

You select one module from:

• BGM3046 Research in Biochemistry and Genetics
• BMS3003 Business Enterprise for the Bioscientist
• BMS3015 Healthcare Organisation and Practice
• BMS3016 Science Communication
• BMS3022 Bioethics
• BMS3025 Bioinformatics

Work Placement (optional)

You can apply to spend 9 to 12 months on an optional work placement between Stages 2 and 3 or 3 and 4. You can apply to spend your placement year with any organisation and will receive University support to do so. It will extend your degree by a year and is subject to availability. It isn't available if you're spending a year studying abroad. Find out more on about Work Placements.

Stage 4

Compulsory modules

• CMB4099 Research Project

Optional modules

You choose your remaining 40 credits from a range of Master's-level modules.

Not sure which degree is right for you? Find out a bit more about our different subject areas below.

Remember, all our degrees share the same Phase 1, so you can transfer to a different degree if you find your interests change (up until the end of Phase 1).

Biomedical Sciences

Modern medicine depends on the advances made by scientists working in the biomedical sciences. You'll study anatomy, biochemistry, genetics, immunology, microbiology, neuroscience, pharmacology and physiology. This multidisciplinary approach helps us understand disease processes and find new treatments for diseases such as cancer, Alzheimer’s disease and TB.

• Biomedical Sciences BSc Honours (B940)
• Biomedical Sciences (Integrated Master's) MSci Honours (B900)

Biochemistry

Biochemistry is the study of life at the molecular level. You'll study how genes and proteins regulate cells, tissues and whole organisms like you. Have you wondered what causes diseases such as cancer and diabetes? Would you like to help develop new drug treatments? Biochemistry provides the key to understanding how diseases arise and can be treated.

• Biochemistry BSc Honours (C700)
• Biochemistry (Integrated Master's) MSci Honours (C701)

Biomedical Genetics

DNA is the genetic ‘blueprint’ that ensures the continuity of life from parent to offspring. Genetics is the study of how DNA is transmitted between generations. And how it's decoded to determine our individual characteristics. We have a strong research and teaching reputation in this field. The Institute of Genetic Medicine plays a major role in our degree programme.

• Biomedical Genetics BSc Honours (B901)
• Biomedical Genetics (Integrated Master's) MSci Honours (B903)

Medical Science

Do you enjoy biology? Are you interested in the biomedical or biomolecular aspects of the subject? Want to study these further at university? If you are not quite sure which area will suit you best, the Medical Science (Deferred Choice) programme could be ideal for you. It allows you to study the common first year before deciding which subject area to specialise in at later stages.

• Medical Science (Deferred Choice) BSc Honours (B902)

Pharmacology

Pharmacology involves the study of the action of drugs on the body and vice-versa. An understanding of drugs and their actions allows us to use them safely and effectively. It is thanks to pharmacologists that you can take an aspirin when you get a headache or have an anaesthetic when the dentist gives you a filling.

• Pharmacology BSc Honours (B210)

Physiological Sciences

Physiology is the study of how the body functions. Physiologists study the processes essential to human life such as breathing, digesting food and sensing the world around us. You'll focus on human physiology, which underpins our understanding of how the body works in health and disease.

• Physiological Sciences BSc Honours (B100)

You'll learn through a combination of lectures, practical laboratory classes and small group seminars.

You also have the chance to attend optional research talks, aimed especially at first-year students, as part of our biomedicine+ programme.

Assessment is by examinations and coursework assignments. These include:

• practical assessments
• seminar tasks
• written work

Teaching and assessment methods may vary from module to module.

AAA-AAB including Biology or Chemistry, plus at least one from: Mathematics or Further Mathematics; Physics; Psychology; Biology; or Chemistry. General Studies, Use of Mathematics, World Development, Communication and Culture and Critical Thinking not accepted. GCSE Chemistry and Biology (minimum grade A or 7) and GCSE Mathematics and English Language (minimum grade B or 6) required if not offered at A or AS level.  GCSE Combined Science (minimum grade A or 7) may be accepted.

AAAAA-AAABB at Higher Grade including Biology and Chemistry. Mathematics and English required at National 5, minimum grade B (or grade 2 Standard Grade or Intermediate 2 equivalent) if not offered at Higher Grade. Where a candidate bypasses the assessment for National 5 qualifications, a minimum of grade C in the Higher in Mathematics and English is required. Combinations of Highers and Advanced Highers accepted.

Scottish qualifications can be taken in more than one sitting.

34-35 points with Biology  or Chemistry and another science at Higher Level grade 5 or above. We regard Mathematics, Physics, Psychology, Biology and Chemistry as acceptable science subjects. Standard Level Chemistry and Biology required at grade 5 and Standard Level Mathematics or Mathematical Studies and English required at grade 4 if not offered at Higher Level.

H1H1H1H1H2 at Higher Level, including Biology and Chemistry.

45 level 3 credits at Distinction including 15 credits in biology and 15 credits in chemistry.

Not acceptable for entry to this subject.

D3, D3, D3 - D3, D3, M2 in Principal Subjects including Biology or Chemistry plus at least one from: Mathematics or Further Mathematics; Physics; Psychology; Biology; or Chemistry. GCSE Chemistry and Biology (minimum grade A or 7) and GCSE Mathematics and English Language (minimum grade B or 6) required if not offered at a higher level.

If you offer the Level 3 Extended Project Qualification, we will vary our offer to recognise this.  Your project can be in any topic.

BBB including Biology or Chemistry, plus at least one from: Mathematics or Further Mathematics; Physics; Psychology; Biology; or Chemistry. General Studies, Use of Mathematics, World Development, Communication and Culture and Critical Thinking not accepted. GCSE Chemistry and Biology (minimum grade A or 7) and GCSE Mathematics and English Language (minimum grade B or 6) required if not offered at A or AS level.  GCSE Combined Science (minimum grade A or 7) may be accepted.

The PARTNERS Programme is Newcastle University’s supported entry route for students from schools and colleges in England and Northern Ireland. Find out more about the PARTNERS Programme.

Not acceptable for entry to this subject.

The PARTNERS Programme is Newcastle University’s supported entry route for students from schools and colleges in England and Northern Ireland. Find out more about the PARTNERS Programme.

Applicants whose first language is not English require a minimum score of IELTS 6.5 or equivalent including 6.0 in each of the four elements of the test.

If you need help to meet our English Language requirements, we can provide support with extra tuition.

Read more about UK visas and immigration requirements.

ABB at A level is typically the minimum required for entry to an undergraduate course. You can check the equivalent grades for qualifications offered in your country. 

We will also consider your application if you have lower or non-standard qualifications.

If you are an international student and you do not meet the academic and English language requirements specified above, you should consider a preparation course at INTO Newcastle University, which will help to prepare you for study on this degree course. INTO Newcastle University is based on the University campus and offers a range of courses including the International Foundation in Biological and Biomedical Sciences.

2019 entry:

Tuition fees for 2019-20 have not yet been confirmed.

2018 entry*:

£9,250

For programmes where you can spend a year on a work placement or studying abroad, you will receive a significant fee reduction for that year.

Some of our degrees involve additional costs which are not covered by your tuition fees.

*Please note:

• The maximum fee that we are permitted to charge for UK students is set by the UK government.
• As a general principle, you should expect the tuition fee to increase in each subsequent academic year of your course, subject to government regulations on fee increases and in line with inflation, as measured by RPIX**.
• See more information on all aspects of student finance relating to Newcastle University.

**RPIX is a measure of inflation in the UK, equivalent to all the items in the Retail Price Index excluding mortgage interest payments.

2019 entry:

Tuition fees for 2019-20 have not yet been confirmed.

2018 entry*:

£9,250 in 2018-19 

For programmes where you can spend a year on a work placement or studying abroad, you will receive a significant fee reduction for that year.

Some of our degrees involve additional costs which are not covered by your tuition fees.

*Please note:

• As a general principle, you should expect the tuition fee to increase in each subsequent academic year of your course, subject to government regulations on fee increases and in line with inflation, as measured by RPIX**.
• See more information on all aspects of student finance relating to Newcastle University.

**RPIX is a measure of inflation in the UK, equivalent to all the items in the Retail Price Index excluding mortgage interest payments.

2019 entry:

Tuition fees for 2019-20 have not yet been confirmed.

2018 entry*:

£21,000 per year

*Please note:

• You will be charged tuition fees for each year of your degree programme (unless you are on a shorter exchange programme).
• If you spend a year on placement or studying abroad as part of your degree you may pay a reduced fee for that year.
• The tuition fee amount you will pay may increase slightly year on year as a result of inflation, as measured by RPIX**.
• See more information on all aspects of student finance relating to Newcastle University.

**RPIX is a measure of inflation in the UK, equivalent to all the items in the Retail Price Index excluding mortgage interest payments.

You may be eligible for one of a range of Newcastle University Scholarships in addition to government financial support.

• Newcastle University Scholarships
• Government financial support

You may be eligible for one of a range of Newcastle University Scholarships in addition to government financial support.

• Newcastle University Scholarships
• Government financial support

We offer our Vice-Chancellor's International Scholarships and Vice-Chancellor's Excellence Scholarships to eligible international students.

We also offer International Family Discounts which are available for all international students with a close family member who has graduated from or is now studying at Newcastle University.

Some of our subject scholarships and sports scholarships are also available for international students.