Biomedical Science Diploma Level 3

Quick facts

By selecting this course, you will be studying Biomedical Science which makes up two A Level equivalents. Students will then need to select from the table below their final one A Level equivalent.

Is it for me?

Discover the science behind human health, disease and modern medicine. Biomedical Science is an exciting and rapidly developing field where biology and chemistry come together to help us understand how the human body works, what happens when disease develops, and how science is used to diagnose, monitor, prevent and treat illness. 
The UK life sciences sector is continuing to grow, with projections suggesting that up to 70,000 additional jobs could be required by 2035. From developing new medicines and diagnostic technologies to improving our understanding of disease, biomedical and life scientists are at the forefront of innovations that have the potential to transform healthcare and improve people's lives.  
Throughout this course, you will explore science in much greater depth, developing your understanding of the biology and chemistry that underpin medicine and human health. You will investigate fascinating areas of science including cells and tissues, human physiology, genetics and inheritance, DNA, biochemistry, microbiology, infectious disease and the body's response to illness. You will begin to understand how changes at a cellular or molecular level can affect entire body systems and how scientific knowledge can be applied to some of the biggest challenges facing modern healthcare. 
You will also explore the chemistry behind biological processes and medical science, developing your understanding of chemical reactions, substances, analytical techniques and how chemical principles are applied within laboratories, pharmaceutical science and the development and testing of medicines. Alongside biology and chemistry, you will apply principles from physics to understand the wider scientific technologies and techniques that are used within modern science and healthcare. 
A major part of the course is learning to think and work like a scientist. Delivered in our state-of-the-art laboratories, you will develop increasingly sophisticated practical and investigative skills, learning how to plan experiments, use specialist laboratory equipment, collect and analyse data, evaluate evidence and draw scientifically justified conclusions.  

What you'll learn

• Foundation knowledge of Biology, Chemistry and Physics
• Mathematics including data handling and statistical processing 
• Human anatomy and physiology 
• Analytical chemistry 
• Microbiology
• Genetics
• Investigation of disease and infection 
• Health and safety in science
• Research skills  
• Work experience, employability and careers 
• Essential skills including problem solving, working with others and ICT

Equipment required for the course

You may borrow a laboratory coat and goggles for the duration of your course. Students are welcome to purchase their own if they prefer. A laptop would be beneficial but is not essential. 

Work experience placements

Students are expected to complete 50 hours of work experience each year.

Assessment

This course is assessed through external exams and internal coursework.

Further study

The course can lead to many degree courses and professional qualifications. Previous students have gone on to study Biomedical Science, Biology, Marine Biology, Paramedic Science, Veterinary Science, Zoology, Biochemistry, Nursing and Environmental Science.

Example careers

• Biomedical Scientist
• Biotechnologist
• Pharmacologist 
• Biologist
• Zoologist
• Scientific Laboratory Technician
• Genetic Counsellor 
• Clinical Scientist/Researcher
• Forensic Scientist 
• Microbiologist
• Toxicologist
• Neuroscientist
• Pharmaceutical Management
• Education
• Nursing

Days & times

Starting September 2027