Online courses

Overview

Biomedical Science MSc

With an innovative curriculum in Biomedical Science, this online MSc course will equip professionals with existing biomedical qualifications with further key transferable skills and lifelong learning. You’ll blend academic theory with hands-on, practical techniques.

Accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS), the course lets you specialise in your chosen area of expertise. You’ll acquire advanced skills and build on your existing subject knowledge, learn to reflect critically on current practice and policy, and develop creative and strategic problem-solving techniques.

The combination of distance learning modules and a Research Project you carry out under supervision in your own place of work* means you will be able to fit your learning around existing personal and professional commitments. With no need to travel to campus and a flexible timetable, you can work from anywhere, at any time, at a pace that suits you.

*This programme requires you to have access to a workplace laboratory. See entry requirements for more details.

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  • Type
    Master of Science, Online
  • Length
    Minimum two years, part-time
  • Faculty
    Faculty of Life and Health Sciences
  • School:
    School of Biomedical Sciences
  • Intakes
    September and November 2021 and January, May and July 2022
  • Fees
    £7,995
  • Typical Entry Requirements
    Second class BSc honours degree or above in Biomedical Science, or Biological Science which includes a significant amount of biomedical science.

Entry Requirements

Typical Entry Requirements

  • A 2.2 UK Honours Degree or above in Biomedical Science or in Biological Science with a significant amount of biomedical science, or an international equivalent.
  • You must be working as a trainee or qualified biomedical scientist in a hospital, research laboratory or equivalent or have access to similar laboratory facilities.
  • Evidence of competence in written and spoken English (GCSE grade C or equivalent).

English language requirements

  • Academic IELTS 6.0 (with no band score less than 5.5), or a Trinity ISE Pass at level III.
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Modules

Modules

  • Introduction to Personalised Medicine and Pharmacogenomics
  • Applied Research Methods
  • Advances in Medical Biotechnology and Healthcare Delivery
  • Evidence-Based Practice in Healthcare Sciences
  • Research Project

Students must choose one of these two optional modules

  • Quality Management
  • Biomedical Informatics

Optional specialism – choose one of these four modules

  • Advances in Cellular Pathology
  • Recent Advances in Clinical Chemistry
  • Haematology in Health and Disease
  • Advances in Medical Microbiology

Assessments

Methods used to track your success vary by module but include exams, coursework, or a combination of the two. The Research Project which you will carry out in your place of work also makes a significant contribution to your final result.

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Fees & Funding

Fees

Total Course fees: £7,995 

Fees are payable flexibly on a module-by-module basis.
Fees shown above are applicable for the 2021/22 academic year of entry and are subject to increase at the start of each academic year. Terms and conditions apply.

Funding

Flexible options allow students, sponsors or their employers to make payment as easy as possible. A 10% Alumni Discount is available for eligible candidates.

Additional costs

As well as your tuition fees above, you should budget for the following additional costs associated with university study. These include (but are not limited to) computer equipment, learning materials, books, journals, graduation ceremonies, exam resits, etc.

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Faculty

Academic Expertise

Dr Jayne Devlin

Dr Jayne Devlin

Dr Sarah Atkinson

Dr Sarah Atkinson

Mary Hannon-Fletcher

Mary Hannon-Fletcher

Dr Shu-Dong Zhang 

Dr Shu-Dong Zhang 

Finbarr O’Harte

Finbarr O’Harte

Dr Maria Mulhern

Dr Maria Mulhern

Dr Declan McKenna 

Dr Declan McKenna 

Dr Patrick Naughton 

Dr Patrick Naughton 

Dr Paul Thompson 

Dr Paul Thompson 

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Make an enquiry

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e.g. biomedical sciences or biological sciences


e.g. biomedical scientist or trainee


About the Course

Ulster University’s Biomedical Science MSc degree continues to attract applications from the UK, Republic of Ireland and overseas.

As well as opening new, state-of-the-art research facilities at the Coleraine campus, Ulster has been ranked 26th in the UK for Biomedical Science. This is a jump of 11 places from the previous year’s Complete University Guide rankings. The University is positioned 44th in the UK (up 16 places) overall for 2022.

You will study six modules plus a Research Project. This programme can be completed in a minimum of two years. Students have the opportunity to pause their studies if their work or life commitments require.

Depending on your career plans and your area of specialisation, you will be asked to choose between the Quality Management module and the Biomedical Informatics module.

You’ll then select one of four specialist modules: Cellular Pathology, Clinical Chemistry, Haematology or Medical Microbiology.

All students will then undertake a hands-on Research Project in their own place of work.

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Frequently asked questions

Who Is This Course For?

This MSc is principally aimed at Biomedical Scientists with some work experience in a healthcare setting. You may be working in a hospital’s clinical laboratory or for an independent organisation in bio-pharmaceuticals or bio-industries, be it as an Analytical Chemist, a Clinical Scientist, Forensic Scientist, Microbiologist, Toxicologist or in an associated field.

You will be expected to have a BSc Honours degree in Biomedical Science, or have a related biological science degree with a significant Biomedical Science element.

You will be looking to develop skills in one of the following key areas: Cellular Pathology, Clinical Chemistry, Haematology or Medical Microbiology (each of which is an optional module on this course).

You’ll be strongly motivated, looking to advance your career and move to a more senior position with greater in-depth knowledge of your specialism.

This online course will appeal to those who wish to keep working while studying, without the need to take time out of their career. The content of the course will directly benefit both students and their employers, especially the Research Project which will be carried out in each student’s own workplace.

Seasoned practitioners with suitable qualifications and experience will also be considered, whether they’re returning to work after a career break or wanting to refresh their skills and knowledge.

Note: This MSc is not a suitable qualification for the purposes of Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) registration in the UK. It is the applicant’s sole responsibility to determine whether attainment of a particular qualification is an acceptable route to registration as a Biomedical Scientist or equivalent.

This MSc is also not suitable as a conversion course into Biomedical Science from another discipline. You must have a related undergraduate degree and access to laboratory facilities. 

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Fees

Total Course fees: £7,995

Fees are payable flexibly on a module-by-module basis.

Fees shown above are applicable for the 2021/22 academic year of entry. Fees are subject to increase at the start of each academic year. Terms and conditions apply.

Additional costs

As well as your tuition fees above, you should budget for additional costs associated with university study. These include (but are not limited to) computer equipment, learning materials, books, journals, graduation ceremonies, exam resits, etc.

Funding & Scholarships

Flexible options allow students, sponsors or their employers to make payment as easy as possible. A 10% Alumni Discount is available for eligible candidates. 

Intakes

Start when it suits you with 2021/22 intakes in
September, November, January, May & July.

Entry Requirements

  • A 2.2 Honours Degree or above in Biomedical Science, or in Biological Science with a significant amount of biomedical science, from any university in the UK, the Republic of Ireland, from a national awarding body or an international equivalent.
  • OR An equivalent standard (normally 50%) in a Graduate Diploma, Graduate Certificate, Postgraduate Certificate or Postgraduate Diploma, or an approved alternative qualification.
  • OR In exceptional circumstances, individuals with substantial and significant experiential learning and written evidence that they meet the necessary criteria as determined by the Course Committee may also be considered for the course.

Professional Requirements

  • You should be employed as a Biomedical Scientist, Trainee Biomedical Scientist or equivalent in a hospital or research laboratory.
  • When you apply, you will need to confirm that you will have access to a laboratory to enable you to complete the Research Project.
  • You will need to provide a signed agreement from your employer that they will appoint a mentor to supervise your project.
  • During the application process, you will also have to choose the specialism that is most relevant to your career aspirations. Choose one of these four pathways:
  • Medical microbiology
  • Haematology
  • Clinical chemistry
  • Cell pathology

For these specialist modules, students must provide evidence that they have studied that specialism at level 5, or demonstrate the ability to undertake the module through the accreditation of prior experiential learning.

English language requirements

  • You will need to provide evidence of competence in written and spoken English (GCSE grade C or equivalent).
  • If English is not your first language, the minimum requirement is Academic IELTS 6.0 (with no band score less than 5.5), or a Trinity ISE Pass at level III. Ulster University also recognises a number of other English language tests and comparable IELTS equivalent scores.

Modules

  • Introduction to Personalised Medicine and Pharmacogenomics (15 credits)
  • Applied Research Methods (15 credits)
  • Advances in Medical Biotechnology and Healthcare Delivery (15 credits)
  • Evidence-Based Practice in Healthcare Sciences (30 credits)
  • Research Project (60 credits)

Students must choose one of these two optional modules

  • Quality Management (15 credits)
  • Biomedical Informatics (15 credits)

Optional specialism – choose one of these four modules

  • Advances in Cellular Pathology (30 credits)
  • Recent Advances in Clinical Chemistry (30 credits)
  • Haematology in Health and Disease (30 credits)
  • Advances in Medical Microbiology (30 credits)

Students must complete 180 credits.

Each module is offered on a carousel basis, with sequences and dates dependent on when you begin the programme.

As part of your course induction, you’ll receive details of how the course, assessments and timetable are managed.

Assessments

Methods used to track your success vary by module but include class tests, written assignments, report writing, and sessional examinations. The Research Project which you will carry out in your place of work also makes a significant contribution to your final result.

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Distance Learning Experience

Because the vast majority of students on the course are already working in some capacity as Biomedical Scientists, this MSc programme has been designed to offer maximum flexibility.

Course modules are offered on a cyclical carousel model: depending on when you start the course, the sequence of modules will vary, but in any event, you’ll have the flexibility to take a planned break if you need to, then pick up the course again at a later date.

Core material for all taught modules is delivered through our online platform. In addition, modules may include some or all of the following:

  • Student-led online seminars
  • Group tutorials
  • Case study oriented problem-based learning exercises
  • Private study
  • Module assignments

Over the two years of part-time study, you should plan on working approximately 10 hours per credit. This equates to 25 hours per week during teaching periods.

Along with a tutor to guide and mentor you through each of the online modules, you will carry out a 60-credit Research Project in the laboratory at your place of work, under the supervision of a colleague. When you enrol for the course, we will ask you to appoint an appropriately qualified supervisor.

Throughout your course, you’ll also have access to a dedicated Student Success Advisor, on hand to help with any non-academic issues, advice about timetables, how to plan carousel phases – and any other aspect of the distance learning experience.

Programme Outcomes

Graduates of the programme will emerge with advanced skills in Biomedical Science and a critical awareness of professional practice, ready to progress to management positions.

The programme aims to enhance your career prospects, developing specific skills and subject knowledge in order to increase your awareness of – and suitability for – senior roles in the biomedical science sector.

The MSc in Biomedical Science can make you eligible for membership to the IBMS and subsequently qualify for Chartered Scientist status in the UK.

During the online course, you can expect to develop:

  • A flexible approach to problem-solving in the field of Biomedical Science
  • Improved skills, knowledge and the competency to take on a greater supervisory role
  • The ability to independently reflect on your practice and the initiative to solve diverse problems
  • The ability to critically appraise the relative merits and limitations of the techniques used in your chosen specialism
  • A critical awareness of the principles that relate to professional practice, scientific integrity and ethical issues in Biomedical Science.
  • A responsible approach to the promotion of new developments and the maintenance of standards within the biomedical science sector.

Career Focussed

Ulster’s MSc in Biomedical Science has been designed to ensure the curriculum has real-world relevance.

Context of healthcare 

Graduates will understand how the clinical diagnosis and management of patients is influenced by commercial decisions, public sector policies, regulations and ethical considerations.

Evidence-based practice 

There is a growing emphasis on practice and policy having a scientific evidence base. You will learn how to critically reflect on your performance as a practitioner in order to ensure that the service you provide meets the needs of your clients and patients.

Biomedical informatics 

As part of your medical research, you will become familiar with the need to collate, integrate, analyse and interpret clinic-pathological data, and data generated by experimental techniques.

Research Methods 

Well-planned research is the basis for improving Biomedical Science. On the course, you will gain an understanding of how an intellectual approach is essential for the successful execution of a research project.

Ethical theory 

In research and in practice, healthcare scientists are required to follow codes of practice and legislation which are underpinned by ethical theory. As you complete your Masters, you’ll fully appreciate the importance of understanding this theory and how it informs current practice.

The Faculty

The Faculty of Life and Health Sciences is a leading provider of health-related education.

The School of Biomedical Science offers an extensive portfolio of accredited degree and research programmes covering seven exciting yet diverse disciplines. Its awards include:

  • 95% of its research impact was scored world leading (4*) and internationally excellent (3*)
  • 81% of its published research papers were judged as world leading and internationally excellent (4* and 3*)
  • 100% Research environment – Top Five UK universities for Biomedical Science Research (source: REF 2014)

As part of the School, the Biomedical Sciences Research Institute (BMSRI) provides state-of-the-art equipment, specialist laboratories and infrastructure that can offer clinical and translational services to its academics. The institute is committed to providing scientific support for the knowledge-intensive, high added-value biotechnological and biomedical industries in Northern Ireland.

Teaching Staff

Course leaders, lecturers, academic and research staff delivering the Biomedical Science MSc have many years’ experience, both within the university and out working in the industry. Their skills will be complemented during your course by insights from visiting contributors from professional clinical and laboratory disciplines.

The majority of our Module Leaders on the Biomedical Science course are research-active staff and core members of the BMSRI (Ulster’s BioMedical Sciences Research Institute). Together, they produce world-class research in their field, which in turn informs their teaching and contributes to the university’s national and international reputation for excellence in research, scholarship-driven learning and teaching.

Meet Your Faculty

Dr Jayne Devlin

Dr Jayne Devlin

Teaching Fellow 

Dr Jayne Devlin graduated from Queen’s University, Belfast with a BSc (Hons) in Microbiology and Genetics in 1989 and gained her DPhil in Cell and Molecular Biology from the University of Oxford in 1993.

She completed a post-doctoral research position at the Marie Curie Research Institute in Oxted, Surrey before joining the Cancer and Ageing Research Group at Ulster University in 1996. She was Visiting Researcher at the Biological Research Centre, Hungarian Academy of Sciences in Szeged, Hungary until 2000.

Dr Mary Hannon-Fletcher

Dr Mary Hannon-Fletcher

Senior Lecturer 

A Senior Lecturer in Cellular Pathology since 2010, following 20 years as a Biomedical Scientist in UK and Switzerland with experience in cellular pathology, genetics and clinical biochemistry.

Dr Hannon-Fletcher teaches Professional Practice, Cellular Pathology, Biomedical Science, Research Ethics and Research Methods.

Mary is a member of the Diabetes Research Group in the Biomedical Sciences Research Institute. Her work focuses on DNA damage, dietary and supplement usage in health and disease.

Professor Finbarr O’Harte 

Professor Finbarr O’Harte 

Professor of Endocrinology and Metabolism 

Professor Finbarr O’Harte holds a BSc Hons and PhD from Queen’s University, Belfast. 

Finbarr is a patent holder and academic co-founder of Diabetica Limited, an Ulster University start-up company focused on innovative diabetes therapeutics. 

He has over 180 peer-reviewed publications (h-index 37), made many presentations at national and international conferences, and was awarded the Nordisk Medal of the Irish Endocrine Society (2005). He is the current President of the Irish Endocrine Society. 

His many research interests include peptides in therapy and drug development, hormone receptor modelling, and glucagon receptor antagonists in diabetes therapy. 

Dr Maria Mulhern 

Dr Maria Mulhern 

Lecturer 

Dr Mulhern took up her position as Lecturer in the School of Biomedical Sciences at Ulster University in 2013 and leads the Biostatistics teaching across the School. Other teaching interests include Research Methodologies, Ethics and Research Governance, and Food Product Development (including sensory analysis). 

She is an active researcher in the Nutrition Innovation Centre for Food and Health (NICHE), has published more than 40 peer-reviewed papers in the areas of vitamin D in health and disease, and investigated pre and post-natal effects of nutrition on cognitive development and immune function.

Dr Declan McKenna

Dr Declan McKenna

Associate Head of School of Biochemical Sciences 

Dr Declan McKenna’s translational research looks at the role of microRNAs in disease, his main focus being on prostate cancer and how these can be used to improve diagnosis, prognosis and potential therapeutic intervention.

His lab’s research aligns with the Personalised Medicine and Stratified Medicine strategic initiatives at Ulster University, working with colleagues in academia, industry and clinical institutions through funded research projects.

As well as being co-ordinator for Haematology modules at BSc and MSc level, Declan also contributes to modules on Molecular Pathology of Disease, Stem Cell Biology, Biomedical Professional Practice and Study Skills.

Dr Paul Thompson 

Dr Paul Thompson 

Senior Lecturer 

As a Senior Lecturer at Ulster, Paul is interested in how the vitamin D and retinoid pathways regulate the expression of metabolic gene products and their relevance to endobiotic/drug bioavailability, in addition to such diseases as prostate cancer and melanoma.

At Ulster, Dr Thompson has attracted project funding from Prostate Cancer UK, Prostate Research Campaign UK and the European Union CEC Framework 7.

Dr Patrick Naughton 

Dr Patrick Naughton 

Senior Lecturer in Medical Microbiology 

Patrick took up his academic post at Ulster University over 20 years’ ago. He has produced more than 70 research outputs and is a regular reviewer for journals in the field of microbiology (pathogenicity and infection) and provides grant reviews for several research funders.

Patrick is an active member of the NICHE research group (Nutrition Innovation Centre for Food and Health), focussing on bacterial pathogenicity and antibiotic resistance.

Dr Shu-Dong Zhang 

Dr Shu-Dong Zhang 

Senior Lecturer 

Before joining the Northern Ireland Centre for Stratified Medicine, Dr Zhang worked as a Principal Investigator and a Lecturer in Bioinformatics in the Centre for Cancer Research and Cell Biology (CCRCB) at Queen’s University, Belfast.

Dr Zhang’s research has also led to fruitful collaborations with biologists and cancer epidemiologists, securing joint collaborative projects funded by leading charities such as Cancer Research UK.

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