A student looking through a microscope in ARU's SuperLab
BSc (Hons) Available in Clearing

Medical Science

Broaden your understanding of the human body while exploring the development, treatment and prevention of disease with our Royal Society of Biology accredited degree.

Start date
September
Location
Chelmsford
Duration
3 years
UCAS course code
B190

Start date
September
Location
Chelmsford
Duration
4 years with foundation
UCAS course code
B190

UK students have the option to study this course over one year to achieve a CertHE. You’ll study the same modules as students on Year 1 of the BSc.

1st

in the East of England for undergraduates employed as managers, directors or senior officials.

Source: GOS

Join us in our state-of-the-art SuperLab in Chelmsford, where you’ll combine theory and practice to learn how the human body works in health and disease, and how disease is treated and prevented.

You’ll prepare for a rewarding career in a medical lab by gaining crucial problem-solving, management, and scientific communication skills.

After your first year, you may have the opportunity to transfer to Year 1 of our MBChB Medicine degree.

Royal Society of Biology

Our three-year Medical Science degree has been accredited by the Royal Society of Biology following an independent and rigorous assessment. This verifies our course provides a solid academic foundation in biological knowledge and key skills, helping you develop the subject knowledge, technical ability and transferable skills sought by employers.

Royal Society of Biology logo
Why ARU?
  • Benefit from our Level 2 industry-standard SuperLab and advanced equipment for hands-on learning

  • Explore human biology and disease with a focus on real-world applications

  • Build skills through hands-on projects with healthcare industry partners

  • Learn from experienced professionals actively engaged in cutting-edge research

Logo: THE Awards 2023
 

Study at an award-winning university

We were named Times Higher Education University of the Year 2023. We've also been awarded a Gold rating in the Teaching Excellence Framework – a reflection of the outstanding education we offer our students.

Careers

In addition to an in-depth knowledge of medical science, the course provided me with laboratory, critical thinking and presentation skills which have helped me significantly.

Victoria Fuller, BSc (Hons) Medical Science graduate

Once you graduate, you’ll be in a strong position to pursue a career in a medical lab.

You might also consider going into medical sales or science communication.

Graduation doesn’t need to be the end of your time with us. You might decide to stay at ARU and study for a Masters, such as our MSc Physician Associate, MSc Physiotherapy or MSc Occupational Therapy. Take advantage of our Alumni Scholarship and get 20% off your fees.

Teaching and modules

This exciting course will make you see the world though a different lens. It’ll develop your transferable and practical skills, opening the door to a wide range of career options.

Dr Rudolph Schutte, Course Leader

Our course is designed to equip you with a thorough knowledge of the theory and practice of medical science, and comprehensive skills you can apply in a range of settings.

You’ll initially develop a broad understanding of human anatomy, biomedical science, and human nutrition and metabolism, as well as essential lab and communication skills.

Later, you’ll build upon this knowledge by exploring the pathophysiology of various bodily systems and studying pharmacology and epidemiology.

Lastly, you’ll complete an independent research project on a relevant topic of your choice.

Modules are subject to change and availability, and may vary by location. If you have the choice of optional modules, these are indicated with a *.

Year 1
  • Cellular and Molecular Biology
  • Human Anatomy and Physiology
  • Scientific Communication and Professional Skills
  • Principles of Biomedical Science
  • Fundamentals of Nutrition, Drugs and Metabolism
  • Into ARU
Year 2
  • Essential Physiological Biochemistry
  • Applied Pathophysiology
  • Principles of Pharmacology
  • Fundamentals of Epidemiology
  • Research Proposal
  • Ruskin Module (15 credits)
Year 3
  • Applied Pharmacology
  • Biotechnology
  • Specialist Case Studies
  • Contemporary Issues in Medical Science
  • Undergraduate Major Project
Module details

To prepare you for university study, you can take a foundation year at the start of this course. Find out more about foundation years.

Year 1
  • Foundation in Optometry, Medical and Life Sciences
Module details

UK students have the option to study this course over one year to achieve a CertHE. You’ll study the same modules as students on Year 1 of the BSc.

Read profiles of teaching and research staff on this course.

Facilities

As part of your Medical Science studies with ARU, you’ll be able to enhance your learning experience with our Level 2 category multi-functional SuperLab.

In the final year of your course, you’ll be able to take advantage of a year’s free membership of the Royal Society of Biology, with benefits including professional networking opportunities.

Experience our Medical Science facilities with our virtual tour.

Entry requirements

Fees and funding

Apply for Medical Science

Clearing places available

UK students, apply through Clearing for a September 2025 start

UK students

Call our Clearing line

01245 686868

UK students

Apply through UCAS for 2026

International students

Apply direct