Medical Sciences, BSc

Course content

A set of compulsory modules in Year 1 will give you a grounding in the different disciplines within medical sciences, including anatomy, physiology and neuroscience. You'll also develop the fundamental laboratory skills and techniques that will underpin the rest of your studies.

In Year 2 you'll study core modules that build on your knowledge with a focus on neurobiology, physiology of absorption and excretion and cardio-respiratory physiology, as well as developing your understanding of research methods and experimental skills. A wide range of optional modules will also allow you to tailor your studies to your interests, from human diseases to toxicology and bioinformatics.

You'll also choose one area to specialise in from pharmacology, neuroscience, physiology and medical sciences more broadly - a pair of modules will allow you to study this area in greater depth and gain specific experimental skills.

In your final year, you'll select from research-based modules related to your preferences and interests, including cancer biology and biomedical nanotechnology. Much of the year will be focused on your own research project, on a completely original topic in the subject which will allow you to explore our latest research breakthroughs with leading academics.

Course structure

These are typical modules/components studied and may change from time to time. Read more in our Terms and conditions.

Year 1

Compulsory modules

• Entry requirements, fees and applying

  Entry requirements

  A-level: AAA - AAB

  Including Biology/Human Biology, or Chemistry plus another science or science-related subject. Critical Thinking and General Studies excluded.
  We accept the following science subjects: biology, human biology, chemistry, mathematics and physics. Science- related subjects: geography, PE, psychology, use of maths and statistics.

  Applicants taking a Science A-level (in England) will be required to achieve a pass in the practical element in addition to the standard A-level grade requirement.

  GCSE: Typically Grade 6 (B) or above at GCSE Maths and Grade 4 (C) or above at GCSE English.

  • Career opportunities

    Number 1 for employability - the Faculty of Biological Sciences is ranked highest for employability amongst Russell Group universities. Higher than Oxford, Cambridge, UCL, Durham, Edinburgh, Kings College, Liverpool, Manchester, York.

    Many of our students go on to postgraduate entry medical or dental courses. However, this degree is also attractive to those who want to go into a variety of careers related to healthcare or medical research, such as lab or clinical research, management in world or health organisations, diagnostic services or pharmaceuticals, PhD research or any of the variety of careers requiring a good general university degree.
    
    Recent graduate destinations include:
    • Marketing intern, GE Healthcare
    • Assistant cardiac physiologist
    • Therapy representative, GlaxoSmithKline
    • Territory manager, Johnson & Johnson
    • Accounts Manager, The Gas Company

    Careers support

    Leeds for Life is our unique approach to helping you make the most of University by supporting your academic and personal development. Find out more at the Leeds for Life website.

    We encourage you to prepare for your career from day one. That's one of the reasons Leeds graduates are so sought after by employers.

    Leeds for Life is our unique approach to helping you make the most of University by supporting your academic and personal development. Find out more at the Leeds for Life website.

    The Careers Centre and staff in your faculty provide a range of help and advice to help you plan your career and make well-informed decisions along the way, even after you graduate. Find out more at the Careers website.

  • Study abroad and work placements

    Study abroad

    On this course you have the opportunity to apply to spend time abroad, usually as an extra academic year. The University has partnerships with more than 400 universities worldwide and popular destinations for our students include Europe, the USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Hong Kong, South Africa and Latin America. 

    Find out more at the Study Abroad website.

    If you choose to undertake a study abroad option, you will spend the third year of the BSc studying abroad. This will extend your studies by 12 months.

    Work placements

    Practical work experience can help you decide on your career and improve your employability. On this course you have the option to apply to take a placement year module with organisations across the public, private and voluntary sectors in the UK, or overseas.

    Find out more about work experience on the Careers website.

    We have a dedicated Employability Officer in the Faculty of Biological Sciences who works closely with the University's Careers Centre. We offer a host of additional opportunities beyond core course content, including volunteering and placements. We also organise regular careers workshops designed specifically for sport sciences students to develop their career opportunities. These include our annual Bioscience Networking Event, which gives you the chance to meet bioscience employers, speak to alumni, attend workshops and get masses of information.

  • Related courses

    Human Physiology BSc
    Neuroscience BSc
    Pharmacology BSc