Biomedical Science - Online

The course is primarily designed for career advancement for those working as Biomedical Scientists in the hospital sector or working in the wider discipline of biomedical science, including bio-pharmaceutical and bio-industries.



This course currently allows specialisation in either: cellular pathology, clinical chemistry, haematology, or medical microbiology, and provides the opportunity for critical reflection and evaluation of current practice and policy, enabling lifelong learning and professional development in biomedical science.



Ulster University is currently reviewing its online course provision to improve and enhance the student learning experience, including moving to an updated and improved online learning platform. Course content, modules listed and the order in which they are delivered, are subject to change.



This part-time, distance-learning MSc programme runs over two academic years and students enter the programme in September. The research project is carried out in the student’s place of work under the supervision of suitably qualified staff.



Professional recognition

Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS)

Accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS).

Students can study the following modules:

Year one

• Advances in Cellular Pathology (Optional)

• Recent Advances in Clinical Chemistry (Optional)

• Haematology in Health and Disease (Optional)

• Advances in Medical Microbiology (Optional)

• Introduction to Personalised Medicine & Pharmacogenomics

• Evidence-Based Practice in Healthcare Sciences

• Advances in Medical Biotechnology and Healthcare Delivery



Year two

• Applied Research Methods

• Biomedical Informatics (Optional)

• Quality Management (Optional)

• Research Project

Applicants must: (a) have gained:

(i) a second class honours degree or better in Biomedical Science or in a science subject which contains a significant element of biological sciences from a university of the United Kingdom or the Republic of Ireland, or from a recognised national awarding body, or from an institution of another country which has been recognised as being of an equivalent standard; or



(ii) an equivalent standard (normally 50%) in a Graduate Diploma, Graduate Certificate, Postgraduate Certificate or Postgraduate Diploma or an approved alternative qualification;



and (b) provide evidence of competence in written and spoken English (GCSE grade C or equivalent);



Students should be employed as a biomedical scientist, trainee biomedical scientist or equivalent in a hospital or research laboratory or have access to similar laboratory facilities.



Specialist taught modules require that students have studied that specialism at Level 5 or can demonstrate their ability to undertake the module through the accreditation of prior experiential learning.



In exceptional circumstances, where an individual has substantial and significant experiential learning, a portfolio of written evidence demonstrating the meeting of graduate qualities (including subject-specific outcomes, as determined by the Course Committee) may be considered as an alternative entrance route. Evidence used to demonstrate graduate qualities may not be used for exemption against modules within the programme.



English Language Requirements

English language requirements for international applicants

The minimum requirement for this course is Academic IELTS 6.0 with no band score less than 5.5. Trinity ISE: Pass at level III also meets this requirement



Ulster recognises a number of other English language tests and comparable IELTS equivalent scores.

This part-time, distance-learning MSc programme runs over two academic years.

Start date: September 2025

Career options

This course provides an academically challenging and vocationally relevant science education for those following a career in the Biomedical Sciences in the Health Service, pharmaceutical or bio-industries. Graduates may also choose to proceed to higher postgraduate degree programmes (MPhil/PhD) within the biomedical sciences. A number of modules in the MSc programme can alternatively be taken individually as continued professional development (CPD) activity.