Biomedical Science (Graduate Diploma) - Pre MSc, GradDip
Whether you’re seeking to switch careers, pursue a long-held interest in biomedical research or wish to develop subject-specific knowledge and improve your language skills, our Graduate Diploma in Biomedical Science is specifically designed to prepare you for postgraduate study. With access to state-of-the-art facilities, you’ll spend a year engaged in tailored discipline-specific, pre-master’s study which will equip you with the knowledge and skills required to succeed at MSc level. On successful completion, you’ll transition directly onto our MSc Biomedical Science (Blood Science or Medical Microbiology) programmes, which are accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS).
Month of entry
- September
Mode of study
- Full time
Fees for 2025/26 academic year
UK - Full time £7,600 per year
International - Full time £11,450 per year
Duration of study
- 1 year
Why study Biomedical Science (Graduate Diploma) at Keele University?
Course summary
If you graduated in a different science or non-science subject, with a lower class science degree, or wish to improve your English, study, research and presentation skills, this Graduate Diploma provides additional support and extra time to prepare for fast-paced postgraduate study in the area of biomedical science.
Comprising of all aspects of human health and disease, biomedical science is one of the broadest areas of modern science and medicine. By developing new treatments and uncovering new knowledge which can save and improve lives, it is arguably one of the most important too.
The School of Life Sciences is recognised nationally and internationally for its excellence in research and teaching with all of its programmes accredited either by the Royal Society for Biology and/or the IBMS. It has developed strong collaborative relationships with a range of diagnostic and clinical specialists who currently work in NHS Trusts and associated industries. These specialist practitioners not only help shape the curriculum to ensure you graduate with the skills and knowledge real employers need, but also provide valuable contributions to our teaching.
Upon successful completion of the Graduate Diploma (a score of 50% overall or more), you'll be eligible to progress to our MSc Biomedical Science programme, choosing a specialist pathway in either Blood Science or Medical Microbiology. Accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS), it draws on the experiences of practicing health professionals to examine clinical and research applications within clinical biochemistry, immunology, haematology and transfusion science.
Blood Sciences is one of four different and distinct laboratory disciplines within the field of Biomedical Science, as outlined by the IBMS, alongside Infection Sciences, Cell Sciences, and Genetics and Molecular Pathology.
Successful completion of this course will guarantee you direct entry on to the MSc Biomedical Science (Online)
Other courses you might be interested in:
Next steps
"This course is the perfect transitioning programme! It helped me gain the knowledge and skills required to succeed at the MSc level, as well as the opportunity to network with and learn from my lecturers, peers and experienced laboratory staff. All that I learned during this postgraduate diploma helped me to go on to successfully complete the Biomedical Science MSc and be awarded a prestigious summer internship in Geneva, Switzerland. So, I would highly recommend this course to anyone interested in studying life sciences at postgraduate level."
Course structure
The curriculum of this Graduate Diploma has been custom designed to prepare you for postgraduate study within the field of Biomedical Science.
During Semester 1 and 2 of the pre-master’s programme, you study five compulsory core modules (90 credits), which aim to develop your subject-specific knowledge and understanding across a broad range of biomedical science disciplines, as well as your critical, analytical and scientific skills. You'll get a strong grounding in modern biomedicine, and study the basic scientific core subjects and the biology of disease. The aim is to build your skills and confidence in preparation for scholarly study and research at postgraduate level.
If needed, additional optional modules in English for Academic Purposes (2, 3 or 4) are available for non-native English speakers. You will study the level of module most appropriate for your needs. While this module does not form part of the overall award, successful completion is required for progression to the Master's programme for those who take it.
This level 6 course is studied as a one-year full-time course, with a September start date.
Modules
The module details given below are indicative, they are intended to provide you with an idea of the range of subjects that are taught to our current students. The modules that will be available for you to study in future years are prone to change as we regularly review our teaching to ensure that it is up-to-date and informed by the latest research and teaching methods, as well as student voice. The information presented is therefore not intended to be construed and/or relied upon as a definitive list of the modules available in any given year.
Compulsory core modules
LSC-30041 Biomedical Science and Pathology (30 credits, Semester 1 & 2)
The module enhances your knowledge and understanding of the pathobiology of human disease as it relates to cellular pathology, clinical immunology, haematology, clinical biochemistry, medical microbiology and clinical virology. You’ll examine the analytical and clinical functions of three more of the major departments of a modern hospital pathology laboratory, including Haematology, Clinical Pathology, Clinical Immunology, Blood Transfusion, Clinical Biochemistry and Medical Microbiology. In addition, the module gives you an accurate insight into the role of Biomedical Scientists and how they assist clinicians in the diagnosis, treatment and monitoring of disease.
LSC-30014 Biochemistry Research Project (non-experimental) (15 credits, Semester 1 & 2)
You’ll be introduced to some of the key non-experimental research skills that are routinely used by biochemists and biomedical scientists. For example, in-depth literature searching, analysis of experimental data, and the use of a computer as tool for both research (bioinformatics) and dissemination of information (web page construction). As part of your assessment, you will be tasked with researching the literature on a specific topic, using library and web-based resources in order to produce a written review. In addition, you will either process and interpret some raw experimental data provided to them.
LSC-30028 Advances in Medicine (15 credits, Semester 1)
New developments in medicine are positively impacting the prevention, diagnosis, treatment, palliative care and control of relapse in a range of diseases including, infectious diseases, metabolic disorders, cancer and organ dysfunction. This module provides an insight into fast emerging areas of research including nanotechnology and new biochemical tests in the fields of heart disease, cancer and fertility investigations, which will potentially improve patient care. You will also have the chance to discuss new developments in the fields of tissue engineering and stem cell technologies, and the cutting-edge advances in vaccinology and tissue transplantation.
LSC-30009 Clinical Pathology (15 credits, Semester 2)
The aim of this module is to illustrate the roles of existing and newly emerging biochemical and molecular techniques, including the use of personalised medicines in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases within a hospital pathology department. You’ll also gain an appreciation of cost-benefit decisions that are inherent in many of the diagnostic methodologies and their implications for both the patient and the clinician. Module content covers both standardised testing options and the development of new diagnostic procedures with a particular emphasis on genetic and epigenetic aspects of disease. Topics include: clinical diagnostic pathology; pharmacology; biochemistry; genetics; and inflammatory diseases. You’ll be taught by staff working for the University Hospital of North Staffordshire (UHNS), which provides a unique insight into how patients are managed, from their very first presentation at the UHNS, from the perspective of diagnosis and treatment.
LSC-30026 Case Studies in Biomedical Science (15 credits, Semester 2)
This module aims to give you an understanding of the UK health trends and the factors that affect these trends. Through clinical case studies and small group tutorials, you will explore why the UK has some of the highest incidences of certain diseases and conditions in Europe and consider what factors contribute to making them some of the most common and/or rising health problems faced by this country. This will include understanding the relevant socioeconomic factors as well as understanding the bioscience of the disease process and its diagnosis and management. You will also focus on what is being done by Government and the NHS to tackle these major health problems.
Optional modules
For non-native English speakers if required, we offer the option of taking the appropriate level module in English for Academic Purposes (EAP) with your Semester 1 and 2 modules.
- ENL-90006 English for Academic Purposes 2 (15 credits, Semester 1 & 2)
- ENL-90001 English for Academic Purposes 3 (15 credits, Semester 1 & 2)
- ENL-90002 English for Academic Purposes 4 (15 credits, Semester 1 or 2)
Delivered by staff within the dedicated Language Centre at Keele, these modules are designed to help you develop the skills essential for success with your academic studies and research. Through a series of classroom-based workshops and activities, you’ll develop the specific academic reading, writing, verbal communication and presentation skills needed for post-undergraduate study.
Next steps
"returning to Keele as a mature student to study a Pre-Master’s course in Biomedical Science has given me the chance to change my career without undergoing a second undergraduate degree, and furthermore, has allowed me the opportunity to apply for a Master’s degree in a subject I, otherwise, would not have been admissible to study. The Pre-Master’s course covered a range of relevant topics and I found that I was able to tailor my assignments to my specific areas of interest. "
Entry requirements
Next steps
Entry requirements
The following section details our typical entry requirements for this course for a range of UK and international qualifications. If you don't see your qualifications listed, please contact us to find out if we can accept your qualifications.
Typical offer
Please ensure that you read the full entry requirements by selecting your qualifications from the dropdown menu below. This will include any subject specific, GCSE/Level 2 Maths, and English language requirements you may need.
Please select your country from the drop-down list below for the full entry requirement information
UK
Successful completion of a degree in a bioscience, medical, or pharmacology related subject
or
demonstrated professional or relevant qualifications or experience
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
Bangladesh
Successful completion of a degree in a bioscience, medical, or pharmacology related subject
or
demonstrated professional or relevant qualifications or experience
We don’t accept degrees from certain universities, please see our Bangladesh Country Page for more information
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
Canada
Successful completion of an ordinary or honours degree in a bioscience, medical, or pharmacology related subject
or
demonstrated professional or relevant qualifications or experience
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
China
Successful completion of a degree in a bioscience, medical, or pharmacology related subject
or
demonstrated professional or relevant qualifications or experience
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
Ghana
Successful completion of a degree in a bioscience, medical, or pharmacology related subject
or
demonstrated professional or relevant qualifications or experience
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
India
Successful completion of a degree in a bioscience, medical, or pharmacology related subject
or
demonstrated professional or relevant qualifications or experience
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
Kenya
Successful completion of a degree in a bioscience, medical, or pharmacology related subject
or
demonstrated professional or relevant qualifications or experience
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
Nepal
Successful completion of a degree in a bioscience, medical, or pharmacology related subject
or
demonstrated professional or relevant qualifications or experience
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
Nigeria
Successful completion of a degree in a bioscience, medical, or pharmacology related subject
or
demonstrated professional or relevant qualifications or experience
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
Pakistan
We accept a range of qualifications from Pakistan. Please visit Pakistan Country Page for more information
or
we will consider demonstrated relevant professional qualifications or experience
You will also need an English language qualification (see below)
South Africa
Successful completion of an ordinary or honours degree in a bioscience, medical, or pharmacology related subject
or
demonstrated professional or relevant qualifications or experience
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
Sri Lanka
Successful completion of a degree in a bioscience, medical, or pharmacology related subject
or
demonstrated professional or relevant qualifications or experience
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
Uganda
Successful completion of a degree in a bioscience, medical, or pharmacology related subject
or
demonstrated professional or relevant qualifications or experience
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
Zimbabwe
Successful completion of a degree in a bioscience, medical, or pharmacology related subject
or
demonstrated professional or relevant qualifications or experience
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
English language requirements
All of our courses require an English language qualification or test. For most students, this requirement can be met with a 4 or C in GCSE English. Please see our English Language guidance pages for further details, including English language test information for international students. For those students who require an English language test, this course requires a test from Group B.
References
Normally, you will need to provide at least one academic reference to support your application unless you have been out of study longer than two years. If it has been more than two years since you last studied on a degree-level programme, you will normally need to provide an employment reference instead. For more information about Academic References, please see our Postgraduate how to apply web pages.
Personal Statement/Statement of Purpose
Please see our Postgraduate how to apply web pages for guidance on what to include in your personal statement.
Recognition of Prior Learning
The Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is a process which enables applicants to receive recognition and formal credit for learning acquired in the past through formal study or work and life experiences.
RPL can also be requested for admission onto the start of a programme in lieu of the admission requirements. For more information, see our Recognition of Prior Learning web pages.
Professional qualifications and work experience
The majority of our courses will consider relevant work experience and/or professional qualifications at the appropriate level, as an alternative to an undergraduate degree for entry. The work experience should be for a sustained period and at a suitable level, based within a relevant sector to your chosen course.
Admissions staff will review your work experience and/or professional qualifications during the assessment of your application to ensure suitability in terms of relevancy, level and appropriate learning outcomes.
General information
The entry grades outlined in this section indicate the typical offer which would be made to candidates, along with any subject specific requirements. This is for general information only. Keele University reserves the right to vary offer conditions depending upon a candidate's application.
Funding
Please note, if your course offers a January start date, the January 2025 start date falls in the 2024/25 academic year. Please see the January 2025 fees for the relevant fees for starting this course in January 2025
Planning your funding
It's important to plan carefully for your funding before you start your course. Please be aware that not all postgraduate courses and not all students are eligible for the UK government postgraduate loans and, in some cases, you would be expected to source alternative funding yourself. If you need support researching your funding options, please contact our Financial Support Team.
Scholarships
We are committed to rewarding excellence and potential. Please visit our scholarships and bursaries webpage for more information.
For continuing students, fees will increase annually by RPIX, with a maximum cap of 5% per year.
Next steps
Your career
Biomedical science sit at the heart of multidisciplinary teams in healthcare, providing the vital scientific information which informs clinical decisions, monitors patient conditions, investigates disease and identifies ways to stop or fight infection.
The purpose of this Graduate Diploma is to prepare you to study one of two pathways we offer on the IBMS-accredited MSc Biomedical Science. The Blood Science pathway is focused on the diagnostic, research and clinical techniques that rely on blood or its components to successfully identify, treat and manage medical conditions. Meanwhile, the Medical Microbiology pathway focuses on the prevention, diagnosis and treatment infectious diseases, incorporating the study of microbiology and virology.
Once you successfully graduate from the MSc, you'll be able to pursue a career in biomedical science. As well as preparing you for research and laboratory-based jobs, you'll have the skills to undertake a host of different roles, from technical support roles and sales in the research and healthcare markets, to scientific writing, quality control, or health and safety.
Positions may include:
- Academic (PhD, teaching careers)
- Biomedical engineer/scientist
- Cell processing and manufacturing specialist
- Clinical operations researcher
- Clinical research scientist
- Clinical trials researcher/coordinator
- Drug development scientist
- Geneticist
- Grant writer
- Industrial research scientist/analyst
- Medical degree
- Medical laboratory scientist
- Microfluidic scientist
- NHS biomedical scientists
- Product development scientist
- Research technician
- Research trainee/fellow
- Science entrepreneur
- Scientific consulting
- Scientific sales representative
- Scientist in cell/gene therapy labs (R&D)
- Scientist in Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) labs (R&D)
- Scientist in pharma (R&D)
- Synthetic biologist
Next steps
Teaching, learning and assessment
How you'll be taught
In addition to the lecture courses and tutorials, problem-based learning (PBL) using clinical scenarios is used for at least one module. You will also be given the opportunity to undertake an independent non-experimental research project, supervised and supported by a member of staff.
Web-based learning using the University’s virtual learning environment (KLE) provides you with easy access to a wide range of resources and research tools, and acts as a platform for online discussions and quizzes. You will be given many opportunities to become familiar with word processing, spreadsheets and graphics software as well as computer-based routes to access scientific literature.
How you’ll be assessed
All modules are assessed within the semester in which they are taught. Modules are assessed by a mixture of assessment methods, including literature review, research portfolio, patient information leaflet, clinical report poster, essay and formal examination.
Assessment is used to demonstrate your understanding of subject-specific content, as well as your analytical abilities and your evaluation of particular concepts and methodologies.
Next steps
Keele Postgraduate Association
Keele University is one of a handful of universities in the UK to have a dedicated students' union for postgraduate students. A fully registered charity, Keele Postgraduate Association serves as a focal point for the social life and welfare needs of all postgraduate students during their time at Keele.
Hugely popular, the KPA Clubhouse (near Horwood Hall) provides a dedicated postgraduate social space and bar on campus, where you can grab a bite to eat and drink, sit quietly and read a book, or switch off from academic life at one of the many regular events organised throughout the year. The KPA also helps to host a variety of conferences, as well as other academic and career sessions, to give you and your fellow postgraduates the opportunities to come together to discuss your research, and develop your skills and networks.
Our expertise
Teaching staff
The School of Life Sciences is recognised nationally and internationally for its excellence in research and teaching. The majority of the School’s research reflects broad strength in biomedical science and there are strong links with the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. These relationships provide opportunities to interact with clinicians and translational research at the University Hospitals of North Midlands (UHNM).
Specialist research themes include: molecular biology and ecology of parasites and vectors in tropical diseases; sustainability in crops and control of crop pests, glycobiology and immunology; structural biology; molecular cell biology of apoptosis and its dysregulation; cancer; autoimmune disease; X-ray crystallography; neurobiology and neuroplasticity; neurodegeneration and regeneration; auditory neuroscience and deafness.
You’ll be taught by world-leading researchers and clinical practitioners whose expertise includes apoptosis, proteomics, epigenetics, diabetes, cell and molecular biology, cell physiology and pathology.
Our excellent industry links enable us to invite a range of specialists who share their experience and expertise by giving guest lectures to our students. Previous speakers, for example, have included a clinical biochemist from Royal Stoke University Hospital.
Teaching team includes:
- Dr Mirna Mourtada-Maarabouni (Programme Director), Senior Lecturer – Mirna’s research interests are in molecular cell biology and cell signalling. Currently, her work concentrates on the elucidation of the signalling pathways initiated by the modulation of the expression of a number of genes and how they eventually cause the destruction of the cell. These genes include those that encode non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs). She is interested in investigating the roles of ncRNAs in the death and survival of human cells and in cancer, and also has a long-standing interest in studying the role of phosphatases in cancer.
- Dr. Hamesh Gilbert, Lecturer – With a background in musculoskeletal and mechanobiology research, Hamesh is building a research team focused on understanding how cells sense physical forces and integrate them with biochemical signalling. He is particularly interested in how these force-sensing mechanisms alter with ageing and disease, and hopes to identify novel therapeutic targets. Hamish uses a variety of laboratory techniques including in vitro cell culture, mechanical stimulation and multi ‘omics platforms.
- Glenn Hussey, Senior Lecturer – Glenn is a HCPC registrant and originally worked as a Specialist Biomedical Scientist (BMS) in Immunology at Royal Stoke University (RSUH) Hospital. He joined the School of Life Sciences as a part-time Teaching Fellow in 2007 and moved onto a Lecturer in Biomedical Science contract in 2009 becoming full-time in 2010. Promoted to Senior Lecturer in 2021, Glenn is the Programme Director for BSc Biomedical Science and Director of Education for the School. He is a member of the IBMS Advocacy Steering Group, shaping national policy and is also an approved IBMS accreditor of external programmes.
- Patricia Procter, Lecturer – Trish originally worked as a registered Specialist Biomedical Scientist (BMS) in Haematology and Transfusion Practice at Royal Stoke University (RSUH) Hospital, obtaining her Specialist Diploma in Haematology with Transfusion Practice in 2012. She started demonstrating practical laboratory skills to students at Keele in 2008 before securing a lecturing position. As a practicing BMS, she has a wide variety of interests relating to blood cells and their disorders, recently investigating the anticoagulant effects of heparin and how it could be manipulated to give more predictable results leading to improved patient care.
- Dr Annette Shrive, Senior Lecturer – Annette undertook both her BSc (Physics and Maths) and PhD (Protein Crystallography) at Keele, going on to become a postdoctoral scientist before being appointed as a Lecturer in 1999. Her research interests are in structural biology and in how the structure of biological macromolecules is related to their function and is focused on the structure and function of key molecules of the innate immune system. She has been a visiting scientist at Purdue University in the USA and the MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology at the University of Cambridge.
- Rebecca Harrison, Senior Lecturer – Rebecca is a HCPC registrant and originally worked as a Senior Biomedical Scientist (BMS) in Microbiology at Royal Stoke University (RSUH) Hospital, obtaining her Specialist Diploma in Medical Microbiology in 2012. She joined Keele in 2016 as a Teaching Fellow before transitioning to a lecturing position in 2019. Made a Senior Lecturer in 2022, Rebecca completed her MA in Learning and Teaching in Higher Education and is a Fellow of the Higher Education Authority. She is the clinical placement coordinator for the BSc Applied Biomedical Science programme, Chair of the School Genetic Modification and Biological Agents Safety Subcommittee and deputy Biological Agent Officer for the University.
- Dr Daniel Tonge, Senior Lecturer – Following post-doctoral roles at the School of Veterinary Medicine (Notts) and the MRC, Dan worked as a Senior Scientist for the Health Protection Agency and as Senior Executive Officer at Public Health England. He joined Keele in 2015, and in addition to his teaching and regulatory roles, carries out molecular/bioinformatic projects that require novel thinking and method development to increase our understanding of human disease and disease processes. Dan's recent work has developed and evaluated alternative molecular approaches for the characterisation of a range of microbiomes, investigated the existence of novel microbiome niches, and characterised the complex relationship between host and microbiome in various pathologies.
Next steps
Facilities
The School of Life Sciences has invested £45m in the creation of state-of-the-art science facilities on campus, including new research and teaching laboratories. In 2019, the opening of the David Attenborough Laboratories greatly increased our teaching and research areas, providing two additional state-of-the-art teaching laboratories with space for 120 students between them.
Courses focus on human, animal and plant life and you may choose to study areas from essential biochemistry, health and disease, cognition, biodiversity, evolution or our impact on the world around us. Students can access scientific equipment, such as fluorescence microscopes, electron microscopes, tools for molecular biology (e.g., PCR, western blotting), electrophysiology apparatus, and behavioural equipment housed in the Biomedical Services Unit.
Electron Microscope Unit
The Electron Microscope Unit has a range of microscopic techniques available to capture images, make slides and acquire data from biological, geological, physical and chemical specimens. These include: visible and electron microscopy; light microscopy; confocal/two photon imaging; field emission scanning electron microscopy (SEM); conventional transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and X-ray microanalysis; atomic force microscopy (AFM); ultramicrotomy; vibratome; and microslice.
Proteomic Mass Spectrometry facility
Run in collaboration with Guy Hilton Research Centre (GHRC) and the Robert Jones and Agnes Hunt Orthopaedic Hospital (RJAH) in Oswestry, this facility offers a range of mass spectrometry equipment based at Huxley Building on Keele campus. Providing proteomics and mass spectrometry services for UK based researchers, equipment includes a 4800 MALDI TOF/TOF and 3200 QTRAP tandem quadrupole mass spectrometers, with nanoflow HPLC interfaces.
Central Science Laboratory (CSL)
The University’s £34m Central Science Laboratory (CSL) opened its doors to students in September 2019 and provides 5,300m2 of modern, co-located science laboratories. Over £2m alone has been spent on industrial research-grade analytical and laboratory equipment that will be used by students in their day-to-day laboratory teaching. Access to state-of-the-art facilities and high specification equipment will ensure you are well prepared for scientific or industrial employment post-graduation. The environment mirrors the multi-faceted nature of working life and the shared space allows group working and collaboration between disciplines, building the skills and experience much valued by employers.
David Weatherall Laboratories
These multi-users laboratories house equipment for histology, physiology, pharmacology, biochemistry and microbiology practicals. Here students learn to use stethoscopes, sphygmomanometers, microscopes, computerised spirometry, ECG and EMG equipment, make accurate drug dilutions, and gain skills in basic life support on resuscitation manikins. Facilities are also available to learn sterile technique, ophthalmoscopy, otoscopy and drug delivery. The IT laboratory, which has extended opening hours, houses over 50 networked PCs with additional facilities for digital imaging, scanning, and printing.