The University of Sheffield
Department of Biomedical Science

Why choose a degree in Biomedical Science?

Study a research-led degree at Biomedical ScienceResearch-led teaching

As a department, we are at the forefront of biomedical research, and many of the lecturers you will meet also run major research groups. This means that much of what you are taught, especially in the later years of your course, is closely related to our current understanding of biology and its application to human health and well-being. Teaching the latest approaches in contemporary biological research ensures we regularly introduce new modules in response to current developments that will later benefit you in a competitive careers market.

As a Sheffield student you will be able to see research in progress and to hear of the latest findings in the many seminars given by our own staff and by distinguished outside speakers. Later you will have an opportunity to pursue a research project with one of our staff.

Following our recent £30 million building and refurbishment programme, you'll have access to state-of-the-art teaching, laboratory and research facilities that rank amongst the best in the UK. 

An excellent learning environment

We occupy a central position within the University campus, very close to the award winning Students' Union facilities. Also, as a Sheffield student you'll benefit from many outstanding University facilities such as the Information Commons and the University library - voted the best in the UK in the recent Times Higher Student Experience survey.

As a BMS student, we aim to give you the highest commitment and experience possible. When you arrive we'll assign you a personal tutor, who'll be there throughout your degree if you need personal support. We also run a mentoring scheme to help you to settle in to your course, the department, the University and Sheffield as a whole.

We value the opinions of our students and use feedback to improve our teaching and regularly update the modules on offer. Hopefully there won't be any problems – UK wide surveys show Sheffield students in biomedical science are among the most satisfied in the subject anywhere. But if there is an issue you want to bring up, just speak to your course rep, who'll make sure your voice is heard.

Top marks for quality

In the most recent government review of higher education in the UK, BMS was awarded top scores for both teaching (24/24) and research (5*).  Also:-

Your study time

Teaching methods
We offer high quality teaching and expect commitment and independent learning from our students. You'll be taught using a mixture of lectures, practical classes, tutorials. We are a leader in VLE assisted packages and interactive course materials, which we use to supplement our teaching and learning activities.

Typical week
Details of your daily studies will vary depending on the level of study. A typical level 1 student spends between 6-9 hours each week in lectures, at least 5 hours in practical/problem-solving classes plus tutorials. Working  independently, you are likely to spend time in the library - looking up references, writing reports and reading background information to complement your lecture notes.

Tutorials
You will be allocated a personal tutor who will provide you with support and guidance through your studies. With a small group of other students, you will meet regularly with your tutor to discuss aspects of your academic work and check your progress. Your tutor will also be available at other times for individual discussion - academic or otherwise.

Assessments
In each semester there are twelve weeks of teaching. during your first year the autumn semester is followed by a three week project. All other semesters have a three week examination period.