Course details

Study options

Full-time: 1 year, Part-time: 2 years

UK fee

£8,500 for the full course or £945 per 20 credits* (2023/24)

International fee

£14,900 for the full course (2023/24)

Course level

Postgraduate

Qualification

MSc

Start date

September

Location

Kedleston Road, Derby Campus

Course description

This masters will enable you to develop an in-depth understanding of the biomedical regulation of the human body and how this is impacted by disease.  

As with other Biomedical Master degrees your academic knowledge will be supported by the practical applications of biomedical science, particularly in relation to modern molecular biology and infectious disease methods.  

However what is unique about this masters is that you can also look to develop a more in-depth understanding of public health and how we look to protect people from the national and international threats to their health, helping you to stand out in a competitive job market. This is becoming increasingly important due to the current challenges modern societies face. This course will ensure you graduate with the vital skills and knowledge to help tackle national and local crises. 

You’ll explore how the biomedical regulation of the human body can be affected by a person’s physical wellbeing, their lifestyle choices, the environment they inhabit, and also the infectious diseases to which they can be exposed. You'll get the opportunity to further develop your laboratory skills in our newly-upgraded facilities and be introduced to scientific instrumentation being used in biomedical research and NHS facilities. We also deepen your awareness of the social and governmental driving forces which are transforming Global public health to strengthen the Global health focus.

 

Student feedback - Postgraduate Taught Experience Survey 2023

100%of students agreed that staff are enthusiastic about what they teach
93%of students agreed that the course is intellectually stimulating
93%of students agreed that the course has enhanced their academic ability
A woman holding her hands against her neck

Uncovering the link between HPV and head and neck cancer

Our scientists have developed a new screening method that detects human papillomavirus (HPV) in the mouth. They are now using this method to gain a better understanding of how HPV causes head and neck cancer.

Read moreRead more

Specialist facilities

Throughout your studies, you will be able to use a range of analytical and biomedical equipment including:

We also have new molecular and cellular biology laboratories. These will help us conduct in vitro cell/tissue culture-based investigations, so we can understand the pathophysiology and establish effective treatment strategies against cancer, age-related disorders (such as dementia), diabetes, pre-eclampsia and more.

A technicians supporting a student using a machine

New Biomedical Science Super Lab

The University of Derby has been awarded £5.8 million from the Office for Students (OfS) to develop a new technology enhanced Biomedical Science Super Lab with an opening date in 2025.

Find out more about the LabFind out more about the Lab
A female and male looking at a slide on a microscope

Human Sciences Research Centre

Our Human Sciences Research Centre conducts theoretical and applied research into the prevention and treatment of diseases and into improvements to the quality of life for people of all ages.

Find out more about our researchFind out more about our research
Multi-Faith Centre, Kedleston Road

Postgraduate Open Event

Join us at an upcoming Postgraduate Open Event, where you will get the opportunity to meet our expert academics and find out more about your course.

Book your Postgraduate Open EventBook your Postgraduate Open Event

What you will study

You'll study modules such as:

  • Society and Human Health - Looks at how life style choices, global location and social-economic influences human health and will investigate key diseases
  • Research Project - This module aims to expand the knowledge and skills to develop and execute independent research from literature review, through study design and execution, to scientific communication
  • Research Methods and Data Interpretation - This module aims to develop and enhance all areas and skills for carrying out independent scientific research including literature review, research planning, ethical aspects, risk assessments, data analysis and presentation, publication, and its commercial exploitation

You’ll choose up to five of the following modules:

  • Bioinnovation - Covers Biotechnology and research knowledge such as research law and intellectual property
  • Health Protection - Develop an appreciation of natural and man-made hazards present in the environment and their impact on public health
  • Global, Environmental and Public Health Issues (online) - Covers the key environmental and public health issues that are influencing global health e.g. water purity, air pollution, noise pollution, but also global disease such as malaria and ebola
  • Cell signalling in Health and Disease - Introduces how cells communicate with each other in health and how issues with this communication can causes disease to occur such as cancer and dementia
  • Oncology and Immunology - Explores the causes of cancer, how it is treated and what directions are currently being undertaken by cancer research scientists, and explains how immunology plays a key role in cancer development
  • Biomedical Biotechnology - Takes the Bioinnovation module to masters levels. Continues with the importance of intellectual property (IP) and research development. This will cover key biomedical lab techniques, such as qPCR, western blotting and molecular cloning, but also how microbial laboratory techniques are undertaken to push forward the fast moving area of bioinnovation
  • Practical Training Based Placement Module - Provides links between theory and problem-solving through practical applications at host organisations
  • Public Health and Health Improvement - Explore public health and health improvement theory and apply these principles to your role. Key concepts of epidemiology, demography and community profiling will be examined and be related to a chosen population. By examining their population’s needs you'll identify health determinants and inequalities and relate these to ethical, legal and professional frameworks. Consequently, health promotion activities for health improvement can be recommended or developed in your area of practice
  • Negotiated Module in Science - Offers an opportunity to identify, plan and negotiate a programme of learning

Please note that modules are subject to change 

Please note that our modules are subject to change - we review the content of our courses regularly, making changes where necessary to improve your experience and graduate prospects.

How you will learn

You'll be taught through a mixture of lectures, guest lecturers, workshops, practical sessions in the field and laboratory and tutorials. This course also uses a blended learning approach incorporated through online modules.

We also have strong links with employers including hospital trusts, research institutions and biomedical companies, leading to the option to complete a work placement based in an NHS hospital department or pharmaceutical setting, enabling you to put theory into practice in a real-world setting. Examples of organisations you might work with include: SureScreen Diagnostics, Queens Medical Centre, BioCity, University Hospitals of Derby and Burton, Derby City Council, and South Derbyshire District Council.

An expert, research-active teaching team

All of our Biomedical Health teaching team are active human health researchers as well as experienced teachers. They will bring the latest findings and innovative thinking from the field to shape your learning experiences.

Our tutors are currently carrying out collaborative research in areas such as:

Who will teach you

Dr Vadivel Parthsarathy

Dr Vadivel Parthsarathy
Programme leader

Vadivel Parthsarathy is a Senior Lecturer in Biomedical Sciences at the University of Derby.

View full staff profileView full staff profile

Entry requirements

An undergraduate degree (2:2 or above) in a Biosciences related subject. 

International students should have the above or an international equivalent. If English is not your first language, you will need to hold IELTS 6.0 or above.

Fees and funding

2023/24 (August 2023 - July 2024)

TypeFull-timePart-time
UK

£8,500 for the full course or £945 per 20 credits*

£945 per 20 credits

International

£14,900 for the full course

N/A

Please note fees normally increase in line with inflation and the University's strategic approach to fees, which is reviewed on an annual basis. The total fee you pay may therefore increase after one year of study.

* UK full-time fees paid within one academic year are rounded down to the nearest £50 if applicable

Additional costs and optional extras

About postgraduate awards

Please note at postgraduate level, you’ll need to gain the following number of credits in total to obtain the respective awards. If you have any questions please contact us.

AwardCredits
Postgraduate Certificate60 Credits
Postgraduate Diploma120 Credits
MA or MSc180 Credits

This means you will gain 180 credits in total to complete the full MA or MSc. If you are studying part time you will normally complete your studies over two or three years, depending on the course structure.

Funding your studies

Find out more about fees, postgraduate loans and support you may be entitled to.

Find out about funding your studiesFind out about funding your studies

Alumni discount for Derby graduates

We offer a discount on postgraduate course fees for all Derby alumni.

Find out about the Alumni discountFind out about the Alumni discount

Students chatting to each other

International student scholarships

We have a range of scholarships and discounts available to international students which can be used together to offer a reduction in your tuition fees.

Find out if you're eligible for an international scholarship Find out if you're eligible for an international scholarship

How to apply

Please look at our application deadlines before you apply.


Careers

As a biomedical health graduate, you’ll be equipped with skills which put you at the forefront of advances in medical health – the MSc qualification adds real substance to your CV, giving you an edge in the job market.

You’ll be well prepared for careers in medical research, health charities, medical and biotechnology industries, and the government health sector. Your knowledge will also be invaluable in areas such as analytical consultancy, biological sales and scientific writing.

In addition, you’ll have a full complement of transferable skills – such as critical thinking, data analysis, report writing and communication – which are valued by employers and will stand you in good stead in any profession.

Contact us

If you need any more information from us, eg on courses, accommodation, applying, car parking, fees or funding, please contact us and we will do everything we can to help you.

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Additional information about your studies

Download programme specification

Teaching hours

Like most universities, we operate extended teaching hours at the University of Derby, so contact time with your lecturers and tutors could be anytime between 9am and 9pm. Your timetable will usually be available on the website 24 hours after enrolment on to your course.

Additional costs and optional extras

We’re committed to providing you with an outstanding learning experience. Our expert teaching, excellent facilities and great employability prepare you for your future career. As part of our commitment to you we aim to keep any additional study costs to a minimum. However, there are occasions where students may incur some additional costs.

The information provided on this page is correct at the time of publication but course content, costs and other individual course details do change from time to time and are updated as often as possible, so please do check these pages again when making your final decision to apply for a course. Any updated course details will also be confirmed to you at application, enrolment and in your offer letter.

Included in your fees
Mandatory costs not included in your fees
Optional costs not included in your fees

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