Biomedical Science (Graduate Diploma) - Pre MSc, GradDip
Whether you are changing careers, pursuing an interest in biomedical research, or strengthening your subject knowledge and language skills, our Graduate Diploma in Biomedical Science prepares you for postgraduate study. Through a year of tailored, pre-master’s study and with access to state-of-the-art facilities, you will gain the skills needed to succeed at MSc level. On achieving an overall mean of at least 50%, you can progress directly on to our IBMS-accredited MSc Biomedical Science (Blood Science, Medical Microbiology, or Online programme).
Month of entry
- September
Mode of study
- Full time
Fees for 2026/27 academic year
-
UK - Full time £7,800 per year
International - Full time £12,100 per year
Duration of study
- 1 year
This course is no longer accepting applications from international students for the 2025/26 academic 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 also guarantee you direct entry on to the MSc Biomedical Science (Online) which is accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS).
Other courses you might be interested in:
"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 will study four 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-30078 Case Studies in Microbiology and Immunology (15 credits)
In this module, you will study current trends in disease themes in the field of microbiology and immunology. For each theme, there will be a case study and guided reading relating to current clinical interventions and how current experimental approaches are informing improvements to medical interventions in the future. You will have the opportunity to develop your communication skills by curating a themed edition of a journal by selecting the latest advances in your chosen field.
LSC-30014 Biochemistry Research Project (non-experimental) (15 credits)
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-30089 Biomedical Blood Science (30 credits)
You will explore the roles of a typical Blood Science department. This consists of Clinical Biochemistry, Immunology, Haematology and Transfusion Science. You will learn how Biomedical Scientists assess major organ function and identify common biochemical abnormalities. You will also learn about the pathobiology of autoimmune and allergy-related conditions and how the work of Biomedical Scientists helps to screen, diagnose and monitor affected patients.
LSC-30100 Advanced Clinical Pathology (30 credits)
You will explore the role of Biomedical Scientists working in some of the more specialist disciplines across Clinical Pathology, including reproductive science, point-of-care testing, clinical genetics and toxicology. Case-based learning will allow you to work in small groups to explore some of the key challenges affecting public health across the UK, and will give you real insight into the relationship between research, clinical practice and national guidance.
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.
"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
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. For international students, find out how we work with approved agents as part of our admissions process.
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Postgraduate funding and scholarships
Funding
Whether you're continuing from undergraduate study or returning to education, our dedicated financial support team is here to help.
Please note, if your course offers a January start date, the January 2026 start date falls in the 2025/26 academic year. Please see the tuition fees archive for the 2025/26 fees.
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.
Additional costs
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.
