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. Upon successful completion of the Graduate Diploma (a score of 50% overall or more), you're guaranteed progression onto our IBMS-accredited MSc Biomedical Science programmes, choosing a specialist pathway in either Blood Science or Medical Microbiology, or the 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
Fees
Duration of study
- Full time: 1 year
This course is no longer accepting applications from international students for the 2026/27 academic year.
Why study Biomedical Science (Graduate Diploma) at Keele University?
About the course
Keele's 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 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're guaranteed progression onto our IBMS-accredited MSc Biomedical Science programmes, choosing a specialist pathway in either Blood Science or Medical Microbiology, or the Online programme.
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 compulsory modules 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.
What you will study
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 modules
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.
Academic and Professional Development in Bioscience (0 credits)
This module will provide additional academic and professional development workshops. You will reflect on the skills and qualities developed in your previous study and attend a range of workshops and tutorials to further develop and enhance your skills in good academic practice, literature searching and evaluation, and science communication. These will directly support you in engaging with other areas of your course and associated assessments. At the end of the year you will further reflect on your academic journey and the skills and qualities you have further developed aligned with the Keele graduate attributes. This, together with a series of workshops support career planning and employability will support you in developing your CV, applications and personal statements as you move to the next steps post graduation, whether entering employment in the biosciences or wider fields, or progression to further postgraduate study.
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.
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.
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.
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.
English for Academic Purposes 2 (15 credits)
Through a series of classroom-based workshops and activities on themes including culture and communication, environmental sustainability, media, and so on, this module will help you to develop specific academic reading, writing, verbal communication and presentation skills. You'll receive regular feedback from tutors in order to help you learn and improve the academic English skills necessary for successful completion of your university studies.
English for Academic Purposes 3 (15 credits)
Through class-based workshops, assignments and on-line resources, this module will focus on strengthening the key writing, reading and oral communication skills needed for success in academic work. Content will include: extracting information, summarising and paraphrasing, citing sources and compiling bibliographies, identifying the elements and functions of an academic essay, developing process writing skills, etc. Time will also be allocated for the development of discussion skills especially those related to presenting evidence, discussing an opinion, turn taking, etc.
English for Academic Purposes 4 (15 credits)
This module will help you to develop and refine the specific reading, writing, and verbal communication skills needed for success in your degree studies. Through a series of class-based workshops, tutorials and assignments, you will improve your ability to write academic essays, understand academic reading and lectures, and deliver academic presentations. You will also develop your understanding and use of academic English vocabulary and citation conventions.
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.
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)
Algeria
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)
Bahrain
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)
Egypt
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)
Hong Kong
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)
Kuwait
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)
Oman
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)
Qatar
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)
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)
Turkey
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)
UAE
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)
USA
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 C.
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.
Postgraduate funding and scholarshipsFees, funding and scholarships
Fees
2027/28 academic year
For start dates between September 2027 and July 2028.
| Type of study | Fees (per year) |
|---|---|
| UK - full time | £12,200 |
| International - full time | £23,900 |
For continuing students, fees will increase annually by RPIX, with a maximum cap of 5% per year.
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.
Scholarships
We know that understanding what support is available for postgraduate students is an important step in planning your future and we are committed to rewarding excellence and potential.
Visit our scholarships and bursaries webpage to find out more about our scholarships, including:
- Keele Global Scholarship – up to £5000 tuition fee discount for international students (2027/28)
- Keele Graduate Scholarship – up to £3000 tuition fee discount for home students (2027/28)
Terms and conditions apply.
Additional costs
There are no additional costs for this course. However, students may incur general expenses related to university study, such as for printing, textbooks and other materials. Students who undertake a placement may be responsible for additional costs, such as travel, accommodation, and subsistence costs. For further information, please refer to the additional costs information.
Teaching, learning and assessment
How you'll be taught
In addition to the lecture courses and tutorials, case-based learning (CBL) 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
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.
All modules are assessed within the semester in which they are taught. Modules are assessed by a mixture of assessment methods, including literature review, data analysis and poster, patient information leaflet, clinical report poster, essay and formal examination.
