Postgraduate course
Biomedical Science MSc
Learn the molecular basis of cancer and study the cutting edge of Biomedical Science research.
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This MSc Biomedical Sciences course uses cancer as a scientific lens to explore the fundamental principles that underpin modern biomedical science. By examining key processes such as genetic regulation, cell signalling, immune responses and therapeutic development, students gain an integrated understanding of disease biology. Alongside this thematic focus, the course develops essential transferable skills in research design, data analysis and scientific communication, preparing graduates for careers across the biomedical and life sciences sectors.
Please note the course is subject to final approval.
York campus
- Duration – 1 year
- School – School of Science, Technology and Health
Minimum entry requirements
2:2 honours degree in a closely related subject
Tuition fees
UK 2026-27 £8,600 per year full time
International 2026-27 £11,800 per year full time
Course overview
Our Biomedical Science postgraduate course is designed to provide you with a thorough understanding of concepts within the key fields of Biomedical Sciences including genomics, pharmacology, immunology, and pathology disciplines.
The curriculum will allow you to develop a detailed understanding into cancer biology, including but not limited to oncogenic signalling pathways, tumour heterogeneity, genetics and genomics, as well as precision therapeutics, biomarker discovery and epigenetics. You will explore the design and mechanisms of new treatments, alongside how modern precision therapies are increasingly utilised in combination with classical chemotherapies to provide improved clinical benefit. You will also undertake practical laboratory-based classes to consolidate your theoretical understanding of the taught concepts throughout the degree.
During this course, you will complete a critical appraisal of current scientific literature within a specific area of biomedical sciences with a cancer or pharmacological focus, as well as sharing literature in a variety of presentation methods. You will also complete a research project within the field of cancer biology under the supervisory guidance. This includes experimental design, ethical considerations and a ten week laboratory-based research project, culminating in a dissertation which will feature novel research in the fields of cancer or pharmacology.
What makes this course distinctive is its focus on bridging molecular science, pharmacology, and real-world clinical applications. This will equip you with the skills to engage in the discovery and delivery of cutting-edge cancer treatments. You will benefit from teaching led by active researchers, opportunities to engage with clinical case studies and ethical debates in oncology, and research projects embedded in staff laboratories.
Course structure
How you will study
You will study 6 modules over the course of the year.
Modules
Credits: 30
Compulsory module
The insights of this module focus on the cell and molecular biology of cancers, new technologies and pharmacological advancements, to allow therapeutic opportunities. The module will underpin the more skills-based content of other modules including critical appraisal, research and analytical methods, and the research project.
Specific topics covered include the function of the key cancer-related pathways and cellular processes, the molecular mechanisms of pathway deregulation, and the targeting of these pathways in therapy.
The module can be split into 4 distinct phases that build on each other.
- An overview of cancer characteristics and hallmarks
- The key cancer-related pathways and cellular processes, molecular mechanisms of pathway deregulation and the targeting of these pathways in therapy
- The key principles of pharmacology in a cancer setting
- Personalised medicine for specific cancer and patient characteristics
- Case studies on specific cancers, analytic methods and therapeutic approaches
Credits: 30
Compulsory module
You will focus on contemporary approaches to preclinical modelling and appropriate experimental design in cancer research. This module will equip you to engage with the processes behind anti - drug development and to recognise the challenges in developing successful therapies against cancer in a clinical setting.
Throughout this module, you will look at common research problems and the necessity of understanding pathways of cancer drug pharmacology. You will also develop a detailed understanding of cancer prevention strategies and associated ethical considerations of clinical trial design.
Credits: 30
Compulsory module
Research is heavily embedded within this module. You will focus on good research practice in the context of contemporary approaches to producing high-quality research in a range of clinical and preclinical settings. The intention is to equip you with the skills to engage with research in a critical manner, to recognise the strengths and weaknesses of published research, and to enable research findings to be assessed accordingly. Common research problems and the necessity of designing and conducting feasible research will be weighed against models of best practice in oncology research.
Credits: 30
Compulsory module
This module will prepare you for your specific research project. You will learn the foundational skills required to plan and carry out molecular research in terms of identifying appropriate methodology, taking care of ethical and health and safety requirements, and planning analysis strategies.
The module will also include several practical masterclasses to ensure that you can work safely in this environment and use basic equipment. The data analysis and techniques studied in this module may require engaging with published research to ascertain whether the results are valid or high quality and making decisions as appropriate.
Credits: 60
Compulsory module
You will use all the skills you have developed from your other modules, and focus on your key area of interest in biomedical science. Once you have identified a research question, you will begin to unpick that question through designing experiments and performing the data collection, concluding with analysing the data and presenting conclusions. You will be supported by a supervisor and the technical team, conducting an individual cancer-related research project, critically appraising the validity, strengths and weaknesses of your own work, and reporting the scientific findings both verbally and in writing.
Teaching and assessment
Teaching and learning
Teaching will be through a mix of lectures, laboratory sessions, case-based learning, data evaluation tutorials, and research projects embedded in our Disease Detection and Prevention research group and Institute for Health and Care Improvement (IHCI).
Assessment
Assessments are varied and aligned to contemporary research methods and professional practice, with emphasis on research and information literacy, communication, and critical evaluation skills. The assessment approach is designed to evaluate both theoretical knowledge and practical research skills, ensuring you are well-prepared for the real-world challenges of a career in research.
Entry requirements
Qualifications
Minimum entry requirements
2:2 honours degree in a closely related subject
International students
If you are an international student you will need to show that your qualifications match our entry requirements.
Information about international qualifications and entry requirements can be found on our International pages.
If English is not your first language you will need to show that you have English Language competence at IELTS level 6.5 (with no skill below 6.0) or equivalent.
International entry requirements
If your first language is not English, you need to take an IELTS test or an equivalent qualification accepted by the University. Visit our English language requirements page for more information.
Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning (APEL)
If you do not have traditional qualifications, you might be able to provide evidence of professional experience in the subject as an alternative way to meet the entry requirements. This is called Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning (APEL). Appropriate references and records of employment would need to be presented to support your case for admission.
Terms and conditions
Our terms and conditions, policies and procedures contain important information about studying at York St John University. You can read them on our Admissions pages.
Fees and funding
UK 2026 - 2027 entry
£8,600 per year
These costs apply to all UK, Jersey, Guernsey and Isle of Man students.
Postgraduate loans are available to help you pay for your master’s course. Find out more about funding your postgraduate studies.
International 2026 - 2027 entry
£11,800 per year
These costs apply to all students living outside the UK.
Due to immigration laws, if you are an international student on a student visa, you must study full time. For more information about visa requirements and short-term study visas, please visit the International Visa and Immigration pages.
Find out more about funding your postgraduate studies.
Tuition fees
UK 2026-27 £8,600 per year full time
International 2026-27 £11,800 per year full time
Alumni Scholarships
If you are alumni of York St John University we have scholarships available to help you continue your studies.
Additional costs and financial support
Course-related costs
While studying for your degree, there may be additional costs related to your course. This may include purchasing personal equipment and stationery, books and optional field trips.
Accommodation and living costs
View our accommodation pages for detailed information on accommodation and living costs.
Career outcomes
Where could Biomedical Science take you?
A postgraduate degree in Biomedical Science can lead to a wide variety of career opportunities across research, healthcare, industry, and technology. Overall, this qualification offers flexibility and the potential to work in scientific, clinical, industrial, or business-related roles within the healthcare sector.
This degree allows you to work in a variety of settings including:
- Research and academia
- Healthcare and clinical sector
- Pharmaceutical and biotechnology industry
- Biomedical engineering & medical devices
- Emerging and high-growth fields
- Business, policy & management
- Government and regulatory bodies
Stand out from the crowd with postgraduate study
Far fewer people have postgraduate degrees than undergraduate qualifications. This gives you something extra to set yourself apart in a competitive graduate job market. Those with a postgraduate qualification will earn an average of £8,000 a year more than those with only an undergraduate degree. (Department For Education Graduate Labour Market Report 2019)
Our careers service, LaunchPad, provides career support tailored to your ambitions. Through this service you can access:
- Employer events
- LinkedIn, CV and cover letter sessions
- Workshops on application writing and interview skills
- Work experience and volunteering opportunities
- Personalised career advice
This support does not end when you graduate. You can access our expert career advice for the rest of your life. We will help you gain the experience and confidence you need to succeed.
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