Fd Biomedicine and Health Sciences

Start Date
Level
5
Course Course
P00797
Area
Science, Dental & Pharmacy
Campus
City Campus

About this Course

Launch your career in one of the UK's fastest-growing and most important scientific sectors with the Foundation Degree (FdSc) in Biomedicine & Health Science. Delivered by The Sheffield College and validated through Sheffield Hallam University, this two-year higher education programme has been designed to address workforce shortages across biomedical science, healthcare science, pharmaceuticals and the wider life sciences sector.

What you can study

The course combines a strong scientific foundation with practical laboratory experience, professional development and real-world healthcare applications. Students develop essential knowledge in biology, chemistry, physiology, microbiology, immunology and public health, while building the laboratory and analytical skills sought by employers.

Level 4 – Semester 1 - Fundamentals of Life Sciences (40 Credits)
Provides the scientific foundations required for further study in bioscience and healthcare.Key topics include:

  • Biochemistry and biomolecules
  • DNA, RNA and genetics
  • Cell biology
  • Human anatomy and physiology
  • Organic, inorganic and physical chemistry
  • Pathophysiology and biological chemistry 

Introducing Professional Skills for Scientists (20 Credits)
Develop essential academic, practical and professional skills, including:

  • Digital literacy
  • Scientific mathematics
  • Information searching
  • Laboratory techniques
  • Scientific communication
  • Data handling
  • Professional ethics and sustainability
  • Understanding the UN Sustainable Development Goals

Level 4 – Semester 2 - Demonstrating Professional Skills for Scientists (20 Credits)
Build confidence through independent practical work and project-based learning. Topics include:

  • Investigation design
  • Problem solving
  • Scientific literature evaluation
  • Data interpretation
  • Practical laboratory competence 
Epidemiology & Public Health (20 Credits)
Explore how diseases affect populations and how public health interventions improve outcomes. Key areas include:

  • Disease detection
  • Screening programmes
  • Health inequalities
  • Population health
  • Public health policy and interventions

Human Reproduction & Endocrinology (20 Credits)
Study the science of human reproduction and hormonal control. Topics include:

  • Reproductive physiology
  • Endocrine regulation
  • Embryology
  • Assisted reproductive technologies (IVF)
  • Reproductive ethics 


Level 5 – Semester 1 - Molecular & Cellular Biochemistry (40 Credits)
Develop a deeper understanding of the molecular mechanisms behind health and disease. Key topics include:

  • Biomolecular structure and function
  • Metabolism and energy production
  • Gene expression and regulation
  • Cell signalling pathways
  • Disease mechanisms
  • Biotechnology ethics
  • Animal models in scientific research 

Developing Professional Skills for Scientists (20 Credits)
Advance your professional and employability skills through laboratory-based learning. Topics include:

  • Experimental design
  • Project management
  • Autonomous laboratory practice
  • Statistical and mathematical data analysis
  • Scientific integrity
  • Professional development and CPD
  • Scientific communication


Level 5 – Semester 2 - Immunology & Microbiology (20 Credits)
Investigate the relationship between microorganisms, disease and the immune system. Key topics include:

  • Innate and adaptive immunity
  • Vaccination and immunotherapy
  • Bacterial and viral pathogens
  • Infection control
  • Antimicrobial resistance
  • Environmental microbiology 

Physiology of Health & Disease (20 Credits)
Examine how physiological systems function in health and change through disease and ageing. Additional topics include:

  • Cognitive function and performance
  • Environmental adaptation
  • Pharmacological interventions
  • Systems-based approaches to disease
  • Scientific presentation and case-study analysis

Entry Requirements

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Where does this Lead

This Foundation Degree provides a clear progression route to higher-level study. Students who successfully complete the programme can:
  • progress directly to Level 6 at Sheffield Hallam University and top-up their qualification to gain a full BSc (Hons) degree/
  • continue into specialist postgraduate study in biomedical science, healthcare science or life sciences after completing an honours degree
  • develop the academic and practical skills needed for professional scientific training and career development
The course has been specifically designed to support progression, withtudents benefiting from visits to Sheffield Hallam University's laboratories and facilities to ease the transition to final-year study.

Future Opportunities

Graduates can pursue careers across a wide range of scientific, healthcare and laboratory settings.
Potential career pathways include:

  • Biomedical Laboratory Assistant
  • NHS Laboratory Technician
  • Healthcare Science Associate
  • Clinical Laboratory Support Worker
  • Microbiology Technician

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