I have recently been asked about degrees in biomedical science and what universities are best. Deciding on the best ones can be difficult, as it depends what you want from university life. The key point to consider is what you will do with your biomedical science degree.

The title “biomedical scientist” is what is known as a protected title. In order to call yourself a biomedical scientist or to work as a biomedical scientist, you must be on a register with the Health Professions Council (HPC). The HPC is a government appointed body which firstly protects the general public. The HPC sets standards of knowledge, skills and conduct that anyone who wishes to be held on the register must adhere to. However, although the HPC holds and administers the register, the initial suitability of an applicant to the register is assessed by the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS). The standards of knowledge are gained through your degree, and if your initial degree does not meet these strict standards, then the IBMS will request evidence of “top-up” knowledge so that you do meet these standards before they will even consider looking at your skills. The IBMS have a list of accredited degree courses which is constantly being re-evaluated and it is only these courses that will definitely not require any top-up knowledge. Go to the IBMS website,  www.ibms.org 

The bottom line: If there is any possibility at all that you may want to work as a biomedical scientist, you MUST select a degree on the accredited list (found in the education section of the website). It will save lots of future time and effort, as well as money. Also note that it is the individual courses and not the university that is accredited.

If you want to live at home, Hertfordshire is worth a look and if you want to get away from home, try Southampton. Both have very good reputations. I taught as a guest lecturer at Westminster over several years, the downside to Westminster is the Central London location, otherwise they too have an excellent record.