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Is Biomedical science useful

I’ve heard that it’s really difficult to find a job with a biomedical science degree.. I want to work in a hospital-like setting in the future and work with patients, but idk if biomedicine can lead me to that. Is just a bsc enough or would I have to do masters as well to land a secure job?

Reply 1

EssexStudentRep

Official Rep

Original post by Anonymous

Hiya 😊

It really all depends on what you want to do after uni, for how you approach the different types of biomedical science degree that are out there.

If you like the idea of working within the NHS as a lab scientist in one of the pathology disciplines like histology, microbiology, blood sciences, etc then an IBMS Accredited Degree is pretty essential. The role of a biomedical scientist is a protected job title, and there are lots of guidelines to adhere to.

I study BSc Applied Biomedical Science at Essex, with a focus on a placement year within the NHS where we complete a portfolio of work to show compliance with the HCPC standards of proficiency. I've been on placement since October, and I return to uni for my final year this Autumn term. I've loved it, but I went into it with a lot of research, knowing that it was a job I wanted to do.

It's a good idea to email your local hospital with a pathology department, and asking if they offer tours to potential students so you can see what the day to day job entails.

A lot of people that study biomed can choose to follow a Graduate Entry Medicine pathway afterwards. There are also scientist training programmes like the STP which is an alternative way of pursuing a Masters while working for the NHS.

Some degrees have less of a clinical diagnostic focus and more of a focus on research and development of novel technologies and pharmaceuticals as there are so many ways you could pursue a scientific career with a biomedical science degree than just becoming a biomedical scientist.

Where a lot of people can struggle with finding a job in a lab afterwards, is if they've done an unaccredited degree, and they need to do top up modules. Searching for a hospital with a trainee BMS position that will support you in completing your portfolio is highly competitive. Those that have done a placement year have developed their lab based practice and fostered networking connections within the NHS so it can make it easier to find a job.

Think of it as a year long job interview. If you do well, there is a much higher likelihood of employment after graduation as you'll have experienced most of the training already.

The BSc combined with the work experience and the portfiolio will get you into an NHS Band 5 position. From there you can pursue your Specialist portfolio if you want to, which will give you higher earning potential.

I hope that helps, let me know if you've got any questions!
Best wishes,
Essex Student Rep - Hayley

Reply 2

current-learning

I am an international student from Hong Kong and I want to apply to uk biomedical science universities. I am wondering if an IBMS accredited degree is useful outside of UK?