Triangle
Exit nav
University of Nottingham Malaysia
University of Nottingham Malaysia
Search

Course overview

The BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science is a three-year degree that offers a multidisciplinary approach, with core modules delivered by the Division of Biomedical Sciences, School of Pharmacy. Students also have the option to select modules from both within and beyond the Faculty of Science and Engineering.

In your first year, you will gain a broad understanding of biomedical science, focusing on key systems and pathways in the human body, and how these relate to diseases. The second year emphasises scientific research techniques, including modules on drug usage and mechanisms of action. The experiential learning from a 12-week summer placement will provide valuable real-world experience. In your final year, you will undertake a specialised research project, where you will develop essential research skills, equipping you for a successful career in medical and health sciences. This hands-on experience ensures you are well-prepared to tackle both current and future challenges in the field.

The biomedical science degree programme is designed to meet national and international standards set by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA) and the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS), UK. The programme is recognised and qualified to register under by Malaysian Allied Health Professions Council (MAHPC). The graduates are eligible to practice as Medical Laboratory Scientist in Malaysia.

Why choose this course?

  • Biomedical Science is at the heart of modern healthcare, driving advancements in understanding diseases, treatments, and the human body itself. As healthcare evolves, the need for deeper insights into how diseases and drugs affect the body continues to grow.
  • This course is ideal for students with a passion for human health and the biological differences between normal and diseased states.
  • The three-year honours programme offers an exciting opportunity to study internationally at our UK campus during your third year, including the chance to complete your Final Year Project in the Spring semester while based in the UK.
  • Accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS), UK, this degree enables graduates to pursue a career as a biomedical scientist in the UK, by completing the IBMS Registration Training Portfolio and obtaining a Certificate of Competence for HCPC registration.
  • Many of our graduates now hold prominent positions at leading biomedical and biotechnology companies, both in Malaysia and around the world. This expansive global network provides invaluable connections, mentorship, and career opportunities, offering you a strong platform for future success in the field.

Modules

Core modules

  • Molecular Basis of Medicine
  • Core Skills in Biomedical Sciences
  • Fundamentals of Neuroscience
  • Human Diseases
  • Human Physiology
  • Microbial Physiology
  • Human Anatomy, Development and Histology
  • Social Psychology

Core modules

  • Principles of Immunology
  • Haematology and Transfusion Science
  • Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics
  • Cancer and Clinical Genetics
  • Cellular Pathology
  • Biochemistry
  • Medical Microbiology and Parasitology
  • Professional Skills in Biomed. Sciences 

Core modules

  • Clinical Biochemistry
  • Epidemiology, Public Health and Health Informatics
  • Toxicology and Pharmacogenetics
  • Biomedical Sciences Final Year Research Project I  
  • Biomedical Sciences Final Year Research Project II
  • Therapeutic Immunology
  • Biomedical Science Industrial Training

Entry requirements

All candidates are considered on an individual basis and we accept a broad range of qualifications. The entrance requirements below apply to 2025 entry.

A Level BBC, including Biology and Chemistry. One of these subjects must be at grade B, excluding Critical Thinking and General Studies.
IB Diploma 26 points with 5 and 4 at Higher Level, including both Biology (HL) and Chemistry (HL), with a minimum of 5 required in one of these subjects.
STPM BBC+, including both Biology and Chemistry. One of these subjects must be at grade B, excluding Pengajian Am.
UEC 5 B3s, including both Biology and Chemistry. One of these subjects must be at grade B3, excluding Bahasa Malaysia and Chinese Language.
Australian Year 12 ATAR 82. Applicants are required to meet specific grade standards in Biology and Chemistry, aligned with A Level subject requirements. To fulfil these A Level standards, specific grade equivalents in the Senior Secondary Certificate of Education (SSCE) are required.
Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) 77% average based on 6 subjects, including both Biology and Chemistry. Specific grade requirements must be met if subjects are required at A Level: 75% for C and 81% for B.

Canadian Secondary School Diplomas from other provinces are acceptable and will be assessed based on the University’s requirements.
Gaokao (NCEE) and Senior High School Diploma (China) 70% average in the Gaokao, including two required subjects (Biology and Chemistry) at 75% and 73%, respectively. In addition, a minimum of 70% overall in the Senior High School Diploma, with at least 70% in Mathematics and two Science subjects, which must include Biology, Chemistry, or Physics.

Gaokao scores are converted from 750 to a percentage scale.
Senior School Certificate Examination (CBSE) / Indian School Certificate (CISCE) - Class XII 78% average from the best four subjects, including Biology and Chemistry as required subjects, with at least one of these subjects at a minimum of 80% and the other at 70%. Excludes local language, Environmental Education, General Studies, and Physical Education.
Advance Placement (AP) 4, 4, 3, including AP Biology and AP Chemistry, with one of these subjects at score of 4.
Diploma - Local Institutions Entry to Year 2 is assessed on a case-by-case basis, typically requiring a minimum GPA of 3.20 out of 4.0 and good grades in relevant subjects, including both Biology and Chemistry.
Foundation - Local Institutions Acceptance is at the School’s discretion and requires a minimum GPA of 3.20 out of 4.0 and good grades in relevant subjects, including both Biology and Chemistry.
Nottingham's Foundation Programme Successful completion is required with an overall minimum average of 50%, including at least 50% in all Biology and Chemistry modules.

This list is not exhaustive, and we accept a wide range of qualifications. Eligibility will be fully determined upon the submission of a completed application.

IELTS (Academic):

6.5 (with no less than 6.0 in each element)

TOEFL (iBT):

90 (minimum 19 in Writing and Listening, 20 in Reading and 22 in Speaking)

PTE (Academic):

71 (with no less than 65 in each element)

GCE A Level English Language or English Literature:

Grade C

GCE AS Level English Language or English Literature:

Grade C

SPM:

CEFR level B2

GCSE O-Level:

Grade C / 4

IGCSE (first language):

Grade C / 4

IGCSE (second language):

Grade B / 6

MUET:

Band 4.5

UEC:

Grade A2

IB English A1 or A2 (Standard or Higher Level):

4 points

IB English B (Higher Level):

4 points

IB English B (Standard Level):

5 points

OSSD English (ENG3U/ENG4U) (No fast-track route):

75%

CBSE/CISCE Class XII or Class X:

75% overall (confirmation of English as the medium of instruction required)
  • IELTS (Academic), TOEFL iBT, and PTE (Academic) test results must be less than two years old.
  • IELTS One Skill Retake is accepted.
  • IELTS Academic Online, TOEFL iBT Home Edition, and PTE Academic Online are not accepted.
  • MUET results are valid for five years from the release date.
  • OSSD English (ENG3U/ENG4U) with the required grades will only be accepted if applicants have completed all 30 credits from standard OSSD courses, not through credit exemptions. Fast-track routes are not accepted.
  • CBSE/CISCE Class XII or Class X English with the required grades will only be accepted if applicants provide a confirmation letter stating that English was the medium of instruction throughout schooling from Class X to Class XII.

Foundation progression options

The Nottingham's Foundation Programme  is a 1-year pre-university course that prepares students for direct progression to UNM’s undergraduate degrees. It builds a strong academic foundation while enhancing language, critical thinking, and study skills. Students can also explore elective modules tailored to their chosen degree pathway.

Learning and assessment

How you will learn

  • Lectures
  • Seminars
  • Tutorials
  • Workshops
  • Supervision
  • Practical classes
  • Field trips
  • Lab sessions
  • Computer labs

How you will be assessed

  • Coursework
  • Group coursework
  • Dissertation
  • Examinations
  • Presentation
  • Essay
  • Poster presentation
  • Practical write-ups
  • Research project
  • Reflective review

Applying

Our step-by-step guide contains everything you need to know about applying for undergraduate courses.

How to apply

Fees

ResidencyFees
Malaysian studentsRM52,000 per year
International studentsRM58,000 per year

Where you will learn

Malaysia Campus

Semenyih Campus is 48km from Kuala Lumpur International Airport and just 45 minutes’ drive from the famous city centre with its iconic Petronas Twin Towers. On arrival, you are immersed in the green jungle backdrop that Malaysia provides with wildlife, sunshine and campus lake.

The campus is home to our business, education, science and engineering schools, which sit alongside a sports centre, library and student accommodation. The University has everything a modern day student could wish for with the added bonus of being located in central Asia allowing you to travel further afield in your free time.

Public transport is plentiful with free shuttle services operating on some routes. Taxi/Grab services in Malaysia are very reasonable and used widely by the student community.

Careers

Studying Biomedical Science provides you with the perfect platform to gain knowledge and skills for a rewarding career in industry or academia.

Graduates from the Biomedical Sciences programme are exposed to a wide variety of careers ranging from medical research to pharmaceuticals and academia. Many students also progress to postgraduate research degrees, while others go on to medical writing, patent work and drug discovery.

Biomedical Science is also one of the few courses eligible to apply for graduate entry to medicine.

The University has an established Careers Advisory Service (CAS) that provides students with essential resources and guidance for career choices offering many opportunities to develop the skills needed to plan and manage your future. Our Careers Advisory Service will work with you to improve and maximise your employability skills as well as providing essential resources and guidance that will assist you with job/course applications. They will facilitate searches for appropriate work experience placements and connect you to a wide range of prospective employers or training opportunities. In addition the division of biomedical sciences provides guidance and maintains good connections with both our alumni and collaborators in industry to facilitate career and future employment opportunities.

With a wide variety of eventual specialisation, our Biomedical Sciences degree is purposely designed to maximise your career options. Career choices will be influenced by your interests, skills and abilities, Studying Biomedical Sciences provides you the perfect platform to gain knowledge and skills for a rewarding career in industry or academia.

Graduates from the Biomedical Sciences programme are exposed to a wide variety of careers ranging from medical research to pharmaceuticals and academia. Many students also progress to postgraduate research degrees, while others go on to medical writing, patent work and drug discovery.

Biomedical Sciences is also one of the few courses eligible to apply for graduate entry in the field of medicine.

Frequently asked questions

The Biomedical Sciences BSc (Hons) programme is an undergraduate degree offered by the University of Nottingham Malaysia that focuses on the study of human biology and disease. The curriculum is designed to provide students with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary to pursue a career in the field.

The Biomedical Sciences BSc (Hons) course is a full-time programme that takes three years to complete.

Graduates of the Biomedical Sciences BSc (Hons) course can pursue a variety of careers in the biomedical sciences, including:

  • Research scientist
  • Biomedical scientist
  • Biotechnologist
  • Clinical scientist
  • Forensic scientist
  • Medical laboratory technologist
  • Microbiologist
  • Toxicologist
  • Dietician
  • Drug developer and medicine researcher
  • Pharmaceutical sales representative
  • Science writer
  • Science teacher

The Biomedical Sciences BSc (Hons) course uses a combination of lectures, tutorials, laboratory work, and independent study to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter.

The University of Nottingham Malaysia provides state-of-the-art facilities for students in the Biomedical Sciences BSc (Hons) programme, including:

  • Dedicated teaching laboratories
  • Research laboratories
  • Clinical labs
  • Library and information services centre

Yes, students can participate in research projects under the supervision of academic staff. This provides students with the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in scientific research and develop their practical skills.

Yes, the University of Nottingham Malaysia offers a variety of financial support options for students, including scholarships. However, these can be availed by students who meet certain criteria, such as academic achievement, financial need, or specific programme requirements.

The average salary for a Biomedical Scientist in Malaysia is RM 32000 [Source: PayScale].

This content was last updated on 21 January 2025. Every effort has been made to ensure that this information is accurate, but changes are likely to occur between the date of publishing and course start date. It is therefore very important to check this website for any updates before you apply.