Applied Medical Sciences

The BSc Applied Medical Sciences program at University College London offers students a comprehensive foundation in the scientific principles underpinning modern healthcare. Designed for individuals aiming to pursue careers in medical research, clinical support, or allied health professions, this degree combines rigorous academic coursework with practical skills development. Throughout the program, students explore essential topics such as human anatomy and physiology, biomedical sciences, pharmacology, pathology, and healthcare ethics. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and real-world applications, preparing graduates to contribute effectively to medical teams, conduct innovative research, or undertake further professional training.

Students benefit from UCL's distinguished faculty, state-of-the-art laboratories, and close links with hospitals and healthcare institutions. The program provides opportunities for research placements, internships, and collaborative projects, fostering a collaborative learning environment that encourages critical thinking and problem-solving. Graduates of Applied Medical Sciences acquire a solid understanding of disease mechanisms, diagnostic procedures, and treatment options, equipping them to support patient care in various clinical settings. The degree also emphasizes the development of communication skills, ethical awareness, and teamwork, which are vital attributes in healthcare professions.

UCL’s multidisciplinary approach ensures that students gain an integrated perspective on health and medicine, emphasizing the importance of research-informed practice. The program is an ideal choice for students aspiring to advance healthcare technologies, contribute to medical innovations, or pursue postgraduate study in medicine, biomedical sciences, or related fields. With a strong focus on employability, the curriculum is tailored to meet the evolving needs of the medical and healthcare industries, ensuring graduates are well-prepared to make meaningful contributions to the health sector. By completing this degree, students will be equipped with the scientific expertise and professional competencies necessary to thrive in a dynamic and rapidly advancing field.

In each year of your degree you will take a number of individual modules, normally valued at 0.5 or 1.0 credits, adding up to a total of 4.0 credits for the year. Modules are assessed in the academic year in which they are taken. The balance of compulsory and optional modules varies from programme to programme and year to year. A 1.0 credit is considered equivalent to 15 credits in the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS).

Year one is demanding, covering the foundations of human biology and medicine. The core modules provide an understanding of human health and disease. Teaching of biochemistry, physiology and anatomy is integrated within each organ system. You will be mostly based at UCL?s Royal Free campus in Hampstead, North London, and taught by world-leading scientists and clinicians. You will be enrolled into one of four 'houses', which compete for points in various events, both fun and academic, including invention activities and a Dragon?s Den scenario.

In year two, you will take five compulsory modules. There are a wide range of optional modules, of which you will select three; this flexibility enables you to choose your own route within the biomedical sciences: biomedical entrepreneur, clinical trials, infection, or regenerative medicine and nanotechnology.

Year three follows a similar pattern, with modules built around a solid applied medical science core. You can tailor a programme that suits your needs and aspirations, with core skills to give you strengths to pursue a career you enjoy. You will also have a one-month professional placement and be engaged on a research project.

Year 1

Core or compulsory module(s)

• Cardiovascular and Respiratory Function in Health and Disease
• Data Interpretation and Evaluation of Science
• Foundations in Health and Disease
• The Gut, Liver and Drug Metabolism
• Infection, Inflammation and Repair
• Kidneys, Hormones and Fluid Balance
• Student Selected Component

Optional modules

You will select one of the following:

• Functional Anatomy and Medical Imaging
• Principles of Pathological Science

Year 2

Core or compulsory module(s)

• Key Laboratory Skills
• Molecular Basis of Disease
• Musculoskeletal and Nervous System
• Pharmacology and Drug Action
• Statistics for Medical Scientists

Optional modules

You will select three of the following:

• Cancer Biology
• Infection
• Innovation Management
• Introduction to Applied Genomics 
• Introduction to Clinical Trials
• Physics of the Human Body
• Special Topics in History and Philosophy of Science: Applied Medicine and Society
• Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine

Plus modules from other UCL departments as appropriate.

Year 3

Core or compulsory module(s)

• Professional Placement
• Research Methods
• Research Project

Optional modules

You will select three options from 20 modules within the following areas:

• Cancer
• Clinical Trials
• Infection and Immunity
• Innovation
• Pharmacology
• Regenerative Medicine

A levels

Grades AAA-AAB

Subjects Biology and Chemistry required.

GCSEs English Language and Mathematics at grade B. For UK-based students, a grade C or equivalent in a foreign language (other than Ancient Greek, Biblical Hebrew or Latin) is required.

IB Diploma

Points 36-38

Subjects

A total of 17-18 points in three higher level subjects including Biology and Chemistry, with no score below 5.

• Successful completion of one year of a Bachelor Degree or Specialist Diploma at a Russian university recognised by UCL, with an average of 4.5/5.
• Study must contain subjects relevant to the programme of study at UCL.

Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)

• Standard level: Score of 92 overall with 24/30 in reading and writing and 20/30 in speaking and listening
• Good level: Score of 100 overall with 24/30 in reading and writing and 20/30 in speaking and listening
• Advanced level: Score of 109 overall 24/30 in reading and writing and 20/30 in speaking and listening

British Council International Language Testing System (IELTS Academic Version)

• Standard level: Overall grade of 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each of the subtests.
• Good level: Overall grade of 7.0 with a minimum of 6.5 in each of the subtests.
• Advanced level: Overall grade of 7.5 with a minimum of 6.5 in each of the subtests.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

Scholarships

• Bader Bursary
• UCL - United World Colleges and International Student House Scholarship (UCL - UWC/ISH Scholarship)
• UPCH Progression Scholarships

This program in Applied Medical Sciences at University College London (UCL) provides students with a comprehensive foundation in the fundamental concepts of medicine and healthcare. Designed to prepare graduates for careers in medical research, healthcare, or further clinical training, the degree emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach combining biological sciences, clinical applications, and health policy. Throughout the course, students engage with core subject areas such as human biology, physiology, pharmacology, and pathology, alongside modules on medical ethics, healthcare systems, and public health. The program integrates practical laboratory work and research projects, fostering critical thinking and scientific skills essential for advanced study or professional practice.

UCL’s Applied Medical Sciences degree also offers opportunities for experiential learning, including placements or collaborative projects with hospitals, clinics, and research institutions. These experiences aim to bridge theoretical knowledge with real-world healthcare challenges, giving students insight into patient-centered care and medical innovation. The program encourages development of communication skills, teamwork, and ethical reasoning, which are vital attributes in the medical field. Students are supported by a faculty composed of leading experts in biomedical sciences, clinical research, and healthcare policy, providing mentorship and guidance throughout their studies.

Graduates of the Applied Medical Sciences program at UCL are well-equipped to pursue postgraduate education, such as medicine, dentistry, or specialized biomedical fields. Alternatively, they can enter roles in medical research, healthcare management, pharmaceutical industries, or public health organizations. The curriculum is regularly reviewed and updated to reflect advances in medical science and innovations in healthcare technology, ensuring that students receive a current and relevant education. Overall, this program aims to produce versatile graduates capable of contributing to the evolving landscape of healthcare and biomedical research with critical insight and scientific rigor.