Life sciences
In this area, healthcare science staff play a crucial role in helping to improve understanding of illnesses and their treatment. Healthcare science staff may also be responsible for developing new treatments for common medical problems, such as infertility or allergies.
The majority of time is spent in hospital laboratories, typically in a clinical pathology laboratory analysing different samples from patients and giving doctors the information they need to make a first accurate diagnosis. They also working with doctors to choose the most appropriate treatment on hospital wards or in the community. Genetics is often based in specialist hospitals.
Please see details of the career areas within life sciences.
Education and training
Students can study at two levels:
- Practitioner Training Programme (PTP) for undergraduates
- Scientist Training Programme (STP) for graduates
PTP: students can study either of the following 3-year degrees:
- BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science at Bangor University
- BSc (Hons) Healthcare Science – Biomedical Science (blood science/Cellular science/genetics science/infection science) at Cardiff Metropolitan University
Successful completion of either of the above degrees allows application for registration as a Biomedical Scientist with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). Registration is essential if you wish to work within the NHS or with local authorities.
For further information visit Student Awards Services.
STP: Please see details of STP opportunities.