How to become a biomedical scientist
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- an apprenticeship
- working towards this role
University
You could do a degree accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science, or train through the NHS Practitioner Training Programme and complete a degree in healthcare science.
Your course will include work placements so you can get industry experience and evidence to complete a training portfolio. You'll need this to register to work.
You can also be sponsored to do a biomedical science degree through the armed forces. You can find more information on student biomedical roles from:
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English, maths and science
- 3 A levels, or equivalent, including biology and chemistry
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Apprenticeship
You could get into this role via a Healthcare science practitioner degree apprenticeship.
This apprenticeship is typically completed in 36 months.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship
Work
You may be able to get into biomedical science as a trainee.
You'll need at least 2 A level sciences or equivalent, like a Level 3 Diploma in Applied Science. Places are sponsored by employers, like the NHS, and are advertised as trainee biomedical scientist jobs. You'll study for an accredited degree while you work.
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Registration
- you'll need to register with the Health and Care Professions Council
Further information
You can find more advice about becoming a biomedical scientist from the Institute of Biomedical Science and Health Careers.