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Interdisciplinary Biomedical Research (MSc) (2024 Entry)

Interdisciplinary Biomedical Research student in the lab

Explore our Interdisciplinary Biomedical Research taught Master's degree.

Take the next step in your research career with the University of Warwick. If you are a biologist, a mathematician, a physicist or a chemist interested in biomedical problems, our MSc in Interdisciplinary Biomedical Research (IBR) could be for you.


Course overview

The MSc in IBR is a vibrant and inclusive scientific community centred on students’ experience and our goal is to prepare you for your next career stage, whether in academia or industry. Designed to be a gateway to a PhD, our IBR MSc programme will equip you with knowledge and skills in both life and physical sciences.

Warwick’s multidisciplinary ethos is not only demonstrated by a large choice of modules from physical biology, statistics, imaging, programming and modelling but also by masterclasses on cellular dynamics, microbiology and infection or applied medical technologies. During the year you will have the opportunity to conduct two 12-week research projects in two different disciplines preparing you for your future career.

Skills from this degree

  • Analytical skills
  • Research skills
  • Presentation skills
  • Computational skills
  • Mathematical skills

General entry requirements

Minimum requirements

First degree (2:1) or equivalent qualification, in Physical Sciences (Chemistry, Maths, Physics, Stats or Engineering), or Life Sciences (Biology, Biochemistry, Biomedical Sciences)

Maths A level or equivalent is strongly recommended.


English language requirements

You can find out more about our English language requirementsLink opens in a new window. This course requires the following:

  • Band A
  • With specific component scores of 6.5 in reading and writing.

International qualifications

We welcome applications from students with other internationally recognised qualifications.

For more information, please visit the international entry requirements pageLink opens in a new window.


Additional requirements

There are no additional entry requirements for this course.

Core modules

  • Frontier Techniques in Biomedical Research
  • Essential and Transferable Research Skills
  • Physical Biology of the Cell
  • Laboratory Project One
  • Laboratory Project Two

Optional Core Modules

  • Statistics for Data Analysis
  • Programming for Biomedical Data Analysis
  • Mathematical Modelling of Biomedical Systems
  • Microscopy and Imaging
  • Molecular Biology: Principles and Techniques
  • Translational Biomedical Research & Diagnostics 

Read more about the core and optional modules on the Medical School's website.Link opens in a new window

Teaching

This course is all about being interactive. A balanced mix of lectures, seminars, workshops, hands-on and problem-solving sessions, as well as lab work, will train you to tackle biomedical issues with creativity.


Class sizes

Class sizes will vary, however on average they comprise of 20-25 students.


Assessment

Our ethos is that assessments should reflect real-life situations and be a method to learn and progress.

As such, you will be assessed in many different ways, including short reports, dissertation, oral presentations, oral exams, posters and podcasts and more traditional written exams.


Additional course costs

£2,500 (self-funding students) to cover laptop for duration of study and consumables for 2 x 11-week research projects.


Your timetable

Your personalised timetable will be complete when you are registered for all modules, listing your allocated lectures, seminars, and other small group classes. Your compulsory modules will be registered for you when you join us.

Your career

Our department has a dedicated careers consultant to help boost your employability and prepare for a career. There are workshops and events throughout the year. Previous examples include:

  • Career Society at Medical School Event
  • AFP Interview Preparation
  • Warwick careers fairs throughout the year
  • Foundation Programme (UKFPO) Information evening

Tuition fees

Tuition fees are payable for each year of your course at the start of the academic year, or at the start of your course, if later. Academic fees cover the cost of tuition, examinations and registration and some student amenities.

Find your taught course fees  


Fee Status Guidance

The University carries out an initial fee status assessment based on information provided in the application and according to the guidance published by UKCISA. Students are classified as either Home or Overseas Fee status and this can determine the tuition fee and eligibility of certain scholarships and financial support. 

If you receive an offer, your fee status will be stated with the tuition fee information. If you believe your fee status has been incorrectly classified you can complete a fee status assessment questionnaire (follow the instructions in your offer) and provide the required documentation for this to be reassessed. 

The UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) provides guidance to UK universities on fees status criteria, you can find the latest guidance on the impact of Brexit on fees and student support on the UKCISA website.


Additional course costs

Please contact your academic department for information about department specific costs, which should be considered in conjunction with the more general costs below, such as:

  • Core text books
  • Printer credits
  • Dissertation binding
  • Robe hire for your degree ceremony

Scholarships and bursaries

Scholarships and financial support

Find out about the different funding routes available, including; postgraduate loans, scholarships, fee awards and academic department bursaries.

Living costs

Find out more about the cost of living as a postgraduate student at the University of Warwick.

Find out how to apply to us, ask your questions, and find out more.

How to apply

The application process for courses that start in September and October 2024 will open on 2 October 2023.

Applications will close on 2 August 2024 for students who require a visa to study in the UK, to allow time to receive a CAS and complete the visa application process.

How to apply for a postgraduate taught course  

After you’ve applied

Find out how we process your application.

Applicant Portal

Track your application and update your details.

Admissions statement

See Warwick’s postgraduate admissions policy.

Join a live chat

Ask questions and engage with Warwick.

Warwick Hosted EventsLink opens in a new window

Our hosted events run throughout the year, with a mixture of virtual and in-person sessions. These events are a great way to learn more about our courses and departments, chat to current students and staff, and find out more information about accommodation, careers, and how to apply.

Postgraduate Fairs

Throughout the year we attend exhibitions and fairs online and in-person around the UK. These events give you the chance to explore our range of postgraduate courses, and find out what it’s like studying at Warwick. You’ll also be able to speak directly with our student recruitment team, who will be able to help answer your questions.

Live chats

Join a live chat with our staff and students, who are here to answer your questions and help you learn more about postgraduate life at Warwick. You can join our general drop-in sessions or talk to your prospective department and student services.

Warwick Talk and Tours

A Warwick talk and tour lasts around two hours and consists of an overview presentation from one of our Recruitment Officers covering the key features, facilities and activities that make Warwick a leading institution. The talk is followed by a campus tour which is the perfect way to view campus, with a current student guiding you around the key areas on campus.