Healthcare Science (Life Sciences) (with Foundation Year)

This is a four-year programme that includes a year of foundational study and leads directly into the degree course. Our foundation year offers the chance to strengthen your skills, knowledge and confidence, before you advance to stage one of your honours degree.

Healthcare Science is a dynamic and continually evolving discipline that requires highly trained individuals to perform an array of laboratory based techniques that contribute to the overall care and wellbeing of patients.

The professionally accredited BSc (Hons) Healthcare Science degree at Cardiff Met is specifically designed to enable students to develop, integrate and apply scientific knowledge and skills to the multi-disciplinary investigation of human health and disease. With elements of work-based training incorporated into every year of the programme, it is carefully tailored to prepare graduates for a career in the NHS.​

The Healthcare Science degree is closely linked with the workforce planning requirements for NHS Wales, therefore offering an enhanced level of employability. During the second year of study, students will specialise in one of the following disciplines: Blood Science, Cellular Science, Genetics Science or Infection Science. Successful graduates will also be eligible to apply for registration as a Biomedical Scientist with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC), further enhancing the career opportunities.

This course is accredited by the Royal Society of Biology for the purpose of meeting in part the academic and experience requirement for Membership and Chartered Biologist (CBiol).

Due to this programme being NHS funded and therefore limited places being available which may fluctuate each year, unfortunately deferred applications cannot be considered.

All pathways lead to HCPC registration.

Cardiff Met provides a Foundation Year route for applicants who do not meet the entry requirements for Year 1 entry.

There’s still time to secure an award-winning university experience at Cardiff Met, ranked a top 3 Welsh university (Uni Compare Rankings 2026).

Whatever your goals, you’ll be supported to reach your full potential through expert teaching and a supportive environment. Gain real-world experience via placements and live briefs, and graduate with the skills to make a positive impact.

Professionally accredited courses prepare you for the world of work, alongside year-round careers support, entrepreneurship opportunities and options to study abroad.

Cardiff is also one of the UK’s most affordable cities (NatWest Student Living Index 2025), offering vibrant food, nightlife, green spaces and more on a student budget.

Into sport? Cardiff Met is a leading UK university for student sport, supporting both academic and athletic success.