Keele University

What you'll study

The programme builds a foundation in core engineering, mathematics and biology in the first year and moves into specialist regenerative medicine topics in subsequent years. Teaching blends lectures, laboratory practicals, computer modelling, group design work and an independent research project. Typical areas studied include:

• Fundamentals of bioengineering – thermodynamics, transport phenomena, biomechanics and materials science applied to biological systems.
• Cell and molecular biology – cell structure and function, signalling, stem cell biology and developmental biology relevant to tissue repair and regeneration.
• Tissue engineering and biomaterials – scaffold design, natural and synthetic polymers, surface modification, biocompatibility and degradation.
• Bioprocessing and bioreactors – culture systems for cells and tissues, scale-up considerations and production challenges.
• Imaging, characterisation and testing – microscopy, mechanical testing, histology and assays used to evaluate engineered tissues.
• Regulatory, ethical and translational issues – clinical translation, regulatory frameworks, Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) and the societal context of regenerative therapies.
• Computational methods – modelling of tissue mechanics, transport in scaffolds and simulation tools used in design optimisation.
• Independent research project – a substantial laboratory or design project supervised by academic staff, often aligned with active research groups or industry partners.

Optional modules and placements are commonly available to broaden practical experience; students may also have the opportunity to undertake collaborative projects with clinical or industrial partners.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold strong science qualifications. Typical entry profiles include A-levels with relevant subjects such as Biology, Chemistry, Physics or Mathematics; universities commonly look for a combination of grades that demonstrates proficiency in mathematics and a life science. BTEC applicants with a substantial science/engineering component are considered where the profile shows laboratory and quantitative skills. International applicants usually present an IB diploma or equivalent national qualifications with appropriate science and mathematics content.

Other considerations include demonstrated practical laboratory experience, interest in interdisciplinary study, and an ability to communicate technical material. Mature applicants and those with vocational experience in laboratory or clinical environments are also encouraged to apply; such applicants may be assessed on the basis of qualifications and relevant experience. All applicants should meet the institution's general English language requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates are well placed for careers across academia, industry and healthcare. Typical destinations include:

• Research assistant or laboratory scientist roles in universities, NHS research units and private research institutes.
• Positions in the medical devices and biomaterials industry, focusing on product development, testing or regulatory affairs.
• Employment in biotechnology companies developing cell therapies, tissue-engineered products or biofabrication techniques.
• Roles in quality assurance, manufacturing and GMP-compliant production for cell and gene therapy firms.
• Clinical trial coordination, technical support for healthcare technologies, or consultancy on translational projects.
• Progression to postgraduate study (MSc, MRes or PhD) in tissue engineering, regenerative medicine, biomaterials or related disciplines, leading to research or academic careers.

The programme's emphasis on practical skills, project work and cross-disciplinary thinking helps graduates adapt to technical and regulatory roles in the rapidly evolving regenerative medicine sector.

Why study at Keele University

Keele provides a campus-based learning environment with access to laboratory facilities and interdisciplinary research groups working on biomedical and translational projects. The university supports close collaboration between engineering, life sciences and clinical partners, giving students exposure to translational research and the practical challenges of moving therapies towards the clinic. Small-group teaching, practical laboratory sessions and supervised projects help develop hands-on technical competence and research skills.

Students benefit from dedicated academic supervision, links with regional healthcare providers and opportunities for placement experience or industry collaboration. Keele's student support services, careers guidance and emphasis on employability prepare graduates for the diverse career paths available within regenerative medicine and the broader bioengineering sector.