Discover the best UK universities for Biomedical Science in 2026. Our rankings focus on teaching excellence, research impact, and student satisfaction to guide your choice in this vital health science field.
Best Universities for Biology: Unifresher Student Rankings 2026
The top universities earn Gold, Silver, and Bronze badges based on student satisfaction, graduate employability, teaching quality, and value for money. For full details, see our Ranking Methodology below.
| Rank | University | Academic | Social |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Gold | University of Cambridge | 95 | 70 |
| 2 Silver | University of Oxford | 94 | 68 |
| 3 Bronze | University of Edinburgh | 90 | 75 |
| 4 | University of Glasgow | 88 | 80 |
| 5 | University of Manchester | 87 | 74 |
| 6 | University of Bristol | 86 | 72 |
| 7 | University of Leeds | 85 | 73 |
| 8 | University of Nottingham | 84 | 74 |
| 9 | University of Southampton | 83 | 70 |
| 10 | Durham University | 82 | 68 |
1. University of Cambridge Gold
2. University of Oxford Silver
3. University of Edinburgh Bronze
4. University of Glasgow
5. University of Manchester
6. University of Bristol
7. University of Leeds
8. University of Nottingham
9. University of Southampton
10. Durham University
How We Ranked These Universities
Our Biology rankings combine trusted academic data with student lifestyle factors to reflect what really matters to students.
- Academic (40%): Graduate employability, teaching quality, research output, entry standards
- Social & Lifestyle (60%): Cost of living, nightlife, cost of a pint and Uber, crime rate, student satisfaction
- Data Sources: HESA, NSS, REF, UCAS, WhatUni, and Unifresher’s student surveys
- Weighting: Scores out of 100; ties broken by academic score.
Top-Ranked Biomedical Science Universities Explained
University of Manchester
Renowned for cutting-edge research and excellent graduate employability.
University of Leeds
Strong focus on practical skills and clinical partnerships.
University of Glasgow
Offers a supportive learning environment and high student satisfaction.
King’s College London
Exceptional teaching quality with great links to NHS and industry.
University of Edinburgh
Wide range of specialisms and research-led teaching.
University of Birmingham
Combines academic rigor with excellent student support services.
University of Nottingham
Modern facilities and strong career prospects.
University of Sheffield
Well-balanced teaching and social life, with strong research output.
University of Southampton
Noted for innovative teaching and excellent employability rates.
University of Newcastle
High student satisfaction scores and a welcoming campus community.
Career Prospects After a Biomedical Science Degree
Biomedical Science graduates often move into healthcare, research, pharmaceuticals, and biotechnology roles. You may also find relevant courses in Medicine and Biotechnology.
Biomedical Science Course Requirements & Entry Standards
Common entry requirements include A-levels in biology and chemistry, with UCAS points generally between 120 and 160. Check our entry requirements guide for detailed info.
Cheapest Cities to Study Biomedical Science in the UK
Glasgow, Sheffield, and Leeds offer affordable living costs and vibrant student communities.
Best Biomedical Science Unis for Nightlife & Social Life
Manchester, Newcastle, and Leeds stand out for their active student scenes and nightlife.
Student Wellbeing, Mental Health & Study Support
Top universities for student wellbeing in this subject include Glasgow, Edinburgh, and Sheffield, with strong mental health and academic support.
Not Sure About Biomedical Science? Consider These Alternatives
Look into Biology, Pharmacy, or Medicine for related fields.
Summary: Which Biomedical Science Uni is Right for You?
Consider research strengths, teaching quality, and location. Use our rankings to compare and find the best fit for your goals and lifestyle.
FAQs on the Best UK Universities for Biology
Top UK universities for Biology include University of Cambridge, University of Oxford, and University of Edinburgh. Our 2026 rankings highlight excellent teaching and student satisfaction.
University of Cambridge often leads in Biology due to strong research output and high student satisfaction.
A Biology degree opens diverse career paths including research, healthcare, conservation, and education. Its value depends on your interests and university choice.
The UK is a top destination for Biology with world-renowned universities, but countries like the USA, Canada, and Australia also offer excellent programs.
Typical A-levels include Biology and Chemistry, with Maths and Physics sometimes preferred. Check specific university requirements as they vary.
Biology graduates work in healthcare, environmental science, research, education, and biotech industries, among others.
Yes, demand is steady in healthcare, research, and environmental sectors, with increasing focus on biotechnology and conservation.
Starting salaries range from £22,000 to £30,000, rising with experience, especially in research and healthcare roles.
Courses with heavy lab work and interdisciplinary content, such as biochemistry or molecular biology, can be more demanding.
Graduates often work in healthcare, research institutions, environmental organisations, education, and pharmaceuticals.
Biology is highly respected worldwide for its broad scientific foundation and relevance to many cutting-edge fields.
Unifresher Team
Led by our editors and co-founder, we apply student-first principles and editorial rigour to shape each ranking.
Student Writers
Over 20 student writers and contributors from across UK universities help define what really matters to students.
Expert Panel
We bring in specialists from sustainability founders to employability coaches to help shape categories with depth and credibility.
Our judging combines real student input with expert guidance. Here’s how:
- Public nominations: Through our homepage form, with responses from our student users.
- Social polls: Shared on our Instagram and TikTok channels (20,000+ followers).
- Student panel: 20+ student contributors guide how each category reflects real priorities.
- Editorial team: Our founder and senior editors bring experience in youth-focused media and ranking design.
- Expert advisors: Each award features insight from a relevant industry or academic figure.
This ensures each ranking is transparent, meaningful, and powered by those it’s meant to serve: students.
✅ Why You Can Trust This Ranking
- Data-backed: Official sources: HESA, NSS, REF, UCAS
- Student-led: Over 1,000 UK students surveyed
- Balanced scoring: 40% academic + 60% student life
- Independently verified: No sponsored placements, ever
- Reviewed by editors: All results checked for fairness & accuracy
- Updated for 2025: Last checked
