Biomedical Science (including foundation year)BSc (Hons)

Biochemistry

This module introduces you to key biochemical concepts to provide a foundation for subsequent study in the Biosciences and Chemical & Pharmaceutical Science subject areas at Level 4.

The aim of the module is to give students the necessary background to appreciate the structure and function of the key molecules that cells are made of such as proteins, nucleic acids, lipids and carbohydrates as well as the role of biological catalysts, enzymes in the biological systems. DNA transcription and translation will also me covered and the module will finish with an introduction to the key molecules of the immune system. It will aim to give a better understanding of the ground rules of metabolism in order for students to appreciate the production ATP as the main energy currency in living organism.

Biology

This module introduces you to key concepts of cell biology and human physiology to provide a foundation for subsequent study of biological subjects at Level 4.

• You will learn about the origin of life and describe some theories of evolution and appreciate its complexity.
• You will study an introduction to the structure of cells and the concept of the cell as the basic unit of life.
• You will understand that there are a range of cell types and explain the difference between cells, tissues and organs.
• You will be introduced to the anatomy and physiology of key organ systems in the body.
• You will be introduced to the concept of cell division and mendelian genetics and inheritance.
• You will achieve a fundamental knowledge base of biology which will underpin studies at higher levels.

Chemistry

This module will be introducing you to important ideas and concepts in fundamental chemistry that will allow you to study scientific subjects at level 4.

The module aims to develop your understanding of fundamental concepts involving the molecular sciences relating to the periodic table, atomic properties, chemical bonds, simple chemical reactions and nomenclature. In addition, skills adjunct to the chemical sciences including numeracy, logical argument, research, and the utilisation of abstract models will be developed. Regular low-stakes assessments are employed to encourage learning, student motivation, attentiveness, and attendance.

Foundation Year Project (Biosciences)

The aim of this module is to help you gain knowledge and understanding of your subject area, and will allow you to develop skills which will be of use at higher levels. You will be conducting research into a topic relating to your course title, and to report your findings accordingly. The overall aim of this module is to provide you with fundamental subject-specific knowledge and relevant skills.

Scientific Studies

This module will be introducing you to the basic mathematical concepts needed to succeed on any science degree course, and also train you in essential scientific laboratory techniques designed to support and reinforce theoretical syllabus content. The practical section will emphasize safe practice in the laboratory environment. The mathematics section will be taught using calculations relevant to biology and chemistry to encourage connections between disciplines to be made. Supporting material will be available on-line; tutorial sessions will focus on practising mathematical techniques. Formative online pre-laboratory session questions will prepare the students in advance for the practical in question. Formative exercises will be carried out during tutorial sessions to reinforce the lecture material.

Anatomy & Physiology 1

This module introduces students to the theoretical and practical aspects of human anatomy and physiology in health and disease. It is designed for life-science students with an interest in human biology, but particularly for those wishing to pursue advanced studies in the Biosciences or Forensic Science.
This module aims to provide students, through lectures, tutorials and practical classes, with a sound knowledge of human body structure using appropriate anatomical nomenclature and an in-depth understanding of the physiology of selected body systems. The module will also aim to introduce basic concepts in immunology and pathology.

Anatomy & Physiology 2

This module introduces students to the theoretical and practical aspects of human anatomy and physiology in health and disease. It is designed for life-science students with an interest in human biology, but particularly for those wishing to pursue advanced studies in the Biosciences.
This module aims to provide students, through lectures, tutorials and practical classes, with a sound knowledge of human body structure using appropriate anatomical nomenclature and an in-depth understanding of the physiology of selected body systems. The module will also aim to introduce basic concepts in immunology and pathology.

Biochemistry

The aims of this module are aligned with the qualification descriptors within the Quality Assurance Agency’s, Framework for Higher Education Qualifications. This module is concerned with biochemistry focusing on the properties of key biochemical molecules and their role in biochemical function. This module aims to provide students with the qualities and transferable skills necessary for employment requiring the exercise of some personal responsibility.

Cell Biology

A core module which provides students with an understanding of basic cell structures and an awareness of different cell types and relates the structure and activities of cell components to their functions and to cellular activities as a whole.
The second half of the module is concerned with biochemistry focusing on the properties of key biochemical molecules and their role in biochemical function.
The aims of this module are aligned with the qualification descriptors within the Quality Assurance Agency’s Framework for Higher Education Qualifications. Specifically it aims to expose students to some of the key questions of cell biology concerning cell structure and intracellular activities. Provide students with practical experience in a range of laboratory-based biological techniques. Enhance students' ability to manage themselves and to develop organisational, critical and analytical skills which are applicable to the workplace.

Fundamentals of Molecular Biology

The aims of this module are aligned with the qualification descriptors within the Quality Assurance Agency’s, Framework for Higher Education Qualification. This module aims to provide an overview of the organisation, expression, and replication of genetic information in prokaryotes and eukaryotes together with principles of Mendelian inheritance; examine the consequences of mutation on gene expression together with an introduction to techniques of gene analysis and manipulation. This module aims to provide students with the qualities and transferable skills necessary for employment requiring the exercise of some personal responsibility.

General Microbiology

This module focuses on the structure and classification of a selected range of microorganisms and their impact on human society. Laboratory classes develop the skills required to work safely and cooperatively in the laboratory.
This module aims to provide students with the opportunity to:
study the classification, structure and function of bacteria, fungi, protoctista and viruses;
understand the diverse nature of microorganisms, their roles in the environment and their impact on human society as normal flora and as agents of disease;
the exploitation of microorganisms by humans in medicine and biotechnology.

Laboratory Skills and Techniques

This module aims to provide students with a solid basis in aspects of chemistry appropriate to underpin their undergraduate biosciences course. Its aims are aligned with the qualification and descriptors within the Quality Assurance Agency’s Framework for Higher Education Qualification. The module provides an introduction to core aspects of chemistry – atoms, periodic table, molecules, bonding and functional groups, organic molecular structure and the naming and drawing chemical structures, concept of moles and reaction processes.

This module will also introduce students to safe contemporary and good laboratory practice in the laboratory environment, practical bioscience techniques, simple chemical techniques and the discipline of accurate laboratory record keeping. The module also aims to develop basic laboratory practice: personal safety (as expedited by COSHH and Risk Assessments), awareness of others and where appropriate to consider ethical issues that can have an impact on the execution of a given experiment. The development of study skills will include writing laboratory records, scientific reports and essays. The analysis of data will also be a core component of the module. It develops competence in laboratory skills through practical work, and in scientific writing.

Professional Studies

This module will develop students’ transferable skills to enable them to derive maximum benefit from their chosen courses of study, provide clear guidance on the University’s teaching, assessment and progression regulations to facilitate students’ smooth passage through their chosen courses of study.

The module will introduce students to the learning resources and support facilities available within the University to assist them with their personal and professional development. Specifically this module will also introduce students to safe contemporary (GLP) practice in the laboratory environment, practical bioscience techniques, simple chemical techniques and the discipline of accurate laboratory record keeping. The module also aims to develop basic lab practice: personal safety (as expedited by COSHH and Risk Assessments), awareness of others and where appropriate to consider ethical issues that can have an impact on the execution of a given experiment. The development of study skills will include writing laboratory records, scientific reports and essays. The analysis of data will also be a core component of the module.

The module aims to introduce students to the development, scope and organisation of their chosen discipline and its associated professional bodies and employment opportunities. The transferable skills that will be developed will also prepare students for employment.

Blood Science

This module provides experience, knowledge and understanding of the principles and practice of clinical haematology. It explores the rationale for laboratory testing in routine and specialised investigation. It examines the different elements that constitute blood in healthy and diseased states. The module also focuses on teamwork, scientific communication skills and the application of these to future employment.

This module provides experience, knowledge and understanding of the principles and practice of haematology. It explores the rationale for laboratory testing in routine and specialised investigations. It examines the different elements that constitute blood in healthy and diseased states. Tutorials and one piece of coursework focus’ on teamwork, scientific communication skills and the application of these to future employment. Students’ haematology skills will be developed in the laboratory in practical sessions. Theoretical and practical problems will be employed to assist students in the development of their analytical and problem-solving capabilities. Case studies will be examined to give students practice in diagnosis.

Fundamentals of Medicinal Chemistry

The module provides experience, knowledge and understanding of the principles and practices of medicinal chemistry. Explores the rational for biochemical principles that are fundamental to the study of medicine and related healthcare areas. The module will cover general and applied biochemistry, focusing on the structure and function of important drug targets such as receptors, enzymes, and nucleic acids. Material will review biochemistry knowledge and expand in preparation for areas such as the general principles and strategies involved in discovering and designing new drugs.

Infection Science 1

The module develops an understanding of infection science from a laboratory diagnostic perspective. You will develop your knowledge of the different types of microorganisms and how they cause disease. You will also gain knowledge of the innate and acquired immune system in health and disease, including complement. Through case studies in tutorials you will develop vocationally relevant critical reasoning and problem solving skills. Through laboratory practical exercises you will develop practical laboratory skills. Development of vocational reasoning and practical skills will enhance your employability.
You will gain an understanding of pathogenicity and the virulence mechanisms of major groups of microorganisms and how these enable evasion of the immune system. You will understand the use of laboratory investigations to corroborate clinical diagnosis and treatment of microbial diseases.
Teaching and learning will be delivered via lectures, tutorials and practicals.
Lectures will give the required information.
Tutorials are designed to reinforce the lecture material. Seen tutorials should be attempted beforehand. Tutorials will include case studies to develop vocational critical reasoning skills.
Practicals will build on the information from lectures to reinforce learning and develop practical skills. Learning outcomes are linked to the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS) standards and requirements, to allow progression to the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) registration portfolio.

Infection Science 2

The module develops an understanding of infection science from an infection by systems and laboratory diagnostic perspective. You will develop knowledge of the different types of microorganisms and how they cause disease in different body systems including gastrointestinal, respiratory, skin and nervous system infections. Through case studies in tutorials, you will develop vocationally relevant critical reasoning and problem-solving skills. Through laboratory practical exercises you will develop practical laboratory skills. Development of vocational reasoning and practical skills will enhance your employability.
You will be able to show an understanding of pathogenicity and the virulence mechanisms of major groups of microorganisms using a systems approach, including tissue tropism and evasion of the immune system.
You will be able to describe the use of laboratory investigations to corroborate clinical diagnosis of microbial diseases. You will be able to discuss treatment of infectious disease and the problems of antimicrobial resistance.
Teaching and learning will be delivered via lectures, tutorials and practicals. Lectures will give the required information. Tutorials are designed to reinforce your understanding of the lecture material and develop the application of the knowledge. Seen tutorials will include case studies to develop vocational critical reasoning skills and application of knowledge, a high order skill.
Practicals will build on the information from lectures to reinforce your learning. Practicals are also designed to develop your practical laboratory skills to enhance employability. Learning outcomes are linked to the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS) standards and requirements, to allow progression to the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) registration portfolio (IBMS) standards and requirements, to allow progression to the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) registration portfolio.

Methods of Bioanalytical Analysis

This module will overview the bioanalytical analytical analysis methods commonly encountered within biomedical science supporting quantitative and qualitative analyse of biological and pharmacological agents and their metabolites. Modern instrumental methods will be reviewed and practical experience given.
The aims of this module are aligned with the qualification descriptors within the Quality Assurance Agency’s, Framework for Higher Education Qualifications.
The module aims to introduce students to a range of techniques for determining the presence of an element or compound in a specified sample and the concentration at which it occurs and to describe the theoretical background and instrumental requirements for these techniques. Through extensive practical work and structured examples, it will give students experience of quality control, quality assurance, handling analytical results and assist students to develop practical skills in selected techniques and develop a feel for sample preparation, instrument calibration and other practical aspects of analysis.

Tissue Science 1

This module explores the classification, structure and function of tissues within the Human body, and provides in-depth coverage of the fundamentals of the science of pathology, exploring the underlying genetic, molecular and cellular perturbations that lead to pathological tissue states incurred by inflammation, infection, trauma and neoplasia. Students will also gain practical experience of modern laboratory techniques used to investigate and diagnose tissue samples within a biomedical setting.This module aims to provide students with an in-depth knowledge and understanding of the structure and functional of different cell and tissue types, and the genetic, molecular and cellular factors underpinning the pathogenesis of selected human diseases.The module aims to review the basic the basic techniques of gene analysis and tissue identification.

Tissue Science 2

This module explores the classification, structure and function of tissues within the Human body, and provides in-depth coverage of the fundamentals of the science of pathology, exploring the underlying genetic, molecular and cellular perturbations that lead to pathological tissue states incurred by inflammation, infection, trauma and neoplasia. Students will also gain practical experience of modern laboratory techniques used to investigate and diagnose tissue samples within a biomedical setting. This module aims to provide students with an in-depth knowledge and understanding of the structure and functional of different cell and tissue types, and the genetic, molecular and cellular factors underpinning the pathogenesis of selected human diseases.

Ethics for Science

This module introduces different normative philosophical bases for ethical decision-making, and gives opportunities for critically applying these principles and approaches to a range of contemporary moral issues in the human sciences.
This module aims to introduce underlying concepts of normative ethics and processes of ethical decision-making, and to offer the opportunity for in-depth critical examination of specific ethical issues and dilemmas in the human sciences. It will enable the exploration of different approaches to ethical issues in scientific research and practice, and will provide students with an awareness of the scope of the field of bioethics. In addition, it aims to facilitate the development of moral reasoning skills that may be applied in practical contexts, and to provide a supportive environment for the development of competence in written and oral presentation. Finally, the module will introduce students to professional ethics and codes of conduct in the human sciences.

Infection Control

This module fosters an understanding of the principles of infection control in the management of infectious disease. It uses paradigms of sources and transmission routes of infection to apply theory to practice. This module uses the identification methods to underpin principles of investigating infection control
The aim of this module is to enhance the understanding of infection and routes of infection. The module will help students appreciate the concepts of pathogens, contaminants, the host and their inter-relatedness in the chain of infection. Raising students awareness of methods used to control and prevent infections will be explored.
This module aims to provide students with the qualities and transferable skills necessary for employment requiring: the exercise of initiative and personal responsibility; decision making in complex and unpredictable contexts; and, the learning ability needed to undertake appropriate further training of a professional or equivalent nature.

Parasitology

The module addresses the major parasites of medical importance. It emphasises those aspects of parasite life-cycles that contribute to disease and pathology, the anti-parasite immune responses they engender, how parasites evade these responses, and alternative control measures.
The aims of this module are aligned with the qualification descriptors within the Quality Assurance Agency’s, Framework for Higher Education Qualifications
The aims of this module are to review a range of medically important parasites, investigating the variety of parasite life-cycles as these contribute to disease and pathology. The module aims to advance students’ abilities in parasite recognition and diagnosis and develop students’ understanding of immunological control, evasion of that control, the development of anti-parasite vaccines and alternative methods of control.
This module aims to provide students with the qualities and transferable skills necessary for employment requiring: the exercise of initiative and personal responsibility; decision making in complex and unpredictable contexts; and, the learning ability needed to undertake appropriate further training of a professional or equivalent nature.

Work Placement (for Life Sciences)

Description: This module focuses on extending students' learning experience by providing them with an opportunity to tackle real-life problems, appropriate to their academic level, by undertaking a short period of professional activity in the workplace. The placement needs to be approved prior to being undertaken, by the work placement coordinator. It is expected that the student should work for 140 hours, for which they will be required to provide evidence (completed in the summer or part-time over the Autumn or Spring semester). The suitability of the opportunities will be assessed on an individual basis. Where required, students will be supported in finding suitable opportunities and with all aspects of their job search and applications. However, it is the students’ responsibility to obtain suitable employment, and roles cannot be guaranteed. DBS checks and or Hep B vaccination may be required for some placements (NHS or School-based).
This module aims to provide the student with an opportunity to: Increase their personal and professional development and gain experience of the culture and structure of a working environment; evaluate, and critically reflect on, the workplace as well as the student's role and contribution to it; and to apply previously-learnt academic knowledge to the task in hand. Explore employment options and consider future career plans. It will also ensure that suitable health and safety requirements are in place and the work activity will be approved by the module team in advance.

Advanced Blood Science

The module covers an advanced combination of the interrelationship between Haematology, and Transfusion Science as reflected in the practice of a multidisciplinary pathology department. More in-depth focus on disease diagnosis and monitoring in haematology the principles of stem cell and solid organ transplantation, tissue and bone banking, organ transplantation, prophylaxis and immunotherapy. Quality control and quality assurance, sample quality and regulatory issues within blood science.
Students’ haematology and transfusion science skills will be developed in the laboratory in practical sessions. Theoretical and practical problems will be employed to assist students in the development of their analytical and problem solving capabilities. Case studies will be examined to give students practice in diagnosis.

Advanced Infection Science

The module aims to provide students with knowledge of a range of microorganisms and the diseases that they cause. Students will develop an appreciation of how pathogens cause disease and be able to carry out diagnosis from associated pathophysiological features. They will also have knowledge of the identification, prediction and control of disease. The epidemiology of selected diseases will be studied and strategies used for disease control and management will be explored including examples of prophylaxis and therapy.

The module also addresses the gross structure and ultrastructure of normal cells and tissues and the structural changes which may occur during infectious disease. Students will further develop their microbiological, cellular visualisation and imaging techniques in the laboratory in practical sessions. The principles and applications of laboratory diagnosis including aspects of QA and QC will also be studied. Theoretical and practical problems will be employed to assist students in the development of their analytical and problem solving capabilities. Case studies will be examined to give students practice in diagnosis.

Advanced Tissue Science

The module studies the gross structure and ultrastructure of normal cells and tissues and the structural changes which may occur during disease (infectious and genetic causes); the principles and applications of laboratory diagnosis including aspects of QA and QC. Students’ will further develop their immunological, molecular, cellular visualisation and imaging techniques in the laboratory in practical sessions. Theoretical and practical problems will be employed to assist students in the development of their analytical and problem solving capabilities. Case studies will be examined to give students practice in diagnosis.

This module focuses on human pathology involving the evaluation of structural and functional changes in tissues brought about by infection, inflammation, trauma and neoplasia. Selected examples will be studied in depth to explore the underlying causes as well as the pathophysiological features of disease.

Clinical Biochemistry

The module covers the advanced aspects of the role of Clinical Biochemistry, as practiced in a pathology department. More in-depth focus on disease screening, diagnosis, treatment and monitoring in clinical biochemistry, the principles and application of common methods used in the clinical setting and point of care testing, therapeutic drug monitoring and the investigation of substances of abuse. Quality control and quality assurance, sample quality and regulatory issues within clinical biochemistry.
Students’ clinical biochemistry skills will be developed in the laboratory in practical sessions. Theoretical and practical problems will be employed to assist students in the development of their analytical and problem-solving capabilities. Case studies will be examined to give students practice in diagnosis.

Project

This module will enable students to demonstrate the skills necessary to carry out a scientific programme requiring significant research. It will allow students to demonstrate the final development of their subject knowledge, skills and understanding through extended research based on laboratory, literature/meta-analysis of databases or bioinformatics research. This research will lead to the presentation of a detailed written report.
The research project and laboratory skills sessions will enable students to carry out at least 24 hrs on directed competency skills-based activities and an equal amount of time on independent work-related learning activities on various themes approved in conjuction with the School Employer Liasion Board. In addition students will spend 230 hours on project-related activities

This module aims to encourage the student to reflect and build upon their subject knowledge and expertise by means of a specific investigation requiring significant research; develop the skills necessary to plan, carry out, analyse and report upon the results of an experimental or analytical programme on a scientific topic; allow the student to demonstrate that s/he has achieved a high level of personal development through working independently with the minimum necessary supervision; allow the student to demonstrate their understanding and application of safe and considerate working practices, particularly within the laboratory.
In addition the module will also encourage students to develop professional work-related learning skills through the competencies skills sessions which have been developed to map to and are responsive to employers requirements.

Systems Pathology

This module characterises the aetiology, pathophysiology, clinical investigation and treatment of selected systems diseases that make a significant contribution to morbidity and mortality within healthcare. Aspects covered begin with an overview of pathology, followed by a systems approach to disease, including cardiovascular, respiratory, renal, gastrointestinal, endocrine, immune disorders, obesity, diabetes, inborn errors of metabolism, nutritional deficiencies, and cancer
The aims of this module are aligned with the qualification descriptors within the Quality Assurance Agency’s, Framework for Higher Education Qualifications. More specifically the module aims to provide an opportunity for in-depth study of selected body systems with reference to the pathogenesis of disease, its diagnosis and therapeutic options. The module will also highlight the pivotal role of pathology in the prevention, diagnosis, treatment and prognosis of disease. In addition students will be shown how body structure and function continues to change throughout the lifespan with reference to the increasing incidence and pathophysiology of selected “age-related” systems diseases. Students’ ability to research and evaluate biomedical issues and present their findings in a cogent manner will be developed.
This module aims to provide students with the qualities and transferable skills necessary for employment requiring: the exercise of initiative and personal responsibility; decision making in complex and unpredictable contexts; and, the learning ability needed to undertake appropriate further training of a professional or equivalent nature.

Applied Immunology

The module focuses on the development and operation of the immune system in both health and disease and explores current research in immunopathology, stem cells and immunotherapy. The aims of this module are aligned with the qualification descriptors within the Quality Assurance Agency’s, Framework for Higher Education Qualifications.
Understand the mechanisms of the mammalian immune system in defence against disease; using an understanding of the basic mechanisms of the immune system, understand the consequences of inappropriate responses of the immune system; examine the applications of immune products in the areas of diagnostics and immunotherapy.

Genomics

This module provides information and guidance to facilitate an understanding and knowledge of the theory and practical applications of molecular biology, genetics and genomics. It explains the underlying mechanisms of molecular biology and enables these ideas to be expanded to the understanding of human health and disease.

To provide, thorough in depth study, knowledge and understanding of the theory and practical applications of the underling molecular biology of modern genetics and genomics. This module will investigate both historical and modern approaches to genomics. It will reinforce analytical, evaluative and communication skills. The module will also enable students to research a topical issue in depth and present it and reflect on the topics studied and their application in biomedical practice.

Medical Genetics

Description: This module builds on the knowledge and understanding developed at level 4, through the module Cell and Molecular Biology. It will also be underpinned by topics covered in the module entitled “Molecular Biology”. In this module specific diseases will be used to illustrate genotype/phenotype relationships. The module will address the application of current knowledge to clinical practice in the NHS and will examine how a family with affected offspring, would be counselled.
The aims of this module are aligned with the qualification descriptors within the Quality Assurance Agency’s, Framework for Higher Education Qualifications. The module aims to help students develop their understanding of genetic mutations and how they relate to human disease. It will enable students to relate disease phenotype to mutations in gene products or aberrations in gene expression. The module develops an understanding of how human biology has been enriched through the huge increase of genetic data now available. The lectures and practicals enable students to appreciate how these data have allowed the development of novel therapeutic strategies, predictive testing and illustrate how an affected family may be counselled with respect to their inherited condition, in the UK NHS. This module aims to provide students with the qualities and transferable skills necessary for employment requiring: the exercise of initiative and personal responsibility; decision-making in complex and unpredictable contexts; and, the learning ability needed to undertake appropriate further training of a professional or equivalent nature.

Virology

This module will focus on the structure, genome and replication strategy of viruses, their role in disease, epidemiological factors that facilitate transmission and their control with antiviral drugs and vaccines.
This module aims to provide students the opportunity to study the genome classification, structure, function, and replication strategy of viruses using specific examples where appropriate. Students will explore virus-host interactions and will need to appreciate some of the epidemiological factors facilitating transmission and strategies for disease control. These control measures will include some consideration of human behaviour and animal husbandry, vaccination/immunisation and the use of antiviral drugs. Finally the applications of recombinant viruses in medicine and biotechnology will be introduced.