Biomedical Science with foundation year | BSc Degree

Program Overview

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This four-year Biomedical Science program, including a foundation year, provides a comprehensive education in the field. It equips students with a solid foundation in biology, chemistry, and mathematics, followed by specialized knowledge in areas such as molecular biology, cell biology, and pathology. The program emphasizes practical laboratory skills and research methodologies, preparing graduates for careers in biomedical science or further postgraduate studies.

Program Outline

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Degree Overview:

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Biomedical Science (including foundation year) - BSc (Hons)

This four-year degree program, with a built-in foundation year (Year 0), is perfect for students who want to study Biomedical Science but fall short of the required entry criteria for the three-year undergraduate program. Upon successful completion, graduates will earn a full undergraduate degree with the same title and qualification as graduates of the three-year BSc course.

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Objectives:

• Provide students with the fundamental knowledge, skills, and understanding of biomedical science and its application in understanding disease processes.
• Equip students with a solid foundation in key scientific disciplines, such as biology and chemistry, necessary for further study in biomedical sciences.
• Develop students' critical and analytical thinking skills to effectively analyze and evaluate scientific concepts and data.
• Foster students' ability to communicate scientific knowledge and findings effectively through written and oral presentations.
• Prepare students for further studies at postgraduate level or for professional careers in the field of biomedical science.

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Description:

The first year focuses on establishing a strong foundation in core scientific disciplines, such as biology, chemistry, and mathematics. This equips students with the necessary knowledge and skills to succeed in the subsequent three years of the undergraduate program. Years 2, 3, and 4 delve deeper into specialized areas of biomedical science, including:

• Molecular biology and genetics
• Cell biology
• Microbiology
• Immunology
• Anatomy and physiology
• Pathology
• Pharmacology
• Clinical biochemistry
The program also emphasizes the development of practical laboratory skills and scientific research methodologies. Students will have ample opportunities to apply theoretical knowledge in practical settings, conducting experiments, analyzing data, and interpreting results. The program is designed to provide a comprehensive and well-rounded education in biomedical science, preparing graduates for success in a variety of career paths within the field.

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Outline:

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Year 0 (Foundation Year):

• Biochemistry: Introduces key biochemical concepts, including the structure and function of molecules, metabolic pathways, and enzyme activity.
• Biology: Provides a foundation in cell biology, human physiology, genetics, and evolution.
• Chemistry: Introduces the fundamental concepts of chemistry, such as atomic structure, chemical bonding, and reaction mechanisms, alongside essential scientific laboratory techniques and data analysis methods.
• Foundation Year Project (Biosciences): Conducts research into a specific topic within the biomedical sciences, developing research, writing, and presentation skills.
• Scientific Studies: Focuses on essential mathematical concepts and fundamental laboratory skills, including data analysis and interpretation, to support further studies in science.

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Years 1-3 (Undergraduate Program):

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Year 1:

• Anatomy & Physiology 1 & 2: Provides a comprehensive understanding of human anatomy and physiology, including the structure, function, and interrelationships between different organ systems in health and disease.
• Biochemistry: Explores the properties and roles of key biochemical molecules, focusing on their role in metabolism and cellular function.
• Cell Biology: Introduces the structure and function of cells, covering various cell types, intracellular activities, and their relationship with overall cellular function.
• General Microbiology: Focuses on the classification, structure, function, and impact of various microorganisms on human society, including normal flora, pathogens, and their role in disease and biotechnology applications.
• Laboratory Skills and Techniques: Develops fundamental laboratory skills in a safe and ethical manner, including data analysis, scientific writing, and laboratory record-keeping.
• Professional Studies: Introduces students to the learning resources and support facilities available within the University, alongside the University's teaching, assessment, and progression regulations.

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Year 2:

• Blood Science: Explores the principles and practice of clinical haematology, including the rationale for laboratory testing in routine and specialized investigations.
• Fundamentals of Medicinal Chemistry: Explores the principles and practices of medicinal chemistry, focusing on the structure and function of drug targets like receptors and enzymes, alongside potential strategies for designing and developing new drugs.
• Infection Science 1 & 2: Develops a comprehensive understanding of infection science from both a laboratory diagnostic and system-based perspective.
Students will explore the pathogenesis and virulence mechanisms of various microorganisms, their impact on different body systems, and the use of laboratory investigations to corroborate clinical diagnosis and treatment of microbial diseases.
• Methods of Bioanalytical Analysis: Introduces a variety of analytical techniques used in biomedical science, focusing on quantitative and qualitative analysis of biological and pharmacological agents and their metabolites.
• Tissue Science 1 & 2: Explores the classification, structure, and function of tissues within the Human body.
Students will gain in-depth knowledge of the fundamentals of pathology, exploring the genetic, molecular, and cellular factors underlying pathological tissue states caused by inflammation, infection, trauma, and neoplasia, alongside practical experience in modern laboratory techniques used to investigate and diagnose tissue samples within a biomedical setting.

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Year 3 (Options available):

• Advanced Blood Science & Advanced Infection Science: Build upon knowledge and skills gained in Year 2, further exploring the complex interactions between haematology, transfusion science, infectious diseases, and associated treatment strategies.
• Advanced Tissue Science & Clinical Biochemistry: Focus on the application of advanced laboratory techniques for diagnosis and monitoring in clinical biochemistry, alongside the study of human pathology, including the structural and functional changes in tissues caused by various diseases.
• Applied Immunology & Systems Pathology: Choose from optional modules to explore the development and operation of the immune system in health and disease, or delve into the study of selected systems diseases, such as cardiovascular, respiratory, or renal diseases, and their impact on human health.
• Genomics & Medical Genetics: Gain specialized knowledge in the areas of genomics and medical genetics, exploring the application of modern genetic techniques in understanding human health and disease, including the analysis of mutations and their relationship to various disease phenotypes.
• Virology: Focus on the structure, genome, replication strategy, and disease-causing potential of viruses, exploring transmission factors, control measures like antiviral drugs and vaccines, and their applications in medicine and biotechnology.

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Additional Options:

Students may choose to take optional modules in other areas, such as ethics, research methods, or work placement opportunities, to further tailor their studies and gain valuable skills for future careers.

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Project:

In the final year, students undertake an independent research project, allowing them to apply their knowledge and skills in a focused investigation of a chosen topic within biomedical science. This project will involve conducting research, analyzing data, and writing a comprehensive report.

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Assessment:

• Progress tests: Regular assessments throughout the modules, including online tests, coursework, practical reports, presentations, and written exams, to evaluate students' understanding and progress.
• Laboratory work and practical assessments: Hands-on laboratory experiences form a crucial part of the assessment, allowing students to demonstrate their practical skills and competence in various laboratory techniques.
• Research project: The final-year research project is assessed based on the student's ability to conduct independent research