Year Zero Laboratory Sciences (integrated with Medical Science B Med Sci)

Program Overview

The Year Zero Laboratory Sciences program, integrated with the Medical Science B Med Sci (Hons) degree, is a 4-year course designed for students aiming for a career in medical science but lacking the necessary A-Level qualifications. The initial year focuses on equipping students with essential knowledge and skills in chemistry, biology, mathematics, IT, and communication, building a strong foundation for progression to the subsequent 3 years of Medical Science B Med Sci (Hons) at De Montfort University (DMU).

Program Outline

Degree Overview

This program offers the following benefits:

• Direct progression: Successful completion of Year Zero guarantees entry into the Medical Science B Med Sci (Hons) degree at DMU.
• Industry-recognized qualification: The Medical Science B Med Sci (Hons) degree is accredited by the Royal Society of Biology.

Outline

The initial Year Zero program comprises 10 modules:

• Human Biology
• Basic Microbiology
• Introduction to Psychology
• Cell Biology
• Chemistry 1 & 2
• Introductory Biochemistry
The subsequent three years of the Medical Science B Med Sci (Hons) program would involve advanced modules specific to the chosen specialization within Medical Science.

Assessment

Assessments within the Year Zero program take three primary forms:

• Diagnostic assessments: Evaluating individual strengths and weaknesses to adjust study approaches accordingly.
• Formative assessments: Providing feedback for improvement; feedback is given on written, verbal, or online formats.
• Summative assessments: Contributing to the final module grade, typically in the form of exams.
Students receive regular feedback on their work through various channels to support improvement. Additionally, assignments submitted on time typically receive feedback within 20 working days.

Teaching

The Year Zero program utilizes a blended learning approach, incorporating:

• Formal classroom sessions led by experienced tutors.
• Blackboard, the university's Virtual Learning Environment, serves as a platform for:
• Accessing instructional materials and exercises beyond classroom sessions.
• Submitting assignments through Turnitin.
• DMU Replay: Provides round-the-clock access to lecture recordings for personalized review.

Universal Design for Learning (UDL)

ensures equitable learning opportunities for all students, including those with learning differences or disabilities, through diverse support, assistive technologies, and teaching approaches.

Careers

Graduates of this program pursue careers in various sectors:

• Medical research
• Writing
• Education
• Commerce
• Sales
The qualification also allows graduates to apply for postgraduate courses in diverse fields, such as:
• Graduate entry medicine
• Pharmacy
• Dentistry
• NHS medical care practitioner training
Further postgraduate study options within DMU include:
• Advanced Biomedical Science MSc
• Master's by Research MA/MSc
• Pharmaceutical Biotechnology MSc
• Pharmaceutical Quality by Design MSc
• Physician Associate Studies MSc

Other

• Additional costs beyond tuition fees might include travel expenses to project or placement locations.
• English language tuition is available for non-native English speakers, both before and throughout the course.

Fees and funding: For 2023/24 tuition fees will be £9,250 Additional costs: You may incur additional costs for this programme, including the cost of travelling to and from project/placement locations.