| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2024-09-01 | - |
Program Overview
The University of Brighton's Biomedical Science BSc(Hons) program provides a comprehensive education in human health, disease diagnosis, and treatment. Students gain a deep understanding of biomedical principles, develop practical laboratory skills, and engage in research opportunities. The program prepares graduates for careers in biomedical science, research, clinical trials, public health, and science communication.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Biomedical Science BSc(Hons)
The University of Brighton's Biomedical Science BSc(Hons) program offers students the opportunity to explore human health, disease diagnosis, and treatment. The curriculum focuses on the fundamental principles of biomedical science, including:
- Human biology and physiology: Students gain a deep understanding of the human body's intricate systems and functions.
- Pathophysiology: They explore the mechanisms behind various diseases and their effects on the human body.
- Diagnostics: They learn about the various techniques used to diagnose and monitor disease, encompassing laboratory tests, imaging technologies, and clinical assessment methods.
- Treatment: The program delves into the principles and practices of various treatment modalities, including pharmaceuticals, surgery, and rehabilitation strategies.
Objectives:
- Equip graduates with a comprehensive foundation in biomedical science necessary for pursuing careers within the field.
- Enable students to develop practical laboratory skills in various biomedical science techniques.
- Foster critical thinking and problem-solving skills for effective analyses and interpretations in the biomedical science realm.
- Prepare students for further academic pursuits in biomedical research or postgraduate studies in medicine.
Program Description:
The Biomedical Science BSc(Hons) program at the University of Brighton is designed to provide a rigorous and comprehensive education, encompassing theoretical knowledge, practical laboratory skills, and research opportunities. The course content is thoughtfully structured to ensure a holistic learning experience that equips graduates with the necessary expertise for successful careers in biomedical science.
Outline:
Year 1:
- Essential Skills for Bioscientists: Fundamentals of scientific methodology, research design, data analysis, and communication skills relevant to bioscience research.
- Fundamentals in Genetics and Evolution: Principles of heredity, gene expression, genome structure, and evolutionary processes. Practical laboratory exercises in molecular biology techniques.
- Introduction to Biochemistry: Fundamentals of biochemical compounds, macromolecule structures and functions, enzyme activity, and metabolic pathways. Practical laboratory experiences in basic biochemical techniques.
- Introduction to Human Physiology: Human anatomy and physiology, focusing on major organ systems, homeostasis, and neurological and hormonal control mechanisms.
- Introduction to Infection Science: Microorganisms, components of the immune system, fundamental laboratory techniques for microbial identification and immune system analysis.
Year 2:
- Intermediate Blood Sciences: In-depth exploration of blood science, encompassing hematology, coagulation, blood transfusion, and clinical biochemistry. Case studies for practical application of knowledge and development of skills.
- Research Skills and Professional Development: Research methodology, experimental design, data analysis, scientific writing, and professional development skills critical for successful research careers.
- Infection and Immunity: Advanced study of infectious agents, host-pathogen interactions, immune responses, and mechanisms of disease pathogenesis.
- Clinical Genetics and Molecular Biology: Principles of clinical genetics, genetic testing, genetic counseling, and their roles in disease diagnosis and treatment.
- Intermediate Human Physiology: Advanced study of human physiology, focusing on specialized systems, including the cardiovascular, respiratory, endocrine, and renal systems.
Optional Placement Year:
Students can opt for a one-year paid placement in a professional setting. This placement year offers valuable real-world experience, allowing students to apply their acquired knowledge and skills in a practical work environment and gain valuable insights into the diverse career opportunities within the biomedical science field. Undertaking a placement within accredited NHS training laboratories enables students to work towards the IBMS Certificate of Competence and the Registration Training Portfolio.
Final Year:
- Cellular Pathology: Comprehensive study of cellular changes associated with disease, encompassing diagnostic techniques for identifying and characterizing pathological processes in tissues and cells.
- Advanced Diagnostics in Blood Science: Advanced hematology, coagulation, and blood transfusion practices, including molecular diagnostics and their application in clinical settings.
- Innovations in Bioscience Research: Contemporary research trends and advancements in bioscience, focusing on emerging technologies and their impact on disease diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.
- Clinical Microbiology and Immunology: Advanced study of medically significant microorganisms, host-pathogen interactions, immune responses, and diagnostic techniques for infectious diseases.
- Bioscience Research Project: Independent research project under the supervision of experienced faculty, allowing students to delve into a specific area of interest within bioscience, conduct research, analyze data, and present findings in a research thesis.
Assessment:
The Biomedical Science BSc(Hons) program employs a diverse range of assessment methods to evaluate student learning and progress:
- Formative assessments: Continuous assessment throughout the year through assignments, quizzes, and laboratory reports to provide regular feedback and opportunities for improvement.
- Summative assessments: End-of-year written examinations, practical laboratory assessments, and project submissions to gauge student understanding and mastery of the course content.
- Research project assessment: Evaluation of the research project based on the written thesis, oral presentation, and research methodology employed.
Teaching:
The teaching faculty of the Biomedical Science BSc(Hons) program comprises experienced biomedical scientists and researchers with expertise in various fields. The program employs diverse teaching approaches, including:
- Interactive lectures: Engaging lectures that encourage active student participation through discussions, question-and-answer sessions, and problem-solving exercises.
- Practical laboratory sessions: Hands-on laboratory experiments and practical exercises designed to reinforce theoretical knowledge and develop practical skills in various techniques.
- Small group tutorials: Interactive sessions for personalized guidance, clarifications on complex concepts, and deeper exploration of specific topics.
- Research project supervision: Individualized guidance, mentorship, and support from experienced research supervisors throughout the research project.
Unique Approaches:
- Emphasis on research: The program fosters a research-driven environment, encouraging students to participate in ongoing research projects and gain valuable experience in research methodology, data analysis, and scientific communication.
- Placement year opportunity: The optional placement year provides students with real-world experience, enhancing their employability and preparing them for professional careers in biomedical science.
- Guest lectures from industry professionals: Industry experts are invited to share their insights and real-world experiences, providing students with perspectives on various career pathways within the biomedical science realm.
Careers:
The Biomedical Science BSc(Hons) graduates are well-equipped for a wide range of career opportunities within the biomedical science field:
- Biomedical scientists: Graduates can pursue careers within the NHS or private healthcare settings, conducting laboratory tests, analyzing samples, and contributing to disease diagnosis and treatment.
- Researchers: The program provides a strong foundation to pursue postgraduate research studies in various areas of biomedical research, leading to careers in academic research institutions or pharmaceutical industries.
- Clinical trials: Graduates can find employment in the clinical trial sector, assisting with the development and implementation of clinical trials for new drugs and therapeutic interventions.
- Public health: Public health organizations offer opportunities for graduates to contribute to population health management and disease prevention strategies.
- Science communication: Graduates can pursue careers in science communication, disseminating scientific knowledge to the public through various media platforms.
Other:
- Accreditation: This program receives accreditation from the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS) and meets the academic requirements for registration as a biomedical scientist with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).
- Royal Society of Biology Accreditation: The program also holds accreditation from the Royal Society of Biology, ensuring that graduates meet the required academic and experience standards for professional development in the biological sciences.
- Guaranteed interview with Brighton and Sussex Medical School (BSMS): Students meeting the required criteria can secure an interview with BSMS for pursuing a degree in medicine after completing year 1 or the final year of the Biomedical Science BSc(Hons) program.
Additional Notes:
- This program aims to prepare graduates for successful careers in biomedical science and equip them with the necessary knowledge and skills to make a positive impact on human health.
- The program offers a supportive and collaborative learning environment, fostering close interaction between students and faculty.
Course fees
UK (full-time) 9,250 GBP International (full-time) 16,900 GBP
