Microbiology (Foundation Year), BSc (Hons)
Program Overview
The University of Central Lancashire offers a four-year BSc (Hons) Microbiology (Foundation Entry) degree designed to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in the field of microbiology. Through a combination of theoretical and practical coursework, students gain a strong foundation in biology, chemistry, and mathematics while developing critical thinking and research abilities. Graduates are prepared for careers in various microbiology-related industries, including healthcare, diagnostics, and research.
Program Outline
Microbiology (Foundation Entry), BSc (Hons) - UCLan
Degree Overview:
This program is a four-year, full-time BSc (Hons) Microbiology (Foundation Entry) degree offered at the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) in Preston. It is designed for students who have the ability to study for a degree but lack the necessary qualifications for direct entry into the full honors degree program. The foundation year equips students with essential knowledge and understanding of theoretical and practical science skills required for degree-level study. The program aims to:
- Develop students' critical thinking skills.
- Provide students with the skills and confidence to thrive at university.
- Equip students with laboratory-based and theoretical skills associated with sound scientific practice.
Outline:
The program is structured into four years:
Year 0 (Foundation Year):
- Compulsory Modules:
- Mathematics (FZC009): This module aims to enhance mathematical skills, building confidence and competence in applying mathematical concepts.
- Essential Science Skills (FZC020): This module develops biology, chemistry, and biochemistry skills necessary for related studies, providing a foundation in laboratory-based skills.
Year 1:
- Compulsory Modules:
- Fundamentals of Biosciences (BL1011): This module introduces the science behind biology, covering molecular biology of the cell to the level of the whole organism. It also provides theoretical knowledge and practical experience of common biological techniques.
- Essential Skills in Biosciences (BL1012): This module introduces concepts of chemistry, relevant mathematical manipulations, literature searching, database application, scientific communication, ethics, and health and safety. It also provides knowledge and skills to understand biosciences as a discipline and profession.
- Biosciences in Practice (BL1013): This module explores professional roles in biosciences, covering various disciplines through lectures and practicals. It develops analytical and written skills for presenting laboratory data and explores employability within different bioscience fields.
Year 2:
- Compulsory Modules:
- Bioscience Practical Skills (BL2011): This module develops experimental skills and explores various proteins, cell biology, molecular biology, and immunological techniques. It also examines biological samples, cellular components, and interactions with external factors.
- Molecules to Cells (BL2013): This module covers genome maintenance, copying, inheritance, gene expression regulation, mutations, and their effects on protein function, maturation, and trafficking. It also explores intracellular signaling pathways, the cell cycle, and cell death.
- Microbiology and Global Health (BL2018): This module provides knowledge of core and specialized concepts of microbiology in relation to global health.
Year 3:
- Compulsory Modules:
- Research Project (BL3011): This module involves completing independent scientific research, utilizing laboratory and research skills to analyze, interpret, and present scientific data. It also fosters personal and professional development. It explores the pathology and clinical presentations of major microbial groups, including viral, bacterial, fungal, and protist infections. It also covers strategies employed by different microbial groups to elicit infection, established and new investigative approaches, and treatment strategies. It develops core skills in biotechnology application development and investigates new and established techniques for microbiological analysis.
Assessment:
The program utilizes a diverse range of assessment methods, including:
- In-class tests
- Online tests
- Lab books
- Practical reports
- Poster presentations
- Oral presentations These methods allow for the development of a wide range of skills.
Teaching:
The program employs a variety of teaching methods, including:
- Lectures
- Small-group tutorials
- Computer-based learning
- Laboratory classes
- Practical workshop sessions The program also incorporates e-learning and problem-based learning techniques.
Careers:
Upon completion of the program, graduates can pursue careers in:
- Diagnostic and pathology laboratories
- Hospitals and other medical institutions
- Toxicology
- Research (through postgraduate study)
- Teaching
- Marketing or management within microbiology-related industries
- Dentistry or medicine (with further studies)
Other:
- The program is based in the School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences.
- The program is shaped by research-informed teaching.
- The research activities of the faculty enhance teaching and enrich the learning experience.
- Students have the opportunity to participate in an optional sandwich placement year, gaining valuable industry experience.
- The program is subject to ongoing review and development.
- Changes may be necessary to comply with accrediting bodies or revisions to subject benchmarks statements.
- Changes may also be made to keep the program updated and contemporary, or as a result of student feedback.
- UK:
- First year: £9,250
- Full-time: £9,250 per year
- International:
- First year: £16,400
- Full-time: £16,500 per year
