Medical Sciences (Foundation Year)

Program Overview

This three-year foundation entry program in Medical Sciences provides a solid foundation in the human body's systems, cellular biology, and medical communication. Students develop research and clinical skills, preparing them for competitive graduate entry into medical and other professional programs or careers in healthcare-related industries. The program features a unique focus on both academic achievement and clinical skills development, supported by partnerships with NHS Trusts.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

This foundation entry course in Medical Sciences is a ‘gateway’ course. It can prepare you to progress onto highly competitive graduate entry courses in medical subjects, as well as other professional programmes. You will learn how the systems of the body, from the cellular level upwards, work together to maintain normal function and health, while also developing language and communication skills specific to the medical field. You will study the mechanisms of clinical and pathological conditions at both clinical and molecular levels. You will also learn how the evidence base for science and medicine is developed and begin to explore research methods and how to conduct a research project successfully.

Outline:

Year 0

• Biological and Chemical Systems: This module aims to introduce you to the major themes in biochemistry, cell, and molecular biology.
These include gene regulation, cell signalling, the cell cycle, and metabolism. You'll describe the integration of body systems to maintain homeostasis and outline the role of nutrition in health and development.
• Investigative Skills using Mathematics: The aim of this unit is to allow you to use mathematical principles to develop problem solving and decision-making skills.
You'll also be able to select, analyse and present data using statistical and graphical techniques.
• Case study approach to scientific problem solving: You will form an understanding of complex scientific issues and global challenges.
The module shows how scientific evidence underpins priorities and policies.

Year 1

• Integrated Medical Sciences: In this module, you will build a solid understanding of biochemistry, elementary cell and molecular biology.
You will also acquire a more detailed level of understanding of biochemical pathways, cellular and molecular aspects of body functions and genetics.
• Medical Microbiology: You will study the taxonomy, structure and physiology of microorganisms and host-pathogen interactions in health and disease.
You will gain practical skills in microbiology and the techniques used for medical diagnosis and management of pathological conditions.
• Anatomy and Physiology: In this module, you will gain the knowledge and understanding of anatomical structures and physiological functioning of the human body.
• Clinical Communication and Medical Skills: This module aims to develop your skills in effective communication with patients, carers and healthcare professionals.
You'll also acquire the basic clinical skills utilised in a multi-disciplinary healthcare environment.

Year 2

• Research in Medical Sciences: This module will cover the philosophy of scientific research thinking.
You will learn about the research pathway all the way through to evaluation and dissemination. This includes epidemiology, biostatistics, appraisal of literature and evidence-based medicine techniques for critical appraisal. You will also look at the ethics of laboratory, animal and human research.
• Anatomy and Physiology II: This module will provide you with knowledge of normal anatomical and physiological functioning of the human body and the pathophysiological development of disease.
You will also undertake the molecular techniques used in research. You will examine the relationship between anatomical and behavioural aspect of neurobiology from molecules to the mind.
• Research Project: This module will teach you to evaluate primary research by critically assessing original data or published literature.
You will gain the research and practical skills for your independent research project. That includes how it affects physiology, microbiology, pathology, immunology, clinical medicine and dental surgery/therapeutics. You will also learn about ethical and safeguarding issues around the use of pharmacy drugs. You’ll be taught in classes with high staff to student ratio, allowing for individualised learning and support. This course will also create opportunities to competitively apply for careers in healthcare related industries or scientific research.

Other:

This is a ‘gateway’ course offering a core science foundation. You will become a competitive candidate for graduate entry into medicine, dental therapy, physician associate or other professional programmes. It focuses on both academic achievement and the development of a strong student personal profile, as well as training in clinical skills and clinical communication skills, required by many professions. Teaching is diverse, with sessions taught by doctors and clinicians, together with science staff. You will be taught in small, culturally diverse groups offering unparalleled access to staff and facilities.

• East Lancashire Hospitals NHS Trust (ELHT)
• Bridgewater Community Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust
• Blackpool Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
• North Cumbria University Hospitals Trust
• Lancashire and South Cumbria Strategic Transformation Partnership
• Alder Hey Children’s NHS Foundation Trust
• Cumbria Partnership NHS Foundation Trust
New clinical education partnerships are being developed. Following Year 0, students continuing with the BSc Medical Sciences degree will continue their studies in Burnley, while students who opt to continue on other programmes will transfer to our main Preston Campus.

UKTuition Fees 2024/25

First year: £9,250 Full-time: £11,100 per year

International Tuition Fees 2024/25

First year: £21,000 Full-time: £25,000 per year