BSc (Hons) Medical Science

Program Overview

Bournemouth University's Medical Science program offers a solid scientific basis in modern medicine. Students gain skills in critical thinking, problem-solving, and research methodologies, while exploring areas such as cell biology, pharmacology, and neuroimaging through coursework, laboratory work, and potential placements or fieldwork. This program prepares graduates for careers in scientific research, laboratory analysis, healthcare, and more through its strong foundation of knowledge in the biology that underpins medicine today. Graduates are highly sought after in various medical science and related fields.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

This BSc (Hons) Medical Science program at Bournemouth University focuses on the cutting-edge science that underpins modern medicine, fostering new discoveries and technologies which improve healthcare.

Objectives:

• To provide students with a strong foundation in the scientific principles underlying modern medicine.
• To develop students' critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
• To prepare students for a career in medical science or related fields.
• To foster students' ability to evaluate scientific literature and make evidence-based decisions.
• To provide students with practical experience in laboratory settings.
• To equip students with transferable skills that will be valuable in a variety of careers.

Outline:

The program is structured over three years of full-time study, with the option of a placement year. Students can choose to concentrate their learning on human health and disease or the role of psychology in medical science via the optional units offered.

Year 1:

• Core Units:
• Introduction to Medical Sciences: This unit provides a grounding in the multi-disciplinary nature of medical sciences, considering biomedical, psychological, engineering, and other approaches.
• Exploring and Understanding Science: This unit focuses on core skills needed for a career in medical science, including evaluating reports, analyzing data, and understanding ethical issues.
• Cell Biology: This unit introduces key themes in cell biology, providing a foundation in cell structure, function, control, and basic molecular biology.
• Chemistry: This unit covers fundamental and analytical chemistry, developing laboratory skills through lectures and practical sessions.
• Introduction to Immunology: This unit develops knowledge of the cellular and molecular basis of innate and acquired immunity through practical lab sessions and lectures.
• Biological & Cognitive Psychology: This unit examines the relationship between the biology of the brain and how we process information, think, and make decisions.

Year 2:

• Core Units:
• Biological Psychology: This unit studies the neural correlates of various core brain functions and impairment associated with brain damages.
• Functional Anatomy: This unit introduces the form and function of the human skeleton from the viewpoints of biomedical science, biomechanical engineering, and digital visualization.
• Option Units:
• Advanced Cell Biology: This unit examines the operation of cells and the control, development, and modification of cells to fulfill specialized roles in multicellular organisms.
• Advanced Immunology: This unit helps students develop a deeper understanding of the molecular and genetic basis of innate and adaptive immune responses.

Optional Placement Year:

Students can choose to complete an optional minimum 30-week work placement, which can be carried out anywhere in the world. The placement year offers a chance to gain experience and make contacts for the future. Alternatively, students can undertake a short placement of minimally 2 weeks and complete their course in three years.

Final Year:

• Core Units:
• Neuroimaging: This unit provides in-depth technical knowledge and understanding of various neuroimaging and neuroscientific techniques, including practice.
• Medical Science Project: Students research an aspect of medical science that suits their career aims and aspirations, producing a report in a specified style.
• Option Units:
• Advanced Pharmacology & Toxicology: This unit helps students understand how different drugs affect humans and gain insights into the mechanism of how pharmacological agents act on the nervous and cardiovascular systems.
• Advanced Systems Biology: This unit teaches students to manage and analyze big data, understand and apply computer modeling processes to test hypotheses relevant to biomedical science research.
• Advanced Topics in Genetics: This unit considers how modern genetics underpins all aspects of biology, including pharmacogenomics, epigenetics, endophenotypes, and optogenetics.
• Parasitology & Epidemiology: This unit provides a broad overview of how parasites influence human and wildlife health, behavior, and population dynamics.
• Diagnostic Medicine: This unit develops knowledge and understanding of the types of diagnostics implemented in biomedical and imaging laboratories to identify different types of pathology.
• Current Trends in Cognitive & Clinical Neuroscience: This unit is aimed at students interested in clinical neuropsychology and cognitive neuroscience, providing comprehensive knowledge about current trends in research and related methodologies.

Assessment:

Assessment methods vary depending on the unit, but typically include:

• Coursework: This may include essays, reports, presentations, lab reports, and practical assessments.
• Project: The final year Medical Science Project requires students to conduct independent research and produce a comprehensive report.

Teaching:

• Teaching Methods: The program utilizes a variety of teaching methods, including lectures, seminars, tutorials, practical laboratory sessions, and fieldwork.
• Faculty: The program is taught by a range of staff with relevant expertise and knowledge, including senior academic staff, qualified professional practitioners, demonstrators, technicians, and research students.
• Unique Approaches: The program integrates research and professional practice into the teaching, with many staff actively engaged in research and/or professional practice.

Careers:

• Career Options: Graduates of this program are well-prepared for a variety of careers in scientific, technical, or research fields related to their chosen pathway.
• Opportunities: Potential career paths include:
• Research Scientist
• Laboratory Technician
• Data Analyst
• Medical Writer
• Clinical Trial Coordinator
• Healthcare Professional
• Outcomes: The program aims to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in a competitive job market.

Other:

• Facilities: The program provides access to industry-standard specialist facilities, including state-of-the-art laboratories.
• Placements: The program offers every student the opportunity to undertake a work placement as part of their course, providing valuable practical experience and career development opportunities.
• Health and Safety: The program has compulsory elements involving working with dangerous substances in laboratory conditions and/or undertaking field trips in less accessible environments.
Students must complete a health and safety risk assessment and provide information about any conditions or disabilities that might affect their ability to undertake these activities fully or safely.