BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science

• Year 1

• In your first year, you'll start building a foundation for future learning. You'll develop key skills in communication, data acquisition and analysis.

  Core modules

  • Biomedical Investigation and Experimentation (BHCS1001Z)

    To introduce the learner to key elements of investigation and experimentation within the biomedical sciences and to support the development of the basic skills and knowledge required for effective practice in these discipline areas

  • Human Anatomy and Physiology: Cells to Systems (BHCS1002)

    This module offers an introduction to the key anatomical features of the body and how physiological function is controlled to maintain homeostasis and health. It will commence with an exploration of cell and tissue biology and the founding principles of genetics, embryology and human development. The module will conclude with an exposition of anatomy and physiology of the major human organ systems.

  • Human Metabolism (BHCS1003)

    This module offers an introduction to the biochemistry underlying human metabolism. In particular, the module explores the cellular and molecular mechanisms by which the human body extracts energy from nutrients to sustain life. The significance of metabolic dysfunction in relation to human disease pathology and diagnosis is emphasised.

  • Introduction to Human Pathology (BHCS1004PPZ)

    This cross-disciplinary module provides the learner with an introduction to the study of human disease, exploring historical, social and scientific perspectives as well as an opportunity to explore how modern pathology services are structured and operated.

  • Human Disease (BHCS1005)

    Concepts associated with altered health states due to environmental, developmental and genetic causes are explored. Pathological changes at the cellular, tissue and organ level are discussed. Genomic and bioinformatic technologies are introduced, and their application to clinical and personalised medicine considered.

  • Infection and Immunity (BHCS1006)

    This module introduces the student to infection & immunity and the study of microorganisms with a particular emphasis on food-borne pathogens. It explores concepts of food safety, gut organisms, infectious disease and the body's ability to resist and repel such disease via a range of immune responses.

  • Study skills and personal development (BHCS1011)

    This module supports the development of key study and learning skills. Timetabled tutorials will help promote self-reflection and provide a framework for personal development planning and careers.

  • Interprofessional Learning 1 (HIPL400)

• Year 2

• In your second year, you'll focus on developing a deeper understanding of core biomedical disciplines, with an emphasis on the scientific understanding of pathological processes and diagnostic practice. You'll examine key laboratory techniques and acquire research skills.

  Core modules

  • Biology of Disease (BHCS2001Z)

    This module will explore the biology relating to a range of disorders and emphasize the integrated nature of the investigation and study of disease.

  • Evidence-Based Practice in Biomedical Science (BHCS2002Z)

    This module continues the processes of understanding, acquisition and development of the skills and personal attributes necessary for a biomedical sciences practitioner. It also provides a greater understanding of research theory and methodology.

  • Genetic Continuity and Diversity (BHCS2003Z)

    Processes which maintain genetic stability or promote genetic variation at various levels of biological organisation are considered. Applications of advances in genetics are examined in topics such as developmental genetics, epigenetics, genomics and proteomics, recombinant DNA technology, and human genetic diversity.

  • Cell Biology in Health and Disease (BHCS2004Z)

    This module examines the fundamental principles of cell biology in health and disease. It will include the theory and practice of cellular laboratory science and introduce the scope and practice of light microscopy and histology in clinical investigation and cellular pathology.

  • Clinical Haematology and Biochemistry (BHCS2005Z)

    Clinical laboratory tests for a wide variety of biochemical and haematological parameters play an important role in disease diagnosis. This module will investigate both the scientific theory underlying commonly used tests and their application in biochemistry, haematology and transfusion science laboratories.

  • Infection, Immunity and Disease (BHCS2006Z)

    This module is to develop an in-depth understanding of the immune system and pathogenic infection. It highlights the integrated cellular responses that prevent infection and the underlying principles that govern these actions, and it looks at measures to prevent and control infections, including health protection measures, antimicrobial therapy and vaccination.

  • Placements and Employability (BHCS2027)

  • Interprofessional Learning 2 (HIPL500)

• Year 3

• You have the option to take up a work placement as part of your degree course between the end of Year 2 and the final year of your degree. Students can choose to apply for an Industrial or NHS placement. Industrial placements are usually 6 month or 12 month duration and upon successful completion, students will gain the Certificate of Industrial Experience. NHS placements are minimally a 40 week duration full-time or the equivalent. Those successfully completing an NHS placement and the IBMS v4 portfolio, will gain the Certificate of Competence from the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS). Students who have completed a full IBMS accredited degree (BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science; 360 credits) as well as the Certificate of Competence are eligible to apply to the HCPC to register as a Biomedical Scientist.

  Core modules

  • Biomedical Sciences: Placement (BHCS3030)

    This module provides an opportunity for professional training of at least 26 weeks duration with an approved placement provider or host organisation between Stage 2 and 4. While on placement, students will gain work experience related to their degree programme, be able to apply their knowledge and expertise, and learn further skills and relevant techniques.

• Final year

• Your final year will support your critical thinking and enhance your practical competency. A personal research project allows you to study an area of biomedicine in detail. You will have a choice of research-led topics that discuss current developments and the implications for human health and clinical practice.

  Core modules

  • Personal Development and Employability (BHCS3031)

    The module aims to provide personal academic support and careers guidance. It will provide a forum for students to discuss their achievements and develop plans to address potential areas of weakness and achieve future career and professional goals.

  • Personal Research Project (BHCS3001Z)

    The module requires students to perform a self-directed research study project that includes the design, implementation, collection, analysis and interpretation of scientific data. It also involves the evaluation and interpretation of scientific literature, evaluation of current issues and concepts and the ability to reflect upon continuing professional and personal development.

  • Interprofessional Learning 3 (HIPL600)

  Optional modules

  • Molecular and Cellular Pathology (BHCS3002)

    This module provides knowledge of the cellular and molecular basis of a range of common altered health states. Current methods and techniques for investigative pathology will also be explored in a critical manner.

  • Clinical Microbiology (BHCS3003)

    This module provides knowledge and skills that will enable students to operate effectively in a modern infection sciences laboratory. The module will develop an in-depth understanding of the commonly encountered infections, tests to identify the disease agents and the principles of antimicrobial therapy.

  • Specialist Biochemistry and Screening (BHCS3004)

    This module provides theoretical and practical skills that will enable students to operate effectively in a modern blood sciences laboratory or research laboratory. Current practice in clinical biochemistry, pregnancy and paediatric blood sciences will be explored in a comprehensive and critical manner.

  • Transplantation and Transfusion Science (BHCS3005)

    This module provides theoretical and practical skills that will enable students to operate effectively in a modern blood sciences laboratory. Current practice in transfusion and transplantation science including haematology and transplantation immunology will be explored in a comprehensive and critical manner.

  • Cellular Basis of Immunity (BHCS3006)

    This module provides theoretical skills that will enable students to explore immune processes focussing on the role of immune cells and their molecules in host immune defences to pathogens and chronic diseases. Contemporary immunology research issues and their translation to clinical practice will be explored in a critical manner.

  • Current Issues in Neurobiology (BHCS3007)

    This module provides an in depth understanding of the molecular, cellular and systems mechanisms that underlies nervous system function and dysfunction related to key contemporary issues in neuroscience

  • Current Developments in Biomedical Science (BHCS3008)

    The module will promote an up to date understanding of research developments in aspects of blood, infection or cellular sciences. Students will have a choice of topics to focus on.

  • Medical Genetics (BHCS3009)

    Medical genetics explores how genetics affects human health. Techniques for human genetic analyses are considered, and chromosomal, single gene and multifactorial disorders reviewed. The relevance of modern genetic and genomic technologies for public health and personalised medicine are examined.

Every undergraduate taught course has a detailed programme specification document describing the course aims, the course structure, the teaching and learning methods, the learning outcomes and the rules of assessment.

The following programme specification represents the latest course structure and may be subject to change:

BSc Hons Biomed Science Programme Specification 2023 24 3628