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Details
Year 1

Core modules
BHCS1001ZA
Biomedical Investigation and Experimentation
20 credits
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
50% Coursework
50% Practicals
BHCS1002Z
Human Anatomy and Physiology: Cells to Systems
20 credits
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.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
BHCS1004PPZA
Introduction to Human Pathology
20 credits
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.
100% Coursework
BHCS1005Z
Human Disease
20 credits
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.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
BHCS1007
Foundations of Healthcare Science Practice and Workplace Learning
0 credits
This module provides an introductory framework for Healthcare Science practice, being the major vehicle for the understanding, acquisition and development of the theoretical, practical and personal attributes necessary for a Healthcare Science Practitioner.
100% Coursework
BHCS1008
Cardiovascular and Respiratory Physiology
20 credits
This module provides the learner with the theoretical and practical foundations for practice in healthcare physiological sciences, by introducing the underpinning biological principles of cardiovascular, respiratory and sleep physiology
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
BHCS1009
Cardiovascular and Respiratory Pathophysiology
20 credits
This module provides the learner with the theoretical and practical foundations for practice in the healthcare physiological sciences, by introducing the underpinning pathophysiological principles as applied to cardiac, respiratory and sleep physiology.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
HIPL400
Interprofessional Learning 1
Year 2

Core modules
BHCS2013
Clinical Cardiovascular, Respiratory and Sleep Physiology
30 credits
This module will review the common disorders affecting cardiovascular, respiratory and sleep function. It will include aetiology, risk factors, pathogenesis and the body's responses to a range of conditions. Learners will also develop an understanding of the patient pathway and explore the key principles of measurement techniques underpinning cardiovascular, respiratory and sleep analysis in a clinical setting.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
BHCS2014
Clinical Physiology Instrumentation and Techniques
20 credits
This module is taken by students of both cardiovascular and respiratory & sleep sciences. It provides a familiarisation with the functions and characteristics of clinical equipment used for assessing and recording key physiological parameters
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
BHCS2015
Healthcare Physiological Science Professional
30 credits
This module continues the processes of understanding, acquisition and development of the skills and personal attributes necessary for a Healthcare Physiological Science Practitioner. It also provides a foundation in research theory and methodology for systematic study of the evidence base in healthcare science. During this module there will be a work placement in the clinical setting of their chosen discipline, where learners will further develop their skills and professional conduct
67% Coursework
33% Practicals
BHCS2016
Electrocardiography
40 credits
This module introduces students to the routine practical techniques applied in cardiac physiological monitoring. It will allow students to develop the requisite skills and confidence to practice safely and effectively in a healthcare science context. Students will gain insight into patient impact (including carers), whilst developing requisite skills and knowledge of a Healthcare Science practitioner
100% Coursework
HIPL500
Interprofessional Learning 2
Placement year

Core modules
BHCS3036
Professional Practice Placement
0 credits
This module provides an opportunity for professional training in an accredited clinical placement provider or host organisation between Stage 2 and 4. This module also contains the work placement in clinical environments of their chosen discipline. Here, students will further develop an understanding of the scope and practice of healthcare, whilst developing the skills and professional qualities of a Healthcare Science practitioner/Biomedical Scientist.
100% Practicals
Final year

Core modules
BHCS3012
Professional Practice in Healthcare Science
30 credits
This module consolidates material from years one and two of the programme. It extends understanding and acquisition of skills necessary for a Healthcare Science Practitioner, enabling a safe and effective contribution to high quality care in each chosen discipline. This module also contains 25 week work placement in an appropriate clinical setting
67% Coursework
33% Practicals
BHCS3017
Clinical Cardiac Sciences
30 credits
This module is taken by cardiovascular science students to enable them to apply specialist aspects of cardiac physiology and pathology to contemporary practice. It will include exposure to provocative and invasive cardiac procedures in a patient-centred context.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
BHCS3018
Specialist Cardiovascular Investigations
30 credits
This module will enable students to apply specialist aspects of cardiovascular physiological measurement to practice. It will include exposure to provocative testing and invasive pressure measurement and cardiac investigations
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
BHCS3021
Research Project in Healthcare Science
30 credits
This module is largely comprised of independent self-directed study under the guidance of a project advisor. The project will address a specific research question(s) and will include a literature review and report writing.
85% Coursework
15% Practicals
HIPL600
Interprofessional Learning 3
Progression options
- On track to gain 1st Class (>70%) or already holds a 1st Class Biomedical Science degree with us achieved in the two years prior to applying.
- GAMSAT requirement waived.
- Satisfactory performance in interview.
- Satisfactory DBS check and occupational health screening.
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:
Experience
Hands-on learning

Real-world experience
During your time on placement, you get to interact with members of the team within your department, as well as patients and their family, allowing you to develop a level of communication and professionalism which will be needed for the rest of your career.
Working in partnership with you

Learn from experienced healthcare professionals
Award winning supportCherith Wood , Lecturer in Cardiovascular Physiology, has been honoured by Health Education England after receiving their Inspiring Educator Award for the South West region.

Dr Lynn McCallum
Associate Professor of Haematology (Education)

Ms Cherith Wood
Lecturer in Cardiovascular Physiology

Dr Feisal Subhan
Associate Professor of Physiology (Education)
Join the Cardiac Physiology Society

Life in Plymouth
The overall vibe of the city is perfect. You are by the sea so it is still laid back, but you have all the conveniences of living in a city.
Current student



Careers
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
£9,535 per year
£795 per 10 credits
Tuition fee price changes
£18,650 per year
Tuition fee price changes
Additional costs
Fund your studies
Supporting students with the cost of living

Apply
Entry requirements
104 UCAS points
You may be eligible for a contextual offer
GCSE
A levels
- Grade B in Biology
- Grade B in a second Science subject from Chemistry, Mathematics, Physics, Applied Science, Geography, Geology, Psychology, Nutrition or Environmental Science/Studies
BTEC RQF National Extended Diploma/QCF Extended Diploma
Access to HE Diploma
T level
International Baccalaureate
- Higher Level 5 in Biology
- Higher Level 5 in a second Science from Chemistry, Mathematics, Physics, Applied Science, Geography, Geology, Psychology, Nutrition or Environmental Science/Studies
- English and Mathematics accepted within as GCSE equivalent at higher level 4, standard level 5
Other UK qualifications
Extended entry requirements
- Applicants must also pass an interview, Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS/Police Check) and Occupational Health (OCH) checks satisfactorily in order to be eligible to enrol on to the programme.
- Students must be 18 years old or over at the start date of this programme.
- If English is not your first language, an IELTS with an overall average score of at least 7.0, with a score of at least 7.0 in all sections will be required. Equivalent English Language qualifications may be considered, please contact the Admissions Team at meddent-admissions@plymouth.ac.ukfor more information. The University will no longer accept the IELTS indicator (online test). All applicants will have to take the IELTS test at an approved centre.
Ready to apply?
B121
P60
4 years
(includes mandatory placement)
Full-time
Plymouth
Other routes into this course
The following courses are available as routes into this programme.
Entry requirements
104 UCAS points
BSearch entry requirements for your country
English language requirements
Ready to apply?
Need support with your application?
- Personal statement guidance
- student visa support
- travel and arrival information
- and more.
B121
P60
4 years
(includes mandatory placement)
Full-time
Plymouth