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BHCS1001
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
BHCS1002
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
BHCS1003
Human Metabolism
20 credits
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.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
BHCS1005
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
BHCS1006
Infection and Immunity
20 credits
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.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
BHCS1011
Study skills and personal development
0 credits
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.
HIPL400
Interprofessional Learning 1
PSYC427
Psychobiological and Cognitive Aspects of Health Behaviour
20 credits
This module introduces the psychology of choices and behaviour, with an emphasis on health. We will examine health behaviours, choices, and risks with a particular consideration of how these are influenced by biological and social factors. Students will have the opportunity to design and conduct research projects in groups, with presentation of this project forming the assessment for the module, in addition to assessment by Multiple Choice Test.
100% Coursework
BHCS2003
Genetic Continuity and Diversity
20 credits
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.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
BHCS2004
Cell Biology in Health and Disease
20 credits
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.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
BHCS2006
Infection, Immunity and Disease
20 credits
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.
50% Practicals
50% Examinations
BHCS2018
Systems Physiology: Function and Dysfunction
20 credits
This module examines human physiological mechanisms of function of major body systems at the cellular, tissue, organ and organism level. It also explores mechanisms of dysfunction at the cellular, organ and systems level. The module will emphasize relationships between structure and function and will emphasize correlations between normal physiology and pathophysiology, normal anatomy and pathology, and homeostasis and homeostatic imbalances.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
BHCS2027
Placements and Employability
0 credits
HIPL500
Interprofessional Learning 2
BHCS2002
Evidence-Based Practice in Biomedical Science
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.
PSYC522
Individual Differences in Behaviour
20 credits
The aim of this module is to give an overview of how individuals vary in thinking, behaviour, and emotion, and the consequences this may have for their physical and mental health. This module consists of four strands. 1 Personality & Intelligence (development, measurement) 2 Health Psychology (physical health, behaviour change) 3 Clinical Psychology (definition, therapy) 4 Positive Psychology (mental health improvement)
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
BHCS2005
Clinical Haematology and Biochemistry
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.
BHCS3030
Biomedical Sciences: Placement
0 credits
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.
BHCS3001
Personal Research Project
40 credits
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.
80% Coursework
20% Practicals
BHCS3031
Personal Development and Employability
0 credits
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.
HIPL600
Interprofessional Learning 3
BHCS3003
Clinical Microbiology
20 credits
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.
50% Examinations
50% Tests
BHCS3006
Cellular Basis of Immunity
20 credits
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.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
BHCS3007
Current Issues in Neurobiology
20 credits
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
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
BHCS3009
Medical Genetics
20 credits
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.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
BHCS3014
Reproductive Science
20 credits
This module provides the theoretical underpinning that will enable students to operate effectively in a modern reproductive science laboratory. Current concepts and techniques in reproductive biology and pathology, with particular reference to infertility and assisted reproduction, will be explored in a critical manner.
50% Practicals
50% Examinations
BHCS3022
Contemporary Issues in Human Health
20 credits
Rapid developments in the biomedical sciences are affecting many aspects of human health, and there are profound economic, social, legal and ethical implications of many recent advances. This module allows students to select topics of personal interest for in-depth study and encourages effective communication to peers and other audiences, providing good skills for future career development
70% Coursework
30% Examinations
BHCS3024
Diet, Exercise and Chronic Disease
20 credits
This module examines the roles of diet and exercise in the development and management of chronic disease states. The focus is on the major chronic diseases - obesity, CVD, type2 diabetes, cancer, osteoporosis.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
PSYC608
Applied Topics in Psychology 1
20 credits
This course allows students to develop an in depth and critical appreciation of two areas of psychological research (four topics drawn from the current research programmes of the School's staff).
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
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:
UCAS tariff
104 - 120
Contextual offers: Typically, the contextual offer for this course is 8 points below the advertised tariff. A contextual offer is an offer to study at university that takes into account individual circumstances that are beyond your control, and that can potentially impact your learning and your exam results, or your confidence in applying to university.
New student | 2024-2025 | 2025-2026 * |
---|---|---|
Home | £9,250 | £9,535 |
International | £18,100 | £18,650 |
Part time (Home) | £770 | £795 |
* UK Government announcement on tuition fees
On Monday 4 November 2024, the UK Government announced a proposal to increase tuition fees for home undergraduate students from £9,250 to £9,535 per annum from September 2025 onwards. The University of Plymouth intends to apply this new fee from September 2025. However, implementation of this increase will be subject to parliamentary procedure. This change applies to new students starting their studies in September 2025. For current and returning students, the University is reviewing fees and will update you as soon as possible.
International progression routes
Engagement, experience and expertise
The School of Biomedical Sciences is based in a purpose-built building linked to the Faculty of Health
My favourite parts were definitely the laboratory practicals and modules about microbiology. I love being in the lab and am happiest with a pipette in hand!
“I would definitely encourage you to carry out a placement year as it gave me a fantastic insight into how to prepare for life after graduation.”
“I successfully got a place on the University's summer research bursary scheme allowing me to spend two months working alongside one of my lecturers and PhD students researching how macrophages behave in some gut diseases, setting up my own experiments from scratch.”
“I came into higher education through a non-traditional background, so studying at Plymouth opened a host of new possibilities for me. It allowed my curiosity to flourish and I could pursue my interest in human biology.”
Learn about our varied research topics within the Biomedical Research Group, which include: