Programme Specifications

N/A

Biomedical Sciences

August 2024

The foundation year provides opportunities for students to develop further the foundation of their interest and knowledge in the biological sciences. It aims to develop the intellectual and practical skills of the student in preparation for the DLS degree schemes and the wider range of disciplines open to the graduate biologist. It provides the skills necessary to allow students to adapt and to respond to change, and to engage in life-long learning. Students will develop an appreciation of the social responsibilities of graduates in biological sciences in general.

This degree scheme is designed to provide a broad understanding of the scientific basis of medical biology and explore how nutrition and exercise can be used to prevent and treat medical conditions. This will be achieved via an integrated programme of study, exploring current controversies, concerns and dilemmas relating to human health. Students will study modules in nutrition which links our health to the food we eat and how it is utilised in energy production. Students will also study modules in the subject areas of cell and molecular biology, human anatomy and physiology, biochemistry, pharmacology, microbiology, immunology, nutrition, metabolism, bioinformatics and genetics. They will develop understanding of research methods and the ability to apply this to new and interesting topics and develop creative solutions for health promotion. Students will also undertake modules which encourage personal and professional development.

The required content of human anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, genetics, immunology, microbiology, pharmacology, cell and molecular biology and bioinformatics, identified in the Benchmark statement document for Biomedical Sciences are covered by core scheme modules.

The proposed degree aims to meet the following objectives:

Provide a broad understanding of biological disciplines such as physiology, psychology microbiology, disease, immunology, genetics and biomechanics, showing how they relate to the body and health.

Ensure students see the link between biological processes and health.

Demonstrate the important link between, biology, health and exercise.

Integrate and emphasize the important role of psychology in ensuring exercise participation and lifestyle change to limit the biological processes which result in diseased states such as diabetes or cancer.

A1 Describe and discuss the key concepts and phenomena relevant to the Biomedical Sciences programme confidently, accurately and in detail, using appropriate terminology, and be aware of the full breadth of Biomedical Sciences, from molecular to cellular, and from health to disease.

A2 Be aware of the full breadth of the Biosciences, from molecular to cellular, and from organism to ecosystem.

A3 Engage with literature from the Biomedical Sciences to develop insight into the subject.

A4 Appreciate the contribution of Biomedical Sciences to the innovations that characterise the modern world, and the potential of Biomedical Sciences graduates to develop solutions to current and future challenges.

A5 Stay up to date with advances in Biomedical Sciences and appreciate the fluid nature of knowledge that evolves as new findings emerge.

A6 Understand the key concepts and techniques in general systems biology. Underpinning basic sciences including mathematics and computing (word processing, spreadsheets, presentation software, etc.), biological chemistry, microbiology, analytical techniques and genetics (evolution, phylogeny, taxonomy, etc.).

A7 Gain knowledge and understanding of cellular biology, cell division, organelles and cellular homeostasis. Interactions of microbes, plants and animals with each other and with the environment.

Learning and Teaching

Lectures; workshops; seminars; tutorials; directed independent study; problem-based learning scenarios and case studies; laboratory practicals; literature-based research; computer-assisted learning; research leading to a dissertation.

Assessment Strategies and Methods

Written examinations and coursework to include: report writing, essay writing, oral and poster presentations; the submission of a dissertation; assessment based on real life problems.

10.2.1 Intellectual Skills

By the end of their programme, all students are expected to be able to demonstrate:

B1 Recognise the relationships and interfaces between Biomedical Sciences and other subjects, enabling efficient interactions in a multidisciplinary environment.

B2 Apply ethical awareness to working in Biomedical Sciences, appreciate the historical context of the subject and the societal impacts of advances in the Biomedical Sciences.

Learning and Teaching

Lectures; tutorials; student-led seminars; problem-based learning scenarios and case studies; laboratory practicals; literature based research; computer-assisted learning; research leading to a dissertation.

Assessment Strategies and Methods

Written examinations and coursework to include: report writing, essay writing, oral and poster presentations; the submission of a dissertation; assessment based on real life problems.

10.2.2 Professional practical skills / Discipline Specific Skills

By the end of their programme, all students are expected to be able to demonstrate:

C1 Apply knowledge and understanding of human biological systems and methodologies to design experiments and to solve theoretical and practical problems, with awareness of appropriate controls, possible bias, ethics and sustainability.

C2 Describe, document and enact safe working practices in terms of managing biological, chemical, laboratory or sample-based risk, through knowledge-based risk assessments and practical activities.

C3 Select and carry out appropriate quantitative and qualitative practical techniques to solve problems relevant to the programme, including consideration of the theoretical basis and limitations of various techniques.

C4 Complete independent open-ended investigative work through a project/research-based assignment relevant to the course.

C5 Collect qualitative and quantitative data from investigations relevant to the course and analyse and interpret this data to allow testing of hypotheses, contextualising of findings, presentation of findings, and suggestions for further lines of investigation.

Learning and Teaching

Lectures; tutorials; student-led seminars; directed independent study; problem-based learning scenarios and case studies; laboratory practicals; literature-based research; computer-assisted learning; research leading to a dissertation.

Assessment Strategies and Methods

Written examinations and coursework to include: report writing, essay writing, oral and poster presentations; the submission of a dissertation; assessment based on real life problems.

By the end of their programme, all students are expected to be able to demonstrate:

D1 Acquire skills in research and data analysis.

D2 Deploy mathematical and statistical concepts, processes and tools, such as the manipulation of equations and graphical and statistical analysis, to solve problems or evaluate data.

D3 Develop problem-solving and creative thinking skills.

D4 Develop a thorough grounding in information technology skills and use appropriate databases, computational techniques and tools to aid further understanding of and insight into biological processes.

D5 Demonstrate the ability to work independently.

D6 Demonstrate time-management and organisational skills, including the ability to meet deadlines.

D7 Develop the ability to express ideas and communicate effectively, in both written and oral forms, selecting appropriate content, media and methods for the audience, purpose and subject.

D8 Demonstrate self-motivation and self-reliance.

D9 Collaborate and work successfully and inclusively in a group environment, contributing positively and flexibly to team outputs.

D10 Act professionally, with due regard for legal, ethical and societal responsibilities, modelling good practice that promotes positive, sustainable and inclusive perceptions of the Biosciences and of Bioscientists.

Learning and Teaching

Lectures; tutorials; student-led seminars; problem-based learning scenarios and case studies; laboratory practicals; literature based research; computer-assisted learning; research leading to a dissertation.

Assessment Strategies and Methods

Written examinations and coursework to include: report writing, essay writing, oral and poster presentations; the submission of a dissertation; assessment based on real life problems.