Foundation year

Year two

Year three

Placement year

Final year

Your foundation year will provide a strong framework for your continued studies toward your Applied Biosciences BSc (Hons) degree.

Modules

Introduction to Health and Disease

This module introduces how ill health and diseases develop and their effects on cellular systems, organs, organ systems and homeostatic control mechanisms at a chemical/molecular level.

As well as exploring the relationship between pathophysiological changes to structure and function of body systems and the most common causes of morbidity, mortality and sickness absence, you will also consider the inter-relationships between specific health issues and how they impact on homeostatic control, and therefore cause key signs and symptoms.

We will also cover epidemiology, risk factors and preventative strategies. Emphasis is placed on understanding the key pathophysiological changes that accompany a particular health issue or disease, and on the physiological and biochemical basis of current and possible future therapies.

Compulsory

Foundation of Anatomy and Physiology

Here, we focus on physiological systems in the human body and how these systems interact to create a steady state (homeostatis). An introduction into the basic anatomical structures of the main biological systems in the human body is explored, while observing the function and purpose of these systems and how they help to regulate homeostasis.

Compulsory

Introduction to Cell Biology

This module is designed to provide you with the cell biology knowledge and skills required for a successful transition to year two study in bioscience disciplines. The material covered is at a level corresponding to pre-university qualifications such as A levels in the UK. The module provides a foundation of knowledge in cell biology, and there is a strong emphasis on the application of the subject in bioscience contexts.

You will examine the facts, principles and concepts of cell biology such as the key molecular components of cells and organelles, as well as their function, and genetics. You will progress to developing the skills required to use this knowledge and will also learn to understand scientific methods, advances in technology relevant to cell biology and their effects on society.

You will also bring together knowledge and understanding of how different areas of cell biology relate to each other and other areas of bioscience.

Compulsory

Foundation of Chemistry

Foundation of Chemistry aims to equip you with the knowledge and skills of chemistry to progress to degree-level study. The material corresponds to A level qualifications in the UK.

The module provides a foundation of knowledge and understanding of the main branches of chemistry. You will be introduced to the major aspects of chemical terminology, as well as a range of organic and inorganic materials, and physical chemistry. You will also develop an understanding of scientific methods, and the link between theory and practical experiments, as there is a strong emphasis on the practical application of the subject, in the context of biosciences.

You will bring together knowledge of how different areas of chemistry relate to each other and other areas of bioscience, and the use of chemistry in society.

Compulsory

The second year explores essential concepts such as chemistry, cell and molecular biology, microbiology and anatomy and physiology. You will also learn to use scientific vocabulary. The practical aspect focuses on vital laboratory skills specific to the subject which includes the safe use of complex equipment, report writing and the development of accurate lab skills. Students who successfully complete year two are eligible for a Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Applied Biosiences.

Modules

Chemistry for Biosciences

This module aims to teach the fundamentals of chemistry, how it is used in society and how it connects with other areas in science, with emphasis on the application to biochemistry and the human body.

Compulsory

Introduction to Microbiology

Here, we explore various microorganisms and parasites, including pathogens, with an aim to develop your understanding of personal and public health, from the simplest of microbes to the most complex.

Compulsory

Applied Cell Biology

This module introduces knowledge of the cell to build an understanding of human health and disease. You will explore the cell, carbohydrates, lipids, water and proteins and these will all be discussed within the context of cellular function. Other key concepts covered include the various stages of the cell cycle, key structural components, and their associated function with regard to different types of cells and tissues throughout the body.

Compulsory

Introduction to Anatomy and Physiology

This module focuses on the structure and function of systems in the human body. Topics include how the various types of cells and tissues make up the major organs within the body. You will aim to develop core knowledge of how these structures function to understand the human body in greater detail, ready to apply this knowledge to health and disease.

Compulsory

In year three you will develop knowledge gained in your second year. Specifically, this includes more advanced practical skills and expanding on concepts such as thermodynamics, electrochemistry and chemical kinetics. You’ll also discover infectious diseases and how they affect people on a personal and public level. The year concludes by focusing on human physiological systems and the mechanisms of the major causes of morbidity, mortality and sickness absence, which will include exploring cutting-edge genetic screening procedures. By using scientific journals you will further develop the critical skills of academic writing and data presentation, and the principles of good scientific writing and data presentation will be examined. Throughout your third year, you will further look to develop and enhance your academic, practical and analytical skills in preparation for your final year, and build skills that are attractive to employers.

Students who successfully complete this year are eligible for a Higher National Diploma (HND) in Applied Biosciences.

Modules

Advanced Cell and Molecular Biology

You will explore, in more depth, the molecular regulation of the cell life cycle and division, the human genome, and the molecular process of gene expression. Covered within this module is how genes control the development of organs through tissues and cells and how the state of the gene affects the health of these human structures.

Compulsory

Principles of Biochemistry

This module aims to develop your academic and practical skills. Emphasis is placed on the biochemistry of individual molecules, cells and organisms and the ways that they interact at a chemical level. You will develop an in-depth knowledge of key biochemical concepts in topics such as thermodynamics, electrochemistry and chemical kinetics in relation to biological systems.

Compulsory

Advanced Microbiology

Here, you will explore microorganisms and parasites and their involvement in health and illness, as well as developing a greater understanding of how pathogens spread infectious diseases and affect personal and public health issues. You will also explore the biology, prevention and treatment of infections in greater depth.

Compulsory

Principles of Pathophysiology

The aim of this module is to provide you with an understanding of human organ systems and the biological mechanisms of disease. The module expands on knowledge gained during year one and will introduce additional factors that affect the way the major systems operate. The module will also introduce the fundamental pharmacological principles involved in the management and treatment of the major causes of morbidity, mortality and sickness absence.

Compulsory

There’s no better way to find out what you love doing than trying it out for yourself, which is why a work placement

2

can often be beneficial. Work placements usually occur before your final year of study. They’re a great way to help you explore your potential career path and gain valuable work experience, whilst developing transferable skills for the future.

Modules

UK Work Placement – 0 credits

This module

2

provides you with an opportunity to reflect upon and gain experience for an approved placement undertaken during your programme. A placement should usually be at least 26 weeks or equivalent; however, each placement will be considered on its own merits, having regard to the ability to achieve the learning outcomes.

Optional

International Study/Work Placement – 0 credits

This module

2

provides you with an opportunity to reflect upon and gain experience for an approved international study/work placement undertaken during your programme. A work/study placement should usually be at least 26 weeks or equivalent; however, each placement will be considered on its own merits, having regard to the ability to achieve the learning outcomes.

Optional

In this year, you will become confident enough to understand, criticise and design complex research projects both inside and outside the laboratory and how to apply this to the workplace or in future study. To build on your previous years you will study the applications of biochemistry, cell and molecular biology, microbiology and pathophysiology, and disease management. These areas are studied in context with the use of relevant examples so that you can apply knowledge directly to the workplace.

You will also undertake an independent research project, from ideation to performing practical experiments to gather data, to analysing, writing up and presenting your findings. Students who complete their final year will receive a BSc (Hons) Applied Biosciences.

Modules

Applications of Biochemistry

This module explores the application of complex principles of biochemistry through a combination of current scientific theory and lesser known cutting-edge scientific research. You will analyse the uses of organic materials, identification by spectroscopic methods and discover their relevance to the fields of pharmacology, toxicology and environmental sciences.

Compulsory

Analysis and Applications of Cell and Molecular Biology

Here, we will expand upon the previous topics of applied cell biology and molecular biology. The module will include an in-depth study of the complex genetic involvement in major causes of sickness, mortality and disease; investigating genetic profiles, genotypes and phenotypic characteristics, as well as biotechnological applications, including bioengineering, nanotechnology, stem cell technology and regenerative medicine. The module also explores how lifestyle factors contribute to modified cellular function and the impact this has on human sickness and mortality.

Compulsory

Applications of Pathophysiology

At this stage, you will take an in-depth look at the pathophysiological mechanisms of human disease. The module will expand on the knowledge gained during year two, and examines current research theories relevant to infectious and non-infectious causes of morbidity, mortality and sickness absence. This knowledge and understanding will be applied to the critical analysis of relevant preventative and management strategies. The module will also help you to develop universal academic skills. The flipped-classroom approach means you will be provided with a problem, required to research autonomously, critically analyse scientific papers and ultimately propose a solution.

Compulsory

Applied Biosciences Project

In the final module you will undertake an independent research project. You will develop a research question, design an experimental method and collect data from either a laboratory experiment or a field-based project. As part of the project you should demonstrate an ability to work independently, a high level of organisational skills and awareness of health and safety, ethical considerations and good laboratory practice. You will have full access to industry standard equipment which includes a tissue culture suite, microbiology lab and chemistry lab4. As a final year student, you will also have access to a separate project lab. You will be expected to present findings in a format that includes a dissertation, and to defend and justify the design and scientific approach of your experiment in a viva voce (oral) exam.

Compulsory

Applied Biosciences with Foundation Year BSc (Hons) drafted

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