Biomedical Science (Blood Science) - MSc

Program Overview

This one-year full-time or two-year part-time program focuses on diagnostic, research, and clinical techniques related to blood or its components. The program is structured with all taught sessions delivered in just two days of the working week (full-time) or one day on campus each week for two years (part-time). The program is accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS) and provides graduates with a wide range of career opportunities in the healthcare and commercial sectors.

Program Outline

Outline:

• This one-year full-time or two-year part-time program focuses on diagnostic, research, and clinical techniques related to blood or its components in the successful identification, treatment, and management of medical conditions.
• The program is structured with all taught sessions delivered in just two days of the working week (full-time).
• Part-time study allows for greater flexibility, requiring only one day on campus each week for two years.
• The program is structured with two modules per semester:
• Semester 1:
• Biomedical Ethics and Grant proposal (15 credits) - This module covers systematic approaches, ethical issues, grant application, project management, research methodologies, data analysis, scientific literature review, and new research ideas.
• Research Methodologies (15 credits) - Students explore modern techniques (molecular genetics, cell imaging) and analyze research questions in seminars with presentations of research papers in their chosen fields.
• Clinical Biochemistry and Immunology (30 credits) This module explores the roles of Clinical Biochemistry and Medical Immunology departments in healthcare across the UK with a focus on the impact of disease and disorders relevant to Blood Sciences on the human body with emphasis on incidence/prevalence, aetiology, pathology, and biomarkers used in diagnostics.
• Semester 2:
• Haematology and Transfusion Science (30 credits) Similar to the previous module, this focuses on pathobiology in metabolism.
Experts from NHS Trusts explain their roles and how pathobiology knowledge helps assess, investigate, and evaluate patient needs in Haematology and Blood Transfusion.
• Project Management and Business Planning (15 credits) Geared for students in the field, modules cover project and budget management, leadership development, modern lab techniques, data interpretation, data analysis.
• Advanced Laboratory Techniques (15 credits) This lab-intensive module provides understanding and application of advanced lab practical competencies and skills with emphasis on project work and independent data collection in conjunction with employers.
• Semester 3:
• Biomedical Science Research Project (60 credits) Capstone project where students design and conduct an extensive research project under a supervisor and present findings in a mini student-conference.

Assessment:

• Module Assessment:
• Lab reports, essays, presentations, online examinations.
• Modules do not always culminate in final exams.

Teaching:

• Method:
Subject-centered lectures, seminars, lab sessions, workshops, tutorials, guest lectures, research seminars.
• Emphasis:
Critical thinking, innovation, reflective writing, autonomous learning, communication.
• Faculty:
World-leading researchers and clinical practitioners in various fields related to the program like apoptosis/proteomics/epigenetics etc. along with guest speakers including NHS professionals.

Careers:

• Drug testing, infection control, cancer screening, forensics, pharmaceutical research, blood donation, transfusion services, rapid response labs, point of care testing, armed forces, teaching.
• Commercial sector: technical support in research markets.
• General skills like data analysis/interpretation/problem solving, communication are highly valued by employers.
• PhD study in doctoral-level programs are also mentioned as options.

Other:

• This program is accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS).
• The school has invested £45m in creating state-of-the-art science facilities.
• £2m has been spent on equipping students with research-grade analytical instruments.
• Keele Postgraduate Association provides social support and opportunities for postgraduate students.

UK - Full time £11,000 per year. Part time £6,000 per year. International - £20,700 per year.