Program Overview

Intercalated BSc in Experimental Pathology

The Intercalated BSc in Experimental Pathology is a comprehensive program that offers students an in-depth understanding of the underlying mechanisms that drive a broad range of major diseases. The course emphasizes the importance of research and experimentation for the advancement of our understanding of pathological disorders.

Course Structure

The program consists of four taught modules, which are assessed by written examinations. The modules are:

• Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine (BMD363)
• Cancer Biology (BMD381)
• Molecular Basis of Personalised Medicine (BMD383)
• Perspectives on Brain Disorders (BMD369)

Additionally, students will undertake a research project, which will normally involve experimental work in the laboratory or measurements on volunteers undergoing clinical investigation. The project will be presented as a written report and will be assessed by internal examiners.

Module Descriptions

Cancer Biology (BMD381)

This module provides an overview of the definition of neoplasia, the macro and micro appearance of a range of specific tumours, and current ideas on the molecular and genetic basis of their pathogenesis. The transformation from normal to malignant tissue will be covered, together with the manner in which tumours grow and spread. The course will end with an overview of tumour diagnosis and treatment.

Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine (BMD363)

This module provides a comprehensive overview and foundation in stem cell biology, including applications in regenerative medicine. The module will cover topics including the developmental origin of stem cells, comparing and contrasting different types of stem cells, biological regulation of stem cells, and tissue-specific functions.

Molecular Basis of Personalised Medicine (BMD383)

This module will build on the basic information on pathological processes and cancer biology to provide an in-depth analysis of the tools available to analyze heterogeneity in disease. It will examine strategies being developed to refine treatment programs and investigate how such analysis can be used to predict risk and develop preventive strategies.

Perspectives on Brain Disorders (BMD369)

This module will focus on understanding the mechanisms underlying complex brain disorders and injury. Topics covered will include an integrated view of the major neurotransmitter systems and in-depth analysis of the mechanisms underlying the effects of drugs used in the central nervous system.

Research Project

The research project will normally be some original research that is expected to occupy at least half of the time of the course. It will normally involve experimental work or measurements on volunteers undergoing clinical investigation and will be presented as a written report.

Testimonial

The Experimental Pathology course provides an in-depth, well-rounded understanding of the underlying mechanisms that drive a broad range of major diseases. The research project was a particular highlight, giving students a hands-on opportunity to work on a lab-based project with the perfect balance of autonomy and supervision. Developing research and critical thinking skills have been invaluable for career advancement.

Further Information

For more information about the Intercalated BSc in Experimental Pathology, please note that the course director's details are not provided here.

Summary of Course Units

The course consists of four taught units, each with a specific credit value and duration:

• Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine (15 credits - Autumn term)
• Cancer Biology (15 credits - Autumn term)
• Molecular Basis of Personalised Medicine (15 credits - Spring term)
• Perspectives on Brain Disorders (15 credits - Spring term)

Plus a research project (60 credits - Autumn and Spring term).

Student Experience

The program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of experimental pathology, as well as practical skills in experimentation and presentation. The research project allows students to construct and develop novel ideas, promoting training in how to plan and organize a program of work over a six-month period.

Course Details

• The course is available to undergraduate students.
• The course duration is one year.
• The course is taught through a combination of lectures, seminars, and laboratory work.
• The course is assessed through written examinations and a research project.

The end.