BSc Accredited

7/27/2019 BSc Accredited

1/28

MS Professional Standards | ibms.org/publications

Criteria and Requirements for the Accreditation

and Re-accreditation of BSc (Hons) degrees

n Biomedical Science

nstitute of Biomedical Science


2/28

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Criteria and Requirements for the Accreditation and Re-accreditation of BSc (Hons) degrees in Biomedical Science

produced by

IBMS Education and Development Committee

Edition 2.1 July 2010

This document and its contents including the IBMS logo are the property and trademarks of the Institute of Biomedical Science.

The copyright on this material is owned by the IBMS (unless otherwise explicitly stated). This document or no part of it may be copied, reproduced, republished, downloaded ortransmitted in any way, other than for your own personal, non-commercial use.

Prior written permission must be obtained from the IBMS, using the contact details below, for any other use of this material.

All rights are reserved.

copyright Institute of Biomedical Science 2010

The Institute publishes a wide range of professional and scientic publications and guidance. Further information and downloadable publications: www.ibms.org/publications

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Alan WainwrightSecretary Education and Development Committee

Institute of Biomedical Science12 Coldbath SquareLondonEC1R 5HL

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

telephone: 020 7713 0214 | email: [email protected]


3/28

Degree Course Accreditation & Re-Accreditation________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Criteria and Requirements for the Accreditation and Re-Accreditation of BSc (Hons) Degrees in Biomedical Science

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

telephone:020 7713 0214 | fax:020 7436 4946 | website:www.ibms.org | email:[email protected]



4/28

1

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Institute of Biomedical Science | www.ibms.org


Contents

Introduction:Criteria and requirements for BSc (Hons) degree in biomedical science 2

A Programme Submission 4

B Programme Accreditation 5

C Accreditation Visit 7

D Accreditation Requirements

Section D1 / Accreditation of BSc (Hons) BMS degree 9

D1.1Specic Requirements of Programme Content 9

D1.2General RequirementsforProgramme Delivery 12

D1.3Additional Requirements Specic for Integrated Degrees 15

Section D2 / Re-Accreditation of BSc (Hons) BMS degree 16

E Guidelines for Submission of Documents and IBMS Panel Visit 17

F Documentation Checklist 21

G University / Employer Liaison 23


5/28

The Institute of Biomedical Science (henceforth referred to as The Institute) is the professionalbody for biomedical scientists and has been accrediting biomedical science programmes for overthirty years. Accreditation is a process of peer review and recognition by the profession of theachievement of quality standards for delivering BSc (Hons) biomedical science programmes whichconform to the QAA subject benchmark statement for biomedical science (November 2007).

Reasons for Institute Accreditation

1 Advances professional practice to benet healthcare services and professions related tobiomedical science

2 Develops specic knowledge and competence that underpins biomedical science

3 Provides expertise to support development of appropriate education and training

4 Ensures curriculum content is both current and anticipatory of future change

5 Facilitates peer recognition of education and best practice and the dissemination ofinformation through education and employer networks

6 Ensures qualication is t for purpose as an academic qualication acceptable for

statutory regulation

7 Recognises the achievement of a benchmark standard of education

8 The degree award meets education requirements for professional body membership.

9 Strengthens links between the professional body, education providers employers andstudents.

10 Provides eligibility for the Institution (HEI) to become a member of HUCBMS (Heads ofUniversity Centres of Biomedical Science)

Types of Degrees Programmes

Full-time degree with optional placement(s) in an Institute approved NHS laboratory,research or industrial laboratory or delivered in part-time mode.

Integrated degree where work-based learning in an Institute approved laboratory isdelivered as part of a full-time or part-time programme to enable completion of theInstitutes Registration Portfolio. These may also be approved by the Health ProfessionsCouncil (HPC).

2

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

www.ibms.org | Institute of Biomedical Science


IntroductionCriteria and Requirements for BSc (Hons) Degrees inBiomedical Science

1

2


6/28

QAA Subject Benchmark Statement

The benchmark statement denes the subject area of biomedical science relating to BSc honoursdegrees, incorporating this title, offered by UK universities.

Institute Membership and Registration with the Health Professions Council

An honours degree in biomedical science accredited by the Institute is acceptable as a preliminaryacademic qualication for registration with the Health Professions Council (henceforth referred toas HPC). By undertaking a period of laboratory training and completion of the Institutes RegistrationPortfolio for the award of a Certicate of Competence, individuals are able to demonstrate theymeet the tness to practice standards (HPC Standards of Prociency) required for registration. TheCerticate of Competence gives eligibility for Licentiate membership of the Institute.

The aim of professional body accreditation (and thereby suitability as a qualication requirementfor statutory registration as a biomedical scientist with the HPC), is to ensure that, through a spiritof partnership between the Institute and Higher Education Institutions (henceforth referred to asHEIs), a good quality degree is achieved that prepares the student for suitable employment inthe eld of biomedical science.

Some HEIs, in collaboration with local employers, may be able to offer an integrated degree,whereby a concurrent education and training programme leads to the award of the Certicateof Competence as well as the award of the degree (hence synonymously referred to as co-terminus degrees). These programmes are structured to facilitate completion of theRegistration Portfolio during the degree, thus enabling the student to be eligible to apply to the HPCfor registration upon award of their degree. These degrees may also be approved by the HPCthrough a similar process of review against the HPC standards of education and training (SETS).

In March 2010 the Institute was awarded approval by the HPC as an education provider of programmesof education and training that lead to the award of the Institutes Certicate of Competenceeither directly though an integrated degree or indirectly though completion of an IBMSaccredited degree (or supplementary education to demonstrate equivalence) and the IBMSRegistration Training Portfolio.

Institute Accreditation

While it is acknowledged that student choice in a modular degree programme should bemaximised, the Institute will only accredit or re-accredit a specic named pathway (full-time,part-time, sandwich or integrated) that incorporates the specic and vocational requirements

detailed in the QAA Subject Benchmark statement for Biomedical Science (November 2007).These QAA requirements inform the core and key subject areas of the accredited degree and inthe context of accreditation are equally applicable to non-UK degrees.

Accreditation is normally awarded for a period of ve student cohorts. During the nal year ofintake the HEI will be notied that a re-accreditation visit is required for accreditation of furtherstudent cohorts. This is conducted in accordance with the specific and general guidelinesappropriate to initial accreditation, with additional requirements and can be regarded as aprocess of periodic review and a quality enhancement opportunity.

3

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________




7/28

It is preferred that programmes are submitted for accreditation/re-accreditation visitsbetween October and the end of June, to allow for appropriate processes to be completedfor student admissions in September. It is recognised that it may be preferable to coincideaccreditation visits with the HEIs internal validation review and/or approval visits by theHealth Professions Council (HPC). However, accreditation for undergraduate events mustbe confined to biomedical science programmes unless agreed by prior arrangementwith the Institute. The Institute may also consider applications for accreditation/

re-accreditation of Masters programmes in biomedical science at the same event (seeseparate document forCriteria and Requirements for Accreditation and Re-accreditation ofMSc degrees in Biomedical Science).

Confirmation of the date must be made to the Institute three months prior to theproposed accreditation/re-accreditation event.

HEIs applying for Institute accreditation or re-accreditation of degree programmes arerequired to supply detailed submission documents according to the guidelines in sectionsD and E of this document.

Documents must be submitted for consideration by the Institute and its representatives a

minimum of six weeks before the scheduled accreditation event. Documents should befocussed and must be relevant to the programme.

A fee of 500 is payable to the Institute of Biomedical Science on application foraccreditation/re-accreditation.

E-Learning programmes must meet the same criteria and requirements as other accrediteddegree programmes. Online access must be made available to the Institutes representatives.In addition, details about student/tutor and student/student contact time must be clearlydened, together with any specic requirements relating to employer support and the useof multimedia communications.

A2

A3

A4

A5

A6

A Programme Submission

A1

4

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________



A database of accredited programmes is held by the Institute and updated annually. It is acondition of accreditation that the HEI noties the Institute of any changes that are signicantlydifferent from the programme at the time the current period of accreditation was conferred.For example, changes that might affect the delivery and outcomes of the programme, coursetitle, new pathway, overall aims or changes to teaching staff. The HEI is also required to provideprogramme information as an annual report to the Institute and may from time to time be expectedto provide other information when requested. All information will be treated as condential.

For further information about accreditation please contact [email protected]

For information about the Institute visit www.ibms.org


8/28

The Institute will appoint a panel of at least one academic representative and one professionalrepresentative to review the submitted documentation and visit the HEI to discuss the proposedprogramme. The panel is normally supported by an education executive. The Institute mayalso appoint additional members of the panel for training purposes or quality assurance.

Discussions will take place with senior management staff of the university, programme leaders andteams, external lecturers, placement providers or employers and students.

An independent panel Chair is appointed by the HEI (usually Head of a different school).

Secretarial support for the Chair and panel must be provided to record deliberations andndings of the day.

At the end of the visit the panel members of the Institute indicate the outcome of the visit tothe programme leaders. They will indicate the result as one of the following:

accreditation without conditions accreditation with conditions accreditation declined.

Recommendations for consideration by the HEI when further developing the programmemay also be made and the panel may also wish to make commendations regarding exemplarypractice.

A draft report of the visit is prepared by the panel secretary and a nal version agreed withthe Institutes representatives. A copy of the nal report must be submitted to the InstitutesExecutive Head of Education.

A report of the visit is made to the Institutes Education & Development Committee witha recommendation to accredit or not accredit the programme, whether this is subjectto any conditions and if any recommendations and commendations were also made.Accreditation is usually awarded for ve student intakes, subject to the HEI meeting anyconditions of accreditation within the designated timeframe.

The HEI is notied in writing of the Committees decision. Any appeals to the outcome mustbe made in writing within one month of notication of the Committees decision.

Accredited programmes will be advertised on the Institutes website and the HEI willreceive an accreditation certificate for the period of accreditation and permission touse the Institutes Accredited programme logo. Only programmes with up to dateaccreditation will be advertised on the Institutes website.

Failure of the HEI to maintain compliance with the criteria for accreditation will trigger a reviewby the Institute that may result in accreditation status of the programme or programmesbeing withdrawn.

B1

B2

B3

B4

B5

B6

B7

B8

B9

B10

B Programme Accreditation

5

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________




9/28

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________



Accreditation Process Pre-event

Accreditation Request

1. Receive communicationthat university wishescourse to be accreditedor re-accredited; or

2. IBMS advises universitythat re-accreditation isdue.

Agree Date

Agree date and format of thevisit. (This may coincide with

internal validation).

University Sends KeyDocuments to include:

programme specication;

module descriptors;

placement handbook; student handbook

employers handbook curriculum vitae for relevant

staff; and external examiners reports for

the last two years if available.

1. Acknowledge request andsend appropriate criteriaand requirementsdocument; or

2. Send invitation letter tore-accredit with appropriatecriteria and requirementsdocument

1. Send letter Conrmingaccreditation date andpanel details to university.

2. Send letter thanking panelmembers together withcriteria and requirementsdocument (if needed).

AdministrativeProcess



10/28

Members of the Institutes panel may be invited to act as external assessors at the HEIsinternal validation process as full members of the validation team. It must be recognisedthat while it is possible for a programme to be successfully validated by the HEI, it might notsatisfy Institute requirements for accreditation.

The agenda for the visit will include:

C1

C2

vi.

vii.

NB:

C Accreditation Visit

A tour of the facilities (teaching/research laboratories, teaching resources)

A private meeting with representative students from different biomedical scienceprogrammes (or in the event of rst time accreditation other science students).

A meeting with the programme team (including key subject specific part timelecturers) to discuss details of the programme and research activities.

A meeting with placement providers and employer members of the EmployerLiaison Group, to discuss their input to the delivery and future development of theprogramme(s).

Meetings with senior management staff with responsibility for relevant resources andresearch (with reference to RAE).

If required, a nal meeting with HEI representatives to clarify other issues.

Private meeting of the panel

Verbal feedback report of outcomes to university staff.

i.

ii.

iii.

iv.

v.

See Sections D and E for further requirements and guidelines for accreditation and submitteddocumentation. Section F has a document checklist and Section G has guidance onuniversity-employer liaison committees.

7

viii.

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________




11/28

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________



Accreditation Visit

Private meeting with Panel and Chair

Meetings with university seniormanagement to discuss relevantresources and research

IBMS panel tour facilities

IBMS panel members meet withrepresentative students from the

programme

IBMS panel meet with theprogramme team to discuss details ofthe programme and researchactivities

Meeting with placement providors

(if applicable)

Final meeting is held with theuniversity representatives to clarifyany other issues (optional)

Private meeting of Panel and Chair

Feedback report is given

8


12/28

The requirements for accreditation are stated below with respect to accreditation (Section D1) orre-accreditation (Section D1 and Section D2) and type of programme.

D Accreditation Requirements

D1 Accreditation of BSc (Hons) Degrees in Biomedical Science

Biomedical science is concerned with the integration of a wide range of subjects to understandthe science of causes, diagnosis and treatment of disease (pathobiology or biology of disease).Accreditation is specic to the programme description, which must clearly demonstrate themodules/units contributing to the degree award and mode of delivery.

D1.1 Specic Requirements of Programme Content

i

9

ii

iii

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________



Fundamental to the rationale of the course is the integration of the basic knowledge andclinical pathology specialist subject areas through a study of a pathobiology componentwhich must consider human disorders and disease processes together with their investigation.It is essential that this material should be included throughout the programme. Discrete

modules would be preferred but an integrated approach is acceptable, providing itsexistence is adequately demonstrated.

An honours level project based in biomedical science is an essential component of an Instituteaccredited degree programme. This must be an independent research-based project,centred on a critical analysis of data and application of results. Submissions from the HEImust provide detail of the arrangements for the performance and assessment of the project,together with examples of proposed project titles.

The programme must include the subject areas indicated in (a) (d) below. The headingsare not intended to imply module titles and the subject matter is not intended to constrainmodule content.

Human anatomy and physiology

Human anatomy and physiology refers to the structure, function and control of thehuman body, its component parts and major systems.

Cell biology

Cell biology is the study of the structure and function of cells (and the organelles theycontain) and includes their life cycle, division, self-replication and eventual death.

Biochemistry

Biochemistry is the study of chemical processes which support life. It requiresknowledge of key chemical principles which are relevant to biological systems andincludes the structure and function of biological molecules, and, cellular metabolismand its control.

Genetics and molecular biology

Genetics is the study of the structure and function of genes (including their role in humandisease) and inheritance. Molecular biology is that branch of biology that deals with

the manipulation of nucleic acids (DNA, RNA) so that genes can be isolated,sequenced or mutated. It covers methods which allow the insertion of new genes intothe genome or the deletion of genes from the genome of an organism. It allows thefunctions of genes and the effects of gene mutations to be investigated.

(a) Basic Knowledge

iv


13/28

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________



Clinical Laboratory Specialities

Cellular Pathology

Cellular pathology is the microscopic examination of normal and abnormal cells(cytopathology), and tissues (histopathology) for indicators of disease. A biomedicalscience graduate will have a knowledge of:

the preparation of cells and tissues for microscopic examination; microscopy and its applications; the gross structure and ultrastructure of normal cells and tissues and the

structural changes which may occur during disease; the principles and applications of visualisation and imaging techniques.

Clinical Biochemistry

Clinical biochemistry is the evaluation of analytes to aid the screening, diagnosis andmonitoring of disease. A biomedical science graduate will have a knowledge of:

the principles and applications of routine methods used in clinical biochemistry; the investigation of the function and dysfunction of organs and systems and

of the biochemical changes in disease; the principles of the biochemical investigations used in the diagnosis,

treatment and monitoring of disease; therapeutic drug monitoring and investigation of substance abuse.

Clinical Immunology

Clinical immunology is the study of immunopathological conditions and abnormalimmune function. A biomedical science graduate will have a knowledge of:

the causes and consequences of diseases associated with abnormal immunefunction, neoplastic diseases and transplantation reactions together with theirdiagnosis, treatment and monitoring;

immunological techniques used in clinical and research laboratories; the principles of the function and measurement of effectors of the immune response; prophylaxis and immunotherapy.

(b)

i

10

v

ii

vi

Immunology

Immunology is the study of components of the immune system, their structure, functionand mechanism of action. It includes innate and acquired immunity.

Microbiology

Microbiology is the study of the structure, physiology, biochemistry, classication and controlof micro-organisms, including the role of normal ora.

The traditional disciplines of cellular pathology, clinical biochemistry, clinical immunology,haematology, transfusion science, clinical genetics and medical microbiology areincreasingly being recongured into blood science, cellular science, tissue pathology, infectionsand molecular science in major pathology service units in the NHS.

However, the subjects below specically address the knowledge and understanding ofdisease processes in the context of laboratory investigation:

iii


14/28

11

Haematology

Haematology is the study and investigation of the different elements that constitute blood innormal and diseased states. A biomedical science graduate will have a knowledge of:

the structure, function and production of blood cells; the nature and diagnosis of anaemias; haemoglobinopathies and thalassaemias; haematological malignancy; haemostasis and thrombosis.

Transfusion Science

Transfusion science is the identication of blood group antigens and antibodies whichensures a safe supply of blood and blood components. A biomedical science graduatewill have knowledge of:

the genetics, inheritance, structure and role of red cell antigens; the preparation, storage and use of blood components; the selection of appropriate blood components for transfusion and possible

adverse effects; immune mediated destruction of blood cells.

Clinical Genetics

Clinical genetics is the identication of genetic mutations and polymorphisms and theirinuence on disease processes. A biomedical science graduate will have knowledge of:

the principles of the methods used to study human chromosomes and DNA; epigenetics; the identication of genes for mendelian diseases; testing and screening for genetic susceptibility.

Medical Microbiology

Medical microbiology is the study and investigation of pathogenic microorganisms.A biomedical science graduate will have a knowledge of:

the pathogenic mechanisms of a range of microorganisms; the laboratory investigation and epidemiology of infectious diseases; food, water and environmental microbiology; anti-microbial and anti-viral therapy (including drug resistance); control of hospital acquired infection.

iv

v

vi

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________



(d)

Intergrated Studies(c)

vii

Continued...

Programmes should contain a reective, integrated component (pathobiology) in which theseclinical laboratory specialities are represented in a system-led approach to the study ofdisease and its treatment.

Subject-specic and generic skills

A biomedical science graduate will be aware of the need for compliance with health andsafety policies, good laboratory practice, risk and COSHH assessments, the Human Tissue Actand the importance of quality control and quality assurance.

There are a range of skills which a biomedical science graduate will be expected toacquire during the programme of study. These include:


15/28

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________



Details of the infrastructure of teaching and research of biomedical science within the HEIshould be stated.

The programme should clearly be an integral part of the faculty/school with requisitesupport and resources, which should be sufcient for the projected number of students

(i.e. demonstrated as Business Case). In addition there should be an infrastructure tosupport the research and teaching for these students, such as student-staff consultationcommittees, employers liaison committees and to support placements, if applicable.

The HEI should have a clear strategy to provide adequate physical resources to mountor sustain the programme; including computing, information technology, audio-visualequipment, library and laboratory facilities for research and practical classes.

There must be an appropriate balance between biomedical scientists, visiting lecturers andacademic staff to ensure that there is a contribution from the profession to the delivery ofthe key laboratory specialties and the knowledge is current to the needs of professionalpractice.

The relationship of teaching staff to the delivery of modules and research interests should

be evidenced in brief summary CVs (normally no more than two A4 pages) that includea maximum of ve most recent appropriate publications.

The relevant information required is:

12

i

ii

iii

iv

D1.2 General Requirements for Programme Delivery

v

(a)

discipline and subject-specic skills associated with laboratory practice; research skills, including ethics, governance, audit, experimental design,

statistical analysis, literature searching, scientic communication; key transferable skills, including communication, IT, numeracy, data analysis.

Students who graduate from integrated programmes have the opportunity to demonstratecompetence in these and other skills in a clinical laboratory environment.

Name and title:Present post:Main teaching activities:Other duties:Academic qualications:Professional qualications:Research interests/prole (last 3 years only):Publications (last 3 years only):Professional qualications:Professional membership/involvement (last 3 years only)

There should be a strategy for supporting on-going research relevant to the programmeand development of the students in biomedical science.

Management and Resources

vi

Programme Delivery(b)

This section may in part be articulated through the programme specication document.

The programme specication must highlight the distinct features of the biomedical

science honours degree courses, including overall learning outcomes.

i


16/28

13

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________



iii

iv

ii There must be clear descriptions of the modular content and mode of delivery (lectures,practicals, tutorials, exible learning), including the level and credit points of eachcomponent, with learning outcomes and methods of assessment. The delivery of subjectspecic, transferable and key skills should be evident.

The contents of each individual module must have sufcient detail to indicate thedepth and breadth of its contents. Reading lists for each module must be current.

Assessment regulations must require a pass standard to be achieved for the projectat honours level. The project must have been executed successfully through independentresearch, centred on data generation, critical analysis and application of results.A minimum of 20% of nal year credits is recommended.

Assessment methods should be clearly related to the aims and objectives of theoverall programme and its specic components and related learning outcomes.These should be clearly described with examples in the submission, together with theHEIs policy on assessment.

Where deemed appropriate, the programme team may wish to designate core orcritical modules, where compensation within or between modules is not appropriate.

This also applies to situations where averaging between assessment components isnormally allowed by university regulations. Programme teams may wish to stipulate

specic attainment standards in such modules (e.g. achievement of a minimum 35%work in examinations) before compensation is allowed. Such criteria would normallybe applied to those modules which directly reect competency to practice as abiomedical scientist (i.e. those within the broad remit of clinical laboratory sciences:haematology, blood transfusion science, medical biochemistry, cellular pathology,cytopathology, medical microbiology, clinical immunology). Criteria should be clearlyidentied within relevant documents such as student handbooks, moduledescriptors, programme specications, modules handbooks etc.

Central to the process of assessment is the involvement of external examiners withresponsibility to ensure that standards are comparable with others HEIs who are offeringaccredited biomedical science degree programmes. If not already done, the appointmentof at least one external examiner from the programme team of a member institution ofHUCBMS (Heads of University Centres of Biomedical Science) must be made at therst opportunity.

Where e-learning forms part of the degree, details will be required on course delivery and modules.Student/tutor and student/student contact time must be clearly dened together with any spe-cic requirements relating to employer support and the use of multimedia communications.

Students who successfully complete the programme must be able to meet the Englishlanguage requirements of the HPC standards of prociency. Therefore if the degree isobtained outside of the UK and the students rst language is not English the university will

also need to provide evidence that graduates meet the International English LanguageTesting System (IELTS) standard level 7 or equivalent.

v

vi

vii

viii

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) tests competence in spoken and written English.Applicants who have qualied outside of the UK, whose rst language is not English and who are not nationals ofa country within the European Economic Area (EEA), have to provide evidence that they have reached thenecessary standard. The HPC accept a number of other tests as equivalent to the IELTS examination.Please visit their website (www.hpc-uk.org) for more information.

1

ix

Continued...


17/28

14

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________



iii

Staff/Employer Specic(c)

i

ii

There should be staff development arrangements for all staff involved in delivering theprogramme.

Satisfactory liaison must be arranged with local employers and the HEI to inform thecontent and development of the programme. This should include a formal mechanism(i.e. Employer Liaison Committee ) for the views of employers and local Institutemembers to contribute to the design of the programme.

Liaison with the Institute must include dissemination of Institute information for studentsand submission of relevant student information produced by the HEI, minutes ofemployer liaison committee meetings (minimum one per academic year) and theinternal annual monitoring report produced for the university.

Student Specic(d)

iii

i

ii

Entry requirements, together with the selection criteria used for interviews and

possible exemption arrangements, should be specied, and evidence therequirement for a good command of reading, writing and spoken English.

Where there is direct entry above year one there must be a clear policy forassessing students by APL to ensure they are able to meet all the learning outcomesof the programme.

Admission procedures must give both the applicant and the education provider theinformation they require to make an informed choice about whether or not to takeup the offer of a place on the accredited programme.

There must be evidence of policies for equal opportunities and anti-discrimination inrelation to candidates and students, together with an indication of how these will beimplemented and monitored.

The student handbook must provide adequate information regarding relevantregulations, programme contents, project arrangements, pastoral care arrangementsstudent support mechanisms, career opportunities and role of professional andregulatory bodies.

There should be early awareness of the IBMS, HPC and career opportunities in theNHS in year 1 of the programme (or as appropriate for students admitted to thecourse with APL) and sufcient links with local employers to provide professionaladvice to students.

There must be evidence of effective pastoral care arrangements and studentsupport mechanisms.

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

A group which advises on matters relating to the education requirements of the profession: advice on coursedevelopments, marketing, perceived prole, reviewing and rening module proles and syllabus composition to reectthe requirements of the profession and employers. Members of the group usually include the Head of Biomedical Science,Course Leader, Year Leaders, employers and an external Institute appointed nominee. Please refer to Institute guidelinesin Section G for further information.

iv

2

v

vi

vii

2

Where the placement is in an Institute approved training laboratory there must be clearinstructions in the training manual for completing elements of the Institutes Registration Portfolio.

For students undertaking clinical or industrial placements there must be a formal agreement(e.g. Memorandum of Understanding) between the HEI and placement provider underlyingthe commitment to the placement, and if appropriate its contribution to the award.

Placement Specic(e)

i

ii


18/28

15

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________



iii

iv

There must be appropriately qualied and experienced staff to deliver studentplacement education and training.

Students and practice placement educators are fully prepared for placementwith particular regard to:

timings and the duration of any placement experience and intended learningoutcomes

expectations of professional behaviour communication and lines of responsibility.

The education provider maintains a thorough and effective system for approvingand monitoring all placements.

v

D1.3 Additional Requirements Specic for Integrated Degrees

Curriculum(a)

It is expected that the programme takes cognisance of other external reference

frameworks such as the HPC standards of education and training (SETS).

A mapping document must be provided to demonstrate that those who successfullycomplete the programme meet all of the HPC standards of prociency for biomedicalscientists through completion of the Institutes Registration Portfolio.

i

ii

Practice Placements Standards(b)

Learning, teaching and supervision must be designed to encourage safe and effectivepractice, independent learning and professional behaviour.

Students and practice placement trainers must be fully prepared for placement which willinclude information about and understanding of the following:

the learning outcomes to be achieved evidence required for the IBMS registration portfolio to demonstrate HPC

standards of prociency procedures for verifying the portfolio has been completed and standards met role of the placement facilitator if appointed.

Unless other arrangements are agreed, practice placement trainers:

are registered on the appropriate part of the HPC register have relevant post-registration experience undertake appropriate training in teaching and learning techniques.

There must be clear evidence of the collaboration and partnership arrangementsbetween the HEI and practice placement providers, including monitoring and feedbackarrangements.

The HEI must ensure necessary documentation and information is supplied to practiceplacement providers.

Practice placement providers must ensure necessary information is available at theappropriate time for both the HEI and students.

Throughout the placement a range of learning and teaching methods are employedthat respect the needs of patients/clients and colleagues.

iii

i

ii

v

vi

vii

iv

Continued...


19/28

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________



iii

Assessment Standards(c)

i

ii

The assessment design and procedures assure that the student can demonstratetness for practice.

A range of assessment methods is employed that measure the learning outcomes andskills that are required to practise competently and safely.

There should be formal shared assessment between the HEI and laboratory supervisor.The hospital supervisor must be a biomedical scientist.

All assessments provide a rigorous and effective process by which compliance with therequirements for completion of the Institutes Certicate of Competence RegistrationPortfolio can be measured.

The measurement of student performance and progression is an integral part of the widerprocess of monitoring and evaluation, and use criteria that ensure fairness for all students.

Professional aspects of practice are integral to the assessment procedures in both theeducation setting and practice placement.

Verication of Completed Registration Portfolio(d)

Assessment of student portfolios and verication that the HPC standards of prociency have beenmet must be conducted in accordance with Institute requirements and by Institute approvedexternal veriers in partnership with the HEI . Successful completion of the portfolio and accrediteddegree will be recognized with the award of the Institutes Certicate of Competence.

v

iv

vi

16

D2 Re-accreditation BSc (Hons) Degrees in Biomedical Science

As a requirement of re-accreditation, there must be a review of the existing programme. (Note:This is an opportunity to critically reect on course developments, review the accumulation ofminor changes and quality enhancements, external drivers (e.g. changes in subject areas), and

ensure the course is still academically valid with the learning outcomes/aims appropriate to theprofession). The review will cover all aspects of the programme relating to the specic andgeneral requirements in section D1 in addition to the requirements of section D2.Particular attention will be paid to the following areas.

Clear indication of any changes made to the course since the date of accreditation andthe rationale underlying these changes must be included.

External Examiners reports with responses and action taken.

Internal annual monitoring reports.

Critical evaluation and programme development, including input from employers.

i

ii

iii

iv

(a) Programme Delivery

Notes of the meetings of an employer liaison committee.

Student progression and class of degree awards.

Student feedback. A minimum of two student representatives from each year(including sandwich students) should be invited to the re-accreditation meeting.Representative past students should also be included.

i

(b)

i

ii

(c)

Staff/Employer Specic

Student Specic


20/28

Please note that accreditation will be based on submitted documents, which must be received,by the Institute a minimum of six weeks before the visit. All documents, ideally double sided mustbe page-numbered and have a contents list. Tabled documents will not usually be acceptedunless for a point of clarication.

E Guidelines for Sumission of Documents and Panel Visit

(a) Documentation

i

ii

iii

iv

v

17

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________



Detailed submission documents must clearly state the title and mode of delivery of theprogramme or programmes for which you are seeking accreditation.

Documentation must be specic to the programme or programmes to be accredited.

There must be clear descriptions of the modular content and mode of delivery (lectures,practicals, tutorials, exible learning), including the level and credit points of each componentwith learning outcomes and methods of assessment. The delivery of subject specic, transferableand key skills should be evident.

The contents of each individual module must have sufcient detail to indicate the depthand breadth of its contents. Reading lists for each module must be current.

Documentation must cover the following areas:

Programme Specication

In line with Quality Assurance Agency (QAA) published revised guidelines for preparingprogramme specications (2006)

http://www.qaa.ac.uk/academicinfrastructure/default.asp

A Programme Specication is a course synopsis presented as a short extract of theCourse Handbook for each qualication conferred by the HEI. The primary users of thesedocuments will be current students and applicants, external examiners, Professionaland/or Statutory Body (PSBs) and other external agencies, potentia l employersof graduates and placement students, professional, commercial and industrial advisorygroups, Regional Development Agencies (RDAs) for training and skills surveys, BritishCouncil, and other national agencies and QAA Teams.

Course Handbook

This document will serve as the main reference for students, academic staff, UniversityOfce staff and external examiners. It must include the following information:

General information: Course title, duration, modes and all named award titles;course aims and learning outcomes; rationale for the course; links withprofessional or external validating bodies, if any.

Philosophy/learning outcomes: A clear statement of the philosophy of thecourse scheme and its relationship with cognate courses, and a summary ofthe learning outcomes for students completing the course at each stage.

Admissions requirements: Knowledge and skills; access arrangements; credittransfer; APL/APEL; selection procedures; student induction; equal opportunities.

Assessment: Details of assessment strategies and rationale; schedule of assessment;

Assessment Board arrangements; details of penalties for late submission of coursework; approaches to preventing plagiarism

Module descriptors


21/28

18

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________



iv

(b) IBMS Panel Visit to the Institution

The date of the accreditation/re-accreditation event must be agreed with the Institutethree months prior to the visit.

The Institute will normally nominate two representatives to participate in the event (oneacademic and one professional), in addition to an education executive. The Institutemay wish to appoint an additional member for training or quality assurance purposes.

A copy of the submission documents must be sent to the Institutes representatives asnotied to the university a minimum of six weeks before the event.

Suggested agenda (variations must be agreed with the Institutes Executive Head ofEducation prior to the event).

i

ii

iii

Placement arrangements (if applicable): This should include information tostudents and employers regarding preparation for placements, support andexpected outcomes.

Employer liaison meeting minutes (with indicative membership)

Staff CVs

Self-Evaluation Document (for re-accreditation)

The self-evaluation presents the aims and objectives of the course and provides anevaluation of the student learning experience and student achievement. A self-evaluationshould discuss both strengths and weaknesses in the provision. Where weaknesses areacknowledged, the HEI is encouraged to discuss the issues and the steps taken toimprove quality.

The evaluation should be organised within the following recommended headings andshould be supported by evidence.

Curriculum Design, Content and Organisation

Teaching, Learning and Assessment

Student Progression and Achievement

Student Support and Guidance

Learning Resources

Research

Quality Management and Enhancement.

Some of the supporting material may or should be made available for panel members atthe meeting.


22/28

19

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________



A copy of the draft accreditation event report must be circulated to the panel withinfour weeks following the event.

A copy of the conrmed report must be sent to the panel and the Institute within eightweeks following the event.

The nal report with panel representation will be made to the Institutes Education andDevelopment Committee at the next scheduled meeting.

The Institute will normally accredit or re-accredit a programme for a maximum of vestudent intakes subject to the conditions set by the panel being met by the HEI.

Supporting documentation for demonstrating the conditions have been met must besubmitted to the Institute by the deadline stated in the conditions.

You should contact the IBMS Ofce (Education) if you have any queries or concerns

about the criteria, requirements or guidelines

i

ii

iii

iv

(c)

v

vi

09:00 - 09:30 Meeting of accreditation panel (Chair, Secretary and Instituterepresentatives) to set areas for discussion.

09:30 - 10:15 Tour of facilities10:15 - 10:45 Meeting with representative students10:45 - 11:00 Break11:00 - 12:30 Meeting with programme team, including external practitioner lecturers12:30 - 13:00 Meeting with placement providers or employers liaison committee

representatives13:00 - 14:00 Lunch14:00 - 14:30 Meeting with senior management team14:30 - 15:15 Final private meeting of panel15:15 - 15:45 Final feedback and report

Please note:

a) Secretarial support from the HEI is required for the visit, in order to report thedeliberations and ndings of the panel.

b) The HEI is required to nominate a Chairman who is independent to the programme team.

The specic role of the chair is generally to:

manage the event and ensure that it is conducted in accordance with therequirements of the panel;

encourage an inclusive approach (with an emphasis on dialogue, as opposed to across questioning or adversarial approach);

ensure appropriate introductions; guide discussion; arbitrate on disagreements; direct questioning in line with the requirements of the panel; ensure that all parties at joint visits have sufcient time to engage in discussions keep the joint panel to time; and summarise and present the conclusions of the joint panel to the programme.

c) In an event which includes an HPC approval visit the Institute will consider a revisedagenda to take into consideration the requirements of the HPC.

Post Panel Visit Procedures


23/28

20

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________



Post Event

IBMS Panel Complete their Report

Details of outcomes mapped to accreditation criteria document.Details of outcomes mapped to accreditation criteria document. Commendations made if appropriate.Commendations made if appropriate.

Conditions set if needed and date agreed for conditions to be met.Conditions set if needed and date agreed for conditions to be met. Copy of report is sent to the university and to the Education and DevelopmentCopy of report is sent to the university and to the Education and Development Committee

(EDC).

YesAccrediatation

Approved?

Are anyconditions

set?

Recommendations to EDC

Recommendation fornon-approval or withdrawal plusany observations considered byEDC


Recommendation for(re-)accreditation plus anyobservations considered byEDC


Recommendation for (re-)accreditation consideredby EDC

University replies toconditions and sendsevidence that conditionshave been met to thepanel within the agreedtime-frame.

Have theconditionsbeen met?

1. University formallyadvised of non-approval/withdrawal ofaccreditation.

2. Update Guide toAccredited Degrees onthe website.

Send University postaccreditationletter detailing datewhich conditionsmust be met.

1. Update Guide toAccredited Degreeson the website.

2. Formally adviseuniversity of approval

and send certicate.

No

No


Yes

No

AdminProcess

Yes



24/28

Documentation Checklist

Information required Source of information in documents

Details of infrastructure of teaching andresearch

Faculty/school support and resources

Lecturers details and CVs

Programme aims and objectives

Entry requirements

Student progression (if applicable)

Assessment methods

Quality assurance

Programme regulations

Programme content, mode of delivery,levels and credits

Description of modules

Reading lists

Programme management

Staff development arrangements

Liaison arrangements with employersand the Institute

Pastoral care for students

Student handbook

Project arrangements

Student placement arrangements

(where appropriate)

Student/tutor and student/student

contact time (applicable to distancelearning courses only)

F

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

18

19

20

Please copy this page and complete for circulation with the submission documents________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

21

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________




25/28


26/28

University / Employer LiaisonG

One of the requirements for all HEIs seeking accreditation or re-accreditation of bothundergraduate and postgraduate programmes is that there are satisfactory liaison withlocal employers and local region or branch of the IBMS as a formal mechanism for the views ofemployers and local Institute members to be taken into consideration in the design etc of thecourse. This will also provide a means of enhancing communication between universities,employers and the Institute.

It is important to distinguish between university liaison officers, who are a point of contactbetween the university and the Institute, and professional advisors who are experiencedpractitioners capable of inputting to the development and improvement of courses. Some ofthese advisors may have a teaching role on the course on a part time or visiting basis.

Role of Committee

The role of the committee should be to:

Offer expert advice to the university Head of Biomedical Science on the applicabilityand effectiveness of its awards

Contribute to the periodic review of IBMS accredited awards Advise on new opportunities in biomedical science education that the HEI could explore

Inform the HEI of changing needs relating to employment

There should be clear terms of reference that cover the remit of the group to:

Ensure content of the degree is current and relevant to clinical laboratory practice

Ensure that the delivery and structure of the programmes takes into account the realitieswithin the laboratory

Specic to programmes with integral clinical placement:

Ensure the students are trained in a supportive environment and t to practice ongraduation

Ensure that the quality of training is provided by reviewing student experience andmaking recommendations to enhance the quality of this experience.

Membership

The membership of the group should be:

Chairman (IBMS member) Head of Biomedical Science 2-3 academic representatives from the programme team for biomedical sciences professional representatives from local employers local IBMS member representative approved by the Institute.

Benets

The benets of university/employer liaison committees are to:

Ensure biomedical science practitioners can input to the design of the programmes Ensure the programmes reect the professional ethos of biomedical science Ensure the programme are current to the requirements of biomedical science and its

practitioners Ensure the programmes meet the needs of local employers Provide useful advice/feedback from prospective employers Provide laboratory placement and employment opportunities for students and graduates Enable research strategy to include potential partnerships with employers.

1

2

3

4

23

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________




27/28

IBMS vision

The Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS) is the professional body for biomedical scientists in the United Kingdom that also has many overseas members and internationallinks. It aims to promote and develop the wide range of roles in biomedical science to deliver high quality, safe and effective services. It does this by supporting biomedicalscientists in their education and training, improving standards of practice, representing the profession and working with organisations. The Institute is also licensed by TheScience Council to award the designation Chartered Scientist (CSci) to qualifying IBMS members.

The Institute was founded in 1912 and represents over 19,000 members employed mainly in National Health Service and private laboratories, university and veterinary

laboratories, the National Blood Service, Health Protection Agency, Medical Research Council and Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs. Other members alsowork in related commercial elds and in teaching. Most members live and work in the United Kingdom and Ireland but many others are employed overseas.

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

IBMS roles

To aid and support the development of biomedical science, both nationally and internationally

Develop and inuence professional standards of practice to guide biomedical scientists and protect patients

Assess competence to practise as HPC registered biomedical scientists

Dene an appropriate structure of membership and provide benets of membership

Provide personal and professional support for members

Represent the interests of biomedical science, provide advice and work with government, media, universities, industry and commercial sector, professional organisations andall other partners

Ensure that the education and training of biomedical scientists provide practitioners competent to practice at all levels in healthcare

Develop qualications and diplomas to demonstrate expertise and provide a career pathway

To enable members to achieve their potential through career pathways, career long learning and continuing professional development

Update and inform biomedical scientists through media, scientic meetings and professional events

Promote public awareness of biomedical science

Produce scientic and professional publications, guidance and other resources for members

Award the designation of Chartered Scientist to qualifying members

Fund research and support charitable causes in biomedical science

Maintain a historical archive of the Institute and biomedical science profession.

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Join IBMS

The Institute offers a package of membership benets to help biomedical scientists develop their careers and scientic knowledge, and to provide personal and professional support.

Further information on the IBMS, its work and its benets of membership can be found at www.ibms.org/join.


28/28

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

elephone: 020 7713 0214 | fax: 020 7436 4946 | website: www.ibms.org | email: [email protected]