PROGRAMME SPECIFICATION

Please view the disclaimer.

AWARD and COURSE TITLE MSci/BSc(Hons) in Biomedical Science INTERMEDIATE AWARDS BSc Biomedical Science

Dip HE in Biomedical Science

Cert HE in Biomedical Science

Name of Teaching Institution Sheffield Hallam University

Faculty and Department Health and Wellbeing

Department of Biosciences

Mode(s) of Attendance(e.g. FT/PT/SW/DL)

Sandwich/Full time/Part-time

UCAS CODE B940

Professional/Statutory/Regulatory Body Recognising this Programme

Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS)

QAA Subject Benchmark Statement or other relevant external reference point

Biomedical Science Subject Benchmark (2007)

IBMS: Criteria and requirements for the accreditation and reaccreditation of BSc(Hons) in Biomedical Science (Edn 2.1 July 2010)

Date of Validation 16 May 2012

1 PROGRAMME AIMS

The BSc(Hons) programme aims to

1.1 provide a stimulating, challenging and enjoyable experience of studying biomedical science

1.2 develop in-depth knowledge and understanding of the biology of disease processes, how this is applied to laboratory diagnosis and the monitoring of treatment and meet the accreditation requirements of the Institute of Biomedical Science to facilitate registration of graduates with the Health Professions Council

1.3 develop, through an education in Biomedical Science, a range of transferrable skills of value in employment in scientific and non-scientific environments

1.4 develop up to date practical skills within a culture of active research

1.5 develop research skills by undertaking mini-projects in your first and second year leading to a major research project as an integral aspect of the final year

1.6 provide opportunities for relevant work placement and the development of key

professional and employment related skills

1.7 provide opportunities to apply skills and knowledge to solve problems

In addition the MSci(Hons) Programme aims to

1.8 establish your ability to plan, execute, and communicate scientific research at the leading edge of your scientific discipline.

1.9 prepare you for PhD study or careers in research-related employment, research management, science education, and scientific communication.

2 PROGRAMME LEARNING OUTCOMES

2.1 Knowledge and understanding covered within the Programme. By the end of the BSc(Hons) programme you will be able to

2.1.1 identify, explain and critically evaluate facts and concepts from a range of fundamental areas of biomedical science by both coursework and examination that are relevant to the understanding of both normal human function and the development and progression of disease, and explain chemical and analytical principles underpinning diagnostic procedures

2.1.2 identify and explain in appropriate detail by both coursework and examination the causes, symptoms, laboratory investigation, diagnosis and monitoring of a

range of human diseases across the breadth of the disciplines of biomedical science

2.1.3 explain and evaluate procedures to study and manipulate the human genome and other markers of disease and critically evaluate their potential for diagnosis and therapy

2.1.4 explain and critically evaluate relevant research findings

2.1.5 demonstrate an awareness of social and ethical aspects of biomedical science

At the end of the MSci(Hons) programme you will additionally be able to:

2.1.6 Explain and critically evaluate knowledge and understanding and research findings at the forefront of your scientific discipline

2.2 Intellectual/Subject/Professional/Key skills covered within the Programme: by the end of the programme you will be able to

By the end of the BSc(Hons) programme you will be able to

2.2.1 select, retrieve, review and critically evaluate relevant information from a variety of sources, draw reasoned conclusions and sustainable judgements, and reference and cite sources appropriately.

2.2.2 carry out laboratory procedures in a safe, professional and effective manner, keep appropriate records and follow protocols to test a hypothesis or obtain diagnostic results

2.2.3 design experiments, interpret scientific data and information and apply appropriate numerical skills including statistical methods, and make effective use of IT and information management skills

2.2.4 review relevant research and current practice and critically evaluate the methods used, the results obtained, and the conclusions drawn and demonstrate your ability to synthesise learning from a variety of sources

2.2.5 learn independently and reflect upon your learning to critically evaluate your own performance and review how this affects future learning and potential employment

2.2.6 communicate information and support an argument by a variety of written, oral and visual means, effectively utilising appropriate IT and information management tools, and present the findings of investigations, analyse and discuss these results and summarise the conclusions.

2.2.7 demonstrate professional autonomy, responsibility and accountability and an awareness of professional standards and ethical issues in biomedical science

2.2.8 manage your time and resources working both independently and as a member of a group

2.2.9 apply your knowledge and skills to solving problems

2.2.10 show an appreciation of the professional role of a registered Biomedical Scientist in a diagnostic laboratory, and the roles of biomedical scientists in other employment contexts

At the end of the MSci(Hons) programme you will additionally be able to:

2.2.11 critically evaluate research literature and other information sources to derive substantial research questions, leading to the design of experiments that test a significant hypothesis.

2.2.12 assess safety and ethical issues applicable to your research discipline.

2.2.13 perform contemporary scientific research with considerable independence to generate robust and novel results, including experimental troubleshooting and methodological development.

2.2.14 analyse and communicate research findings in written and oral formats to enable effective dissemination to a variety of audiences.

3 LEARNING, TEACHING AND ASSESSMENT

3.1 The approach to Learning and Teaching within the Programme

A vibrant, challenging but supportive learning environment has been designed by the course team. Lectures in core subjects are integrated with a programme of laboratory work and skill development supported by academic tutorials. As you progress through the course you will systematically acquire the skills required for you to learn with increasing independence so that you can continue to learn and develop after successful completion of your degree. The course is designed to embed professional skills and so develop you for future employment.

You will prepare for and attend lectures, laboratory classes and small group tutorials, undertake group activities and learn how to improve your understanding and skills by reviewing your own work and that of fellow students. We expect you to participate in all timetabled activities and you must normally attend a minimum of 70% of the laboratory classes and academic tutorials.

Attending and participating in the laboratory activities is central to your course as it is where you will develop not only practical skills but also learn to keep effective records, analyse data, design and plan procedures and work both independently and with others.

Most of our laboratory classes are whole day activities and some are based around extended topics over several days. Mini-projects are included in the first and second year to develop experimental design and planning as well as enhancing your practical skills. These lead to a major research project during the final BSc year, with further advanced projects being undertaken if you continue for an additional MSci year.

We also make extensive use of 'BlackBoard' an on-line virtual learning environment (VLE). This system accessed via the student portal, Shuspace which also provides access to information about a whole range of University services including timetables, rules and regulations, assessment schedules and the library catalogue and on-line publications. This system can be accessed from any internet-connected computer or tablet and in a mobile version to most smart-phones. All course modules will use Blackboard in some of the following ways:

undertake on-line learning activities complete on-line assessments carry out private study to address your individual needs work with others to carry out group work communicate with staff and your fellow students submit work and receive feedback

In addition each year of your course will have a Blackboard 'Organisation' site which provides information and communication across your whole year of study.

You will be supported in your learning by an academic tutor who will work in conjunction with your course leader and specialist staff from individual modules to help you make the most from the learning activities.

3.2 The approach to Assessment and Feedback within the Programme

Assessment of your learning will include both continuous assessment in the form of coursework completed out of classes, short in class tests and formal examinations. Some examinations will include 'preseen' topics so that you can learn and prepare in depth for these questions.

Some assessment tasks will be formative in that they will not provide marks towards your degree but will provide feedback to enable you to improve your performance in later summative assessments, i.e assessments with marks contributing to your degree. You will also take part in in some self-assessment and peer-assessment activities which will develop your abilities to assess your own work and so improve your knowledge, understanding and communication skills.

Coursework will include the writing of essays, reviews, reports on practical activities including the preparation of work in the form of scientific papers and posters. Some assessments will be based on a portfolio of evidence collected during a period of study including a range of related activities. You will also be assessed on your ability to reflect on your performance and your plans for improvement or consolidation of your abilities. Most work will be word processed and some will include the use of spreadsheets and presentation software. You will also reference information sources in a standard format. Some assessment tasks may include giving short talks or oral presentation of information. Some tasks will involve the use of on-line systems including those of the ‘Blackboard’ virtual learning environment (VLE).

Typical assessment tasks are indicated in the table below.

Most work will be individual but some will involve working with others in small groups. Some assessments will be based on individual and group oral presentations when you give short talks to other students and academic staff.

You will get feedback on your work in a variety of forms. This will include individual written and oral comments about your work and how future work can be improved. For some large coursework tasks eg a project report, feedback on draft work will be provided to enable you to enhance your final submission.Generic feedback to the class about common mistakes and how to produce work to a high standard will also be provided in some cases. This may include feedback given via the Blackboard VLE. The feedback is to help you improve future work which may be later in that module, in another module, or in a later year of the course.

Written work submitted for assessment will normally be checked electronically for plagiarism and collusion to ensure that it is your own work. You will be able to check draft work yourself before formal submission.

3.3 How Student Employability is supported within the Programme

Acquiring up to date knowledge and understanding is key for employment as a Biomedical Scientist both within hospital laboratories and in wider scientific employment. Thus your employability is supported by all of your learning on your course.

Typical types of summative assessment by year for BSc(Hons)Biomedical Science

Year 1 (level 4) Year 2 (level 5) Year 3/4 (level 6)group activity group poster and

individual reflectionessay

independent study scientific user guide case study bookletessay problem based learning research skills and notebookportfolio essay & phase test project report and

viva/presentationformal lab report formal lab report employability portfolio

project report project report literature reviewpersonal development portfolio

personal development portfolio

task for elective module

bioanalytical workbook and reflectionexaminations examinations examinations

As a learner at Sheffield Hallam you will be entitled to, and be expected to engage with as part of your course of study, four inter connected elements. These are shown in the table below with an indication of the main way we support these during your course

Entitlement Supporting activities

Well structured, supported and accredited work-related or work-based learning

You will have the opportunity to apply for a one year placement when you would be working as an employee. Alternatively you can use shorter periods of relevant work experience, part-time employment, or other work related activities to evidence your employability skills. These form part of the Professional and Scientific Practice 3 Module

Development of high-level employability-related transferable ‘skills’ and attributes embedded within the curriculum

We specifically enhance your employability within the Professional and Scientific Practice1 and 2 modules which integrates it with laboratory skills development. In these modules you will prepare and reflect on your professional development. For students continuing to an MSci year employability in also embedded within that year.

In the final BSc(Hons) year you will undertake a full-time project period in which you will develop, enhance, and consolidate skills which are valued by employers. These include areas such as problem solving, independent working, application of knowledge and integration of information from a variety of sources. If you continue on the MSci programme the project based nature of this year will further enhance your skills and knowledge for employment particularly in research and development.

Integrated and timetabled career planning and preparation for employment

This is embedded into the Professional and Scientific Practice modules up to BSc(Hons) level and will form part of the formative activities in the MSci year.

Personal and professional development planning and personal academic tutorial support to monitor their progress and support your transition to the world of work

Your academic tutor will guide you in your career planning and personal development assisted by a member of staff in the department who is responsible for enhancing employability and by staff with specialist knowledge of potential employment areas or relevant further study. You will progressively develop and improve your ability to present yourself by your curriculum vitae, in applications to employers and in interviews. We work closely with the University Careers staff in providing access to resources and career event.

3.4 Main Type of Work-based or Work-related Learning featured in this Programme

Work-based Learning

Sandwich route students: A one year placement after year two Part-time students in relevant employment: Integrated work based learning

Work-related Learning

All routes: Laboratory and Research Project workFull-time students: Activities for Professional and Scientific Practice 3 module

4 PROGRAMME DESIGN AND STRUCTURE

The first and second years of the course each consist of four 20 credit modules covering the knowledge and understanding in key topics of biomedical science with an additional 40 credits of laboratory work and other scientific skills required for a practicing Biomedical Scientist. These two years provide a solid foundation for progression to a one year placement or direct entry into the next year of study to complete the BSc(Hons) programme. The final year of study for BSc(Hons) consists of two core 20 credit modules covering essential topics required for a career in biomedical science with a choice of a 20 credit elective to allow you to add a specific additional area to your award. You also take the Professional and Scientific Practice 3 module based on work carried out in the placement year, or on a series of shorter placements or activities which will similarly develop employability skills. This year is completed with a 40 credit research project.

If you have good results at the end of your second year, normally over 60% in all modules, then you can apply to continue to the MSci(Hons) award by taking an additional year to follow the BSc(Hons) final year. This MSci year will further develop your professional research skills by undertaking two major research practical projects supported by a study of research methods.

If you are employed in an appropriate laboratory you can take the BSc(Hons) course part-time over 4-6 years mixing taught modules at the university with work-based learning to meet the same module learning outcomes. If you are part-time but not working in an appropriate laboratory then you can study the same modules as a full-time student but over an extended period of t me.

The course structures are outlined in the diagrams below:

Full time and Sandwich route

BSc(Hons)Biomedical Science (Full-time and Sandwich courses)Year One (Level 4)Human Physiology and Anatomy (20 credits)

Introduction to Biomedical Science (20 credits)

Bioanalytical Methods (20 credits)

Cellular Biology Biochemistry with Microbiology(20 credits)

Professional and Scientific Practice 1 (40 credits)

Year Two (Level 5)Biology of Disease (20 credits)

Biomedical Investigative Techniques (20 credits)

Molecular Biology and Biochemistry (20 credits)

Immunology and Microbiology(20 credits)

Professional and Scientific Practice 2 (40 credits)

Placement Year ( for sandwich route)

Year Three/Four (Level 6)Cellular Pathology and Infection (20 credits)

Blood Sciences (20 credits)

20 credit of Electives: One fromApplied Biochemistry orPharmacologyor Neurophysiology and NeuroscienceorBioethics and BioinformaticsorBioethics and Human GeneticsorBioinformatics and Human Genetics

Research Project (40 credits)

Professional and Scientific Practice 3 (20 credits)

In addition for the award of MSci(Hons)Biomedical Science you would complete an additional year comprising Research Design and Dissemination (20 credits) and two advanced projects (40 credits and 60 credits).

Part-time route: for students in relevant employment allowing work-based learning, including during the summer period

BSc(Hons)Biomedical Science (Part-time route - 4 year structure)Year One (80 credits at Level 4)Cellular Biology Biochemistry with Microbiology (20 credits Level 4)

Introduction to Biomedical Science (20 credits Level 4 by work based learning)

Bioanalytical Methods(20 credits Level 4)

Professional and Scientific Practice 1 (20 credits Level 4 taken in Year 1 part by work based learning portfolio)

Year Two (40 credits at Level 4 + 40 credits at Level 5)Human Physiology and Anatomy (20 credits Level 4)

Biomedical Investigative Techniques by Work based Learning (20 credits Level 5)

Immunology and Microbiology (20 credits Level 5)

Professional and Scientific Practice 1 - continued (20 credits Level 4 taken in Year 2 part by work-based learning portfolio)

Year Three (80 credits at Level 5+20 credits at Level 6)Biology of Disease(20 credits Level 5)

Molecular Biology and Biochemistry (20 credits Level 5)

Individual Investigative Assignment (20 credits Level 6 by work-based learning)

Professional and Scientific Practice 2 (Level 5 40 credits in part by work based learning portfolio)

Year Four (100 credits at L6)Research Project (40 credits Level 6 work-based)

Cellular Pathology and Infection (20 credits Level 6)

Blood Sciences(20 credits Level 6)

Professional and Scientific Practice 3. (20 credits Level 6 work -based)

5 PROGRESSION/CAREER ROUTES

Possible progression or career routes after you have completed this programme include

This award is based on the requirements of the IBMS for employment in a hospital laboratory as a trainee or registered Biomedical Scientist. Registration with the Health Professions Council (HPC) also requires a period of professional training and competence assessment taken either in a suitable hospital placement or after graduation in a trainee appointment. The course is also suitable for part-time students employed as trainees or medical laboratory assistants in hospital laboratories to achieve professional registration.

Graduates in Biomedical Science are also successful at obtaining careers in a broad range of health care, pharmaceutical and bioscience industries. Graduates can also continue onto specialised MSc courses or professional postgraduate diplomas to obtain entry into related professions such as physiotherapy or, radiotherapy and oncology. Graduates have obtained places for graduate Medicine and for graduate Dentistry programmes. The degree is also suitable for entry to a PGCE course leading to a teaching qualification or for non-scientific employment.

You can also follow a research career by entry to a programme leading to a PhD award.

6 ENTRY REQUIREMENTS AND ENTRY PROFILE6.1 Specific Entry Requirements for entry to the initial stage of this programme are

Academic Qualifications including GCE A / AS level grades and subjects, where applicable

Normally five GCSEs at grade C or above, including English language, mathematics (or level 2 equivalent such as Level 2 Adult Literacy/Numeracy or Key Skills Level 2 Communication/Application of Number) and science, plus

• 260 points from at least two GCE/VCE A levels including at least 80 points in biology or BTEC National qualifications where the subject content includes chemistry and biology modules. The study of chemistry is useful but not essential. We do not accept general studies A level.

Level of English language capability

If English is not your first language you must have an IELTS score of 6.0 with a minimum of 5.5 in all skills or equivalent. If your English language skill is currently below IELTS 6.0 we recommend you consider a Sheffield Hallam University Pre-sessional English course which will enable you to achieve an equivalent English score.

Any other specific, formally certified qualifications (eg. BTEC HNs)

• Access – an Access to HE Diploma from a QAA-recognised Access to HE course including biology and chemistry modules, or an equivalent Access to HE certificate. Normally we require 15 credits at level 2 and 45 at level 3 of which at least 39 level 3 credits should be graded at merit or above

• successfully completing our preparatory year in Biosciences and Chemistry (Extended degree year)

Previous relevant work or work-related experience

Not applicable

Any specific articulation arrangements recognised for this programme

Not applicable

Professional qualifications Not applicable

Any other specific entry requirements

Applicants taking this degree with the intention of employment as a registered biomedical scientist must be able to satisfy the professional requirements of the Health Professions Council (HPC) and the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS) before proceeding into a placement or employment in a hospital laboratory.

Continuation to complete the MSci year and the award of MSci(Hons) is by application during your second year and will normally require attainment of at least 60% in all second year modules and will be competitive as a restricted number of places are available in order to allow individual supervision. Progression will not be allowed if students subsequently do not fully complete the BSc(Hons) year, normally with marks which would have allowed the award of at least an upper second class degree.

6.2 APPLICANT ENTRY PROFILE: the knowledge, skills and qualities etc. required to enable you to benefit from, and succeed on the programme of study

The admissions team are looking for well-rounded individuals who are interested in human pathology and the diagnosis of disease. You should have a professional attitude and approach as befits a course leading to a degree accredited by the IBMS.

You need to demonstrate an ability to study academic subjects at degree level debate topics and issues draw on conclusions from written material study independently as well as a member of a group use computers and technology associated with contemporary teaching,

learning and assessment methods successfully complete a range of assignments including researched

essays and examinations must be willing and able to engage in a substantial amount of

laboratory based work

6.3 The University will select non-standard entrants to the programme in the following ways

Mature candidates (over 21 years) with significant and relevant experience can be admitted to the programme if the course leader/admissions tutor considers that they have the ability, prior knowledge and personal skills to succeed. An individual package of prior study will be agreed where necessary. Mature applicants and 18-21 year old applicants who have different A-level or equivalent qualifications than those we require can take a preparatory year. This is the first year of our extended degree programme for biosciences and chemistry; it allows you to study our degree if you do not have the usual A level or equivalent qualifications. It is also open to people 21 years old and over who have not studied at A level but can show the commitment and motivation to complete one of our degrees

6.4 Use of Prior Credit (APCL/APEL): prior certificated credit or prior experiential credit may be used within the Programme in the following ways

Accredited Prior Certificated Learning (APCL)You can apply for exemption from specific modules or whole years of the course on the basis of modules passed or higher education awards obtained before joining our degree programme. The decision on awarding this credit will be made by the Course Leader according to Faculty and University procedures and regulations. For example an applicant may apply for direct entry to the second or third year of the degree programme provided they have the necessary prior credit from a HND or Foundation Degree which covers the required learning outcomes of this degree.

Accredited Prior Experiential Learning (APEL)You can apply for exemption from specific modules of the course if you can supply evidence of learning from past experience equivalent to the learning that would be achieved in those modules. The decision on awarding this credit will be made by the Course Leader according to Faculty and University procedures and regulations.