Programme Specification

Section A. Programme Details

1. Title of Programme English Biomedical Science

Welsh Gwyddor Fiofeddygol

2. Name and level of award BSc (Hons)

3. List of Intermediate or exit-point qualifications

English

HE Certificate in Medical Sciences (year 1)

HE Diploma in Biomedical Sciences (year 2)

Bachelor`s Degree in Biomedical Sciences (Ordinary) (360

credits with at least 60 credits at level 6 (year 3))

Welsh

Tystysgrif AU mewn Gwyddorau Meddygol (blwyddyn 1)

Diploma AU mewn Gwyddorau Fiofeddygol (blwyddyn 2)

Baglor (Cyffredin) mewn Gwyddorau Fiofeddygol (360

credyd gydag o leiaf 60 credyd ar Lefel 6 (blwyddyn 3)

4. Mode of Study (FT/PT/DL) FT and PT

5. Duration of the course Full-time 3 years

Part-time 6 years

Section B. Programme Specification

1. Awarding Institution Bangor University

2. Teaching Institution Bangor University

3. External accreditation body (where appropriate)

Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS) in conjunction with the Health & Care Professions Council (HCPC).

4. Final Award BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science

5. UCAS/Programme Code (where known)

B102

6. Name of appropriate QAA Benchmarking Group

QAA1373 November 2015 Biomedical Sciences in associations with the HCPC Standards of Proficiency (20070509cPOLPUB Nov 2014).

7. Date when Programme Specification was produced or updated

06 July 2016

8. Main educational aims of the programme

This programme primarily educates undergraduates in Biomedical Science.

The course will produce graduates who have high employability in all biomedical science areas including an opportunity to train as a Biomedical Scientist in NHS laboratories as well as to work in private hospitals and in industry and research.

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The program is multidisciplinary and research-informed in nature focusing on cell pathology, clinical biochemistry, clinical microbiology, blood sciences, medical genetics and immunology.

The program is mapped against the HCPC Standards of Proficiency (20070509cPOLPUB Nov 2014).

Graduates are able to contribute to pre-clinical and clinical research & development in the private and public sector as well as in academia.

By the end of their programme students are equipped with the skills necessary to enable them to plan and perform a research project, are aware of the need for good laboratory practice and able to integrate knowledge from the various key subject areas.

Graduates from related programs who seek accreditation by the Institute of Biomedical Sciences (IBMS) can select any module at all levels as top-up modules as specified by the IBMS in accordance with their first degree program.

This Biomedical Science degree offers a vehicle for a cohort of students to progress towards Health & Care Professions Council (HCPC) registration as Biomedical Scientists. Because of this, it is essential that a proportion of the course is provided by HCPC registered Biomedical Scientists and clinicians.

The Betsi Cadwaladr Health Board currently delivers approximately 30% of the course at level 5 and 6 and another 30% is provided by the Course Director and a full-time lecturer in Human Physiology.

Approximately one third of the Biomedical Science final year projects are devised and supervised by NHS staff.

This programme has been accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS) and approved by HCPC.

As the target geographical area for job and experience placements is largely Welsh speaking, Welsh medium instruction is offered in certain modules; these include Human Physiology (MSC-1021), Biomedical Science practicals (MSC-1020), Introduction to Microbiology (MSC-1022), Medical Microbiology (MSC-2018), Vocational skills (MSC-2017) and Microbiology and Human Disease (MSC-3014).

Welsh speaking students may be assigned to a Welsh speaking personal tutor. Students may also communicate with the Teaching

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Administrator and the dedicated Biomedical Science technician through the medium of Welsh.

The program reaches out to students from differing backgrounds including mature students and students entering higher education through alternative routes.

In summary, the course will include the practical and vocational aspects of a traditional Biomedical Science course combined with cutting-edge research and the practical elements emphasised at all levels as well as during the final year research project.

All three years are compulsory due to professional accreditation.

Year 1: the first year modules aim to introduce the student to basic scientific principles with emphasis on biochemistry, genetics, cell biology, human physiology & anatomy, molecular biology as well as introducing basic medical microbiology and histology and practical laboratory skills. During these modules examples are used to explain the application of those subjects in the study of normal human health and disease. An essential component of the first year is an introduction to a broad biological base, biomedical laboratory practice and an overview of the techniques and investigations used for studying health and disease (Good Laboratory Practice MSE/C-1016).

During the first year all biomedical science undergraduates will visit an accredited clinical laboratory (Ysbyty Gwynedd Hospital or Ysbyty Glan Clwyd) , with presentations given by key laboratory personnel on the techniques and methodologies used in the disciplines of Cellular Pathology, Clinical Biochemistry, Haematology / Transfusion Science, Immunology and Medical Microbiology (MSE/C-1020 Biomedical Practical).

The innovative first year skills module (MSE-1017) teaches students transferrable and academic skills with a focus on General Study Skills, Laboratory Skills, Medical Statistics, Basic Bioinformatics, and Scientific Writing & Communication Skills.

Year 2: In the second year, students will be presented with a range of biomedical related topics with greater emphasis on the theoretical and practical aspects of laboratory investigation of disease. Specialist biomedical science subjects are covered in the following 10 credit modules: MSE-2015 Haematology and Transfusion, MSE-2018 Histology and Histochemistry, MSE/C-2019 Medical Microbiology, MSE-2016 Basic Clinical Biochemistry and MES-2014 Human Immunology. In these modules, key concepts presented in lectures are integrated with assessed practical sessions. The module MSE-2027 Genome Instability & Disease (20 credits) combines practicals with original publications to teach students about scientific breakthroughs in the area of genome

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health research. An essential part of year 2 is to develop students’ capacity for independent learning, scientific communication, and interpersonal skills as part of the educational experience in preparation for work (MSE/C-2017 Vocational Skills – 10 credits). This module also includes information and discussion on the optional placement year to enable students to make an informed decision on requesting uptake. Molecular Biology is delivered in the 20 credit module MSE/C-2025. This module is complemented by the 20 credit cell biology module (MSE-2020).

Year 3: During the final year of study, all students follow specialist modules in Clinical Biochemistry (MSE-3018), Haematology (MSE-3015), Microbiology and Human Disease (MSE/C-3014) and Diagnostic Cellular Pathology (MSE-3019) (10 credits each) and complete a hypothesis driven Honours Project by practical experimentation including a bioinformatical research element (40 credits) (MSE-3013) in a biomedical related area of study.

Although final-year students spend less time on timetabled activities they must take responsibility to organize and manage a significant proportion of their academic time. They are expected to read widely in relation to selected modules and in preparation for tutorials and seminars. One of the aims of the final year is to integrate the biomedical specialities by a multidisciplinary approach to the scientific investigation of human health and disease (MSE-3016 Pathophysiology). The 10 credits Medical Genetics module (MSE-3017) continues the molecular disease stream, and the 20 credits Drug Development (MSE-3020) teaches topical trends in this area.

9. Intended programme outcomes for each of the categories

(the outcomes must be numbered sequentially)

Knowledge and Understanding

(Benchmark group 5)

1. The programme aims to give students a comprehension of scientific investigation of molecular, genetic and cellular causes of human diseases based on human systems. Upon graduation students should have acquired good knowledge and experience of the following areas including health and disease (theoretical, analytical and practical aspects): Biochemistry, Clinical Biochemistry, Haematology and Blood Transfusion, Cell Biology, Cellular Pathology, Genetics, Human Physiology, Immunology, Medical Microbiology, Microbiology, Molecular Biology and Virology. (benchmarks: 5.1; 5.3; 5.5) (HCPC Standard 13)

Subject-specific Skills (Benchmark group 6)

2. On successful completion of the course, students will be able to engage with essential facts, major concepts, principles and theories associated with human anatomy and physiology, body-drug interactions, cell biology, molecular biology, medical genetics, blood sciences, immunology and medical microbiology and understand the biological mechanisms underlying human pathological

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conditions and the basis of the analytical techniques used to diagnose and monitor these conditions. (benchmark: 6.4) (HCPC Standard 13)

3. Graduates will be able to apply their knowledge to a professional, evidence-based approach to research into the pathogenesis and origins of disease processes and the diagnosis and monitoring of disorders. (benchmark: 6.2) (HCPC Standards 12, 14)

4. Biomedical science graduates are aware of the current laboratory methods to investigate and diagnose human diseases in clinical and research environments. This includes an appreciation of research and the development of new technologies. (benchmark: 6.3) (HCPC Standards 12, 14)

Cognitive (thinking) Skills

(Benchmark group 4)

5. Biomedical sciences graduates should recognise and apply subject-specific theories, paradigms, concepts or principles to reach evidence-based decisions. (benchmark: 4.2) (HCPC Standard 12)

6. To plan and execute hypothesis-driven research or development work, present coherent scientific arguments, evaluate the evidence and draw valid conclusions and communicate to expert and lay audiences. (benchmark: 4.3) (HCPC Standards 12, 13, 14)

7. Be able to undertake practical investigations in a responsible, safe, legal and ethical manner while paying attention to risk assessment, confidentiality, relevant health and safety regulations, ethical issues, procedures for obtaining ethical permission and informed consent and issues relating to patient welfare. (benchmark: 4.3) (HCPC Standards 1, 2, 7, 15)

Key Skills (Benchmark group 4)

8. To be able to receive and respond to a variety of sources of information (textual, numerical, verbal, graphical), carry out sample selection, produce record scientific records & analyse data within a statistical context (an understanding of statistical significance and statistical power), and to communicate the outcomes to a variety of audiences using a range of formats, media and approaches including the avoidance of plagiarism. (benchmark: 4.4; 4.5) (HCPC Standards 8, 10)

9. To be able to identify individual and collective goals and responsibilities and perform in a manner appropriate to these roles, in particular those being developed through practical, laboratory and/or field studies. (benchmark 4.6). (HCPC Standards 4, 9)

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10. Graduates should develop the skills necessary for self-managed and lifelong learning, have an appreciation for the role and impact of intellectual property, and identify and work towards targets for personal, academic, professional and career development. (benchmark: 4.7) (HCPC Standards 3, 4, 5, 6, 11)

Please create tables to map the programme learning outcomes to the teaching & learning strategies and methods and to assessment methods, using the templates below.

Teaching & Learning Strategies and Methods

Programme Learning Outcomes

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Lectures X X X X X X X X X

Seminars X X X X X X X

Tutorials X X X X X X X X

Group work X X X X X X X X X X

Lab work X X X X X X X X X

Hospital Visit X X

Computer exercises X X X

Self study X X X X X X X X X

Research Project X X X X X X X X X

Research Project Conference

X X X X X

Bioinformatics X X X X X X

Assessment Methods Programme Learning Outcomes

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11

Unseen examination X X X X

Essay X X X X X X

Practical Report X X X X X X X X X

Practical Test X X X X X X X

Poster X X X X X X X

Presentation X X X X X X X X

Paper review X X X X X X

Class test X X X X

MCQ X X X X

Hospital visit X X

Reflection & Critical Thinking

X X X X X X X

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Tutorial Exercise X X X X X X

Dissertation X X X X X X X X X X

10. A. List of modules for each year of the Scheme

Core Modules Module Code (indicate level 4-7)

Module Title Credit Value

New / Pre-/Co-requisites

Year 1

MSE/C-1019 Good Laboratory Practice 10

MSE/C-1020 Biomedical Practical 20

MSE/C-1022 Introduction to Microbiology 10

Year 2

MSE-2014 Human Immunology 10

MSE-2015 Haematology &Transfusion 10

MSE-2016 Basic Clinical Biochemistry 10

MSE-2018 Histology & Histochemistry 10

MSE/C-2019 Medical Microbiology 10

Year 3

MSE-3013 Research Project 40

MSE/C-3014 Microbiology& Human Disease 10

MSE-3015 Haematology 10

MSE-3016 Pathophysiology 10

MSE-3018 Clinical Biochemistry 10

MSE-3019 Diagnostic Cellular Pathology 10

Total Credits 180

Compulsory Modules

Module Code (indicate level 4-7)

Module Title Credit Value

New / Pre-/Co-requisites

Year 1

MSE-1007 Foundation in Molecules and Cells 20

MSE-1021 Human Physiology & Anatomy 20

MSE-1010 Foundation in Therapeutics 10

MSE-1018 Foundation in Clinical Skills 10

MSE-1017 Key Skills in Medical Science 20

Year 2

MSE/C-2017 Vocational Skills 10

MSE-2020 Cell Biology 20

MSE-2021 Genome Instability& Disease 20

MSE-2025 Molecular Biology & Biochemistry 20

Year 3

MSE-3017 Medical Genetics 10

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MSE-3020 Drug Development 20

Total Credits 180

10. B. Complete a curriculum map below

Module Code Programme Learning Outcomes

(c) = core 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Year 1

MSE-1018 Clinical Science in Practice

(10) X X X X X X

MSE-1019

Good Laboratory Practice (10) (C)

X X X X X X

MSE-1022 Introduction to

Microbiology (10) (C)

X X X X

MSE-1007 Foundation-

Molecules and Cells (20)

X X X X

MSE-1017 Key Skills in Medical

Science (20) X X X X X X X X X X

MSE-1020 Biomedical Practicals

(20) (C) X X X X X X X

MSE-1021 Physiology & Anatomy (20)

X X X X

MSE-1010 Foundation in Therapeutics

(10)

X X X X

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Year 2 X

MSE-2014 Human Immunology (10)

(C) X X X X X X

MSE-2015 Haematology

&Transfusion (10)

X X X X X X X

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(C)

MSE-2016 Basic Clinical

Biochemistry (10) (C)

X X X X X X X

MSE/C-2017 Vocational Skills

(10) X X X X X X X X

MSE-2018 Histology &

Histochemistry (10) (C)

X X X X X X X

MSE/C-2019 Medical

Microbiology (10) (C)

X X X X X X X

MSE-2020 Cell Biology (20)

X X X X

MSE-2021 Genome Instability& Disease (20)

X X X X X X X X X X

MSE-2015 Molecular Biology&

Biochemistry (20)

X X X X X X X

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Year 3

MSE-3013 Research Project (40) (C)

X X X X X X X X X X

MSE/C-3014 Microbiology& Human Disease

(10) (C)

X X X X X X X

MSE-3015 Haematology (10)

(C) X X X X X X X

MSE-3016 Pathophysiology

(10) (C) X X X X X X X

MSE-3017 Medical X X X X X

10

Genetics (10)

MSE-3018 Clinical Biochemistry (10)

(C) X X X X X X X

MSE-3019 Diagnostic Cellular Pathology (10) (C)

X X X X X X X

MSE-3020 Drug Development (20)

X X X X

10. C. Exit Awards

1. Full Award title: HE Certificate (year 1)

List of modules successfully completed to achieve the exit award

Module Code Module Title Credit Value

MSE/C-1019 Good Laboratory Practice 10

MSE/C-1020 Biomedical Practical 20

MSE/C-1022 Introduction to Microbiology 10

MSE-1007 Foundation in Molecules and Cells 20

MSE-1021 Human Physiology & Anatomy 20

MSE-1010 Foundation in Therapeutics 10

MSE-1018 Foundation in Clinical Skills 10

MSE-1017 Key Skills in Medical Science 20

Total Credits 120

2. Full Award title: HE Diploma (year 2)

(core modules (C) must be passed at 40%)

List of modules successfully completed to achieve the exit award

Module Code Module Title Credit Value

MSE-2014 (C) Human Immunology 10

MSE-2015 (C) Haematology &Transfusion 10

MSE-2016 (C) Basic Clinical Biochemistry 10

MSE-2018 (C) Histology & Histochemistry 10

MSE/C-2019 (C) Medical Microbiology 10

MSE/C-2017 Vocational Skills 10

MSE-2020 Cell Biology 20

MSE-2021 Genome Instability& Disease 20

MSE-2025 Molecular Biology & Biochemistry 20

Total Credits 120

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11. Criteria for Admission

English, Welsh, Scottish and Northern Irish Qualifications:

Student candidates for admission to level 4 should normally possess one of the following:

280-320 points including Biology at A2 level and Chemistry to at least to AS level. Mathematics and English at GCSE grade C or above are essential.

280 -320 points in BTEC National Diploma (in relevant subject).

Irish Leaving Certificate with 400 points including Biology at Higher Level.

Scottish Framework Qualification: 280-320 points to include Biology at Advanced Higher Level and Chemistry at Higher level.

Mature and overseas students will be considered on an individual basis.

Language requirements:

International students must also have IELTS of 6.0 or above, with no individual score lower than 5.5.

Minimum requirement for Internet-based TOFEL is 87 with a minimum grade of: 22-Reading; 21-Listening; 23-Speaking; 21-Writing.

All non-standard entry is reviewed by the Course Director.

Student candidates for direct entry to level 5 should satisfy one of the following criteria:

Pass at level 4 of an appropriate degree course which is judged by the Course Director to give the necessary pre-requisites for level 5 of the biomedical science degree course.

Pass in any other course (including international qualifications), or part thereof, which the University and the Course Director consider appropriate and which gives the necessary pre-requisites for level 5 of the course.

Due to the specialised / vocational nature of a number of level 5 modules, direct entry to level 6 will not normally be applicable unless a student is transferring from another IBMS Accredited Biomedical Science course or International equivalent.

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During welcome week they have an induction by BCUHB staff, Health & Safety and the HTA representative for the university.

12. Student employability & career opportunities.

While only 47% of students with a first degree in biological sciences enter employment, more than 80% of students graduating from a medical focused degree are in graduate employment (source: HESA). This trend is consistent with our experience in the School of Medical Sciences showing that students graduating from BSc Biomedical Science have the highest employability. According to UNISTATS (2016), up to 100% of our Biomedical Science graduates go on to work and/or study; 60% are in a professional job six months after graduation; and 90% are satisfied with the course. Furthermore, more than 40 Bangor graduates work currently for the NHS in North Wales and a number of others for the Health Service nationally and internationally. This trend is further strengthened form the Biomedical Science degree by entry into Postgraduate Medical Schools, Veterinary Colleges, Postgraduate Teaching colleges, Postgraduate Midwifery, local scientific industries, MSc courses and PhD research.