University of Bradford: Undergraduate Programme specification UNIVERSITY OF BRADFORD Faculties of Life Sciences (FLS) and Engineering & Informatics (SEI) Programme Title: Integrated Science Awarding and teaching institution: Final and interim awards: University of Bradford BSc (Honours) [Framework for Higher Education Qualifications Level 6] BSc [Framework for Higher Education Qualifications Level 6] Diploma of Higher Education [ Framework for Higher Education Qualifications Level 5] Certificate of Higher Education [ Framework for Higher Education Qualifications Level 4] Programme title: Integrated Science Programme approved by: Institute of Physics Duration: BSc (4-yr, full time, Sandwich); BSc (3-yr, full time) UCAS code: CFG0 (BSc/IS) Subject benchmark statement(s): N/A 4,5 and 6 FHEQ Levels: August 2015 Approved: Introduction Scientific technology is fundamental to the economic and social prosperity of the UK and requires integration of the disciplines of science, engineering and information technology to realise tangible products. Our understanding of the world around us is increasingly informed by access to the information provided by scientific technology and this high-value development activity is of increasing importance to the UK economy. In this context, employers increasingly value Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) graduates with interdisciplinary awareness (in addition to subject-specific skills) matched with high-level practical skills in acquisition and interpretation of scientific information. The BSc Integrated Science programme is designed to address these needs, developing skills and knowledge in the core Page 1 of 13 disciplines to produce graduates with versatility to operate effectively in interdisciplinary arenas. The design of the programme has been informed by recommendations from relevant bodies, such as the sector skills councils. This is training for flexibility that can confront changing circumstances in society and meet employer needs. Graduates with these characteristics fit with both regional and national requirements. The integrated science programme involves a multidisciplinary approach to the study of IT, science and engineering to prepare you for employment in industry. It integrates three study strands, analytical science, IT and engineering, and develops technical competence in their application. Understanding of the scientific basis for laboratory investigation and critical analysis of data provide further skills in analytical science, metrology, electronics, mechanics and programming. As a graduate from such a programme, you will also be familiar with multidisciplinary research, and have a broad-based scientific education coupled with the technical skills necessary for instrument design and development. This programme of study is offered as a 4-year programme with an integrated Industrial Placement (sandwich programme) and a 3-year BSc programme. The programme has been designed to deliver IT, science and engineering within each year of the programme and to develop a wide range of transferable skills, many of which are embedded within the scientific programme as well as being acquired through specific modules in professional development. Education and training in Year 1 are delivered through core modules; you have the opportunity to select 2 out of three strands in Year 2 and follow them into the final year. Further specialism is gained in your final year of study through optional modules and the research project where you will become part of a research team at the University and work alongside post-graduate and postdoctoral researchers. The sandwich degree programme provides the foundation for a wide-range of careers in IT, electronics, engineering, analytical science in industry, academic research and teaching. Work-based experience will involve working as an employee in industry, usually as part of a wider team. This provides you with an opportunity to build a diverse set of technical and laboratory skills and gain real experience of industry. The University will help you to apply for placement opportunities and will closely monitor your time with your employer. Successful completion of the placement module will entitle you to use the degree title Integrated Sciences with Industrial Placement. The programme is delivered by the Faculty of Life Sciences (FLS) and the Faculty of Engineering & Informatics (SEI). The coordinated study between the two facilities aims to produce scientifically literate graduates with a central focus on the development of the critical, analytical and communication skills that distinguish science graduates. This degree provides you with a qualification necessary to start your professional career and equips you with the necessary skills for lifelong learning. The aims and outcome statements have been referenced to the University’s Learning and Teaching Strategy Programme Aims Page 2 of 13 This programme is intended to: A1. Help you to develop a firm foundation in subject specific knowledge in the areas of IT, science and engineering relevant to programming, analytical science and technology respectively; A2. Provide an understanding of the nature and operation of industry; A3. Develop an appreciation of the regulatory constraints within the industry; A4. Enable you to gain an understanding of project development and management ; A5. Develop your knowledge of science in society and the conception and validation of scientific models; A6. Provide you with current knowledge regarding the status of developments within industry, including ethics, health and safety; A7. Develop your subject knowledge in order to facilitate the advancement of product development; A8. Provide you with the opportunity (for students on the sandwich programme) to enhance learning through exposure to the industrial/commercial environment; A9. Develop your ability to think critically and creatively and apply your knowledge to projects; A10. Equip you with the interdisciplinary subject and key skills necessary to address the requirements of industry and the regional development priority in the STEM sector. Programme Learning Outcomes When you have completed the programme you will be able to: LO1. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the IT, science and engineering underpinning analytical science and metrology, technology and programming: appropriate chemistry and analytical science; design and mathematical methods; components, equipment and laboratory methods and procedures; LO2. Evaluate principles underpinning the development and production of products within the technology sector; LO3. Discuss the basic principles of enterprise, entrepreneurship and employability; LO4. Discuss the basic principles of organisation, project management and health and safety within industry; LO5. Evaluate the responsibility of scientists to consider environmental, social and economic aspects of the development of sustainable technology; LO6. Present scientific material and arguments clearly and correctly, in writing and orally, to a range of audiences. LO7. Exercise analytical thinking in the use of scientific principles and mathematical methods for modelling and analysing problems; LO8. Apply engineering and scientific principles to the critical analysis of problems in order to create innovative design solutions; LO9. Review an existing body of knowledge, plan an original study and utilise research skills to evaluate and interpret newly developed data; LO10. Apply standard laboratory methods to obtain accurate data; Page 3 of 13 LO11. Use software packages in the analysis, modelling and simulation, and design of systems. LO12. Use the range of personal transferable skills, negotiating and decision making skills that are required in group work and autonomous learning; LO13. Communicate with a variety of audiences using a range of techniques; LO14. Apply problem solving strategies and skills in critical and analytical thinking to develop innovative solutions; LO15. Reflect on the need for further personal and professional development to improve your own performance and prepare you for lifelong learning. LO16. Placement learning will depend largely on the sandwich placement but could include the ability to use state-of-the-art equipment, to produce a technological product and evaluate analytical and technological processes; LO17. Demonstrate communication skills through ability to discuss methodology and results both in reports and orally to members of staff at your host placement; LO18. Work independently and as part of a team; LO19. Work to deadlines and demonstrate time management. Curriculum Ordinary 1,2 4 Introduction to Software Development C C ENG1311L 20 1 1,2 4 Technology Mathematics C C AR-1110L 20 1 1,2 4 Science in a Changing World C C AR-4310D 20 1 1 4 Interpreting Science C C ENG0304L 20 1 1,2 3 Fundamentals of Materials C C CT-4018D 20 1 2 4 Introductory Chemical Concepts C C Level 20 1 Stage CM-0131L Module Code Credit Honours Semester Stage 1 All modules are core. Module Title If have achieved the regulatory credit points at Level 4 and have achieved learning outcomes LO 1-5 and LO 10-12, you may exit the programme and are eligible for the award of Certificate of Higher Education. Stage 2 Semesters 1&2: 40 credits core (CM-0222L* + CT-1508M and CT-2023M) Page 4 of 13 Choose total of 80 credits from 2 out of the 3 strand options A, B or C, 40 each per strand: Core Module (C), Option Module (O) Semester Honours Ordinary 20 2 1,2 5 Integrated Science Enterprise Group Project C C CT-1508M 10 2 1 4 Essentials of Chemical Structure, Bonding and Reactivity C C EM-0159L 20 2 1,2 A 4 Digital Prototyping and Communication O O CM-0134D 20 2 1 A 4 Practical Electronics O O CM-0305L 20 2 1,2 B 5 Information Systems Analysis and Design O O CM-0316L 20 2 1,2 B 5 Data Structures and Algorithms O O AR-3507D 20 2 1 C 5 Laboratory Science O O CT-2022D 20 2 2 C 5 Laboratory Practice for Integrated Science 2 O O CT-2023M 10 2 2 5 Enterprise and Commercial Awareness for Scientists C C Level Stage CM-0222L Module Code Strand Option Credit *Note linked modules CM-0222L, ENG1052L, CM-0305L and CM-0316L run in both semesters Module Title If have achieved the regulatory credit points at Levels 4 and 5 and have achieved learning outcomes LO 1-7 and LO 10-13, you may exit the programme and are eligible for the award of Diploma of Higher Education. Level Semester 1,2 Placement Ordinary P Module Title Honours CT-7001P Stage Module Code Credit Placement E E Page 5 of 13 Stage 3 Semesters 1&2: 40 credits core (ENG3009M, and CT-3508J) Semester 1: Choose 40 credits from the same strand options you had in Stage 2 Semester 2: Choose 40 credits from free options Note that your options may be limited by module pre-requisites: LIF-4004D is a pre-requisite for any of the other LIF code modules. Note that there will be a restriction on the number of short course modules (LIF codes other than LIF3004D) that can be taken to a maximum of TWO per semester, to a total of 40 credits. Ordinary 6 Integrated Science Research Project (10:20cr split) C C ENG3009M 10 3 1 6 Project Management C C ENG3014M 10 3 1 A 6 Product Design & Innovation O O ENG3094D 20 3 1 A 6 Blue Sky Brief O O ENG4121D 20 3 1 A 7 Mobile Robotics & Wireless Sensors O O CM-0504D 20 3 1 B 6 Information Engineering O O CM-0229L 20 3 1,2 B 5 Database Systems O O LIF-3005M 10 3 1 C 6 Separation Science O O LIF-3004D 20 3 1 C 6 Principles of Analytical Science O O CT-2024M 10 3 2 C 6 Entrepreneurial Creativity for Scientists O O LIF-3008M 10 3 1 C 6 X-Ray Diffraction O O LIF-3007M 10 3 1 C 6 Vibrational Spectroscopy O O EN-3327D 20 3 1 C 6 Environmental Monitoring O O LIF-3000M 10 3 2 6 Mass Spectrometry O O LIF-3003M 10 3 2 6 Light Isotope Analysis O O LIF-3001M 10 3 2 6 Electron Microscopy O O LIF-3006M 10 3 2 6 Thermal Analysis O O EN-3330D 20 3 2 6 Ecological Management and Nature Conservation O O Strand Option Level 30 3 1,2 Stage CT-3508J* Credit Honours Module Code Semester It may also be possible to choose up to 20 credits of electives, by individual discussion with the programme leader, subject to timetabling restrictions. Module Title Page 6 of 13 If you have achieved the regulatory credit points at Levels 4 to 6 and have achieved learning outcomes LO 1-15, you are eligible for the award of BSc (Hons) If you have not met the credit requirements for an Honours degree but have achieved the regulatory credit requirements for the award of an Ordinary degree and have met learning outcomes LO 1-8 and 10-15, you are eligible for the award of an Ordinary degree. The curriculum may change, subject to the University's programme approval, monitoring and review procedures. Learning, Teaching and Assessment Strategies The teaching and learning strategy takes into consideration the learning outcomes, progression through the levels of study, the nature of the subject and the student intake, and the need for you to take greater responsibility for your own learning as you progress through the programme. The strategies and methods implemented are: The teaching and learning methods implemented to engage you in developing your knowledge and understanding, discipline specific skills and personal and key skills include (i) formal lectures (including those from keynote speakers) (LO1-LO6, LO8LO12); (ii) practical classes, case studies and project work (LO1-LO16); (iii) tutorial exercises, directed learning and individual work (LO1-6, LO8-16). The sandwich placement is used to develop the majority of learning outcomes and especially (LO1619). The method of assessment is by coursework, oral presentations, written examination and both analytical and experimental coursework. It is designed to allow you to demonstrate achievement of the learning outcomes of the individual modules. These learning outcomes are consistent with the Framework for Higher Education Qualifications. The methods implemented in developing your subject knowledge and understanding, include engaging with you during tutorial exercises, case studies, practical demonstration and supervised research and project work. The methods of assessment of subject knowledge and understanding are implicit in the written examinations, analytical and experimental coursework and project work. Your final year project offers a major opportunity to demonstrate autonomy in data handling, interpretation and critical analysis. You will select a project in the main subject area that you choose for your final year options. The methods implemented in developing your practical skills include demonstrations and laboratory work. You will also design and operate equipment and/or procedures and use control and measuring instruments under supervision. The methods of assessment of practical skills include computer-based tests, laboratory portfolio, logbook and reports. The methods implemented in developing your transferable skills are embedded in the programme and include group working skills, presentation skills, time management, sourcing information, data management, systematic problem solving, logical and Page 7 of 13 reflective thinking and report writing. The University of Bradford is well known for attracting students from a wide variety of background, experiences and countries. This and the learning facilities available to all students provide the conditions for students to develop and manage their learning. The University of Bradford’s mission, Making Knowledge Work, is embedded in the aims of this programme. The Faculties involved in the delivery of the programme are well equipped with practical and computational facilities. The methods of assessment of transferable skills are built in the structure of the assessments. For every 10 module credits on the programme, you commit to 100 hours of study. Some of these hours will be formally timetabled - lectures, laboratories, seminars and tutorials – and others will involve you in carrying out private study. The balance between these forms of study changes as you pass through the three years of the programme. Assessment Regulations This Programme conforms to the standard University Regulations which are available at the following link: http://www.bradford.ac.uk/aqpo/ordinances-and-regulations/ Although the University does not recruit directly to the Ordinary degrees, this curriculum is available to students for whom a less intense programme of study is appropriate. This route comprises 100 credits at each stage of the programme. Details of the regulations are available at the link above. In Stage 2 you are required to take 20 core credits in each semester and 60 credits from optional units. In Stage 3 you are required to take 30 credits for the research project where you have the opportunity of selecting a topic of your choice. Admission Requirements The University welcomes applications from all potential students regardless of their previous academic experience; offers are made following detailed consideration of each individual application. Most important in the decision to offer a place is our assessment of a candidate’s potential to benefit from their studies and of their ability to succeed on this particular programme. Consideration of your application will be based on a combination of your formal academic qualifications and other relevant experience. If you have prior certificated learning or professional experience which may be equivalent to parts of this programme, the University has procedures to evaluate this learning in order to provide you with exemptions from specified modules contained within the curriculum. Please talk to us if you do not fit the standard pattern of entry qualifications. The University of Bradford has always welcomed applications from disabled students, and these will be considered on the same academic grounds as are applied to all Page 8 of 13 applicants. If you have some form of disability you may wish to contact the programme leader before you apply. A typical offer to someone seeking entry through the UCAS scheme would be 240 UCAS tariff points including Mathematics at GCSE level Grade C. You will be required to have studied BTEC (Applied Science or Science), Applied Science (double award), biology, chemistry or physics at an advanced level (Level 3). On completion of your UCAS form you will be invited to the Faculty for an Applicant Visit Open Day when you will have the opportunity to meet staff, view the facilities and discuss “the Bradford experience” with current students. English Language Requirements: All students must satisfy the English language requirements for admission as described at http://www.brad.ac.uk/international/english-prepare.php. If your native language is not English, you will have to pass a test in English approved by the University before you can be admitted. The following qualifications are acceptable as satisfying this requirement, both available internationally: The International English Language Testing Service Test (IELTS) administered by the British Council is the test which is preferred by the University. You will need to achieve an Overall Band of at least 6, with at least 5 in each of the four sub-tests. Testing facilities are available at most British Council overseas offices. When you take your test, you should ask for a copy of your Test Report Form to be sent to the University. For a full list of equivalent tests such as PTE (Academic), please consult www.bradford.ac.uk/international/before-youapply/english-language-requirements . Learning Resources The JB Priestley Library on the city campus and our specialist library in the Faculty of Management provide a wide range of printed and electronic resources to support your studies. We offer quiet study space if you want to work on your own, and group study areas for the times when you need to discuss work with fellow students. Subject librarians for each Faculty provide training sessions and individual guidance in finding the information you need for your assignment, and will help you organise your references properly. Student PC clusters can be found in all our libraries and elsewhere on the campus. Many of these are open 24/7. You can also use the University's wireless network to access the internet from your own laptop. Most of our online journals are available on the internet (both on and off campus), and you can also access your University email account, personal information and programme-related materials this way. Staff are on hand during the daytime to help you if you get stuck, and there is a 24/7 IT helpline available. Specialist labs and workshops are provided during the programme. Student Support and Guidance All students admitted to the Integrated Science programme will go through a process of induction that includes detailed talks by the Programme Team and Programme Managers. Additional support is provided by the University. Afterwards, ongoing support for students is provided in the form of one-stop facilities located at the Student Support Office in the Richmond Building. Page 9 of 13 Once you are registered, support is also provided via the Faculty of Engineering and Informatics intranet. The site at http://www.inf.brad.ac.uk/internal/sso/ contains the following information: Student Handbook Learning and Behaviour Agreement Programme Timetable Examination timetable Answers to Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Coursework submission record Student Staff Liaison Committee Minutes Modules Descriptors Programme Tutor’s contact information The Faculty of Engineering & Informatics also provides a technical support website at http://ts.inf.brad.ac.uk/ that offers detailed information on all the technical services offered, including: Equipment Loans Service IT suites Further guidance at all stages is available from personal academic tutors, the examinations officer and the programme leader. You will have an individual supervisor for your final year research project. The programme has a system of handbooks and formal staff-student liaison committees which includes the Subject Librarian and a representative of the Computing Centre. This means that issues are rapidly dealt with. Regular feedback on your individual performance will be provided The University provides important facilities such as extended access to Library and Computing facilities, counselling and welfare services, careers advice and a Disabilities Office. Programme Team Support for you personally and in your programme of study, will be provided both by the University and the Programme Team. You will be allocated a personal tutor who is someone with whom you will be able to talk about any academic or personal concerns. You will be provided with a comprehensive series of handbooks that you can consult on a range of learning issues and your programme tutors will be available to consult on subject specific queries. Students’ Union We value the feedback provided by students and collaborate with the Students’ Union, through a system of student representatives and formal staff student liaison committees, so that any issues you wish to raise are addressed rapidly. The Students’ Union and the University of Bradford work in partnership to provide confidential counselling and welfare services where you can get help with any aspect of your personal or academic life. Student Financial and Information Services (part of the Hub) will provide you with information about a diverse range of issues such as council Page 10 of 13 tax, personal safety and tourist information. International Students can access a range of additional advice and support services through the Student’s Union. Employability and Career Development The University is committed to helping students develop and enhance their employability profile and capabilities through learning opportunities embedded within the curriculum. Furthermore, the University is committed to supporting students to develop their commitment towards a career pathway(s) and to implementing a career plan. Professional career guidance and development support is available throughout your time as a student and as a graduate from Career Development Services. The support available from Career Development Services includes a wide range of information resources, one to one appointments, a weekly workshop programme, a mentoring programme, graduate recruitment and careers fairs, plus information and help to you find part time work, summer work placements, graduate internship programmes and graduate entry vacancies. In addition, some students as part of their programme of study may have the opportunity to complete a Career & Personal Development accredited module delivered by the Career Development Service. All students are encouraged to access Career Development Services at an early stage during their studies and to use the extensive resources available on their web site http://www.bradford.ac.uk/careers/ Career Development Services annually undertakes a survey of all graduates to find out their destination six months after graduation. The survey gathers data on the employment and further study routes graduates have entered and a range of other information including job roles, name and location of employers, salary details etc. The survey findings for each programme of study are presented on the programme information pages on the University website and via Career Development Services’ website http://www.bradford.ac.uk/careers/ The specific provision on this programme is through invited keynote speakers, science career advisors and through the following modules: Science in a Changing World, Enterprise Integrated Science Group Project, Enterprise and Commercial Awareness for Scientists. Learner Development Unit for Academic Skills Advice For undergraduate students who are looking to improve their marks during their time at university, study skills and maths advice is available to all regardless of degree discipline or level of study. Students can access a programme of interactive workshops and clinics which is delivered throughout the year. This is in addition to our extremely popular face-to-face guidance from our advisers, who also offer a wide range of online and paper based materials for self-study. http://www.bradford.ac.uk/academic-skills/index.php Page 11 of 13 Disability Disabled students will find a supportive environment at Bradford where we are committed to ensuring that all aspects of student life are accessible to everyone. The Disability Service can help by providing support, advice and equipment to help you get the most out of your time at Bradford. It is a place where you can discuss any concerns you may have about adjustments that you may need, whether these relate to study, personal care or other issues. For more information contact the Disability Service by phoning: 01274 233739 or via email: disabilities@bradford.ac.uk University policies and initiatives Learning and Teaching Our University approach to learning, teaching and assessment is encapsulated by an integrated set of themes and principles within our Curriculum Framework. All of our degree programmes have been designed to provide you with an inclusive and engaging learning environment which gives you the opportunity to thrive and develop in your area of study. Our research-informed programmes have a particular focus on developing your employability. We also place a strong emphasis on collaborative, realworld and enquiry-based learning, supported by appropriate learning technologies. Our assessment is designed not just to measure your achievement, but also to shape and guide your learning through preparing you for the increasing level of challenge as you progress through your degree. Together, these lead to you developing a distinctive set of graduate attributes which will prepare you for life beyond university. Ecoversity: Ecoversity is a strategic project of the University which aims to embed the principles of sustainable development into our decision-making, learning and teaching, research activities campus operations and lives of our staff and students. We do not claim to be a beacon for sustainable development but we aspire to become a leading University in this area. The facilities we create for teaching and learning, including teaching spaces, laboratories, IT labs and social spaces, will increasingly reflect our commitments to sustainable development. Staff and student participation in this initiative is crucial to its success and its inclusion in the programme specification is a clear signal that it is at the forefront of our thinking in programme development, delivery, monitoring and review. For more details see http://www.bradford.ac.uk/about/ecoversity/ The University of Bradford and the Faculty of Life Sciences are committed to the principles of Education for Sustainable Development as outlined in the UNESCO definition (see http://info.brad.ac.uk/admin/ecoversity/what-sustainability.php) The Integrated Science degree includes the provision of taught content around sustainable themes, and the opportunity to explore and express these themes in project-based and written work. In stage 1 of the programme critical thinking is addressed within the ‘Interpreting Science’ and ‘Science in a Changing World’ modules. There are numerous opportunities for group work throughout the years in which students learn to resolve conflict and work collaboratively to achieve shared goals. Topics around sustainable themes can be found in a number of other modules including Integrated Science Group Project. Students have considerable flexibility in individual and group project directions, which would allow them to explore ESD themes Page 12 of 13 more fully if it is a particular interest. They may be encouraged to become involved in “Ecoversity” either as part of project work or as extra-curricular projects. Further Information For further information, please check the University prospectus or contact Admissions. The Admissions Office The Admissions Office University of Bradford Faculty of Life Sciences Richmond Road University of Bradford Bradford, BD7 1DP UK Richmond Road Bradford, BD7 1DP UK +44 (0)1274 233054 +44 (0)1274 236293 http://www.bradford.ac.uk/study/our-courses/ http://www.bradford.ac.uk/lifesciences/our-courses The contents of this programme specification may change, subject to the University's regulations and programme approval, monitoring and review procedures. Page 13 of 13