University of Bradford
Postgraduate Programme specification
UNIVERSITY OF BRADFORD
School of Life Sciences
Institute of Cancer Therapeutics
Programme Title: Cancer Drug Discovery
Awarding and teaching
institution:
University of Bradford
Final and interim awards:
Master of Science
Postgraduate Diploma
Postgraduate Certificate
[Framework for Higher Education Qualifications level 7]
Programme title:
Programme approved /
accredited by:
Cancer Drug Discovery
N/A
Relevant subject benchmark
statement(s):
N/A
Duration:
UCAS code:
FHEQ Level:
Date produced:
Last updated :
1 year full-time
N/A
7
May 2008
January 2014
Background
Based upon a greater understanding of the molecular aspects of cancer progression, new
opportunities for chemical intervention in this disease have emerged. Medicinal chemists provide
the expertise required in translating that understanding to the identification of suitable chemical
entities, and to the process of optimisation that ultimately leads to the discovery of new cancer
medicines. This programme is designed to provide you with a ‘state of the art’ education in
modern drug discovery, which meets the demand of employers in pharmaceutical industry.
Opportunities to learn the latest innovations in drug discovery, including computer-aided drug
design and techniques in parallel synthesis as well as electronic data management are provided
in the programme. In addition, an extended project in drug discovery will not only provide you with
first-hand experience of the challenges in original research, but also gives you an opportunity to
put in practice the knowledge you have gained.
For career progression within this sector a postgraduate qualification is highly desirable. For the
pursuit of this type of programme, you must have a degree qualification, usually in chemical or
biological sciences. The programme promotes advanced scholarship within specialised areas
concomitant with the development of key transferable skills (in IT and bioinformatics) and
research techniques.
The programme uses a range of teaching strategies to promote independent study and research;
to develop a systematic and critical understanding of the molecular basis of disease progression;
and to enhance autonomous learning and personal transferable skills. This programme will
facilitate the development of the skills you require for careers in academia, industry or for further
research. Enhancement of your independent learning skills during the programme will equip you
with the skills to succeed as lifelong learners.
Programme Aims
The programme is intended to:
A1
Enable you to develop a systematic understanding, critical awareness, and skills in
selected disciplines within the field of cancer drug discovery.
A2
Provide you with a detailed knowledge of common strategies and methods for the
design and discovery of new cancer medicines.
A3
Provide a strong knowledge base in the theory and practical skills of synthetic
organic chemistry and their application in cancer drug discovery.
A4
Develop within the context of drug discovery, a comprehensive understanding of
communication, research skills and scientific method.
A5
Provide learning opportunities to enable you to think critically and to further
develop as an autonomous and lifelong learner.
A6
Further develop your ability in a range of personal and key skills.
Programme Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the programme you will be able to:
LO1 critically evaluate specialized areas of cancer drug discovery.
LO2 critically evaluate scientific literature and communicate scientific data.
LO3 critically evaluate and appraise experimental laboratory techniques with specific
emphasis on those relevant for efficient preparation of pure organic compounds.
LO4 implement a research project, employ appropriate experimental approaches and
report your findings in relation to current knowledge and understanding.
LO5
LO6
LO7
LO8
demonstrate critical thinking through an ability to independently:
 recognise, define and prioritise problems;
 analyse, interpret, objectively evaluate and prioritise information,
recognising its limitations;
demonstrate a conceptual understanding of research and scientific method through
ability to independently:
 critically evaluate methodology;
 critically analyse and interpret data;
 formulate conclusions based on complete and incomplete data.
 critically evaluate strategies for experimental design and drug synthesis.
 critically analyse a therapeutic target and current therapeutic
approaches to that specific target.
Prepare and implement a programme of independent learning through reflective
study
Apply skills in time-management, oral presentation, written communication
specifically by:
 writing and interpreting scientific reports.
 giving an oral scientific presentation.
The Curriculum
The Postgraduate Diploma is studied over two semesters, each comprising of 60 Credits studied
as double (20 Credit) or linked (10+10 Credits) modules. The programme is designed as a core
curriculum amounting to 40 Credits in semester 1 and 20 Credits in semester 2. A further 20
Credits in semester 1 and 40 Credits in semester 2 are studied from optional curriculum offered at
ICT and other SLS departments. The Masters programme follows on from this and incorporates
an additional 60 Credit research project.
Learning, Teaching and Assessment Strategies
A wide variety of teaching methods appropriate to the learning outcomes of the individual modules
is employed throughout the programme, which is supported by Blackboard, the virtual learning
environment, provided by the University. A seminar program involving external speakers, with
international reputations in the field, will be established and you will have the opportunity to
discuss scientific issues with them. In addition, the Institute of Cancer Therapeutics has regular
internal research seminars and attendance at these is encouraged. The teaching methods focus
on student-centred approaches to learning. In this way you will develop the attributes needed for
life-long learning and continued professional development. All students will be supported by a
dedicated Programme Tutor for the duration of the programme. Academic support is also
provided by individual tutors / supervisors for the Critical Appraisal and Research Project through
regular meetings for the duration of these activities.
Module
Code
Module Title
Module Credits Level
Type
Sem
Postgraduate Certificate
CR-4016D
CR-4008L
CR-4014L
CR-4006D
CR-4001D
Principles of Drug Discovery
Research & Analytical Methods
Critical Appraisal of a Current Topic in
Drug Discovery
Toxicology and Safety Pharmacology
Molecular Basis of Cancer & Cancer
Therapy
Core
Core
Core
20
10
10
7
7
7
1
1&2
1&2
Optional
Optional
20
20
7
7
1
1
If you have achieved the regulatory credit points at Level 7 and have achieved learning
outcomes LO 1-3 and 5-8, you may exit the programme and are eligible for the award of
Postgraduate Certificate
Postgraduate Diploma
CR-4008L
CR-4014L
CR-4013D
CR-4012D
CR-4010D
Research & Analytical Methods
Critical Appraisal of a Current Topic in
Drug Discovery
Case Studies in Drug Discovery
Chemical Toolbox for Drug Discovery
Molecular Mechanisms of Toxicity
Core
Core
10
10
7
7
1&2
1&2
Optional
Optional
Optional
20
20
20
7
7
7
2
2
2
If you have achieved the regulatory credit points at Level 7 and have achieved learning
outcomes LO 1-3 and 5-8, you may exit the programme and are eligible for the award of
Postgraduate Diploma.
Master of Science
CR-4015Z
Research Project in Drug Discovery
60
7
3
If you have achieved the regulatory credit points at Level 7 and have achieved learning outcomes
LO 1-8, you are eligible for the award of Master of Science.
The curriculum may change subject to the university programme approval, monitoring and review
procedures.
Learning outcome LO1 will be developed through a series of lectures, workshops and directed
study and assessed by unseen written examination questions, critical appraisal, and course work
assignments. Learning outcome LO2 will be developed and assessed by critical appraisal and
course work. Acquisition of learning outcomes LO3 and LO4 will occur gradually and cumulatively
through a number of modules employing a mix of lectures, investigations, workshops, individual
project work and directed private study. They will be assessed by an unseen written examination
using constructed-response (essay) type questions, course work, assignments, oral presentation,
dissertation and project work.
Directed private study will involve you in a variety of activities, which include directed reading of
selected textbooks and specified source literature, Blackboard (directed Web-based materials),
report writing and other assignments.
The development of learning outcomes LO5 and LO6 will be through involvement in small-group
seminars, laboratory investigations and individual project-based work and assessed by critical
appraisal, course work, seminar paper, written assignment, oral presentation and project work.
Key skills are embedded in the curriculum and some modules develop or consolidate and assess
one or more of the key skills listed in learning outcomes LO7 and LO8.
More detailed description of the way that learning is related to assessment in the modules that
make up this programme can be found on the module descriptors.
Assessment regulations
This Programme conforms to the standard University Assessment Regulations for Postgraduate
Programmes which are available at the following link:
http://www.bradford.ac.uk/aqpo/ordinances-and-regulations/
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.
Entrance requirements for each programme will vary but 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.
We are continually reviewing and developing our practices and policies to make the University
more inclusive, but if you are disabled we may need to make some adjustments to make sure that
you are not disadvantaged. We would advise you to contact the programme leader before you
apply to discuss these.
Up to 30 students can be admitted to the Masters programme in Drug discovery, and this may
include a significant number of applicants from outside the EU. 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. Entrance requirements will vary, but are set after consideration of
each applicant’s academic background and achievements and other relevant experience. As a
general guideline, acceptance on the Masters programme requires an Honours degree in
chemical or biological sciences, or related disciplines. The expectation is that this would be at 2.2
classification or above. Applicants whose first language is not English will need to demonstrate
proficiency in English in accordance with University Regulations. For further details, see
http://www.bradford.ac.uk/international/before-you-apply/english-language-requirements/.
Students with prior certificated learning or prior experiential learning may be accredited on a case
by case basis by a claim for recognition of prior learning (RPL).
Learning Resources
The JB Priestley Library on the city campus and our specialist library in the School 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 School 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 both 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 journals are available online (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.
Student Support and Guidance
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. The School will ensure
that there is someone available with whom you feel comfortable to help and support you. 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 provide professional academic representation and advice. 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 tax, personal safety and tourist information.
International Students can access a range of additional advice and support services through the
Student’s Union.
Learner Development Unit for Academic Skills Advice
For postgraduate students on taught programmes 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. 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/learner-development/
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
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 www.bradford.ac.uk/ecoversity/
Further Information:
For further information, please check the University prospectus or contact Admissions.
The Admissions Office
The University of Bradford
Richmond Road
Bradford, BD7 1DP
UK
+44 (0)1274 233054
http://www.brad.ac.uk/courses/
The Postgraduate Admissions Tutor
Institute of Cancer Therapeutics
School of Life Sciences
The University of Bradford
Richmond Road
Bradford, BD7 1DP
UK
+44 (0)1274 233226
http://www.cancer.brad.ac.uk/
The contents of this programme specification may change, subject to the University's
regulations and programme approval, enhancement and review procedures.