Programme Specification Template
Please see Guidance Notes in the Programme Approval Guidance for Programme Teams to
assist in the completion of this template.
1.
Awarding Institution/Body
Teesside University [TU]
2.
Teaching Institution
Leeds City College
3.
Collaborating Organisations
(include type)
n/a
4.
Delivery Location(s)
[if different from TU]
Horsforth Campus and Park Lane Campus, Leeds City
College
5.
Programme Externally
Accredited by (e.g. PSRB)
n/a
6.
Award Title(s)
FdSc Biomedical Sciences (Biotechnical Sciences)
7.
Lead School
Science
8.
Additional Contributing
Schools
n/a
9.
FHEQ Level
[see guidance]
FHEQ 5
10.
Bologna Cycle
[see guidance]
Short cycle (within or linked to the first cycle)
11.
JACS Code and JACS
Description
CF13
12.
Mode of Attendance
[full-time or part-time]
Full time
13.
Relevant QAA Subject
Benchmarking Group(s)
Biomedical Science, Biosciences
14.
Relevant Additional External
Reference Points
(e.g. National Occupational
Standards, PSRB Standards)
Date of Production/Revision
Good Laboratory Practice (Directive 2004/10/EC and
Directive 2004/9/EC); COSHH, CLP and REACH safety
and labeling guidelines for storage of chemicals.
15.
2013-14
Programme Specification - FdSc Biomedical Sciences (Biotechnical Sciences) –
Version 1 – Feb 2014
16.
Criteria for Admission to the
Programme
(if different from standard
University criteria)
Minimum entry requirements will be 2 X D in a relevant
A-level or a Merit profile in a BTEC National Diploma or
another level 3 qualification together with a GCSE at
grade C in English and Mathematics.
We welcome applications from candidates who may not
have met the academic criteria, but can demonstrate
experience in their chosen field. Candidates in this
category will be interviewed to assess their suitability for
the course and asked to provide a portfolio of evidence
to support their application. The course structure
actively supports claims for Accreditation of Prior
Learning (APL) and Accreditation of Prior Certificated
Learning (APCL).
International qualifications will be assessed against
these criteria. Speakers of other languages need to have
an IELTS score of at least 6.0 or a recognised level 2
English qualification.
17.
All students must be able to demonstrate either by
qualifications or testing that they have the required
literacy skills to complete the course.
Educational Aims of the Programme
The overall aims of the programme are to produce graduates who:
18.
 Have a clear and in-depth knowledge of microbial processes and applications
 Have an understanding of the range of opportunities to use microbes for the benefit of
humans
 Have the ability to work confidently and independently, are able to reflect and learn
from their workplace experience in, or study of, a relevant industry and to relate this
experience to theory, knowledge and good practice.
 Are “good employees” having both technical competencies and professional aptitudes
 Have analytical understanding and practical experience which relates to the bioscience
industry
Learning Outcomes
The programme will enable students to develop the knowledge and skills listed below. On
successful completion of the programme, the student will be able to:
Knowledge and Understanding
K1 Demonstrate a comprehensive and detailed knowledge of activities and applications
within the Biotechnology, Bioscience and health-related industries
K2 Demonstrate a clear, broad and detailed knowledge of standard scientific
procedures and describe aspects of good practice including ethical considerations
within relevant industry bases
K3 Evidence understanding of practical activities to test hypotheses and follow written
instructions to safely implement or model laboratory procedures within the
Biotechnology sector
K4 Demonstrate a broad, up to date interdisciplinary knowledge base relevant to the
current body of scientific understanding within the Biotechnology, Bioscience and
health-related industries
Cognitive/Intellectual Skills
Programme Specification - FdSc Biomedical Sciences (Biotechnical Sciences) –
Version 1 – Feb 2014
C1
C2
Research, plan, undertake and evaluate a self-managed project in which evidence is
synthesized and appraised relevant to Biotechnology, Bioscience or health–related
industries
Demonstrate intellectual rigor in application of knowledge to problems
C3
Be confident and creative in identifying, analysing and solving complex problems in
a scientific context using appropriate knowledge and methods
C4 Draw concise and accurate scientific conclusions through the analysis of data
including evaluation of the quality and reliability of the data
Practical/Professional Skills
P1 Respond to changing situations within the practical environment and relevant
industry bases showing knowledge of good practice and current regulations
P2 Work safely within a laboratory environment and show knowledge of hazards, risks
and ethical issues with appropriate responses for relevant industries
Key Transferable Skills
T1 Plan, manage and evaluate the acquisition of new knowledge and skills as part of a
strategy for employment and future professional development
T2 Communicate clearly, fluently and effectively in a range of styles using technical and
specialist language in a professional manner. Engage in academic debate and
discussion effectively
T3 Demonstrate the ability to use professionally and confidently standard and specialist
computer software which are relevant to the industry sector
T4 Operate as part of a team and evaluate own performance as such
19.
20.
Key Learning & Teaching Methods
 Emphasis on providing a solid practical experience with interpretation and analysis
of data produced including computer-based techniques
 Lectures and seminars including invited industry specialists and speakers
 Project work
 Workshops/problem classes
 On-line guided learning and self-assessment, extension and support materials
 Reflective log (with some online content)
 Group/individual presentations
 Work-related - work-based tasks allowing students to contextualize their learning
through a project
Key Assessment Methods
 Time constrained assessments
 Laboratory reports
 Reflective journal
 Written coursework including mathematical problems
 Case study with problem solving
 Professional discussion
 Presentation (academic poster or oral)
 Research project
Programme Specification - FdSc Biomedical Sciences (Biotechnical Sciences) –
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21.
Programme Modules
(additional copies to be completed for each named pathway)
Level 4
Code
Title
Credits
Personal & Professional Development
Mathematics
Integrated Biomolecular Science
Integrated Practical Skills in Science
Physiology and Pathology
Biochemical Processes
20
20
20
20
20
20
Status
NonCompensatable
Compensatable
Core
Core
Core
Core
Core
Core
no
no
no
no
no
no
yes
yes
yes
yes
yes
yes
Status
NonCompensatable
Compensatable
core
core
core
core
core
core
no
no
no
no
no
no
yes
yes
yes
yes
yes
yes
Level 5
Code
Title
Credits
Work Related Learning
Scientific Investigation
Biotechnology
Microbiology and Microbial Disease
Pharmacology and Therapeutics
Immunology
20
20
20
20
20
20
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Level 4
wk
1
2
3
4
5
6
Semester 1
Semester 2
7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30
Mathematics 20 credits
Personal & Professional Development 20 credits
Integrated Practical Skills in Science 20 credits
Integrated Biomolecular Science 20 credits
Biochemical Processes 20 credits
C
Physiology and Pathology 20 credits
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Level 5
wk
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30
Work Related Learning 20 credits
C
Scientific Investigation 20 credits
Microbiology and Microbial Disease 20 credits
Biotechnology 20 credits
Immunology 20 credits
Pharmacology and Therapeutics 20 credits
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22.
Programme Structure
Overview of structure of the modules across the Academic Year.
Level 4:
The programme has potentially three themes: equipping the student with foundation
knowledge and skills, application of these skills and knowledge through work based
experiences, and understanding contexts of scientific endeavour within chosen
occupational sectors (for those who choose so). Consistent contextualisation and
application of module theory, to the occupational sector of focus, will further link the
learning and skills, principles and concepts to the practical workings and employment
opportunities in the chosen occupational sector.
The first semester aims to provide students with strong foundations in scientific
knowledge, with an awareness of mathematical techniques applied in scientific study,
managing human resources, and staff management (recruitment, disciplining, and person
development). The industry application is focussed around the need for practical
application of these skills into the specific occupational sector; addressed with a practical
unit delivered in semester 2.
The second semester continues to develop the student’s awareness of professional
development and the role of reflection as well as mathematical techniques appropriate for
use in the science industry. Further links to the sector context are to be made more
specifically through the practical module content and its application to industry. Students
will study Integrated Biomedical Science and Integrated Practical Skills in Science with a
common Mathematics module as well as a professional development element in the first
year in addition to Biochemical Processes and Physiology and Pathology
The continual contextualisation and application of scientific theory to sector-specific
practice ensures the student is fully engaged on a practical level which supports good
retention.
Level 5:
At this level students are challenged to become independent learners, to further apply
theoretical aspects to their chosen sector. Students study units which will prepare them for
employment and progression choices. There is a work-related element along with the
Scientific Investigation module assessed by a project. Those students who are not able to
find a work experience outside college will be offered internal opportunities and projects
which allow them to complete this module. These units are core to the programme as well
as Biotechnology and Microbiology and Microbial Disease. Two additional units must also
be studied Immunology and Pharmacology & Therapeutics
Programme Specification - FdSc Biomedical Sciences (Biotechnical Sciences) –
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FdSc Biomedical Sciences (Biotechnical Sciences) Structure
Level 4 (Year 1)
Semester 1
Semester 2
Personal &
Integrated
Professional
Practical
Development
Skills in
(20 credits)
Science
4
(20 Credits)
4
Integrated
Biochemical
Biomolecular
Processes
Science (20
(20 credits)
Credits)
4
4
Mathematics (20 credits)
4
Level 5 (Year 2)
Semester 1
Semester 2
Microbiology
Biotechnology
and Microbial
(20 Credits)
Disease
5
(20 Credits)
5
Immunology
(20 Credits)
5
Pharmacology
and
Therapeutics
(20 Credits)
5
Work Related Learning (20
Credits)
5
Scientific Investigation (20
Credits)
5
Physiology
and Pathology
(20 Credits)
4
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23.
Support for Students and Their Learning
The award adopts the approach to student learning support as identified in the
Scheme programme specification.
 Tailored induction support begins before students arrive with the admissions team,
and is reinforced at the detailed induction programme

A robust communications system functions to give students access to lecturers
and management; this includes e-mail, the VLE and notice boards.

All necessary information about the programme is provided by means of the
student handbook, module handbooks and the VLE.

Each student is allocated a tutor for regular tutorials and personal development
planning. This is implemented in the first term and continued throughout the two
years of study

There is an extensive range of learning resources in the Library, supported by
specialist staff.

24.
The College provides an extensive range of services for students, including
support for those with special needs
Distinctive Features
 An emphasis on the balance between core scientific theory and skills along with a
range of industry foci.

Producing students that have the tools to succeed within employment with
appropriate transferable skills specified by our industrial contacts. Outstanding
range of opportunities to develop practical scientific experience valued by the
sector highlighting skills relevant to the Biotechnical industry such as production
and regulation of microbial processes including production of pharmaceuticals and
bio-products.

Students have access to an excellent range of facilities including: well-equipped
modern laboratories with excellent technical support, laboratories are highly
equipped with multi-media facilities to deliver quality outcomes to a meet the
needs of a diverse range of students.

The qualification offers an excellent opportunity to work across disciplines. This
provides an innovative and contemporary way of creatively approaching the
development of scientific skills and this is particularly well-evidenced within the
integrated practical core module.

Strong teaching team with industry experience as well as academic qualifications

The Yorkshire and Humber region offers a wide and expanding range of potential
employers in the STEM sector. Within the region the urban district of Leeds and
Bradford offers a range of employers for students with strong science and
employability skills – this includes both biosciences and healthcare industry with
biotechnology a growing target throughout the region.
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Stage Outcomes (Foundation Degrees)
Please give the learning outcomes for interim stages of the programme for each named pathway or award, e.g. for Honours degrees
programme, Stage/Level 4(1) outcomes, and Stage/Level 5(2) outcomes and for Foundation Degrees, Stage 1/Level4 and programme
outcomes. Separate Stage/Level 6(3) outcomes are not required as it is assumed that these are consistent with the programme outcomes I the
programme specification. (If there have been no significant changes made to the programme outcomes as part of the review, then the stage
outcomes from the original programme documentation can be included). Please add additional rows where necessary.
Key:
NO
K1
K2
K3
K4
C1
C2
K = Knowledge and Understanding C = Cognitive and Intellectual P = Practical Professional T = Key Transferable [see programme specification]
Programme Outcome
Level 4
Demonstrate a comprehensive and detailed knowledge of
activities and applications within Biotechnology, Bioscience
and health-related industries
Demonstrate a clear, broad and detailed knowledge of
standard scientific procedures and describe aspects of
good practice including ethical considerations within
Biotechnology, Biosciences, and/or health-related
industries
Evidence understanding of practical activities to test
hypotheses and follow written instructions to safely
implement or model laboratory procedures within the
Biotechnology sector
Demonstrate a broad, up to date interdisciplinary
knowledge base relevant to the current body of scientific
understanding within the Biotechnology, Bioscience and
health-related industries
Research, plan, undertake and evaluate a self-managed
project in which evidence is synthesized and appraised
relevant to Biotechnology, Bioscience and health-related
industries
Demonstrate intellectual rigor in application of knowledge
to problems
Describe activities within relevant industries using scientific
knowledge
Describe and identify good practice
List individual actions required to perform a practical
activity
Describe, explain and use key elements of the foundation
knowledge
Identify a topic and appropriate research methods to
gather information and justify conclusions
Gather, record and describe with guidance detailed
information from a range of sources
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C3
C4
P1
P2
T1
T2
T3
T4
Be confident and creative in identifying, analysing and
solving complex problems in a scientific context using
appropriate knowledge and methods
Draw concise and accurate scientific conclusions through
the interpretation and analysis of data including evaluation
of quality and reliability of the data
Respond to changing situations within the practical
environment and relevant industry showing knowledge of
good practice and current regulations
Work safely within a laboratory environment and show
knowledge of hazards, risks and ethical issues with
appropriate responses for relevant industries
Plan, manage and evaluate the acquisition of new
knowledge and skills as part of a strategy for employment
and future professional development
Communicate clearly, fluently and effectively in a range of
styles using technical and specialist language in a
professional manner. Engage in academic debate and
discussion effectively
Demonstrate the ability to use professionally and
confidently standard and specialist computer software
which are relevant to the industry sector
Operate as part of a team and evaluate own performance
as such
Identify problem, apply given method accurately and
carefully to solve problem creatively
Gather, record and describe data
Act with limited autonomy within defined guidelines
Can safely use a specified range of standard techniques
and demonstrate awareness of common hazards, issues
and their resolution
Identify own learning strengths and articulate personal
skills, abilities, interests and motivations and relate these
to career opportunities.
Communicate appropriately using scientific language
verbally and in writing.
Use basic IT tools
Engage in team activities
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Map of Outcomes to Modules
Please provide a map for each named pathway or separate award. Insert outcomes key across the top of each column, adding in additional
columns where necessary, insert module names in the left of the grid and place an “A” in the box where the programme outcome is assessed.
For Undergraduate programmes please provide a map for each Stage, e.g. Stages 1 and 2 and programme outcomes for Honours
degrees, and Stage 1 and programme outcomes for Foundation Degrees.
Outcome Key
Module Name
K1
K2
Personal &
Professional
Development
Mathematics
A
A
Integrated
Biomolecular
Science
Integrated
Practical
Skills in
Science
Biochemical
Processes
Physiology
A
and Pathology
K3
K4
A
C1
C2
A
C4
A
A
A
C3
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
P1
A
P2
A
T1
A
T2
A
T3
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
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A
A
A
A
T4
A
Module Name
Work Related
Learning
K1
A
Scientific
A
Investigation
Pharmacology
and
Therapeutics
Immunology
K2
K3
K4
A
C1
C2
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
C3
A
C4
A
A
A
A
Microbiology
and Microbial
Disease
A
A
A
P2
A
A
Biotechnology
P1
A
T1
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
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T4
A
A
A
A
T3
A
A
A
A
T2
A
A