University of Bradford:
Undergraduate Programme specification
UNIVERSITY OF BRADFORD
School of Life Sciences/School of Medical Sciences
Programme title: Biomedical Science
Awarding and teaching
institution:
University of Bradford
Final and interim awards:
BSc (Honours) [Framework for Higher Education
Qualifications FHEQ Level 6]
Diploma of Higher Education [Framework for
Higher Education Qualifications FHEQ Level 5]
Certificate of Higher Education [Framework for
Higher Education Qualifications FHEQ Level 4]
Programme title:
BSc (Hons) in Biomedical Science
Programme approved /
accredited by:
Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS) , HCPC
Duration:
3yrs – full-time
UCAS code:
C900
Subject benchmark
statement:
Biomedical Science (2007)
FHEQ Levels:
4, 5 and 6
Date produced:
November 2011
Last updated :
January 2014
Introduction
Biomedical Science is a key healthcare science involving a multidisciplinary
approach to the study of human disease. It encompasses studies of the causes of
disease and the effects of disease on the normal structure and functions of the
human body and it provides an understanding of the scientific basis for the
laboratory investigation, diagnosis, monitoring and treatment of disease. Graduates
will also be familiar with biomedical science research to develop new diagnostic
procedures as well as new therapeutic intervention strategies.
As a graduate from a degree programme accredited by the Institute of Biomedical
Science (IBMS) you will have a broad-based scientific education coupled with
technical skills necessary for laboratory work. This broad-based education provides
the foundation for a wide-range of scientific careers, including as a Biomedical
Scientist in a hospital environment (after successful completion of the IBMS portfolio
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of competence in an accredited laboratory placement and registration with the Health
and Care Professions Council after graduation), as a laboratory-based or nonlaboratory based scientist in the Pharmaceutical Industry and other related
industries, academic research and teaching. However, whilst the degree provides a
qualification necessary to start your professional career you will need to continue to
develop skills throughout your working life. This programme couples a scientific
education with the development of the skills necessary for lifelong learning.
The aims and outcome statements have been referenced to the University’s
Learning and Teaching Strategy, the QAA Subject Benchmark statement,
Framework for Higher Education Qualifications and the Health Professions Council
(HCPC) Standards of Proficiency.
Programme Aims
The programme is intended to:

deliver a flexible programme of study in Biomedical Science for students from
diverse cultural and educational backgrounds;

enhance learning by providing a choice of study options to suit your interests
and/or career aspirations;

develop subject knowledge and understanding in the core and optional areas
of the Biomedical Science as defined in the curriculum to reflect the Subject
Benchmark Statement; including an awareness of the implications of ethnicity,
gender as well as social and cultural diversity in health and disease;

develop core discipline specific skills as outlined in the curriculum to reflect
the Subject Benchmark Statement;

develop research skills to reflect the Subject Benchmark Statement and
prepare you for postgraduate study;

develop personal transferable skills that enable you to move successfully into
employment or further education;

provide an accredited degree which meets the requirements of the IBMS that
can enable you to apply to register with the HCPC as a Biomedical Scientist
(after completing the IBMS certificate of competence portfolio)

To provide a supportive and structured environment in which you are
encouraged to develop the independent study skills required for lifelong
learning.
Programme Learning Outcomes
When you have completed the programme you will have met the following learning
outcomes (LO):
LO1
Knowledge of the underlying concepts and principles of core aspects of
Biomedical Science including Cell Biology, Genetics, Biochemistry, Molecular
Biology, Physiology, Pathology, Immunology, Microbiology;
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LO2
Develop the ability to present, evaluate and interpret qualitative and
quantitative data, in order to develop lines of argument and make sound
judgements in accordance with basic theories and concepts of their subject(s)
of study
LO3
Write scientific reports and communicate the results of their study/work
accurately and reliably, and with structured and coherent arguments
LO4
Use the range of personal transferable skills including communication,
information technology (including the use of the internet and other electronic
devices as sources of information and means of communication), team
working, negotiating and decision making skills that are required in a working
environment and prepare you for lifelong learning;
LO5
Undertake further training and develop new skills within a structured and
managed environment and develop transferable skills necessary for
employment, including personal responsibility and undertake risk and control
of substances hazardous to health assessments, evaluate and apply health
and safety policies, good laboratory practice and solve problems as well as
appreciate the importance of The Human Tissue Act 2004, governance, audit
and quality control and assurance;
LO6
Knowledge and critical understanding of the well-established principles of
Biomedical Science, and of the way in which those principles have developed
LO7
Evaluate and discuss the laboratory specialities of cellular pathology, clinical
biochemistry, clinical immunology, clinical genetics, haematology and
transfusion science, and medical microbiology.
LO8
Select, evaluate and appraise experimental and clinical laboratory techniques
and be able to apply them to experimental and laboratory investigations;
LO9
Effectively communicate information, arguments and analysis in a variety of
forms to specialist and non-specialist audiences, and interpret and critically
review scientific literature
LO10 Prepare, process, analyse (including numerical and statistical analysis) and
interpret experimental/clinical laboratory data and present data in an
appropriate format; Applying skills in critical and analytical thinking and
problem solving skills
LO11 A systematic understanding of key aspects of Biomedical Science, including
acquisition of coherent and detailed knowledge,
informed by current
research-led aspects of a discipline
LO12 Devise and sustain arguments, and/or to solve problems, using ideas and
techniques at the forefront of Biomedical Science to describe and comment
upon particular aspects of current research, or equivalent advanced
scholarship, in the discipline
LO13 Ability to manage their own learning, and to make use of scholarly reviews
and primary sources and undertake autonomous learning.
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Curriculum
The curriculum is designed to provide a flexible study route permitting the maximum
student choice consistent with the requirements of accreditation. The curriculum is
designed to enable you to develop the necessary level of knowledge of Biomedical
Science suitable for a career as a Biomedical Scientist or as a scientist in one of the
many other professions that our graduates choose to follow. In the first and second
year of your degree (level 4 and 5), all modules are core to ensure that you have the
foundation in Biomedical Science required for further study. At level 4, you will study
normal human biology and some microbiology at the level of the molecule, gene,
cell, organ and organism. Laboratory sessions run in conjunction with the theoretical
components will give you the opportunity to enhance your understanding of particular
study topics. You will be introduced to basic laboratory skills and in skills in data
handling and interpretation. You will also develop your key skills during Level 4 and
you will start to develop a progress file. You will be encouraged to develop a
reflective attitude to your learning and develop numerical, written and oral
communication, IT and group working skills.
Level 4 – Biomedical Science
Module
Code
BM-1105L
BM-1121L
BM-1119D
BM-1120D
BM-1122D
BM-2108D
Module Title
Developing Professional Skills 1
Human physiology 1 and 2
Introductory Biochemistry
Cell and Tissue Biology
Human Genetics and Developmental
Biology
Introductory microbiology
Type
Credits
Level
Study
period
C
C
C
C
20
20
20
20
4
4
4
4
1+2
1+2
1
1
C
20
4
2
C
20
4
2
If you complete level 4 successfully, you are eligible for a Certificate of Higher
Education; The Certificate of Higher Education indicates that you have successfully
met learning outcomes 1 to 5 consistent with those of the Framework for Higher
Education Qualifications
At level 5, the curriculum continues to concentrate on core areas of Biomedical
Science in particular, the laboratory disciplines. You will start to examine the
processes that disrupt normal human biological function and so cause disease. You
will also explore the methods used to diagnose and treat disease. Again, laboratory
sessions will give you the opportunity to enhance understanding of some topics and
you will develop further, your laboratory skills as well as skills in data handling and
interpretation. You will also be encouraged to develop further, personal transferable
skills and reflect on how these will prepare you for the working environment. You will
be encouraged to self-evaluate your skills and identify and address areas for
improvement. At level 5 you will develop your depth of knowledge and laboratory and
data handling skills and are encouraged to start to develop autonomy in your
learning by producing individual and group work and developing increasing
responsibility for achieving the learning outcomes of your modules and level of study.
Students engage with case studies and workshop material well in level 5, as there is
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an opportunity for interaction with each other, discussion, debate and assimilate
ideas.
Level 5
Module
Code
BM-2003L
TBA
BM-3101D
TBA
TBA
TBA
Module Title
Developing Professional Skills 2
Immunology and Haematology
Medical microbiology
Clinical and Analytical Biochemistry
Molecular Genetics
Pathology
Type
Credits
Level
C
C
C
C
C
C
20
20
20
20
20
20
5
5
5
5
5
5
Study
period
1+2
1+2
1
1
2
2
If you complete levels 4 and 5 successfully, you are eligible for a Diploma of Higher
Education. The Diploma of Higher Education indicates that you have successfully
met learning outcomes 1 to 10 consistent with those of the Framework for Higher
Education Qualifications.
At level 6 (your final year of study) the curriculum continues to allow you to develop
your knowledge and understanding of human disease and you will choose to study in
depth from a range of current research topics in Biomedical Science. You will
continue to reflect upon ways to improve your own learning and performance and to
develop autonomous learning skills. Laboratory sessions along with the research
project will allow you to enhance further, your data handling and critical interpretation
skills and increase the autonomy with which you can apply them. In addition, you will
be encouraged to develop further your numerical, written and oral communication, IT
and group working skills. You will be expected to take increasing responsibility for
your own learning as well as group and individual outcomes. Throughout the
curriculum you will have the opportunity to develop the skills associated with
biomedical laboratory practice including the ability to develop COSHH and risk
assessments and procedures to ensure compliance, and the importance of quality
control and quality assurance.
There are five potential pathways in Biomedical Science of which you will choose
one. These routes involve specialisation in the final year and permit study of Medical
Cell Biology (O1), Medical Biochemistry (O2) Cancer Biology (O3), Medical
Microbiology (O4), and Haematology (O5). Your final year project will be associated
with your final year option choice. You will also be able to take an elective 20 credit
module at level 6 during semester 2. All of these pathways lead to an IBMS
accredited degree. The curriculum may change, subject to the University's
programme approval, monitoring and review procedures, as improvements are made
each year. More detail, including learning outcomes, is available for each unit in the
individual module descriptors.
Level 6
Module
Code
BM-3008K
BM-3123D
BM-3117D
BM-3121D
BM-3118D
Module Title
Type
Credits
Level
Research Project
Medical Genetics
Research Topics in Medical Cell Biology I
Research Topics in Medical Biochemistry I
Research Topics in Cancer Biology I
O
C
O1
O2
O3
40
20
20
20
20
6
6
6
6
6
Study
period
1+2
1
1
1
1
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BM-3119D
BM 3126D
BM-3124D
BM-3122D
XXXX
Research Topics in Medical Microbiology I
Research Topics in Haematology I
Biology of Disease
Research Topics II
Elective module
O4
O5
C
O
E
20
20
20
20
20
6
6
6
6
6
1
1
2
2
2
If you have achieved the regulatory credit points at Levels 4 to 6 and have achieved
learning outcomes 1-13 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 1-11 and 13 you are eligible for the award of an
Ordinary degree.
More detail, including learning outcomes, is available for each unit in the individual
module descriptors. The curriculum may change, subject to the University's
programme approval, monitoring and review procedures.
Learning, Teaching and Assessment Strategies
The learning, teaching and assessment strategy takes into consideration the learning
outcomes for the programme, progression through stages of study, the nature of
topic studied and the need for you to demonstrate greater autonomy in your learning
as you progress through the programme.
Formal lectures will facilitate your acquisition of knowledge and understanding (LO 1)
and discipline specific skills (LO 6, 7 and 11). Laboratory sessions run in conjunction
with the theoretical components will give you the opportunity to enhance your
understanding of particular topics (LO 2 - 5). These will also help to develop
discipline specific skills (LO 6 and 7) and personal transferable skills (LO 4, 5 and 8).
Tutorials, workshops and case studies will develop knowledge and understanding,
discipline specific skills and personal transferable skills (LO 9-10). The discipline
specific skills will be further enhanced in the specialist optional modules in your final
year (LO 11 and 12). Directed study, involving directed reading of appropriate texts
and the preparation of assessed work, is used to develop the majority of learning
outcomes (LO 13).
The assessment strategy is designed to allow you to demonstrate achievement of
the learning outcomes of an individual module appropriate to your level of study and
the learning outcomes of the programme. These learning outcomes are consistent
with the Framework for Higher Education Qualifications. At level 4, you will be
examined, primarily, on the breadth of knowledge via MCQ and short answer
examinations. Coursework assignments will give you the opportunity to gain
experience in report writing and data handling and interpretation. As you progress
through levels 5 and 6 you will have the opportunity to demonstrate increasing skills
of analysis, synthesis and criticism through a wide variety of assessment strategies,
including written and oral examinations, report writing, case studies, group work,
essays, including a dissertation, oral presentations and the project report. The
project report provides a major opportunity to demonstrate autonomy in data
handling and critical interpretation in a research context.
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Assessment Regulations
This Programme conforms to the standard University Assessment Regulations 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 and a successful interview. 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 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 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 260
points, which should include two science subjects, preferably biology and chemistry.
Two AS levels are accepted in place of a third A-level subject. GCSE passes should
include at least a grade C in Chemistry and Biology (or double science), Maths and
English. International students should have IELTS 6 (a requirement of the
accrediting body Institute of Biomedical Science), or TOEFL (550 paper-based, 220
computer-based, or 83 internet-based score) and have equivalent qualifications to
GCSE in Science and Maths. Applications are also welcome from mature students
(those over 21 years of age on entry) and candidates with non-standard
qualifications or who, lacking academic qualifications, have significant relevant
experience. On completion of a UCAS form you will be invited to the School for an
Open Day when you will have the opportunity to meet staff, view the facilities and
discuss “the Bradford experience” with current students.
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 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
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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.
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.
The University and the School have well-deserved reputations for good practice in this
area. You will be allocated a Personal Tutor in the School of Medical Sciences whom
you will see at least fortnightly throughout the first year. Your Tutor will continue to
support you with regular timetabled meetings in year 2 and year 3. In your first 2 years
of study, your Tutor will play a significant role in the development of your academic
abilities and personal transferable skills; in some tutorials, the work you undertake with
feedback from your Tutor is linked to the Study Skills and Developing Professional
Skills modules. Your Tutor will also be responsible for your pastoral care during your
time at University and will be your first point of contact for areas of concern or
guidance. Further guidance at all stages is available from Year Tutors, Programme
Leader and Examination Officers. You will have an individual supervisor for your final
year research project. You will also be supported in all aspects of your programme by
Programme, Year and Module handbooks. Regular feedback on your individual
performance will be provided. The support provided by the School is enhanced by a
strong university infrastructure, including particularly the Disabilities Office and the
Careers Service, and the Library and Computing facilities. The programme team are
very responsive to student feedback though a Staff-Student Liaison Committee which
includes the Subject Librarian and a representative of the Computing Centre.
Students’ Union
We value the feedback provided by students and collaborate with the Students’
Union, through a system of programme 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
(based in 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.
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Careers and Employability
The University is committed to helping students develop and enhance employability
and this is an integral part of many programmes. Specialist support is available
throughout the programme from Career Development Services including help to find
part time work while studying, placements, vacation work and graduate vacancies.
Students are encouraged to access this support at an early stage and to use the
extensive resources on the web site www.careers.brad.ac.uk.
Discussing options with specialist advisers helps to clarify plans through exploring
options and refining skills of job-hunting. In most of programmes there is direct input
by Career Development Advisers into the curriculum or through specially arranged
workshops. These may take place as early as year 1, or may be achieved through a
customised Career and Personal Development module in year 2 or 3 which is
developed in close cooperation with the academic department. An annual First
Destination Survey leads to compilation of a report on the outcomes of all
programmes and to the development of an annually updated Traffic Light Analysis of
Employability which is used as a performance indicator.
The University and the School of Life Sciences also has a policy on embedding
employability, enterprise and entrepreneurship into the programmes offered. The
learning outcomes from implementing this policy, comprise of transferable skills and
attitudes that are built up across a whole programme of study. Below are some
examples of the types of transferable skills that may be relevant for employability,
enterprise and entrepreneurship in Biomedical Science:
•
to understand how enterprise relates to your programme
•
to describe and apply examples of effective practice in enterprise and
entrepreneurship
•
to network with, learn from, and show how enterprising and innovative
practitioners have altered your thinking and attitude to your future work
•
to demonstrate an awareness of your own strengths and weakness in
completing tasks and an abilities to improve your abilities
•
to be confident in evaluating, recognising correctly the potential for change,
and acting to solve unfamiliar problems
•
to be confident in working within a team, either under direction, as a
contributor or as a facilitator
•
to be able to work effectively without close guidance or oversight
•
to plan and organise yourself and others to complete tasks in a timely and
effective manner
Our students will have collaborative learning experiences at each level of study from
tutorials, workshops and case studies. The laboratory competency test at level 5 and
the optional modules in level 6, an individual final year project and dissertation and
relevant work experience through their laboratory work address some of the skills for
employability. At level 5 there is interaction with alumni from the programme and “live
briefs” in the Developing Professional Skills module to develop employability skills,
enterprise and entrepreneurship. The Biomedical Science degree has also been
designed in accordance with the University of Bradford Curriculum Framework
(2013) seeks to develop our graduates within three themes: Academic development
and critical thinking (through learner autonomy, critical thinking, information literacy,
research and enquiry); Employability and professionalism (though self-awareness
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and management, communication, collaboration, life-long learning, professional
values, digital literacy); and Inclusivity (through intercultural and international
awareness, social and civic responsibilities, global citizenship, ethics, sustainability).
These themes are developed throughout the programme to prepare our students for
a variety of careers after graduation.
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/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 equipment and advice to
help you get the most out of your time at Bradford and 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,
real-world 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
Page 10 of 11
clear signal that it is at the forefront of our thinking in programme development,
delivery, monitoring and review.
The University of Bradford and the School 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 School of Life Sciences has committed to involvement with education for
sustainable development (ESD) by ensuring that curricula reflect the integration of
practice through personal and social understanding of responsible and ethical
behaviour (attitudes and values) aligned with that of “Responsible Science” and
where appropriate “Responsible Professionalism”. In both of the new programmes
there will be a significant emphasis on the relationship between Biomedical Science
and public health. Thus, issues around ethics, healthcare and public health, the
social context of disease, genes, environment and disease, equality and diversity,
health and safety in the workplace, professional practice and service development
are embedded in some modules (e.g. DPS, Work-based learning, Medical
Microbiology, Cellular Pathology, Clinical Biochemistry). These areas are listed by
UNESCO as those which education for sustainable development must promote.
The nature of the role healthcare professionals is to improve the quality of life of
service users. The degree programmes actively encourage understanding of working
in multi-disciplinary teams (through group work). Thinking critically and problem
solving are skills embedded in the assessment structure from stage 1 to stage 3. The
students also have a solid base of laboratory competency from their laboratory
based sessions. ESD should give the students a better understanding of the world
and promote taking responsibility for creating a sustainable future both at home and
at
work.
For
more
details
see
www.bradford.ac.uk/ecoversity
and
http://www.unesco.org/new/en/education/themes/leading-the-internationalagenda/education-for-sustainable-development/
Further Information:
For further information, please check the University prospectus or contact
Admissions.
The Admissions Office
The Admissions Office
The University of Bradford
School of Life Sciences
Richmond Road
The University of Bradford
Bradford, BD7 1DP
Richmond Building
UK
Richmond Road
Bradford, BD7 1DP
UK
+44 (0)1274 233054
+44 (0)1274 233562
http://www.brad.ac.uk/courses/
http://www.bradford.ac.uk/life-sciences/
The contents of this programme specification may change, subject to the University's
regulations and programme approval, monitoring and review procedures.
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