Compulsory modules

Molecules of Life
We will explore to fundamental concepts in our understanding of the structure and function of biological molecules, from the three-dimensional structure of proteins and the activity of enzymes to the progress and organisation of major metabolic pathways, which you will build on across the course. You will also develop key skills in data analysis, presentation and communication where you will report the outcomes of laboratory investigations in the study of enzyme kinetics, applying theoretical knowledge from the module.  

Microbes: the immune system and the environment
Microbes interact with all life forms, with their impact on human health affecting communities worldwide. Here you will explore how our immune system protects us against infection, and the role microbes play in the diversity of ecosystems. You will begin to contextualise content delivered within other modules, and how it applies to microbes. Case-based learning tutorials support understanding of core concepts, as you work through real-life cases in microbiology and immunology, building knowledge and communication skills.

Human Physiology and Anatomy
The module will introduce you to the major physiological systems and anatomical structures of the human organism, including the digestive, cardiovascular and endocrine systems. You will also explore how different pathologies can develop because of dysfunction in these systems and their impact. Through an innovative group-based activity you will produce a short video animation drawing on a select module topic, aimed at a 18-year-old, developing key skills in teamwork and leadership, and in communicating to different audiences.  

Practical and Academic Skills in Bioscience
Here, you will develop a range of core practical laboratory skills, applying theoretical concepts from across your programme and deepening your understanding of the subject through hypothesis-driven practical investigation. Additional workshops support your development of wider academic skills, including effective study practice, data analysis and communication. Aspirational career talks from invited speakers, including former graduates, and further employability skills workshops will support you in reflecting on your key skills development and career-planning. 

Molecular Cell Biology
This module introduces you to the fundamentals of molecular cell biology. You will explore how genetic information is stored, replicated and processed; the roles played by nucleic acids in the production of proteins; how proteins get to their final locations within cells and how cells interact with each other and communicate to co-ordinate their activities. Key skills you will develop include oral presentation skills by giving a short talk and informal scientific writing skills by participating in a group blog.

Compulsory modules

Applications of Molecular Biology
We will explore how we can study and manipulate genetic material, including sequencing technologies, gene cloning, and genetic engineering. You will learn how these techniques can be used to study the structure and function of single genes and proteins, design and engineer DNA molecules, and produce novel gene products such as therapeutic drugs. Through tutorials and workshops, you will develop skills in introductory bioinformatics, insights into important ethical principles, and develop key reasoning and analytical skills.  

Molecular, Cellular and Structural Immunology
Our immune system is vital to our survival. We explore how our immune system develops, the cellular basis of our immune response, and gain functional insights into immune protein and pathogen structure. You will develop key skills in data analysis, reporting the outcomes of laboratory investigations using immunotechniques, and will explore the Protein Data Bank, used by scientists to enable breakthroughs in science through the visualization and analysis of 3D structures.

Microbes, Viruses, Parasites
Microbes, viruses and parasites present genuine risk to human populations. We will explore a range of pathogenic organisms and the diseases they cause. You will consider approaches to treatment and management of disease, ranging from development of novel antimicrobials to vaccination strategies, and the use of select viruses and microorganisms as research tools. Key skills in literature analysis and communicating to different audiences will be developed through the production of your own textbook-style chapter on a select module topic. 

Practical and Professional Skills in Bioscience
You will further expand and consolidate your practical competencies through enquiry-based, hypothesis-driven laboratory investigations in more advanced molecular and analytical techniques. Through additional workshops, you will develop higher-level skills in the acquisition and analysis of information from online sources, including journal databases and generative AI. Further sessions will also support you in evaluating your career readiness with employability skills-focused workshops in areas including CV writing and interview technique. 

Research and Analytical Skills
Data analysis is the heart of scientific pursuit. We explore different forms of experimental design including traditional lab-based research and systematic reviews. You will learn how to correctly apply a range of statistical methods and draw scientific conclusions, preparing you for your final year independent research project, postgraduate study or employment in a data-driven world. You will also develop key skills in teamwork and communication as you work in small groups and contribute to an authentic, online student conference.

Cell Signalling
Cell to cell communication is fundamental for multi-cellular organisms as cells are required to communicate with each other and their environment to respond appropriately to different stimuli. We will explore how cells do this, including the major classes of signalling molecules, different receptor types, and their mode of action. We will evaluate how dysregulation of cellular communication contributes to different disease states, and how these pathways can be targeted for therapeutic intervention.

Defence and Disease
This module focuses on how the immune system works under physiological and pathological conditions, including infectious disease, vaccination, cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, cardiovascular diseases, and autoimmune and inflammatory pathologies, assessing current and proposed treatment strategies. Active group discussions using case studies and real-world scenarios support core module content, whilst laboratory report assessment enable development of independent, enquiry-based approaches, developing skills in experimental design within a mini-project.

Optional modules

Human Genetics
We will explore some of the applications of key genetic concepts at the level of the individual and the population. Focusing mainly on medical genetics, you’ll learn how a person's genetic make-up can affect their health and how to estimate genetic risk and explore some of the applications of molecular genetics in the study, diagnosis, and treatment of genetic diseases. You will also develop key skills in digital literacy and communication by producing a group webpage. 

Flexible Work Placement (Level 5)
In a competitive job market, practical skills and understanding workplace dynamics are crucial. This module allows you to gain hands-on experience, enhance your employability skills, and provide valuable insights into the professional world. You will be supported via a range of activities to secure a role and can source your own placement or apply to university-sourced roles. This module has built-in flexibility on when and how you complete your placement, enabling you to balance your placement around existing demands.

Compulsory modules

Research Project
Your research project is an excellent opportunity to carry out a substantial piece of meaningful research, drawing together skills in experimental study design, critical interpretation of data, and professional competencies. You can choose from a range of projects depending on your interests/career ambitions, including lab- or field-based research, systematic reviews, bioinformatics, teaching and learning, or outreach. This culminates in a thrilling and authentic student conference that gives you an opportunity to celebrate and share your achievements with your peers.

Virology
Viruses can infect all live forms and their impact on human, livestock, and wild animal health affects communities worldwide. We will delve into the study of viruses, covering their structure, replication, and the diseases they cause. You will explore viral genetics, host-virus interactions, mechanisms of viral transmission, and emerging viral threats. We will also discuss detection and prevention strategies, how to improve pandemic preparedness, and the use of novel biotechnological methods to combat the burden of viral infectious diseases.

Employability and Communication Skills in Bioscience
Whatever your interests or future career, communication is vital. This module challenges the stereotype of inarticulate scientists, helping to develop skillsets needed to communicate effectively to diverse audiences. We explore a range of communication methods to present and disseminate findings to inform and enthuse both scientific and lay audiences. We aim to develop a suite of valuable transferrable skills for the employment market and ensure those who truly understand scientific issues are heard.

Professional Development in Bioscience
As you approach graduation, this module will focus on career-readiness, helping you to consolidate and articulate the professional skills, attributes and competencies you will have developed across your degree. You will have the opportunity to refine interview techniques and write covering letters, personal statements and a high-quality CV. We will explore the current employment marketplace, identifying opportunities and building your social media profile for future employers. We will consider discrimination, unconscious bias, and develop strategies to support resilience and wellbeing. 

Human Parasitology
Here we will explore the theoretical and practical aspects of parasitic diseases of humans, considering such topics as the life cycle of select parasites between vector and host, the pathogenesis of parasitic infection and their diagnosis and treatment. You will also investigate challenges to effective treatment and transmission control, including socio-economic and cultural factors. Through evaluation of current research in the subject, you will develop higher-level skills in the critical analysis and interpretation of data.  

Case Studies in Microbiology and Immunology
Here you will study current trends in disease themes in the field of microbiology and immunology, and how microorganisms can be used as an alternative tool in multiple fields e.g. biocontrols of environmental pests or microbiome manipulation. A case study aligns to each theme, with investigation of current clinical interventions and how experimental approaches inform improvements to future therapeutic interventions. You will develop your communication skills by curating a themed edition of a journal, selecting latest advances in your chosen field. 

Optional modules

Omics Technologies
You will be introduced to a range of cutting-edge omics approaches used extensively across the life sciences sector. Through hands-on data handling exercises you will develop a theoretical appreciation of and practical competence in core genomics, proteomics and metabolomics approaches. You will undertake a whole transcriptome analysis for the purpose of differential gene expression detection from raw RNA sequencing data, developing and demonstrating competence in a highly sought after analytical skill. 

Structural Immunology 
Advances in biotechnology, biology, and biomedicine, and their impact on the quality of life, the economy, medicine, and health care depend on the application of structural biology to provide detailed three-dimensional structural information at the atomic level of proteins, enzymes, viruses, and their targets. We will explore how this information can be used to provide insights into how we resist, fight, and recover from infection and disease, providing unique opportunities to design new diagnostic and therapeutic agents and strategies.

Professional Experience in Education
This module gives students interested in pursuing teaching or training as a career the opportunity to gain experience in the world of teaching in schools and colleges. You will develop skills highly valued by employers such as communication, and interpersonal skills, whilst learning to address individual needs and developing engaging teaching materials. You will be supported via a range of activities to prepare for your placement and have the choice to source your own placement or apply to university sourced roles. 

Cancer Biology
You will be introduced to the field of cancer biology, exploring the molecular and cellular hallmarks of cancer, and how the understanding of these is beginning to inform novel therapeutic development. We will explore the latest developments in cancer research in understanding changes in cellular activity associated with cancer development and progression, and the diagnostic and therapeutic potential of this. Key skills developed include the location, evaluation and comparative analysis of published scientific literature. 

Epidemiology
Epidemiology is concerned with the study of disease development and prevention within populations. Here, you will develop knowledge and understanding of epidemiological study design and data interpretation, exploring the scientific procedures of public health research, policies, program implementation and evaluation. You will develop skills in the design and conduct of epidemiological research, developing data collection tools, and interpreting epidemiological findings used in public health, including the relevance to outbreak investigations.

Tropical Field Course
Our tropical biology field course in Malaysia, is an optional module with additional costs, taking place in the summer between years two and three. This is an exceptional chance to hone your fieldwork skills in tropical habitats.

Compulsory modules

Literature Review and Grant Proposal
In this module you will further develop skills in the evaluation of scientific literature and experimental design. In addition to producing a comprehensive literature review, you will also formulate research questions/hypotheses and design appropriate research strategies to address these in the form of a mini grant proposal and lay summary.

Advanced Research Topics in Microbiology and Immunology
This module will develop your skills in the acquisition and critical analysis of primary scientific literature relevant to a range of research methodologies in microbiology and immunology. Following research-level seminar presentations by staff and invited speakers, you will critically evaluate select research publications and develop a deeper understanding of appropriate experimental design, data analysis, presentation and evaluation, and the application of a wide range of advanced techniques in the fields of microbiology and immunology.

MSci Extended Research Project
Within this module you will develop higher-level research skills in a selected area of the Biosciences. Work closely with an academic supervisor to formulate a research project and designing and conducting appropriate investigations to address this. Developing further skills in experimental design and critical analysis of scientific data, communicated in the format of a research article produced to a specific journal format, and accompanied by a cover letter addressing research article merits and justification for publication, and an oral presentation or A1 poster.