Compulsory modules

Molecules of Life 
We will explore 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. 

Clinical Applications of Biomedical Science I 
he first of our vocational modules exploring the role of Biomedical Scientists working in clinical laboratories. Interactive lectures focus on Cellular Histopathology, Medical Microbiology, and Virology. We explore the tests and methodologies used to screen, diagnose, monitor, and evaluate patients. This is supported by case-based learning (CBL), where you work in small groups to explore patient pathways including cancer, alcoholic liver disease, HIV, and sepsis. You will develop key professional skills such as teamwork, communication and leadership.

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 16-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. 

Clinical Applications of Biomedical Science II 
The second of our vocational modules exploring the role of Biomedical Scientists working in clinical laboratories. Interactive lectures focus on Haematology, Transfusion Science, Clinical Biochemistry, and Medical Immunology. We explore how the diagnosis, management, and underlying pathobiology of a range of conditions including leukaemia, thrombophilia, metabolic disorders, autoimmunity, and transplantation.  We continue to work in small case-based learning tutorials to explore specific patient pathways and think about how to communicate to different groups including clinicians and the general public. 

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.  

Metabolism in Health and Disease 
This module will build on your knowledge of major metabolic pathways with a focus on the integration and regulation of metabolism in healthy nutritional states and disease. You will explore key aspects of metabolic control and some of the changes in metabolic activity that are associated with inherited and acquired disorders. You will further develop key skills in literature analysis and in designing and conducting a mini research project, communicating outcomes in the style of a scientific paper.   

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.  

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.  

Microbes, Viruses and 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.  

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. 

Professional Relationships 
Biomedical Scientists are privileged to work with patients and their samples. Understanding both regulatory and professional frameworks is essential to safeguarding and improving patient experiences. We explore issues including equality and diversity, health and safety, patient confidentiality. Inter-professional tutorials give you the opportunity to work with fellow healthcare professional students including medics, nurses and physiotherapists. Only students who successfully complete this module are eligible to apply for a clinical placement and transfer to our HCPC-approved Applied Biomedical Science pathway. 

Cell Signaling 
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.  

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 an exciting and authentic student conference that gives you an opportunity to celebrate and share your achievements with your peers. 

Advanced Clinical Pathology 
We covered the role of HCPC-registered Biomedical Scientists working in the core diagnostic laboratories at Level 4 and 5. Now, we build-on that understanding to explore the role of specialist disciplines including Reproductive Science, Toxicology, and Point of Care Testing. Case based learning tutorials focus on key challenges faced by society and public health across the UK, giving you a real insight into the relationship between research, clinical practice, and government initiatives. 

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.  

Optional modules

Applied Regenerative Medicine 
Regenerative Medicine is a game-changing field of study which seeks to repair or replace tissue or organ function lost due to disease, injury, congenital defects, or ageing. We explore a range of therapies used to harness and enhance the capacity of our bodies to repair and regenerate. We consider ethical constraints, regulatory frameworks, manufacturing, and business strategies essential to translate theory into clinical practice. You will develop key interdisciplinary skills helpful for postgraduate study and a broad range of employers. 

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.   

Neuropathology 
Only research has the potential to rapidly revolutionise how people with neurodegenerative disorders such as dementia are diagnosed, supported, and one day, cured. We will explore a range of neurological, neurodegenerative, and neuropsychiatric disorders including schizophrenia, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s, multiple sclerosis, and epilepsy. You will gain insight into the cause, pathophysiology, and prediction of these disorders, and learn how to critically evaluate advances made in precision diagnostics, prevention, and treatment of these pathologies. 

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 
Detailed three-dimensional structural information at the atomic level of proteins, enzymes and viruses, and their targets, underpins advances in biotechnology, biology, and biomedicine, and their impact on the quality of life, the economy, medicine, and health care. We will explore how this structural information of molecular mechanisms central to immune responses and disease can be used to provide insights into how we resist, fight, and recover from infection and disease, and to intervene in or enhance these processes. 

Tropical Biology Field Course  
This module allows you to explore the vibrant world of tropical ecology first-hand and join an exciting opportunity to explore firsthand the challenges facing tropical ecosystems and how humanity impacts them. You will learn from leading experts about the critical role of biodiversity in these lush environments. Experience international travel and immerse yourself in diverse cultures. Hosted by the University of Sains Malaysia (USM), this field course, which comes at an additional cost to be confirmed each year, promises cutting-edge knowledge in tropical ecology and conservation.  

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.  

Flexible Work Placement (Level 6) 
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.  

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. 

Physiology of Living and Dying 
We will embark on a captivating journey through human physiology, exploring how our bodies function from conception to death. Through interactive tutorials, discussions, debates, and reflections, you will gain a comprehensive understanding of how major body systems change throughout life. We explore both physiological and cognitive changes with a focus on embryonic development, reproduction, ageing, and dying. 

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.