Genetics
Degree Apprenticeship
BSc (Hons)
Biomedical Science (Healthcare Science Practitioner Degree Apprenticeship)
School of Science, Engineering and Environment
Attendance
Part-time
Course
Three year
Next enrolment
September 2021
In a nutshell
The BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science (pathology lab based) degree has been developed through consultation with pathology laboratory employers and is co-delivered, meeting the requirements for a Healthcare Science Practitioner (Biomedical Scientist) apprenticeship through completion of an approved Biomedical Science degree.
The apprenticeship route integrates traditional academic learning on a degree programme with work based learning through employment in a suitable approved pathology laboratory.
The degree apprenticeship route will allow you to work and study for your degree at the same time meaning you will have a minimum of three years work experience upon graduation. Your employer and/or the government will pay your tuition fees for your apprenticeship programme and you will be earning a salary at the same time.
You will:
- Develop the lab skills needed to become an employable biomedical scientist or for a career in medical laboratory research
- Learn from research active staff
Course accreditations
This if for you if...
1.
You want to develop your understanding of human disease processes
2.
You have a strong interest in how modern research underpins the development of new therapies to improve future healthcare
All about the course
To undertake this programme, you will already be employed in a pathology laboratory (which holds Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS) pre-registration training approval), perhaps as a medical laboratory assistant or similar role, and aspire to have a career as a Biomedical Scientist. The University of Salford apprenticeship degree programme is designed to work in partnership with pathology laboratories so that you can complete your studies whilst continuing in your normal job.
You will need to attend University for the equivalent of about one day per week across three trimesters per year and apprentices will be expected to undertake significant additional learning online. It is suggested that a further 10% allowance be given by the employer for work towards completion of the IBMS registration portfolio.
Apprentices will take between two to four different core and specialist modules at any one time, with more modules being taken concurrently in first year. In addition, work based modules are taken at each level.
There are two distinct components to the degree apprenticeship – the academic degree programme and the work-based assessment. The University – as lead provider – is responsible for delivering the degree programme. The employer is responsible for delivering the work-based assessment components. The University and employer work closely with each other to:
- Assure that knowledge you gain on the degree is successfully applied in the workplace
- To ensure that the standards and practices required to meet the professional competencies contained in the apprenticeship standard are adequately evidenced by you
Year one
This module will help you develop an understanding of genes and genetics, and their influence on evolution and development. It looks at the basic principles of molecular genetics and the function and evolution of genes in organisms.
Molecules to Microbes
This module focuses on the basic principles involved in the build-up of molecules from atoms: the formation, properties and importance of bio-organic molecules, the diverse nature of micro-organisms and their structure, function and importance.
Human Anatomy
This module aims to provide you with a systems-led approach to understand basic human anatomy and embryology. You will gain an in-depth understanding of structure-function relationships of key systems in the human body through the study of gross anatomy and tissue histology.
Biomedical Skills
Learn, by observation, investigation and comparison, to facilitate and develop effective use of laboratory apparatus in the performance of basic techniques. You will also develop practical laboratory skills relevant to cell, organismal, micro- and molecular biology and physiology which will form a basis for competence in biological and biochemical experimental work.
Professional Skills
In this module you will develop practical learning and presentation methods which can be applied generically throughout your degree, as well as an appreciation of personal development planning and effective data handling, calculation and numerical skills.
Cell Biology
You will look at the multi-disciplinary nature of cell biology and the basic structure of cells, focusing on animal cells. It will help you develop a theoretical knowledge of the fundamental physiological and biochemical functions carried out by cells.
Year two
Clinical and Molecular Genetics
The aim of this module is to introduce basic concepts in molecular biology, to explain the control of gene expression in pro- and eukaryotes and how dysfunction in these processes can lead to human genetic disorders. You will also develop an understanding of theoretical and practical knowledge in the application of clinical laboratory techniques used for diagnosis.
Medical Biochemistry
You will be introduced to the concepts of chemical and biochemical tests and their relevance to clinical diagnostics. It develops your knowledge and understanding about biochemical changes in disease, and you will learn practical techniques in clinical biochemistry.
Haematology and Transfusion
The aim of this module is to study the principles of haematology and blood transfusion, selected important diseases associated with them and their application in the diagnosis and treatment of human diseases.
Pathophysiology
Through this module you will develop an understanding of the pathophysiology of selected organ systems and of the principles of a range of diagnostic procedures, as well as allowing some diagnostic tests to be performed and others to be observed during hospital visits. It also provides the basis for understanding the pharmacological and complementary treatments of these conditions.
Translational Research Skills
This module will help you to develop a range of subject-specific and generic research skills appropriate to the biomedical science discipline. These include ethics, governance, audit, experimental techniques and design, statistical analysis of data, literature searching and critical evaluation and scientific communication. Additionally, you will be introduced to the portfolio as a learning resource and shown how to relate this to professional practice.
Human Systems Physiology
The aim of this module is to (1) provide knowledge of the fundamental physiological principles underlying the function required for life in humans, (2) provide fundamental knowledge of the function, control and regulation of each major human organ system from cell to whole-body level and (3) convey an understanding of what systems physiology is, and the systematic, practical and analytical approach required to understand and progress the field.
Year three
Medical and Public Health Microbiology
In this module you will be introduced to medical and public health microbiology, practical skills, methods of isolation, identification and typing of bacteria from various sources.
Cell Pathology
This module aims to provide a framework for the development of detailed and specific knowledge of the role of cellular pathology in the diagnosis and treatment of human diseases. You will develop an understanding of theoretical principles and of current and new methodologies for microscopical preparation and analysis of cells and tissues, in order to recognise pathological conditions.
Applied Biomedical Science
The aim of this module is to develop specialised knowledge and understanding of the pathobiology of viruses and cancers in order to appreciate analytical and pharmacological aspects of antiviral and anticancer treatments. You will also learn how modern analytical methods are applied in clinical chemistry and biochemistry.
Clinical Immunology
This module looks at mammalian immunological mechanisms, and the roles played by T and B cells/Lymphokines in generating an immune response. It helps you develop an understanding of the genetics of antibody diversity, HIV pathogenesis and the current immunodiagnostic assays for infectious and non-infectious diseases.
You will then select a 20 credit research project module plus an optional module from the list below:
Advances in Pathophysiology
The aim of this module is to develop your understanding of selected human physiological systems including the cardiovascular and respiratory systems, and the methodology used to monitor and assess cardiovascular and respiratory function.
Biochemistry of Drugs and Disease BSc Hons
This module will provide a contemporary overview of some important disease processes and associated drug intervention mechanisms.
Cancer: Bench to Bedside
This module will introduce you to historical and current developments in cancer biology. You will examine critical signalling pathways that govern neoplastic transformation and how some of these pathways hold promise as therapeutic targets for cancer treatment.
Please note that it may not be possible to deliver the full list of options every year as this will depend on factors such as how many students choose a particular option. Exact modules may also vary in order to keep content current. When accepting your offer of a place to study on this programme, you should be aware that not all optional modules will be running each year. Your tutor will be able to advise you as to the available options on or before the start of the programme. Whilst the University tries to ensure that you are able to undertake your preferred options, it cannot guarantee this.
School of Science, Engineering and Environment
From cyber security to biomedicine to architecture, our expanding suite of multidisciplinary courses shapes the next generation of scientists, engineers, consultants and conservationists. Through advanced research, we’re pioneering robotics and AI, smart environments and the appliance of data. With a team of over 200 dedicated academic, technical and administrative staff, you’ll experience a supportive, professional environment where you can realise your potential.
Facilities
We have recently invested in the development of a new, state-of-the-art, integrated teaching laboratory known as the Bodmer Lab. The Bodmer Lab is a specialist, purpose built facility and ensures our students benefit from the latest technologies to support their learning and remain on the cutting edge of innovation and discovery.
The university hosts industry standard instrumentation including cell culture facilities, FACS, MALDI-TOF, LC and GC mass spectrometry, FTIR and FTNMR spectroscopy, fluorescence spectroscopy and microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. Having access to industry standard technology means that upon graduation, our students are fully prepared and equipped to enter the workplace.
What about after uni?
What you need to know
This programme is currently being put forward for accreditation by the IBMS.
DELIVERY
The programme structure will be delivered on a part-time, day release basis over a three year period, subject to agreement by your employer and the University.
The pre-checklist
We are looking for students who have a clear wish to become a biomedical scientist and who are motivated enough to undertake the degree and associated portfolio work to become a registered member of the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS).
In order to undertake this degree apprenticeship, you will need to be currently in full-time employment (minimum 30 hours a week), spending at least 50% of your time in England. In order to search for degree apprenticeship roles with local employers, please see www.gov.uk/apply-apprenticeship
Which qualifications do I need?
You will need to have GCSE maths and English at grade C/grade 4 or above. You will also need to have qualifications at Level 3 (A-level/BTEC) or equivalent. You will need the equivalent of 104-112 UCAS points (BCC) or relevant work experience that we can accredit.
Application Deadlines
Please be aware of the application deadlines below for each of our intakes. If an application hasn’t been received by this date, consideration will be given for the next available intake.
September 2020 – Friday 31 July 2020*
*Please note, due to the current situation, we are able to take late applications until the 28th August 2020 for this programme.
Standard entry requirements
GCSE
English language and maths at grade C or 4 or above.
You must fulfil our GCSE entry requirements as well as one of the requirements listed below.
UCAS tariff points
104-112 points including A2 biology or equivalent
A level
104-112 points including A2 biology or equivalent. A pass in the practical element of science A Levels must be achieved
BTEC National Diploma
DMM- must include four good science modules
BTEC Higher National Diploma
Possible entry to year three
Foundation Degree
Possible entry to year three
Scottish Highers
104-112 points from Higher Level including appropriate science subjects
Irish Leaving Certificate
104-112 points from Higher Level including a science subject
Alternative entry requirements
Salford Alternative Entry System (SAES)
We welcome applications from students who may not meet the stated entry criteria but who can demonstrate their ability to pursue the course successfully. Once we have received your application we will assess it and recommend it for SAES if you are an eligible candidate.
There are two different routes through the Salford Alternative Entry Scheme and applicants will be directed to the one appropriate for their course. Assessment will either be through a review of prior learning or through a formal test.
How much?
The cost of the full degree apprenticeship programme is £27,000. The cost of the apprenticeship will be covered by your employer and/or the government. You will need to cover the cost of any study materials plus travel to and from campus if required.
Apprenticeship Funding
The apprenticeship levy was introduced in April 2017 and requires all employers operating in the UK, with a pay bill of over £3 million each year to invest in apprenticeships.
The funding policy supports the changes to the way apprenticeships in England are paid for, underpinned by the apprenticeship levy of 0.5% of the annual pay bill for companies paying over £3 million per year.
There is also a co-investment model for companies who will not be paying into the levy. The government will cover 95% of the cost of the apprenticeship and the employer will only have to contribute the remaining 5%. Once payments have been declared to HMRC, employers will now have access to a digital apprenticeship account from which they will be able to access funding to pay for apprenticeship training.
The maximum amount of money allocated to each standard falls into one of 15 funding bands, ranging from £1,500 to £27,000. The Health Care Science Practitioner standard has been allocated the following funding band:
Funding band: 15
Funding band maximum: £27,000
Find out more at www.gov.uk/government/collections/apprenticeship-changes