Biomedical Science (Healthcare Science Practitioner Degree Apprenticeship)

Genetics has become a central topic not only in biological science, but also for topics such as data science, art and culture. Genetics is revolutionising all spheres of life at an unprecedented speed. It is central to all areas of biology, from cellular development and reproduction to conservation and biodiversity. In this core module, we will provide you with the framework of this diverse area, covering areas from DNA fingerprinting and DNA/RNA editing, to ethics and conservation biology. We will expose you to the latest research in the area of molecular genetics and provide the foundation for your future. 

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.

In the first trimester, this module is intended to provide a systems-led approach to understand basic human anatomy, embryology and the structure function relationships therein. In the second trimester, this is further explored at a microscopic level through studying the histology of human tissues. 

This practical based module will allow the development of key laboratory skills in the context of working as a biomedical scientist. Hands on practical lab experience and skills assessment are supported by tutorials, virtual laboratory simulation, topical discussion and reflection, in relation to the HCPC standards of proficiency.

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.

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.

Clinical and Molecular Genetics will enable students to gain practical skills in molecular biology and bioinformatics, through linked laboratory and computer sessions. The lecture programme is delivered by three academics, each an expert in their specific area of clinical and molecular genetics. Topics covered include, current molecular biology and bioinformatics techniques, the control of bacterial and eukaryotic gene expression and the effect of mutations on gene expression and how this can lead to human genetic diseases.

You will be introduced to the concepts of chemical and biochemical testing and their relevance to clinical diagnostics. The module will develop your knowledge and understanding of biochemical changes in disease, and you will learn practical techniques used in clinical chemistry laboratory.

Biomedical scientists collect and analyse blood samples for the diagnosis of diseases or ensure blood for patient transfusion is available and safe. In this module you will investigate the formation, composition, function and diseases of blood and how it is identified, separated and stored for donation.

This module will provide students the opportunity to gain an understanding of the wide range and inter-related nature of disease and major diagnostic approaches. Students will use a range of primary and secondary information sources and group-based discussions to develop a transferable understanding of pathophysiology. This module is delivered into different programme pathways including campus based full-time and part-time studies, and work-based part-time studies, eg apprenticeship. The precise mode of delivery, and support for module content and its assessment will depend on the pathway being taken. Your learning will be supported by lectures, workshops and online material, alongside guided independent reading. On completion you will be sufficiently informed about the multidisciplinary aspect of laboratory investigations in achieving a complete diagnosis, across a range of diseases from different physiological systems. 

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.

Physiology is the science of life. During the Human Systems Physiology module, you will explore the function of each major organ system. You will discover the molecular and cellular mechanisms that underlay this function, and how organ systems are integrated and regulated to maintain homeostasis, while allowing the human body to adapt to changing metabolic and environmental demands. Laboratory classes use cutting-edge equipment that allow you to see “physiology in action” and develop competence in the techniques used by physiologists to advance the field.  

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.

Biomedical scientists collect and analyse samples of tissue for the diagnosis of diseases. In this module you will investigate the features and changes that occur in cells and tissues, which can be used as markers of disease and gain understanding of the techniques used to obtain, prepare and examine them.

This module will help you develop an understanding of important analytical and diagnostic methods used in a clinical setting and on completion you will be able to critically compare different analytical methods and explain the principles of therapeutic drug monitoring applied to selected diseases.

Immunology is the study of the immune system. It is now a well-developed basic science, which is useful for the diagnosis and management of a great number and variety of human diseases. This module is designed to give an in-depth view of the basic components of the immune system and how these influence human diseases. Research-based discussion will be part of this module in understanding immune mechanisms in defense against human diseases and how these mechanisms can be dysregulated. Understanding the immune system leads to better clinical diagnostic and monitoring possibilities. Towards the end of the module you will also be given an overview of how the immune system can protect the body from developing cancers.  

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.

This module will provide a contemporary overview of some important disease processes and associated drug intervention mechanisms.

Students will learn the critical biological capabilities that enable tumour cancer initiation, maintenance and progression, and how some of these hold promise as therapeutic targets for cancer treatment. The module contains an overview of the basic biology of cancer and applicable therapeutic strategies, with attention paid to relevant current technologies and future directions in cancer biology. Lectures will be complemented with tutorials where students will be involved in critical reading of scientific papers, while learning to evaluate scientific data and familiarise themselves with a variety of modern techniques.