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BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science with Foundation Year

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UCAS code: 
J751
Institution code: 
S82
Location: 
Ipswich

Duration: 

Four years full-time

Seven years part-time.

Typical Offer: 

2023-24 and 2024-25 entry; 80 UCAS tariff points (or above), CDD (A-Level), MMP (BTEC), Pass A*-C (T Levels).

Introduction

Biomedical science is a well-established but nonetheless dynamic and rapidly evolving scientific discipline aimed at improving our understanding of human health and disease.

This course utilises a multidisciplinary approach in order to provide you with knowledge of workings of human body at molecular, cellular, organ and systems level, in health and disease. It covers the key aspects and principles of biochemistry, molecular biology, immunology, physiology and pathophysiology, histology and haematology.


The course has a strong practical focus and it will provide you with a wide range of practical and analytical skills relevant to a career in biomedical science and wider. Our aim is to help you progress to an employment-ready graduate and hence the course is designed to also equip you with a number of transferable skills that are so highly valued in the current, ever-changing, employment market.

The course benefits from a close working relationship with Ipswich Hospital and is taught by an international team of research-active academics. Both of these ensure that the course is relevant to your future employment, is contemporary and at the forefront of science.

Our BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science degree is accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS), the leading professional body for scientists, support staff and students in the field of biomedical science. As such, it can be used towards obtaining statutory registration as a biomedical scientist with the Health and Care Profession Council (HCPC) through completion of the IBMS Registration Training Portfolio and award of the IBMS Certificate of Competence. Further information can be found on the IBMS website.

The Health and Care professional Council (HCPC) is the statutory body for regulation of professionals in health and care professions. The title Biomedical Scientist is regulated by statute and those using the title in their professional practice must be registered with the HCPC . Eligibility to apply for registration is achieved by evidence compliance with the standards of proficiency for biomedical scientists. This is evidence through completion of the IBMS Registration Training Portfolio and award of the IBMS Certificate of Competence. Further information is available on the HCPC website and the IBMS website.

Further information about the University's relationship with the Institute of Biomedical Science is available in the PSRB register.

Course modules

Full downloadable information regarding all University of Suffolk courses, including Key Facts, Course Aims, Course Structure and Assessment, is available in the Definitive Course Record.

Fundamentals of Biochemistry and Biophysics (Mandatory)

Study of the biological sciences is often supported by a range of techniques developed through the use of physics and chemistry. Furthermore, there is much evidence of interaction between the physical and chemical sciences with that of biology, much of which would benefit from a greater fundamental understanding. Therefore this module is intended to give students a broad understanding of some of the chemical and physical principles that underpin much of biology.

Principles of Biology (Mandatory)

This module will enable students to develop the knowledge and practical skills that will prepare them for undergraduate studies in biological sciences and related subjects. This module considers the structure and function of major biological molecules and biochemical systems.

Scientific Study Skills (Mandatory)

The purpose of this module is to develop student’s skills in written and oral communication and develop the study skills needed for undergraduate work. The module will explore essay writing, academic referencing, avoiding plagiarism, organising, planning and editing written work, and improving technical writing style. Students will also consider time management, meeting deadlines, developing personal awareness and confidence by class presentations. The module will also utilise on-line delivery of material via the virtual learning environment thus providing an impetus to cultivate IT skills.

Foundations of Anatomy and Physiology (Mandatory)

This module will enable students to develop the knowledge and practical skills that will prepare them for undergraduate studies in biological sciences. This module considers the structure and function of major physiological systems within the human body. Topics covered include the digestive, cardiovascular, respiratory, excretory, endocrine, nervous, musculo-skeletal and reproductive systems, and basic genetics. Theory will be supported by practical laboratory work.

Mathematics for Science (Mandatory)

Mathematics is the language of science. The study of any science requires some degree of mathematical understanding. Mathematics is not necessarily difficult, but requires a supportive learning environment where key concepts are demystified and applied in a logical and orderly fashion. Aimed at those without an ‘A-Level’ Mathematics and/or 'return to learning' students, this module aims to develop the students’ skills and increase their confidence in using mathematics in general; and in particular in the application of mathematics to health and life sciences.

Investigative Project (Mandatory)

This second semester foundation level module is designed to facilitate independent student engagement through a scientific investigation from a defined list of subjects. You will carry out your own simple experiments to generate some data for analysis. You will be expected to take an individual project title, design (with help from the tutor) the experiment, conduct the experiment applying the principles of a scientific investigation, capture the data, analyse it and draw rational conclusions. This module will help to develop inquiry, autonomy and application of scientific principles.

Introduction to the Genome (Mandatory)

DNA is arguably the most important macromolecule in life and this module is designed to provide a solid foundation of knowledge on which students can build throughout the Bioscience degree programme. Beginning with the fundamental concepts of DNA and it’s role in heredity and the genetic code, the module will build up through expression of genotype to phenotype and the control of gene expression. 

Human Physiology 1 (Mandatory)

A thorough understanding of human physiology and maintenance of homeostasis are key facets in a range of scientific disciplines. In this module, students will study the way in which different cells, tissues, organs and organ systems contribute to homeostasis from a theoretical perspective.

Cell Biology (Mandatory)

Cells are the basic unit of all living organisms. In this module, students will examine the structure and function of cells, and the signals that control eukaryotic cell division, adhesion, migration, and programmed cell death. Students will analyse how cells contribute to animal physiology and disease, and be introduced to the techniques used to study cells in the laboratory. 

Scientific Skills (Mandatory)

This module will provide students with the core skills required to carry out basic scientific procedures and communicate their research in an appropriate scientific format.  The module is based on a series of practical sessions and is designed to develop the skills required for subsequent advanced modules on the course.

Introduction to Biomedical Science (Mandatory)

This module provides introduction to the role of Biomedical Scientists within the current UK health care provision landscape. We will explore the role that Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) and Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS) play in informing and overseeing education, training and continuing professional development of biomedical scientists in the UK. Moreover, you will be introduced to professional standards and codes of practice specific to biomedical scientists.

Biochemistry (Mandatory)

This module is designed to give a solid foundation on which to build further study in biological science.  It will investigate the fundamentals of biochemistry starting from basic atomic structure and bonding to then focus on the structure, function and metabolism of macromolecules. Students with differing levels of previous knowledge of chemistry and biology will be introduced to the range of processes taking place within the body at a molecular level.

Research Methods and Scientific Communication (Mandatory)

This module prepares students for further study and employment by providing an understanding of what science is and how it works.  It introduces students to the principles of scientific research and the planning and design of experiments. Students will learn how to effectively analyse literature and communicate science in a variety of methods.

Medical Microbiology (Mandatory)

The module aims to set an introduction to some key properties and applications of selected microbial organisms. You will learn about the structural, biological and molecular characteristics of major microorganisms, to include bacteria, viruses, fungi and protists. In addition, the significance of microbes in health and disease will be investigated, also with the support of current research literature.

Data Analysis and Statistics (Mandatory)

Effective scientists need to understand how experimentation, qualitative and quantitative analysis drives science forward via the process of attempted falsification and how this is quantified and presented. This module prepares students for further study and employment by providing an understanding of inferential statistical analysis of scientific data. It will enable students to understand, interpret and apply most of the statistical techniques that they will see in published articles and allow them to emulate such analysis in their own work.

Biology of Disease (Mandatory)

This module is designed to review the nature of and causation of diseases, by considering environmental, genetic, and biologic factors and link the characteristics of disease to the signs and symptoms utilised in diagnosis. The module will also give the students the opportunity to investigate the positive and negative effects of diet on health and disease.

Immunology (Mandatory)

In this module, you will explore the cellular basis of infection via pathogens and the immunological defence system the body deploys in order to prevent the development of infectious disease. The module will deal with the structure and function of the human immune system in terms of the innate and adaptive immune responses focusing on the cells and molecules involved. 

Molecular Biotechnology (Mandatory)

This module introduces students to the principles of nucleic acids manipulation and cloning. The module will include a thorough background on DNA handling, manipulation and analysis. The module will then detail the standard techniques by which DNA can be differently inserted into prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, and its expression monitored. Classic techniques will be presented together with the more advanced, cutting-edge technologies and approaches.

Dissertation (Mandatory)

The dissertation will provide an opportunity for individuals to develop an area of scientific interest arising from either course-based or work-based experience. The focus of the dissertation will be a research-based study, central to which will be some form of hypothesis testing or problem solving.  It will enable students to utilise practical, intellectual and decision making skills in novel situations.

Advanced Biomedical Practice (Mandatory)

This final year module aims to advance and apply your knowledge of what it means to be a Biomedical Scientist, the roles and responsibilities that this profession encompass, as well as to strengthen your understanding of the role that Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) and Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS) play in training and continuing professional development of biomedical scientists in the UK. The emphasis will be on reviewing professional standards and codes of practice as well as requirements for the HCPC registrations, including Registration Training Portfolio and Certificate of Competence. 

Histology (Mandatory)

Histology is the science that studies the minute structure, composition and function of tissues. Every tissue is made of specialised cell components playing pivotal functions. When these functions are altered, the cell dysfunctions are reflected into significant histological changes, which are studied in the realm of histopathology. In this module, you will understand the different features and functions of the main classes of tissues, where cells exert specific functions. Moreover, you will become acquaint with microscopic histological specimens and receive some training on the standard techniques for tissue processing, staining and analysis.

Haematology and Blood Transfusion (Mandatory)

Haematology and blood transfusion science are core clinical study areas within Biomedical Science. This module will apply your knowledge of biochemistry, cell biology, genetics and immunology to the study of blood and the major proteins and cells that constitute blood. We will start by studying main types of blood cells and their distinguishing features, to then go on to consider most common diseases of the blood including anaemias, coagulation disorders and blood malignancies. Major haematology parameters and basic techniques that enable a range of diagnoses will be explored and will form the core of our practical activities. We will also explore practical considerations and limitations of blood transfusion.

Pharmacology and Toxicology (Optional)

This module is intended to allow the student to draw together a wide range of topics covered at levels 4 and 5 into the applied area of pharmacology and toxicology. This module utilizes understanding and application of biochemistry, molecular biology, cell biology, genetics and physiology to solve problems. The interdisciplinary nature of the field provides an ideal opportunity for students to contextualise their studies within an important progressive science.

Clinical Nutrition (Optional)

The module will examine nutrition as it relates to the prevention and treatment of disease and deals with the nutritional aspects of diseases and clinical disorders by integrating students' existing knowledge of physiology, biochemistry and food science. In this module students will also consider the nutritional requirements of humans throughout the lifespan; the changing physiological status and subsequent changes in nutritional requirements will be studied along with a critical appraisal of how this is met with respect to diet, sociological status, geography and education. 

Developmental Biology (Optional)

This module is designed to give you an overview of developmental processes that lead to formation of a multicellular organism from a single zygote. The module will consider the cellular and molecular events which underpin development, including cell specification and cell differentiation. It will look at the mechanisms that lead to precise arrangement of the different cell types within multicellular organisms and animals. 

Regenerative Medicine (Optional)

The module will begin by presenting different types of stem cells and their properties, then it will outline various cell-based and tissue engineering approaches to regenerate damaged tissues. The module the students will be challenged to critically evaluate the potential of tissues of being rebuilt and will appraise current and developing techniques in the field.

Career opportunities

We anticipate you may wish to progress into laboratory-based careers in clinical or technical roles within NHS setting.

However, you will also be well placed to secure jobs as researchers working in universities, pharmaceutical and bioscience companies and institutes.

The transferable skills developed during the course will equip you for a wide range of careers outside the laboratory such as within scientific publication, quality control, scientific sales as well as local and central government health authorities.

Additionally, the course prepares you for higher-level study such as PGCE (e.g. science teacher training), Masters degree or PhD.

Fees and finance

2023-24

  • UK full-time tuition fee: £9,250 p.a
  • UK part-time tuition fee: £1,454 per 20 credits (please contact the Student Centre for further information)
  • International full-time tuition fee:  £14,598 p.a (inclusive of lab-based fee)

Further Information

At University of Suffolk, your tuition fees provide access to all the usual teaching and learning facilities that you would expect. However, there may be additional costs associated with you course that you will need to budget for. 

 

Entry requirements

Facilities and Resources

Scenic picture of James Hehir Building at dusk from the Ipswich Waterfront

Teaching for this course is undertaken in the purpose-built James Hehir Building, which has modern teaching and research laboratory facilities, Waterfront Building, and the IT facilities and classrooms in the new Atrium building. All three buildings are placed in close proximity to each other in the beautiful Ipswich Neptune Marina.

Our state-of-art laboratory facilities located in the James Hehir Building facilitate high quality practical skills teaching. As well as a standard laboratory equipment, there is a range of key specialist equipment to support the practical elements of the modules including cell and tissue culture facilities, imaging facilities (light and fluorescent microscopes), 3D productivity suite, and molecular biology facilities.