Biological Sciences BSc (Hons)

Biogeography combines ecology and geography to help us understand global patterns of biodiversity`It is the study of distributions of organisms, habitats and biomes, both past and present, and of related patterns of variation over the earth in the numbers and kinds of living things’ (Brown & Lomolino, 1998).

This module provides opportunities for a range of ecological and environmental field-based investigationsStudents will be involved in more in-depth fieldwork activities than a standard module would allowData analysis, scientific reporting skills and specialist practical skills are developed, as are collaborative working skills as students work in teams to collect data in the field and to report on researchThis module includes a residential field trip (e.gSlapton Ley, Devon).

The purpose of this ecology-oriented module is to enable students to explore behavioural, physiological and molecular mechanisms of adaptation to environmental stressThey will also examine the mechanisms that organisms can utilise to respond to changes occurring on varying timescales and over a wide range of geographic areas.

The purpose of this module is to explore the fundamentals of a range of terrestrial and freshwater ecosystemsStudents will develop an understanding of the distinct characteristics that define these environments, evaluate factors that threaten them and explore principles of conservation.

This module will start by introducing students to methodologies for data manipulation and analysis using a free to use platform in combination with MS Excel. The second part of the module will provide introductory training on the use of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and the role of geospatial technology in investigating biological and environmental problemsStudents will be introduced to specialist software and complete practical IT sessions that demonstrate potential applications of the technology.

The purpose of this module is to allow students to develop an awareness and understanding of the underpinning philosophies behind environmental laws on land and at sea, as well as of the ways in which environmental policy is implemented and enforced through legal measures.

The sequencing of the human genome has enhanced our understanding of the genetic basis of disease and led to the emerging fields of both bioinformatics and genomicsThis module will extend the students’ appreciation of molecular biology learnt in SLS1020 while introducing students to both genomics and bioinformaticsThe focus will be on applications of genomics to human disease, forensics and sports science.

The aim of this module is to enable students to study the techniques used in molecular biology and how they are used in the examination of cellular function and diseaseStudents will learn about the multiple approaches used to study human disease and human pathogensStudents will also learn how model organisms are exploited in vitro to aid these processes, as well as using public sequence databases to retrieve information.

The purpose of this module is to give the student the opportunity to investigate the mechanisms underlying metabolic activities and physiological processesBy achieving the learning outcomes, this module aims to develop an understanding of biochemical regulation of the processes of lifeStudents will work toward securing the basic foundation needed to study all areas of biology, preparing them to undertake their independent research projects.

The purpose of this module is to provide students with a grounding in pharmacology that will focus on basic mechanisms of drug action, e.ghow drugs interact with the body and understand how drug action is measured quantitatively.

This module deals with theoretical aspects of measuring biodiversity and understanding patterns of its distributionIt also considers more practical elements in terms of the practice of wildlife conservation including the evaluation and assessment of biodiversity for conservation.

This module equips students with the skills, knowledge and tools to enable the critical evaluation of the role of Circular Economy and issues related to sustainable development goals and resource management across a range of products, services, activities and behaviour.

The module explores techniques used to document and understand changes occurring at the Earth s surface with a focus on the role of geospatial technologyIn this practical module students learn to use industry-standard survey instruments and software to generate and analyse geographical data.

The purpose of this module is to examine the effect of modern lifestyles on human survivalHumanity has a large influence in shaping the environment; which, although often beneficial, is now also having detrimental effects on human health and longevityThis module investigates and appraises contemporary environmental issues, and critically analyses and evaluates the application of biological principles to interpret the evidence.

The purpose of this module is to build on the understanding of material learnt in SLS2001This will enable students to develop a deeper understanding of how genes behave both at the level of the individual and in populationsThere will be an emphasis on linkage, association, and interaction of genes with other genes and the environment, and a discussion of how these factors influence complex traits and diseases.

The purpose of this module is to build on the knowledge of the immune system that students have acquired from the Health and Disease module at Level 5Students will develop a deeper understanding of how the immune system functions, and an appreciation of the central role that it plays in determining our state of health.

Build on the knowledge of the CNS, neurophysiology and pharmacology studied in previous yearsTo develop an understanding of the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying phenomenon such as neural plasticity and synaptic potentiationTo develop an understanding of the CNS in health and disease.

The purpose of this module is to provide an apropriate level of understanding of the anatomy and to introduce the student to the basic principles and concepts of physiologyEnableing an understanding of different body systems and how they are integrated to produce homeostasis.The focus will be on human anatomy & physiology and will study the form and functions of the major body systems.

The purpose of this module is to explore the complex mechanisms of genetic regulation in both eukaryotic and prokaryotic organisms and to gain an understanding of how changes in gene expression and RNA processing can impact phenotypes or behavioursThe module aims to develop students ability to critically interpret and use research data and publications to form conclusions about gene regulation and RNA processing.

The purpose of this module is to actively engage in current research on pathogens and understand the mechanisms used by pathogens to cause disease and impact on human healthThe module will also focus on the challenges posed by infections with antimicrobial resistant microorganisms.

The purpose of this module is to develop an academic and professional foundation in the field of Life Sciences to help you investigate, understand, communicate and engage effectively in the wider context of your specific degree programme.

The purpose of this module is to transition to a Changemaker campus and help you make sense of what university study looks and feels like, to access the resources and resiliences that will protect and enhance your wellbeing and success throughout your time here so that you can make informed decisions about your intended field of study and academic pathway.

The purpose of this module is to delve deeper into your intended field of study in order to develop an academic toolkit for your future pathway, learning about the `hidden rules’ of university academic work that leads to success in your intended field of study and academic pathway.

The purpose of this module is to shift the emphasis of learning onto youYou will need to demonstrate your ability to utilise the toolkit you have acquired through the previous modules to manage your own learningIn partnership with your tutors, you will be required to negotiate, plan and carry out an investigation that demonstrates the skills you have acquired over the year evidences your readiness for entry into Level 4 of your degree programme.