Biomedical Science BSc (Hons)

Course Content

• Course Details

  Our Biomedical Science BSc degree is designed to equip you with a fundamental understanding of how science underpins the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of disease. The course reflects both the theoretical knowledge and applied clinical laboratory skills required to be a biomedical scientist.

  Biomedical scientists are at the forefront of our modern healthcare system working in partnership with medical practitioners and health care professionals, to perform many different roles in the NHS, as well as in academia and the biotechnology and pharmaceutical sectors.

  As a biomedical scientist, you are likely to be involved in the diagnosis of disease, supporting the work of clinical departments, and developing and evaluating the next generation of treatments that could improve patient outcomes. A biomedical science degree also provides the foundation for graduate entry programmes, including medicine, dentistry or the more recently established Physician Associate (PA) programme for clinical practice within the NHS.

  Local links

  The department is located close to Northampton General Hospital and enjoys good links with the NHS and commercial partners providing opportunities for undergraduate and postgraduate students for collaborative research.

  Linking human health and disease to underlying biology, is the holy grail of biomedical science. Clearly, new developments in regenerative medicine, genome editing, molecular medicine and the 100,00 genomes project for example, are not only transforming our understanding of biology but also having an impact on society and in understanding complex disease, personality and physical traits.

  Building knowledge

  The Biomedical Science BSc course will closely follow these developments and build up knowledge of complex systems at the level of the individual cell, tissues and the whole organism through the core disciplines of basic medical sciences, including cell biology, physiology, anatomy, biochemistry, microbiology and pharmacology. Through levels 5 and 6 specialist modules in cancer biology, medical genetics and bioinformatics will be offered alongside generic courses on statistics and research methods. The final year of the degree will offer an opportunity to undertake a laboratory based research project.

  Please note the modules shown here relate to the academic year 22/23. The modules relating to the academic year 23/24 will be available from June 2023.

  • Stage 1
    • Biochemistry and Cell Biology (20 Credits)
      Module code: SLS1013

      Status: Compulsory
      The purpose of this module is to give level 4 students an introduction to human biochemistry and cell biology. You will study the molecules and chemical processes that occur in living organisms, and explore the structure and function of cells, their components, and their interactions with the external environment.
    • Introduction to Microbiology (20 Credits)
      Module code: SLS1019

      Status: Compulsory
      The purpose of this module is to provide an insight into how invading organisms can cause disease and relate human world health issues to populations. This module allows students to develop a broad understanding of infectious disease across the globe and the biology of the the causative agents, as well as examining intrinsic & extrinsic strategies to combat microbial pathogens.
    • Genetics and Molecular biology (20 Credits)
      Module code: SLS1020

      Status: Compulsory
      The purpose of this module is to give you an introduction to genetics and molecular biology. You will learn about the fundamental mechanisms of DNA replication, transcription and translation. You will also explore how the tools of molecular biology, including cloning and PCR, allow the manipulation and understanding of genes and the proteins they encode.
    • Fundamentals of Immunology (20 Credits)
      Module code: SLS1021

      Status: Compulsory
      The purpose of this module is to introduce the student to the basic concepts in immunology and to appreciate the clinical relevance. The syllabus will cover cell types associated with different types of immune responses including B and T lymphocytes and their various roles including antibody generation and fighting pathogens.
    • Anatomy and Physiology (20 Credits)
      Module code: SLS1035

      Status: Compulsory
      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 physiology. Enableing 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.
    • Biomedical Laboratory Practice (20 Credits)
      Module code: SLS1039

      Status: Compulsory
      The purpose of this module is to equip students with a basic understanding of biomedical laboratory practice. We will explore laboratory, regulatory and ethical guidelines and introduce relevant concepts in biomedical science and laboratory procedures.
  • Stage 2
    • Genes and Genomics (20 Credits)
      Module code: SLS2001

      Status: Compulsory
      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 genomics. This module will extend the students' appreciation of molecular biology learnt in SLS1020 while introducing students to both genomics and bioinformatics. The focus will be on applications of genomics to human disease, forensics and sports science.
    • Bioscience Research Methods (20 Credits)
      Module code: SLS2013

      Status: Compulsory
      The purpose of this module is to develop knowledge and understanding of quantitative research methods, analysis and research skills within the context of human bioscience. The emphasis will be upon understanding and experiencing the entire research process from conception to presentation and developing the critical skills necessary to undertake an independent research project.
    • Pharmacology (20 Credits)
      Module code: SLS2015

      Status: Compulsory
      The purpose of this module is to provide the students who have studied physiology and biochemistry in year one, with a program that will introduce them to the study of pharmacology. This module will focus on basic mechanisms of drug action, e.g. how drugs interact with the body and understand how drug action is measured quantitatively.
    • Processes of Life: Biochemistry (20 Credits)
      Module code: SLS2016

      Status: Compulsory
      The purpose of this module is to give the student the opportunity to investigate the mechanisms underlying metabolic activities and physiological processes. By achieving the learning outcomes, this module aims to develop an understanding of biochemical regulation of the processes of life. Students will work toward securing the basic foundation needed to study all areas of biology, preparing them to undertake their independent research projects.
    • Infection & Immunity (20 Credits)
      Module code: SLS2026

      Status: Compulsory
      The purpose of this module is ?to integrate basic concepts of immunology with clinically relevant processes. The host response to infection or injury will be explored focusing on specialised cell types and molecules and a variety of laboratory techniques and research approaches.
    • Cellular Pathology (20 Credits)
      Module code: SLS2041

      Status: Compulsory
      The purpose of this module is to introduce the student to the highly dynamic area of pathology exploring mechanisms of disease in cells (cytopathology) and tissues (histopathology). Students will develop a clear understanding of how pathology is diagnosed using information at the tissue, cellular and molecular level. Current and novel strategies for diagnosing disease will also be explored.
  • Stage 3
    • Integrated Medical Genetics (20 Credits)
      Module code: SLS3002

      Status: Compulsory
      The purpose of this module is to build on the understanding of material learnt in SLS2001. This will enable students to develop a deeper understanding of how genes behave both at the level of the individual and in populations. There 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.
    • Clinical Biochemistry (20 Credits)
      Module code: SLS3014

      Status: Compulsory
      The purpose of this module is to explore the ways that clinically related samples can be analysed to inform diagnostic and therapeutic practices. A wide range of laboratory-based tests with relevance to clinical conditions will be covered. Through this module students will improve their lab-based skills and ability to communicate information relating to biochemical principles so that it can be used by health professionals.
    • Medical Microbiology (20 Credits)
      Module code: SLS3026

      Status: Compulsory
      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 health. The module will also focus on the challenges posed by infections with antimicrobial resistant microorganisms.
    • Haematology and Transfusion Science (20 Credits)
      Module code: SLS3027

      Status: Compulsory
      The purpose of this module is to provide students with the ability to explain diseases of the blood by interpreting data or information obtained from blood analysis. Students will explore key issues in transfusion science and investigate the causes and consequences of anaemias, haemoglobinopathies and thalassaemias, haematological malignancy as well as haemostasis and thrombosis.
    • Biomedical Science Research Project (40 Credits)
      Module code: SLS4010

      Status: Compulsory
      The purpose of this compulsory module is to engage students with basic and/or translational biomedical research. Students will typically undertake a lab based project, a bioinformatics project, or a systematic literature review.

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• Entry Requirements

  Standard entry requirements apply. A typical offer would be BCC at A Level or DMM at BTEC. In addition, you are expected to have studied a science subject (preferably Biology or Human Biology) in an A Level at grade C or equivalent qualification.

  For more information on how to make an application, please visit our How to Apply page.

  For more information on how to apply as an International student, please visit our How to Apply page.

  Integrated Foundation Year (IFY) Entry Requirements

  Admission to this foundation course is normally DEE at A Level or MPP at BTEC. However, we would also like to hear from you if you have professional or industry experience instead, a range of other qualifications or self-developed subject knowledge that relates to the course you wish to study.

  English Language Requirements

  All International and EU students applying for a course with us must meet the following minimum English language requirements:

  • IELTS 6.0 (or equivalent) with a minimum of 5.5 in all bands
    for study at undergraduate level

  For information regarding English language requirements at the University, please see our IELTS page.

  If you would like information on making an application, please see our How to Apply page.

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• Fees and Funding

  2022/23 Tuition Fees

  Fees quoted relate to study in the Academic Year 22/23 only and may be subject to inflationary increases in future years.

  • UK – Full Time: £9,250
  • UK – Part Time: £1,500 per 20 credit module
  • UK – Integrated Foundation Year: £9,250 for the foundation year; thereafter standard fees apply
  • International – Full-time: £14,000
  • International – Integrated Foundation Year: £14,000 for the foundation year; thereafter standard fees apply
  • Optional Work Placement Year: £1,100

  Additional costs

  There are no additional costs for our Biomedical Science course for students beginning their studies in September 2022. Should this change, applicants and students will be contacted by the university with details of the costs.

  2021/22 Tuition Fees

  Fees quoted relate to study in the Academic Year 21/22 only and may be subject to inflationary increases in future years.

  • UK – Full Time: £9,250
  • UK – Part Time: £1,465 per 20 credit module
  • UK – Integrated Foundation Year: £6,780 as part of a four year programme (subsequent years will be charged at standard BSc rate)
  • International – Full Time: £13,000
  • International – Integrated Foundation Year: £13,000 as part of a four year programme (subsequent years will be charged at standard BSc rate)
  • Optional Work Placement Year: £1,000

  Additional costs

  There are no additional costs for our Biomedical Science course for students beginning their studies in September 2021. Should this change, applicants and students will be contacted by the university with details of the costs.

   

  For information on the scholarships available to you, please see our scholarships page.

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• Accreditation

  The BSc Biomedical Science  programme has been accredited by the The Royal Society of Biology following an independent and rigorous assessment. Accredited degree programmes contain a solid academic foundation in biological knowledge and key skills, and prepare graduates to address the needs of employers.

   

  

  The Royal Society of Biology is the leading professional body for the biological sciences in the United Kingdom. The Society represents over 18,000 biologists from all areas of the life sciences, as well as over 100 organisations which make up the diverse landscape of biology in the UK and overseas.

  Graduates from Accredited programmes will receive one year of free membership of the Royal Society of Biology at Associate level. This will open up networks at a crucial time when applying for jobs.

  We have also recently applied for accreditation with the Institute for Biomedical Science (IBMS).

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• Student Perks

  At the University of Northampton, everything we do, from funded trips to paid internships, is to give you everything you need to make a difference when you leave.

  If you join our full time Biomedical Science degree at Northampton, you will receive a laptop when your course begins. The laptops are built to a bespoke custom specification ideal for use in the seminar room, collaborative group work or studying at home.

  Whatever your ambitions, we’re here to help you to achieve them. We’ll support you to identify the skills you’re learning during your course, find your strengths and secure practical experience so that when it comes to applying for jobs or further study you’ll feel confident in standing out from the crowd. We’ve created the Northampton Employment Promise because we are so confident that if you focus on your studies and complete one of our awards you’ll be highly employable by the time you graduate. Putting you in a great position to secure employment or continue your studies.

  To check out the full list of perks, visit our Student Perks page.

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• Integrated Foundation Year (IFY)

  The Integrated Foundation Year (IFY) offers a new and exciting route into studying for a degree, attracting ambitious and driven students who are willing to learn and advance.

  If you have non-standard qualifications or do not quite meet the admissions requirements we can offer you a fantastic opportunity to study a four year programme which includes an Integrated Foundation Year. The Integrated Foundation Year will help you develop the theoretical/practical and academic skills you need, in order to successfully progress to the full award.

  Our four-year courses will enable you to successfully follow the degree pathway of your choice while gaining essential study skills. The foundation year of your chosen degree will be studied on a full-time basis and is aimed at supporting the transition to higher education. Years two, three and four are then studied as a standard degree programme.

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• FAQs

  How will I be taught on the Biomedical Science BSc (Hons) degree?

  Teaching and learning will involve lectures, small group tutorials, e-learning, independent study and a final year research project.  Teaching will be research led, involving research active staff with subject specific expertise who will also act as academic advisors and provide additional pastoral support. Current areas of research include infectious diseases, muscular dystrophy, sepsis, cancer biology, bioinformatics and genetic diseases.

  Our purpose-built £330 million brand new campus completed in September 2018 alongside the Teaching Excellent Framework (TEF) gold award will enable us to deliver innovative teaching using state of the art facilities, including new molecular biology laboratories with facilities for tissue culture, DNA extraction, PCR and other modern lab techniques.

  Students will be provided with a lab coat and core textbooks will be available in the library.

  Is there an opportunity to go on a work placement?

  Yes, an optional full year placement module is available for students who have successfully completed their stage 1 and 2 studies. This will give you the opportunity to individually source and gain a year‘s extra work-based learning experience in a science related placement, spent either in the UK or abroad.

  Will I have access to specialist facilities?

  Our Biomedical Science laboratories are modern and well equipped with research facilities that will enable you to learn and develop your skills in an innovative and supportive environment. Current specialist facilities include:

  • cell culture facilities (for working with human cell lines – i.e. cancer cells)
  • genetics/genomics facilities for the analysis of DNA and RNA (including PCR and next-generation sequencing technology)
  • specialist Microbiology laboratories
    fluorescence, bright-field and electron microscopy
  • This programme has been accredited by the Royal Society of Biology.

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Careers and Employability

A biomedical science degree provides the foundation for a wide range of career choices.  Our newly established degree programme places a strong emphasis on current and future developments in biomedical science and will develop students’ research skills, transferrable skills and laboratory skills to prepare them for the broadest possible range of careers, including scientific journalism, postgraduate research, or working in the NHS. It will also provide the foundation for graduate entry programmes in medicine or dentistry or working in the pharmaceutical or biotechnology industry.