UDMEDCHE - BSc (Hons) Medicinal Chemistry and Drug Discovery
Course Specification
Validation status | Validated | |||||||||||
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Highest award | Bachelor of Science | Level | Honours | |||||||||
Possible interim awards | Bachelor of Science, Diploma of Higher Education, Certificate of Higher Education, Bachelor of Science | |||||||||||
Total credits for course | 360 | |||||||||||
Awarding institution | London Metropolitan University | |||||||||||
Teaching institutions | London Metropolitan University | |||||||||||
School | School of Human Sciences | |||||||||||
Subject Area | Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences | |||||||||||
Attendance options |
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Course leader |
About the course and its strategy towards teaching and learning and towards blended learning/e-learning
The BSc Medicinal Chemistry and Drug Discovery degree offers the opportunity to study chemistry as a major subject along with subjects allied to the pharmaceutical industries. This exciting course will allow development of technical and transferable skills and competencies in a range of specialist areas.
The BSc course in Medicinal Chemistry and Drug discovery provides detailed education to stimulate interest for chemistry and the biological sciences and to develop key transferable scientific skills enabling the application of chemistry and related topics in society, to the world of work and as part of life-long learning. Through practical applications of theoretical knowledge skills and attributes will be acquired that are expected by employers or for postgraduate studies. The material will be delivered by a range of mechanisms designed to allow the student to maximise the use of their preferred learning style (traditional lecture/tutorial sessions, guided independent learning, use of IT-based material such as VLOs, peer-assisted sessions).
Utilisation of the University’s VLE, WebLearn has become an invaluable tool with which to disseminate information and to support and assess student learning. Online progress tests will be used to provide students with feedback on their progress. Exams in several modules are delivered as online exams.
Feedback will be delivered online and through provision of tutorial questions and answer sessions and other formative exercises.
Practical skills exercises at each level are used to monitor proficiency at experimental work. Assessment of Data handling skills are embedded in practical reports, problem solving exercises, information abstracting and reviewing exercises, poster presentations and seminar presentations.
The level 6 Research Project provides the ultimate measure of experimental and other practical skills. The excellent Science Centre also provides an unrivalled facility in which to carry out the level 6 Research Project module. BSc project assessment will culminate in the presentation of a dissertation and a viva exam, designed to allow the student to demonstrate their depth of knowledge and understanding.
Students have access to the Learning Centre situated on the North campus. This has recently been comprehensively refurbished. It provides specific group study areas as well as access to a comprehensive and regularly reviewed range of textbooks, journals and online learning resources. In addition, there ‘all access’ areas on the ground floor of the Tower building and the green lounge in Benwell Road and the newly fitted interactive teaching spaces in the Roding building. These areas come with comfortable seating and IT facilities.
Course aims
The programme aims to provide students with chemical knowledge and practical skills, and the ability to solve theoretical and practical problems especially at the interface between chemistry and biology and pharmacology. The range of knowledge and the variety of skills are a preparation for further study in organic chemistry and chemical biology or multi-disciplinary areas with chemistry and pharmacology as a component. The course aims to enhance the intellectual and practical skills necessary for the collection, analysis, interpretation and understanding of chemical data in order to produce value in chemical and non-chemical employment. More generally, the course aims to develop an awareness of the ethical implications of modern scientific work and develop skills of self-evaluation and analysis to enhance career development.
Course learning outcomes
On the BSc Medicinal Chemistry and Drug Discovery, the QAA outcomes for Chemistry have been referred to generate the generic area(s) for each specific outcome.
The learning outcomes for the BSc Medicinal Chemistry and Drug Discovery course are as follows.
By the end of the course the student is expected to have developed:
1. A knowledge and understanding of the physical and chemical properties of elements and compounds and the ability to analyse critically how they react and interact on a molecular basis;
2. A knowledge and understanding of the chemistry underpinning the design and mode of action of therapeutical agents;
3. The practical skills necessary to safely carry out experiments such as might be required of a competent professional chemist viz the ability to devise and carry out reactions to synthesise specified compounds and to identify and perform the analytical measurements needed to characterise multi-component systems;
4. The analytical skills to interpret results obtained from experimental work and draw appropriate conclusions as to requirements for future work;
5. An understanding of the application of mathematical systems to model the behaviour of chemical systems and the ability to employ these to solve specific problems.
6. A knowledge and understanding of the diverse modern industrial applications of chemistry and of the role of the medicinal chemist in Industry.
7. The ability to analyse different situations and devise approaches to solving problems showing a high level of understanding and reasoning and providing their own interpretation of information;
8. The analytical skills to provide a realistic assessment of their own level of achievement and devise strategies for ensure their personal development is fitted to their career goals.
9 The ability to communicate a subject clearly and accurately orally, and in a variety of forms of written English;
10. Employ a full range of investigative skills which can be applied to any set task; use analytical and reviewing skills in order to produce accurate summaries based on a body of literature.
Course learning outcomes / Module cross reference
Laboratory Science CY4001
General Chemistry and Organic Chemistry CY4002
Concepts in Chemistry CY4005
Cell and Molecular Biology CY4003
Organic Chemistry CY5008
Inorganic Chemistry CY5009
Principles of Pharmacodynamics and Drug Actions CY5053A
Drug Discovery CY5054
Quantitative Analysis CY5051
Spectroscopic Methods CY5062
Research Project CY6P01
Advanced Inorganic and Materials Chemistry CY6010
Advanced Organic Chemistry CY6054
Medicinal Chemistry CY6063
Bioinformatics & Molecular modelling BE6056
Advanced Bioanalytical Science CY6061
Neuropharmacology CY6065
Work Placement CY6W54
Sandwich Placement CY6W04
Learnon Outcomes LO1 - LO10
Principle QAA benchmark statements
Chemistry
Assessment strategy
Students are assessed through a variety of methods including problem solving exercises, in-class test, data analysis, practical reports, case studies, oral presentations, extended essays, examinations, research project interim report, oral examination and dissertation.
Practical skills are summatively assessed through coursework assignments, including those in the project module. Data handling skills are summatively assessed by practical reports, problem solving exercises, oral presentations and examinations.
Formative assessments include group activities in tutorial classes, mini-tests and project workshops.
Organised work experience, work based learning, sandwich year or year abroad
The course includes the option to take either a 15 credit Work Placement module at level 6 or a 30 credit Sandwich Placement module between level 5 and level 6. Students are not allowed to register for both these modules.
Course specific regulations
The course conforms to both the University’s Undergraduate Scheme and the University Academic Regulations.
Modules required for interim awards
The cores for the award of BSc (Hons) are listed in section 22. For intermediate awards, any combination of the modules from the course spec would be appropriate.
Arrangements for promoting reflective learning and personal development
During the induction phase of the programme students will be introduced to structured reflection on their development of Undergraduate Skills which constitute much as the substance of personal development planning. Students will undertake to produce their personal development plan (PDP) during their undergraduate career or in the workplace. PDP can include other activities outside of the academic aspect of university life.
PDP is designed to allow students to articulate the skills developed during their undergraduate career and encourages them to critically reflect on their learning experience, to set new personal and academic goals and evaluate progress made in achieving those goals. PDP activities will be specifically incorporated into core modules on the course to ensure all students undertake reflective practises throughout their course of study.
Progress with Undergraduate Skills will be articulated to students as the programme progresses through feedback from tutors and peers enabling them to reflect on their progress based on the evidence available. This process assists students in developing as independent learners, identifying their strengths and weaknesses. This will be of benefit throughout their future career. One module at each level will be used to specifically develop employability and reflective activities. At level 4 this is CY4001 – Laboratory science and at level 5, CY5062 – Spectroscopic methods. At level 6, CY6P01 – the Research project module is used – which requires research of the topic, planning and executing practical activities, analysis of results and re-evaluation of the direction of the work provides an appropriate forum to emphasise the importance of reflection and of the skills (both transferable and subject-specific) gained during the course.
The option exists for students to undertake an additional 30 credit module CY6W04 Sandwich Placement module to enhance employability. This would normally be undertaken between level 5 and 6, this would extend the period of study to four years. For part-time students in appropriate employment they can complete the module over an extended period during their degree rather than take a year out.
Students at all levels will take part in tutorials designed to facilitate discussion on what has been learnt in order that reflective learning will contribute to identifying objectives, success criteria, and action plans that can be included in PDPs.
Career, employability and opportunities for continuing professional development
There is a wide range of career opportunities relating to medicinal chemistry, or postgraduate studies, which students can enter on completion of the course. Employment opportunities include research and development in the UK chemical industry, comprising manufacturing’s number one exporter for Britain, as well as international chemical and pharmaceutical companies. The analytical, numerical and communication skills developed on the course are also in demand in non-science-based careers such as teaching, accountancy, journalism and marketing.
Career opportunities
On graduation you will be equipped to take up an exciting role in the pharmaceutical, biotechnology or consulting industries, or progress to postgraduate study.
Careers include roles in medicinal chemistry, drug design, pharmaceutical analysis and research. The strong emphasis on developing transferable skills, with extensive analytical and mathematical skills, could alternatively lead you to pursue a career in teaching, finance or management.
You may also want to progress to further study, opting to undertake an MSc or a PhD.
Entry requirements
In addition to the University's standard entry requirements, you should have:
- at least a minimum of grades BCC with CC expected in Chemistry and Biology (or a minimum of 104 UCAS points from an equivalent Level 3 qualification, eg BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma/Diploma, Advanced Diploma, Progression Diploma or Access to HE Diploma with 60 credits) but must also meet the science entry requirements described above. You should take level 3 qualifications in Chemistry and Biology in addition to your Advanced Diploma.
- GCSE English and Mathematics at grade C (or grade 4) or above (or equivalent)
If you don't have traditional qualifications or can't meet the entry requirements for this undergraduate degree, you may still be able to gain entry by completing our Sciences (including foundation year) BSc (Hons).
To study a degree at London Met, you must be able to demonstrate proficiency in the English language. If you require a Tier 4 student visa you may need to provide the results of a Secure English Language Test (SELT) such as Academic IELTS. For more information about English qualifications please see our English language requirements.
If you need (or wish) to improve your English before starting your degree, the University offers a Pre-sessional Academic English course to help you build your confidence and reach the level of English you require.
Official use and codes
Approved to run from | 2019/20 | Specification version | 1 | Specification status | Validated |
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Original validation date | 16 Aug 2019 | Last validation date | 16 Aug 2019 | ||
Sources of funding | HE FUNDING COUNCIL FOR ENGLAND | ||||
JACS codes | 100420 (medicinal chemistry): 100% | ||||
Route code | MEDCHE |
Stage 1 Level 04 September start Offered
Code | Module title | Info | Type | Credits | Location | Period | Day | Time |
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CY4001 | Laboratory Science | Core | 30 | |||||
CY4002 | General and Organic Chemistry | Core | 30 | |||||
CY4003 | Cell and Molecular Biology | Core | 30 | |||||
CY4005 | Concepts in Chemistry | Core | 30 |
Stage 2 Level 05 Not currently offered
Code | Module title | Info | Type | Credits | Location | Period | Day | Time |
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CY5008 | Organic Chemistry | Core | 30 | |||||
CY5009 | Inorganic Chemistry | Core | 30 | |||||
CY5011A | Principles of Pharmacodynamics and Drug Actions | Core | 15 | |||||
CY5051 | Quantitative Analysis | Core | 15 | |||||
CY5054 | Drug Discovery | Core | 15 | |||||
CY5062 | Spectroscopic Methods | Core | 15 |
Stage 3 Level 06 Not currently offered
Code | Module title | Info | Type | Credits | Location | Period | Day | Time |
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BE6056 | Bioinformatics & Molecular Modelling | Core | 15 | |||||
CY6010 | Advanced Inorganic Chemistry and Materials | Core | 30 | |||||
CY6053 | Advanced Organic Chemistry | Core | 15 | |||||
CY6063 | Medicinal Chemistry | Core | 15 | |||||
CY6P01 | Research Project | Core | 30 | |||||
CY6061 | Advanced Bioanalytical Science | Option | 15 | |||||
CY6065 | Neuropharmacology | Option | 15 | |||||
CY6W04 | Sandwich Placement | Option | 30 | |||||
CY6W54 | Work Placement | Option | 15 |