Course specification and structure
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UDTOXICO - BSc Toxicology

Course Specification


Validation status Validated
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
Option Minimum duration Maximum duration
Full-time 3 YEARS 6 YEARS
Part-time 4 YEARS 8 YEARS
Course leader  

About the course and its strategy towards teaching and learning and towards blended learning/e-learning

This course is designed to promote an understanding of the multi-disciplinary areas of toxicology, and will allow development of technical and transferable skills and competencies in a range of specialist areas. At level 4, students will learn about the key areas in chemistry and biology which underpin understanding of toxicology, and also develop essential laboratory-based skills. At level 5 more specialist modules are undertaken involving analytical science, pharmacology and molecular biology. Then in their final year they cover pharmacology, biochemical pathology (including toxicology), and advanced toxicology, plus they will embark on their final year project in the Science Centre.

Teaching and learning activities are integrated with assessment processes in line with the School learning and teaching strategy. A Blended approach with an emphasis is placed on self-directed and problem based learning within a lecture/tutorial/ practical framework and materials delivered via the VLE allowing students to be actively involved in the learning process, and encouraged to recognise and develop their own learning style. Students will explore case studies to promote critical reasoning within a professional context. They will compare laboratory diagnostic methods, consider new methodologies and examine research literature. Tutorial exercises and progress tests will be used to provide students with feedback on their progress. Students are expected to complement formal teaching with self-directed reading. The summative assessment of students’ knowledge base and their understanding will be incorporated into formal in-course tests/exercises and the individual presentation completed at the end of each unit. Coursework and online tests are also used to provide formative feedback. Formative diagnostic assessment of knowledge and understanding is carried out, particularly during the initial stages of the course.

Practical skills are highly sought after by future employers so there is a focus on developing practical skills as an essential part of the BSc course and students have access to the unparalleled facilities in the Science Centre Laboratory. Practical classes are designed to reinforce the knowledge from the lectures and tutorials. 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 six Independent Research Project provides an excellent measure of experimental and other practical skills. The outstanding science centre also provides an unrivalled facility in which to carry out the practical skills. BSc project assessment will culminate in the presentation of a dissertation and a poster/oral 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 course aims to provide a sound scientific base in all those subjects necessary for the understanding of toxicology, providing students with relevant knowledge and practical skills. This includes an ability to solve theoretical and practical problems especially at the interface between chemistry and biology, and enhance students' ability to receive and communicate ideas and information appropriately

Successful graduates will be equipped for employment in industry or for postgraduate study in areas related to toxicology. The analytical, numerical and communication skills developed by graduates are also in demand in non-science-based careers such as those in the financial services sector, marketing and company administration and management.

The course aims are aligned with the qualification descriptors within the Quality Assurance Agency’s Frameworks for Higher Education Qualifications of UK Degree-Awarding Bodies (2014), and the QAA Subject Benchmark Statements for Biosciences (2105) and Chemistry (2014).

Course learning outcomes

In line with the QAA framework for higher education, students will, on completion of the award, have demonstrated knowledge and understanding in the designated field of Toxicology, such that they have developed:

1. an appreciation and understanding of the depth and breadth of toxicology;
2. knowledge and understanding of the molecules, structures, systems and processes
which underpin normal cell, tissue and body functioning;
3. knowledge and understanding of analytical methods and processes, and the
requirements for laboratory safety;
4. A sound appreciation of the chemistry and biology underpinning the mode of action of
therapeutic and toxicological agents;
5. an ability to critically evaluate and integrate information and scientific research, and
develop ideas on issues, methodologies and processes within a toxicological context;
6. competence in devising working hypotheses and means of testing these within
specified constraints;
7. an ability to undertake self-reflection and demonstrate the skills of self-management,
Self-presentation and decision making;
8. an ability to communicate concepts, principles and information effectively by oral and
written means with clarity and confidence;
9. the capability to recognise & gain personal responsibility, whether working individually
or as a member of a team and respect the ethical standards and professional codes of
conduct established within the scientific community;
10. proficiency in identifying and working towards targets for personal, academic and
career development, and implement strategies for updating, maintaining and
enhancing knowledge and skills.

Course learning outcomes / Module cross reference

Module Title Module Code
Laboratory Science CY4001
Cell and Molecular Biology CY4003
Anatomy & Physiology CY4004
General Chemistry CY4051
Biochemistry CY4052
Analytical Science CY5007
Principles of Pharmacodynamics and Drug Actions CY5011
Metabolism BE5058
Molecular Biology BE5060
Human Immunity BE5061
Microbiology BE5059
Ethics for Science BC5K55

Blood Science BC5056

Research Project CY6P01
Project BC6P01
Biochemical Pathology BE6005
Advanced Toxicology CY6066
Advanced Bioanalytical CY6061
Systems Pharmacology CY6051
Systems Pathology BC6051
Bioinformatics & Molecular Modelling BE6056
Sandwich Placement CY6W04
Work Placement CY6W54

Learning Outcomes LO1 - LO10

Principle QAA benchmark statements

Biosciences; 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. The choice of assessment instrument is chosen to test the specified learning outcomes and to support students’ different learning styles. These methods are aligned with the School assessment strategy and the assessment is the responsibility of the academic staff delivering the module. Assessment is part of the learning process and confirms the outcomes of the learning process. It also provides formative feedback on curriculum design and delivery and, via the on-going iterative process of module monitoring, makes a significant contribution to the continued development and improvement of the courses that links in with the School learning and teaching strategy. In light of this a variety of assessment methods will be used (see syllabi) including unseen written examinations, individual and group assignments.

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.

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

Exemption from UG Awards Framework has been granted regarding Level 5 delivery (2x30 credits plus 4x15 credits).

Modules required for interim awards

CertHE: All cores at level 4
DipHE: As above, plus all cores at level 5
BSc: As above, plus 60 credits in cores at level 6
BSc (Hons): as above, but all cores at level 6

Arrangements for promoting reflective learning and personal development

During the induction phase of the programme students will be introduced to the reflection on their development of undergraduate skills. Progress with such 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. Students will undertake the process of compiling their Personal Development Portfolio (PDP) during their undergraduate career or in the workplace. PDP is designed to articulate the skills which the student has developed and helps them to critically review their learning experiences, set future personal and academic goals and evaluate their progress towards these goals.

PDP will be embedded across the course with students given time to reflect on their learning. Students will take part in tutorials at all levels 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. PDP is designed to assist students develop as independent learners, identify their strengths and weaknesses not only whilst studying at BSc level, but will be of benefit throughout their future career.

Career, employability and opportunities for continuing professional development

Model CVs, covering letters, graduation statements, job adverts, job descriptions and person specifications for use by Academic Tutors and students are provided within course and module VLE pages. Students will be encouraged to join relevant societies such as the British Toxicology Society. There are roles for graduate toxicologists in a wide range of industries (e.g. SC Johnson; Infineum, Procter & Gamble, Astra Zeneca), contract research organisations such as Sequani and Envigo, and also the National Centre for Environmental Toxicology. The course will also equip graduates to study for a higher degree in toxicology or related areas. 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

You’ll graduate from this course with a sound knowledge base and a high standard of cognitive, practical and transferable skills. During your studies you will be eligible to become a student member of the British Toxicology Society and, on graduation, you'll also be eligible to apply for Associate Membership of the Royal Society of Biology.

There are roles for toxicologists at a wide range of employers including SC Johnson, Infineum, Procter & Gamble, Astra Zeneca, contract research organisations such as Sequani and Envigo, and also the National Centre for Environmental Toxicology. The course will also equip you to study for a higher degree in toxicology or a related area.

Entry requirements

In addition to the University's standard entry requirements, you should have:

  • a minimum of grades CCD in three A levels including C in Biology and C in Chemistry, or a minimum of 96 UCAS points from an equivalent Level 3 qualification, eg BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma, Advanced Diploma, Progression Diploma or Access to HE Diploma with 60 credits. You 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/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 Toxicology (including foundation year) BSc or Sciences (including foundation year) BSc.

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
Original validation date 15 Aug 2019 Last validation date 15 Aug 2019  
Sources of funding HE FUNDING COUNCIL FOR ENGLAND
JACS codes 100277 (toxicology): 100%
Route code TOXICO

Course Structure

Stage 1 Level 04 September start Offered

Code Module title Info Type Credits Location Period Day Time
CY4001 Laboratory Science Core 30        
CY4003 Cell and Molecular Biology Core 30        
CY4004 Anatomy and Physiology (for Chemical and Pharma... Core 30        
CY4051 General Chemistry Core 15 NORTH AUT THU AM
CY4052 Biochemistry Core 15        

Stage 2 Level 05 September start Offered

Code Module title Info Type Credits Location Period Day Time
BE5058 Metabolism Core 15 NORTH AUT WED AM
BE5060 Molecular Biology Core 15 NORTH AUT FRI AM
BE5061 Human Immunity Core 15 NORTH SPR THU AM
CY5007 Analytical Science Core 30        
CY5011 Drugs: Delivery and Action Core 30        
BC5056 Blood Science Option 15 NORTH SPR FRI AM
BC5K55 Ethics for Science Option 15        
BE5059 Microbiology Option 15 NORTH SPR WED AM

Stage 3 Level 06 Not currently offered

Code Module title Info Type Credits Location Period Day Time
BE6005 Biochemical Pathology Core 30        
CY6051 Systems Pharmacology Core 15        
CY6061 Advanced Bioanalytical Science Core 15        
CY6066 Advanced Toxicology Core 15        
BC6P01 Project Alt Core 30        
CY6P01 Research Project Alt Core 30        
BC6051 Systems Pathology Option 15        
BE6056 Bioinformatics & Molecular Modelling Option 15        
CY6W04 Sandwich Placement Option 30        
CY6W54 Work Placement Option 15