Course specification and structure
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UDBMDSCI - BSc Biomedical Science

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 Biosciences
Attendance options
Option Minimum duration Maximum duration
Full-time 3 YEARS  
Part-time 4 YEARS  
Course leader  

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

The BSc course is designed to promote an understanding of the multi-disciplinary areas of Biomedical Science. Students will develop knowledge and skills which will empower them to be autonomous professional practitioners. The course will foster high level reasoning skills and promote lifelong learning and continuous professional development (CPD).
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 6 Independent 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 practical skills. BSc project assessment will culminate in the presentation of a dissertation and a poster presentation exam, designed to allow the student to demonstrate their depth of knowledge and understanding.

Course aims

The course aims to promote a good knowledge-skills balance enhancing the professional practice of the students. These aims are aligned with the qualification descriptors within the Quality Assurance Agency’s Framework for Higher Education Qualifications for Biomedical Science (2015) and the requirements of the Institute of Biomedical Science for acccreditation. The course aims to provide a sound scientific base in all those subjects necessary for the understanding of Biomedical Science. Biomedical science is health care /research based science and its practical application. Graduates with extensive knowledge and understanding of pathological and non-pathological life processes together with competence in associated technical and transferable skills. Successful graduates will be equipped for employment in the public and private health service laboratories, in the pharmaceutical industry, in the medical and allied research institutes and in information science. The analytical, numerical and communication skills developed by Biomedical Science graduates are also in demand in non-science-based careers such as those in the financial services sector, marketing and company administration.
The aims of the single honours Biomedical Science course are to; consider the scope of Biomedical Science, its ethical constraints and its diverse opportunities, producing graduates informed by the impact of research and cognizant with life processes from the molecular to the body/systems level in health and disease. Graduates will have been provided with theoretical appreciation and practical laboratory experience of how disease is identified, assessed and treatment monitored. The course also aims to develop enhanced comprehension, evaluative and problem solving skills and the ability to receive and communicate ideas and information appropriately.

Course learning outcomes

On the course, in line with the Biomedical Science QAA framework for higher education students will, on completion of the award, have demonstrated knowledge and understanding in the designated field of study which is typically on graduating with a bachelor's degree with honours in biomedical science, students should be able to have developed:
By the end of the course the student is expected to have developed:
1. an appreciation and understanding of the depth and breadth of Biomedical Science, the remit of the HCPC and IBMS, the attributes and roles of the practitioner and requirements for laboratory safety, QA, QC, and accreditation bodies.
2. knowledge and understanding of the molecules, structures, systems and processes which underpin normal cell, tissue and body functioning
3. knowledge and understanding of aetiology and pathogenesis and their relationship to laboratory diagnostics
4. critically evaluate and integrate information, and scientific research and develop ideas on issues, methodologies and processes within a Biomedical Science context
5. devise working hypotheses and means of testing these within specified constraints
6. construct logical and reasoned arguments to support their position on the social and ethical impact of advances in Biomedical Science
7. undertake self-reflection and demonstrate the skills of self-management, self-presentation and decision making
8. communicate concepts, principles and information effectively by oral and written means with clarity and confidence
9. recognise and 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 with particular emphasis on those applicable to a Registrant Biomedical Scientist
10. identify and work towards targets for personal, academic and career development, and implement strategies for updating, maintaining and enhancing knowledge and skills that can contribute to the IBMS competency portfolio to enable progression to HCPC registration on completion of the degree and the portfolio.

Course learning outcomes / Module cross reference

Module Title Module Code
Laboratory Science BC4001
Anatomy and Physiology BC4004
Cell and Molecular Biology BC4003
Chemistry (for Biosciences) BC4051
Biochemistry BC4052
Infection Science BC5002
Tissue Science BC5003
Blood Science BC5056
Fundamentals of Medicinal Chemistry BC5062
Methods of Bioanalytical Analysis BC5051
Parasitology BC5052
Ethics for Science BC5K55
Infection control BC6060
Project BC6P01
Advanced Blood Science BC6002
Advanced Infection & Tissue Science BC6003
Systems pathology BC6051
virology BC6052
Applied immunology BC6053
Medical Genetics BC6055
Genomics BC6059

Learning Outcomes 1 - 10

Principle QAA benchmark statements

Biomedical Sciences (2015)

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 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.
Formative assessments include group activities in tutorial classes, mini-tests and project workshops. Laboratory and computer based investigations, poster and oral presentations and a level 6 project giving students the opportunity to show the knowledge understanding and skills they have developed.

Organised work experience, work based learning, sandwich year or year abroad

The course includes the option to include either a 5-week Work Placement module to experience laboratory work at level 5 or a year-long (46 week) Sandwich Placement between levels 5 and 6.

Course specific regulations

To gain the IBMS accredited “BSc Biomedical Science” degree title students must pass all core modules listed in section 24.

Modules required for interim awards

CertHE Biosciences

BC4004 Anatomy and Physiology
BC4003 Cell and Molecular Biology
BC4051 Chemistry
BC4052 Biochemistry
BC4001 Laboratory Science

DipHE Biomedical Science

BC5056 Blood Science
BC5062 Fundamentals of Medicinal Chemistry
BC5002 Infection Science
BC5003 Tissue Science
BC5051 Methods of Bioanalytical Analysis

BSc Hons Biomedical Science

BC6P01 Project
BC6002 Advanced Blood Science
BC6003 Advance Infection and Tissue Science
BC6051 Systems Pathology

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. 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. Other activities outside of the academic aspect of university life will also contribute to aspects of Undergraduate Skills. 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 during their undergraduate level studies or work experience 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 within each module and 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.
The option exists for students to undertake an additional 30 credit module BC6W04 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.
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. Other activities outside of the academic aspect of university life will also contribute to aspects of undergraduate Skills
By way of modules: BC4001 Laboratory Science (Level 4); Fundamentals of Medicinal Chemistry (Level 5); and, BC6P01 Project (Level 6) students will progressively develop their PDP which will culminate in a CV and graduation statement. 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. In addition at level 6 in the research project module the supervisor will initially assist with the clarifying the terms of the research project, establishing a timetable for the research and subsequent meetings, directed background reading as well as report format and writing and statistical analysis and students will also develop their graduate statement.

Other external links providing expertise and experience

Institute of Biomedical Science

Professional Statutory and Regulatory Body (PSRB) accreditations & exemptions

While studying this course, you can become an eStudent of the Institute of Biomedical Science. On graduation, you'll be eligible to apply for Licentiate Membership.

Career, employability and opportunities for continuing professional development

Biomedical science is health care /research based science and its practical application. The course is designed to incorporate the study of life processes in relation to health and identifying disease and its causes, investigate and monitor pathological processes and treatment strategies. Subjects covered are broadly similar to the pre-clinical components of a medical degree, provide a focused experience of the structure, functioning and analysis of biological fluids, cells, tissues and the relationship of body systems in health, disease, and the environment. With the growing demand for biomedical expertise, our graduates will be embark on a career paths such as trainee Health Care Scientists/Biomedical Scientists, Clinical Scientist, Researcher and within other scientific laboratories. This degree is accredited by the IBMS (Institute of Biomedical Science).

Career opportunities

Many graduates go on to careers in hospital and private medical laboratories as healthcare assistants, phlebotomists and biomedical scientists. Previous students have found work with companies such as NHS pathology laboratories and The Doctors Laboratory.

Other possible career paths include management, medical research, education and specialised laboratory work. The skills you'll learn are also applicable to public health (water, foodstuffs, disease surveillance etc), veterinary laboratories, blood banks, forensics, and pharmaceuticals development.

You can also use this course as an entry point into the competitive world of graduate medical studies and go on to MSc and PhD studies here at London Met or at other educational institutions. Together with further studies, this course serves as a great entry point to the newly emerging role of physician associate.

Entry requirements

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

  • a minimum of grades BBC in A levels with B in Biology and B in Chemistry (or a minimum of 112 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)
  • English and Mathematics Grade C/Grade 4 or above only. No equivalent qualifications accepted
  • an interview may also be required

Applicants with relevant professional qualifications or extensive professional experience will also be considered on a case by case basis.

Entry from appropriate foundation and access courses will also be considered.

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 the Biomedical Sciences BSc Extended Degree.

All applicants must be able to demonstrate proficiency in the English language. Applicants who require a Tier 4 student visa may need to provide a Secure English Language Test (SELT) such as Academic IELTS. For more information about English qualifications please see our English language requirements.

Official use and codes

Approved to run from 2013/14 Specification version 1 Specification status Validated
Original validation date 01 Sep 2013 Last validation date 01 Sep 2013  
Sources of funding HE FUNDING COUNCIL FOR ENGLAND
JACS codes C910 (Applied Biological Sciences): 100%
Route code BMDSCI

Course Structure

Stage 1 Level 04 September start Offered

Code Module title Info Type Credits Location Period Day Time
BC4001 Laboratory Science Core 30        
BC4003 Cell & Molecular Biology Core 30        
BC4004 Anatomy & Physiology Core 30        
BC4051 Chemistry (for Biosciences) Core 15        
BC4052 Biochemistry Core 15 NORTH SPR THU AM

Stage 2 Level 05 September start Offered

Code Module title Info Type Credits Location Period Day Time
BC5002 Infection Science Core 30        
BC5003 Tissue Science Core 30        
BC5051 Methods of Bioanalytical Analysis Core 15 NORTH AUT FRI PM
BC5056 Blood Science Core 15 NORTH SPR FRI AM
BC5062 Fundamentals of Medicinal Chemistry Core 15 NORTH AUT MON PM
BC5052 Parasitology Option 15 NORTH SPR FRI PM
BC5K55 Ethics for Science Option 15        
BC6060 Infection Control Option 15 NORTH SPR WED PM
BC6W54 Work Placement Option 15        

Stage 3 Level 06 September start Offered

Code Module title Info Type Credits Location Period Day Time
BC6002 Advanced Blood Science Core 30        
BC6003 Advanced Infection & Tissue Science Core 30        
BC6051 Systems Pathology Core 15 NORTH AUT MON PM
BC6P01 Project Core 30 NORTH AUT+SPR WED PM
BC6052 Virology Option 15 NORTH SPR MON PM
BC6053 Applied Immunology Option 15        
BC6055 Medical Genetics Option 15 NORTH SPR MON PM
BC6059 Genomics Option 15 NORTH SPR TUE AM
BC6W04 Sandwich Placement Option 30 NORTH AUT+SPR NA