UDBMDSNC - BSc Biomedical Science leading to MD

The Biomedical Science leading to MD course is designed to promote an understanding of the multi-disciplinary areas of Biomedical Science and dovetails with the programme for MD provided by UHSA. 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 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.

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 MD 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.

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 and the role of an MD
10. identify and work towards targets for personal, academic and career development, and implement strategies for updating, maintaining and enhancing professional knowledge and skills in preparation for MD studies

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
Fundamentals of Pharmacology BC5054
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

Biomedical Sciences (2015)

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.

The course includes study with UHSA (University of Health Sciences Antigua) during the summer breaks where students undertake basic modules for their MD programme. During the summer school sessions with UHSA all students complete the community doctor module which requires students to visit community clinics for 4 hours each week under supervision of qualified medical doctors from the local hospital.

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

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
BC5054 Fundamentals of Pharmacology

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

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.
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: Laboratory Science (Level 4); Fundamentals of Medicinal Chemistry (Level 5); and, 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.

Institute of Biomedical Science

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.

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). 'On successful completion of the BSc Biomedical Science degree at London Metropolitan University and successful progress on the summer schools at UHSA students can progress into the final year of the Basic Sciences part of the MD programme, on completion of this students undertake two years of clinical rotation. On successful completion of the full 6 year programme students will obtain an MD award from UHSA. The joint programme meets the eligibility criteria for a primary medical qualification taken outside of the UK by the General Medical Council and allows students to take the General Medical Council licensing exams, the PLAB, to enable them to practise as a medical doctor in the UK.

Once you’ve obtained your MD award from UHSA, you'll be eligible to take the General Medical Council licensing exams (PLAB), which enables you to practise as a medical doctor in the UK. You can also take the Medical Licencing Examination (USMLE) to allow you to practise in the USA.

You can also pursue a career in other areas of biomedical science. Many graduates go on to careers in hospital and private medical laboratories, working in sectors such as management, medical research and education. 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, or go on to MSc and PhD studies here at London Met or at other educational institutions

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

• a minimum of grades BBC in three A levels in academic subjects including minimum 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, or Advanced Diploma, Progression Diploma, or Access to HE Diploma with 60 credits).
• English Language and Mathematics GCSE at grade C/grade 4 or above (or equivalent)
• an interview is also 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.

All applicants who are initially successful will be required to attend an interview at the University. Telephone interviews can be arranged for international students.

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 an Academic IELTS, with an overall score of 7.0, and a minimum of 7.0 in each component. For more information about English qualifications please see our English language requirements.