Biomedical Science with DPP/ DPP[I] / DIAS BSc (Hons) (Placement)

Here is a guide to the subjects studied on this course.

Courses are continually reviewed to take advantage of new teaching approaches and developments in research, industry and the professions. Please be aware that modules may change for your year of entry. The exact modules available and their order may vary depending on course updates, staff availability, timetabling and student demand. Please contact the course team for the most up to date module list.
Year one
Biochemistry
Year: 1

This module is designed to introduce students to the fundamental biochemical pathways, an understanding of which are necessary for the further study of life and health sciences. The structure, function and metabolism of biological macromolecules and the regulation of the pathways involved in their metabolism are discussed in detail

Human Physiology & Anatomy
Year: 1

This module provides an introduction to the study of human physiology and anatomy to underpin further study of the pathophysiology in health and disease.

Medical Cell Biology
Year: 1

This module will enable students to develop an understanding of the cellular basis of life and the relevance of studies of cell structure and function at the molecular level to human disease. In addition, it will provide a foundation for further studies in genetics, microbiology, histology and biochemistry.

Chemistry and Pharmacology
Year: 1

This module introduces general descriptive, physical, organic and inorganic chemistry and the principles underlying chemical properties and reactions of simple organic and inorganic compounds with applications to pharmacology.

Practical and Laboratory Skills
Year: 1

This module aims to provide students with the basic skills and techniques required to work safely in a laboratory setting, which underpins further study and practice in the life and health sciences.

Scientific Communication and Statistics
Year: 1

This module will introduce students to biomedical science as a science discipline and as a profession, as well as educating students about key transferable scientific skills, including communication, IT, research, critical analysis and statistical analysis.

Year two
Cellular Pathology
Year: 2

This module provides a foundation in Cellular Pathology encompassing core aspects of professional practice from gross specimen to slide, and microscopic examination of normal and abnormal tissues (histopathology) and cells (cytopathology) for structural changes and indicators of disease.

Haematology and transfusion science
Year: 2

This module provides a comprehensive overview of key concepts in haematology and transfusion science, with emphasis on their relevance in health and disease, as well as an appreciation of the application of these concepts in clinical practice. It provides the student with the appropriate knowledge and intellectual skills necessary to work in a routine or research laboratory setting and underpin further study in the biomedical sciences.

Clinical biochemistry
Year: 2

This module is designed to provide an understanding in clinical biochemistry sufficient to underpin further study in the biomedical sciences.

Professional Practice
Year: 2

This module will introduce the concepts and requirements of biobusinesses that are necessary to ensure professional conduct in a career in the biosciences. Laboratory management, quality control, data protection, health & safety and scientific communication are covered. This module will facilitate understanding of current professional practice as recognised throughout the varied range of local and national bioscience industries, as well as further developing skills and attributes that will enable graduates to pursue careers as biosciences professionals.

Applied Genetics
Year: 2

This module considers genetic defects that contribute to human disease with study of recombinant DNA techniques, human inheritance, chromosomal aberrancies and inborn errors of metabolism, carcinogenesis and ageing. Practical experience of contemporary molecular biological techniques is also provided. Advances in molecular genetics and the human genome project are also discussed and provide an appreciation of the potential for improved diagnostics and therapeutics

Microbiology
Year: 2

This module provides insight into the major historical events, discoveries, disciplines, activities and relevance of microorganisms to the different areas of human activity. A major goal is to provide a foundation for understanding and learning microbiology as a biological science and its relation to our public health and the environment.

Pathophysiology
Year: 2

This module is designed to provide understanding of key concepts in pathology sufficient to underpin further study in the biomedical sciences

Immunology
Year: 2

This module is designed to provide students with an understanding of the key concepts in immunology sufficient to underpin further study in the biomedical sciences

Year three
Diploma in International Academic Studies
Year: 3

This module is optional

In this study programme students spend one year in another university, either in a EU country under the SOCRATES or ERASMUS schemes or in the US under the Northern Ireland Business Iniative (BEI). This exchange experience is designed to provide experience of an educational and cultural environment in an overseas country.

Placement: Diploma in Professional Practice
Year: 3

This module is optional

Placement is an essential element of the biomedical sciences degree and provides a wide range of opportunities for students to experience professional laboratory work in either a medical, industrial or university environment. Students benefit by greatly improving their practical abilities and employment prospects.

Year four
Investigative project
Year: 4

This Investigative Project is an independent piece of work completed by the student, designed to develop key research and transferable skills in a discipline relevant to biomedical sciences/biosciences.

Clinical & Molecular Genetics
Year: 4

The module considers in depth, key areas of genetics and introduces specialised topics based on recent advances and current considerations in the human and molecular genetics field. The application of available genomic/SNP data towards stratified and personalised medicine will be discussed.

Clinical Immunology & Medical Microbiology
Year: 4

This module provides a detailed insight into the interaction between a microbial pathogen and its human host. The interaction between micro-organisms and the immune defence mechanism is highlighted. Consideration is also given to the use of vaccines and chemotherapy to avoid and eliminate infection. The module is taught by a combination of lectures and seminars with online supplementary materials where appropriate

Molecular pathology
Year: 4

This module presents an in-depth consideration of the pathology, cellular and molecular biology of the major non-infectious diseases of humans. The module enables students to integrate practical and theoretical information gained in earlier modules. Current and emerging strategies in disease diagnosis, treatment and monitoring are also discussed, which will underpin further study in Biomedical Sciences.

Pharmacology and Evidence-Based Practice
Year: 4

This module provides an understanding of applied and systems pharmacology of direct relevance to diverse clinical, industrial, and research careers, with an emphasis on development and application of advanced knowledge and skills, including utilization of evidence-based practice approach.