Biomedical Science

• Part-time, day release course
• Developed in consultation with a local teaching hospital
• Strong focus on Work Based Learning (WBL)
• Study skills embedded in early modules

The Foundation Degree in Biomedical Science is a vocational qualification designed in consultation with a local teaching hospital.  It is primarily aimed at NHS Associate Practitioners who have laboratory experience but do not have the traditional educational background required for Higher Education.  It aims to provide employers with a vehicle for the professional development of this key group of employees.

The first year covers principles of biology that will underpin the rest of the courses.  Topics will include human physiology, cell biology, genetics, molecular biology and microbiology.  Theoretical material is supported by a programme of practical work.  In addition you will explore the professional autonomy, accountability and professional relationships of a health professional.

In the second year you will further develop your practical skills and key (transferable) skills in a programme of laboratory-based activities and tutorials.  Theory modules concentrate on the biology, epidemiology and diagnosis of disease using a range of infectious and non-infectious diseases of humans.  You will also gain a more in depth understanding of biochemistry and genetics to enable you broaden your knowledge of metabolic and inherited disorders.   WBL will allow you to explore the applications of techniques required by health professionals in the different disciplines of the pathology laboratory.

In year three you will continue to develop your knowledge and understanding of biomedical science.  Laboratory based modules and will cover a range of instrumentation and analytical techniques relevant to biomedicine.  Your practical experience is supported by topics such as medical microbiology, haematology, histology and clinical biochemistry.  These modules will compliment your WBL and you will reflect on how key concepts in biology relate to your professional practice

The knowledge and skills you will develop in the Foundation Degree is equivalent and comparable to the first two years of our BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science award.  Therefore, although this Foundation Degree is an independent award, successful completion of it allows you to progress onto Level H (the final year) of our accredited BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science award.   It will take you a further two years to complete the honours degree as a part-time student.

For more information about Biomedical Science please contact: