Biomedical Science

Why choose this course?
Our BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science degree is relevant and employer ready, utilising a partnership between Wrexham University and the Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board (BCUHB).

This course:

• Is taught by academics across the university, biomedical scientists and other health professionals with a range of subject and research expertise.

• Includes modules led and delivered by current Biomedical Science practitioners.

• Has access to brand new laboratories on the Plas Coch campus.

• Has an option for undertaking work within North Wales clinical laboratories.

• Allows you to develop independent research projects, that can be conducted within clinical laboratories.

• Utilises local research laboratories, housing state-of-the-art equipment, such as flow cytometry, fluorescence microscopy and molecular analysers.

• Follows our Active Learning Framework (ALF), which embraces the importance of flexibility, accessibility and building a sense of community.

• Will enable you to develop a thorough grounding in ethical and reflective practice, with sound subject specific and research knowledge base.

• Enhances your analytical skills with laboratory-based investigations employing biomedical methodology.

Key Course Features:

• Our Biomedical Science degree is accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Sciences (IBMS).

• Developed in conjunction with the local University Health Board to ensure an authentic and contemporary education within real biomedical settings, embedded throughout the programme.

• Has access to new, highly specialised facilities based within the university, local research centres and clinical laboratories.

• The curriculum and assessment are reviewed regularly through liaison meetings with local employers and NHS laboratories to ensure students are equipped with the latest thinking in the Biomedical Science field.

• Includes an optional foundation year to prepare you for further years of study by building on your fundamental science knowledge and academic study skills.

• Inclusive and supportive teaching with tutorial support available through the medium of Welsh.

YEAR 1 (LEVEL 4)
Year one of our degree programme establishes a platform of core knowledge across key subject areas including biology, physiology, mathematics and statistics, whilst also introducing students to immunology and microbiology. Specific modules ensure the acquisition of the necessary laboratory skills and a well-grounded understanding of professional issues relevant to the Biomedical Scientist.

MODULES

• Professional Practice for the Biomedical & Life Sciences
• Cell Biology, Biochemistry & Genetics
• Maths and statistics for science
• Essential skills for the Life Sciences
• Health, Wellbeing and the Body
• Introduction to Immunology & Microbiology

YEAR 2 (LEVEL 5)
Year two of the programme largely comprises specialist modules to give you the necessary knowledge in key areas of biomedical science. You will be primed in research methodology and will design and carry out a mini project to prepare you for the final year project. Practical skills are reinforced in a 5-week intensive block spent at the Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board.

MODULES

• Cell & Molecular Biology
• Blood Sciences
• Research Methods, Theory and Practice
• Cellular & Histopathology
• Medical Microbiology
• Advanced Laboratory Skills for the Biomedical & Life Sciences

YEAR 3 (LEVEL 6)
The final year of study focuses upon topics at the forefront of current research in biomedical science and will further develop your critical and analytical skills. A significant part of the final year is a 40 credit research project in which you will carry out an independent piece of research in an area of special interest.

MODULES

• Research project
• Biology of Disease
• Clinical Genetics & Cancer Biology
• Infectious Disease, Immunity & Inflammation
• Advances in Medicine

The information listed in this section is an overview of the academic content of the programme that will take the form of either core or option modules. Modules are designated as core or option in accordance with professional body requirements and internal academic framework review, so may be subject to change.

Teaching & Assessment

Underpinned by the University Active Learning Framework (ALF), the course will involve a number of flexible approaches:

• Synchronous (live) and asynchronous (pre-recorded) sessions
• Laboratory practical sessions Lectures, seminars and group tutorials
• Self-directed study and independent tasks

A learning blend will be used, which will vary between modules. There will be a minimum amount of on campus activities (3 days per week for each level of the programme), online sessions and interactive activities.

A broad range of assessment methods are used; these include learning journals, group projects, portfolios, coursework, literature reviews, oral and poster presentations, case studies and laboratory reports, and exams/in-class tests. Each module is assessed by a variety of methods, enabling students to display their full potential. A project dissertation will form one of the final parts of your assessment. Most assignments will involve electronic submission.

Teaching & Learning
Wrexham University is committed to supporting our students to maximise their academic potential.

We offer workshops and support sessions in areas such as academic writing, effective note-making and preparing for assignments. Students can book appointments with academic skills tutors dedicated to helping deal with the practicalities of university work. Our student support section has more information on the help available.

In terms of particular needs, the University’s Inclusion Services can provide appropriate guidance and support should any students require reasonable adjustments to be made because of a recognised prevailing disability, medical condition, or specific learning difference.