Human Biology and Infectious Diseases

There has never been a more urgent time to explore the pathology, transmission and epidemiology of infectious diseases affecting humans and animals. Start this scientific journey with a BSc (Hons) Human Biology and Infectious Diseases degree at Salford.

One of the few courses of its kind outside of medicine to combine aspects of human physiology, immunology and infectious diseases, this exciting and relevant degree is a gateway to pathology, transmission and epidemiology of infectious diseases affecting humans and animals.

Take your scientific knowledge further
Accredited by the Royal Society of Biology following an independent and rigorous assessment, our course features a solid academic foundation in biological knowledge and key laboratory skills that meets the needs of employers.

Shaped around a core biology curriculum, you will build a systematic understanding of human biology and infectious diseases. With a focus on your future, we place a strong practical focus on nurturing your scientific and transferable skills for your career. Over the three years of study – or four, if you choose to include an industry placement – you will gain a systematic understanding of the key aspects of human biology and infectious diseases whilst developing practical laboratory skills. You will explore specialist subjects such as pathophysiology and parasites.

Throughout your studies, you will develop strong laboratory skills. As a biomedicine-based student, you will spend lots of time in our advanced Bodmer laboratories. These well-equipped, purpose-built facilities ensure your learning remains on the cutting-edge of innovation and discovery. The labs host industry-standard instrumentation, including cell culture facilities, histology specimen preparation station, fluorescence spectroscopy and microscopy.

Get closer to industry
Complementing your laboratory-based sessions at Salford, you will experience visits to local pathology laboratories and receive guest lectures from external NHS specialists and biomedical scientists.

You will also have the option to take an industry placement between years two and three. Building on our connections with regional health and scientific research organisations, recent Human Biology and Infectious Diseases students have completed placements at the Wolfson Imaging Centre in Manchester, the Clinical Epidemiology unit at Manchester and at TSC Ltd in Heywood.

Features
• Develop laboratory and research skills ready for your graduate career
• Include an optional industry placement, where you can apply your learning in local hospitals or research labs
• Accredited by the Royal Society of Biology
• Part-time option available

Course Modules

Year One:

• Molecules to Microbes
• Genetics
• Human Anatomy
• Biological Skills
• Study Skills
• Cell Biology

Year Two:

• Molecular Genetics
• Introduction to Parasitology and Infectious Diseases
• Biological Research Skills
• Microbial Communities and Interactions
• Pathophysiology
• Human Physiology

Year Three:

• Human Genetics
• Biology of Parasites

Choose one option from the following:

• Final Year Project and Professional Skills
• Final Year Project with Science Communication and Professional Skills (HANS)

Plus one option from:

• Advances in Pathophysiology
• Clinical Immunology

And one option from:

• Antimicrobial Resistance: Threats and Solutions
• Veterinary and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases

Typically human biology modules are assessed through a combination of coursework and examination, with coursework accounting for around 40% of the marks. Though this can vary from module to module, for example certain modules are assessed entirely by coursework. Continuous assessment includes a research project, laboratory reports, essays, data analysis and presentations. The final degree award is weighted to reflect year 2 (25%) and final year (75%) performances.