Applied Biomedical Science Degree Apprenticeship
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Key information
Institution code
H36 School of study
School of Life and Medical Sciences Course length
- Part Time, 4 Years
Location
- University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield
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Entry requirements
UCAS points A Level BTEC 104 BCC: To include 2 science A Levels (or equivalent) one of which must be a grade C/4 in Biology or Chemistry (acceptable science subjects are Human Biology, Psychology, geography, Maths and Physics). A pass in the practical element of the science A level is requried. DMM: For BTEC Extended Diploma in an applied science subject Additional requirements
Applicants to be considered for the degree apprenticeship in Biomedical Science must evidence learning at Level 3 in relevant subject areas as outlined in the entry requirements table above or be experienced individuals who are employed/previously employed in a pathology laboratory with prior experience of academic study at level 3 or equivalent. For applicants currently employed their laboratory must be approved by the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS) for training to allow the completion of the IBMS registration training portfolio and support the apprentice in off the job training and successful completion of the End Point Assessment.
GCSE: English language, Mathematics and double science (or 2 single sciences) at grade 4 or above (grade C under the old grading structure) (or equivalent). A minimum Level 2 functional skills in English and Mathematics are a requirement for entry onto the programme.
Applications are also welcomed from those holding other equivalent qualifications including, but not limited to:
- Successful completion of Access to Science (or approved equivalent) with Merit profile in 45 credits at Level 3.
- Those holding equivalent qualifications will be required to discuss their individual circumstances with the appropriate Admissions Tutor.
The programme is subject to the University's Principles, Policies and Regulations for the Admission of Students to Undergraduate and Taught Postgraduate Programmes (in UPR SA03), along with associated procedures. These will take account of University policy and guidelines for assessing accredited prior certificated learning (APCL) and accredited prior experiential learning (APEL).
About the course
Apprenticeship Standard: Healthcare Science Practioner
Final Award: BSc (Hons) Applied Biomedical Science (Work-Based)
Our Biosciences degree apprenticeship programme will give apprentices a sound foundation in the major aspects of biological theory, techniques and practice - from molecules and organelles, to organisms and ecosystems. This will provide your employees with the opportunity to engage with a large array of subject materials, research and testing activities and benefit from our excellent research facilities.
Apprentices are employed by an approved Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS) pathology laboratory and supported thoughout the programme by their trust laboratory staff and the University academic staff.
The programme provides an understanding of the biological basis of human disease and the contribution of the clinical laboratory to diagnosis, treatment and monitoring. It is based on a strong foundation of biology and chemistry such that apprentices can combine an understanding of the physiology, biochemistry and molecular biology of disease with a full appreciation of the analytical techniques used in different clinical laboratories and how this fits into the patient pathway. The programme is underpinned by an extensive practical programme to allow understanding and experience of the range of core and discipline-specific techniques.
The programme is offered as part-time (4 years) and leads to the award of a BSc (Hons) Applied Biomedical Science (Work-Based).
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Level 4
Module Credits Compulsory/optional Cell and Microbiology (Apprenticeship) 15 Credits Compulsory The module will cover key areas of cell biology and microbiology: the nature of cells, how they grow, their organization and classification. Key topics covered will include the following: 1. How genetic information in cells is converted into functioning components. 2. The structure and nature of cells (prokaryotes and eukaryotes) with an emphasis on cell components and functions. a. The structure and components of bacteria and viruses with relation to their identification and disease-causing ability. b. The basic principles of microbial growth. c. Microbes as infectious agents; transmission and control to include basic principles of public health and epidemiology. d. An introduction into fungi and their benefits and harm. e. An introduction into the organization and behaviour of eukaryotic cells. Human Physiology with Pharmacology (Apprenticeship) 30 Credits Compulsory This module has been designed to provide students with an understanding of human physiology, enabling them to describe physiological processes at cell, tissue, organ and organism levels. Topics covered will include: * Homeostasis and control mechanisms * Cell differentiation, basic tissues and musculature * Nervous system (electrical signalling, autonomic nervous system and central nervous system) * Cardiovascular system and blood * Respiratory system * Digestive system * Renal system * Endocrine system and reproduction * Immune system * Integrative physiology * Basic pharmacology including receptor theory and pharmacokinetics to show how medicines may be effectively used to treat disease. *Drug discovery, design and the process of drug development. The importance of clinical trials. Molecular Biology and Genetics (Apprenticeship) 15 Credits Compulsory The genetics component covers: Mendelian inheritance including meiosis and the production of primordial germ cells and gametes (oogenesis, spermatogenesis); linkage and basic human genetic epidemiology. The relationship of mutation to genetic variation and disease is included as well as an introduction to gene regulation. Molecular methods used to study DNA and inheritance are covered and the application of these methods to research, diagnosis and treatment of disease is discussed. Practical and Professional Skills (Apprenticeship) 30 Credits Compulsory The content of this module is designed to develop: Practical Laboratory Skills in: Safe laboratory practice. Accurate pipetting and measurement, making up solutions. Measurement of pH. Familiarisation of laboratories and equipment Sample preparation, staining and microscopy DNA isolation and analysis Cell counting methodologies Chemistry methodologies to include purification, extraction, synthesis and analysis of biological molecules Analytical techniques including centrifugation, chromatography, spectroscopy and electrophoresis Use of dye-binding assays and standard curves in biological measurement Microbiology skills including aseptic technique, viable counting, and diagnostic methods Enzyme activity assays and enzyme kinetics methodology. Transferable skills/Graduate Attributes as follows: Mathematics required for biological calculations, statistical analysis, scientific recording, presentation of data, scientific writing, use of literature and literature searching, referencing, avoiding plagiarism. Development of graduate attributes around research skills, professionalism, employability and enterprise. Knowledge of the healthcare environment and understanding of laboratory medicine: How diagnostic information can be used to inform the wider healthcare agenda. Appreciation of the legislation/policies which support the safe and ethical practice within pathology. Chemistry for the Biological Sciences 15 Credits Compulsory The philosophy of this module is to prepare students for their future studies in the biological sciences. The module introduces the chemical and physical principles that underlie biological processes. Students on this module will learn techniques for characterisation and separation of biological molecules, perform physicochemical calculations appropriate to biological systems and understand how the structure and reactivity of functional groups relates to their biological function. Students will gain experience of computer software packages to draw and understand the structures and shapes of molecules of relevance in biology. Core Biochemistry 15 Credits Compulsory The module will provide an introduction to biochemistry and will also incorporate aspects of chemistry specific to the study of biological systems. Subjects covered will include: the structure of key macromolecules and how this relates to their function in a cell or organism; major catabolic and anabolic pathways and their integration including glycolysis and gluconeogenesis, the TCA cycle, substrate and oxidative phosphorylation, oxidation of fatty acids, storage and mobilisation of glycogen, triglyceride storage and mobilisation, proteins for energy; kinetics including Michaelis-Menton kinetics of enzymes and the calculation of key enzyme parameters; radioactivity and its application to the study of biochemistry, thermodynamics and its application to bioenergetics. -
Level 5
Module Credits Compulsory/optional Genes and Genomes (Apprenticeship) 15 Credits Compulsory Chromosome structure, gene organisation and regulation of expression including basic intercellular signalling, epigenetics, transcription factors, differential mRNA processing and microRNA. Gene and gene family evolution. Repetitive DNA sequences. The elucidation of the organisation of eukaryotic genomes from DNA reassociation kinetics to the human genome sequence. Whole genome analyses and comparative genomics. Recombinant DNA technology and the manipulation of DNA. Introduction to databases and bioinformatics tools and resources for the analysis of biological sequence data. Methods for the analysis of DNA and RNA (including real-time PCR, DNA microarrays, mouse knockout technology, RNAi). Cytogenetics. Principles of population genetics, DNA polymorphism and human diseases. An introduction to pharmacogenetics, personalised medicine and molecular diagnostics. Principles of Immunology (Apprenticeship) 15 Credits Compulsory Anatomy and physiology of the immune system: cells, primary and secondary lymphoid tissues, leukocyte circulation and key phenomena including; chemotaxis, opsonisation, phagocytosis, inflammation, antigen processing and clonal expansion. Natural immunity: role of phagocytic cells, the complement system, cytokines, chemokines and the acute inflammatory response. Hypersensitivity reactions. Adaptive immunity: antigen specificity of B and T cells. Antibody structure and effector functions. T cell subsets; antigen processing and presentation to T cells, the role of the major histocompatibility complex. T-helper cell subpopulations and cytokines in determining the immune response. Immunity to microbial pathogens including bacteria, and viruses. Vaccine design strategies. Inflammation: immunology of chronic inflammation; immunopathology of selected chronic inflammatory diseases. Anti-inflammatory therapies; steroidal and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Cell and Molecular Biology (Apprenticeship) 15 Credits Compulsory Functions of proteins in the cell. Relationship between protein structure and function. Protein structure and disease. Introduction to protein transport. Techniques for protein purification and characterisation: liquid column chromatography, electrophoresis, mass spectrometry. Proteomics. Signal transduction pathways in eukaryotic cells (including G-protein coupled pathways, pathways involving receptor tyrosine kinases, cytokine-activated pathways, cell death pathways) and how they affect cell proliferation, differentiation, motility and viability. Cell division and cell cycle regulation. Functional units of the cellular cytoskeleton and their dynamic organisation. Cytology and Histopathology (Apprenticeship) 15 Credits Compulsory This module has been designed to provide students with an understanding of cytology and histopathology. Topics covered will include: Cell death and cell injury. Overview of benign pathological processes with reference to their pathogenesis, clinical presentation and investigation. Macroscopic and microscopic appearance of commonly investigated human tissues. Macroscopic, cellular and sub-cellular changes resulting from pathological conditions. Common methods for the collection, receipt and processing of human tissues and biological samples for cellular pathology. Implications for sample integrity and clinical validity. Special stains, immunocytochemistry and molecular methods used in cellular pathology. Quality control. Regulations and guidelines relating to the use, storage and disposal of human tissues. Appreciation of the roles and responsibilities of healthcare professionals in the health service and in the cellular pathology services. Case studies demonstrating the relationship between the pathophysiological process and the morphological changes within tissues. Blood Sciences (Apprenticeship) 30 Credits Compulsory Fundamental haematology: haemopoiesis, bone marrow structure and normal red cell physiology. The nature and diagnosis of red cell associated disorders including nutritional anaemias, haemoglobinopathies and haemolytic anaemias. Principles of haemostasis and understanding of bleeding, thrombotic and platelet disorders. Role of the haematology laboratory in diagnosis, monitoring and prognosis of disease. Blood transfusion science theory includes; blood group systems, the blood bank laboratory (components, regulatory bodies, guidelines, quality), hazards of transfusion, and principles of compatibility testing. Haemolytic disease of the newborn alongside the role of RhD prophylaxis will be addressed. The biochemistry will build on first year studies and incorporate the biosynthesis of lipids and amino acids. The pentose phosphate pathway in red blood cells will be addressed. The underlying biochemistry in selected diseases (eg hepatic) will be covered and students will be introduced to the role of the clinical biochemistry laboratory in the diagnosis, monitoring and treatment of disease. Research and Professional Skills (Apprenticeship) 15 Credits Compulsory Core themes of the module are research skills and professional practice. The module aims to develop apprentices critical thinking skills, creativity for experimental design and research questions and professionalism across the academic programme in both taught University sessions and the workplace. The module explores principles and methods underpinning ethical scientific research, focusing on the fundamental knowledge and skills apprentices need to prepare for the final year, especially the research project. Areas related to research include the nature of scientific research papers and other forms of communication, formulation of research questions, experimental design and choosing appropriate statistical analysis, Health & Safety evaluation (COSHH and Risk), research methods in different scientific areas and the importance of quality. The professional development element of the module includes the roles of the professional body (IBMS) & the regulatory body (HCPC) related to Biomedical Science, HCPC standards, IBMS good professional practice document, reflective learning, CPD and relationship to patient care. The work-based learning requires apprentices to demonstrate understanding of quality assurance, competency in a sample of core diagnostic tests, result interpretation and reflective practice This module further supports engagement with the e-Portfolio as a tool for building their evidence collection for the IBMS Registration Training Portfolio. This will include formative and summative pieces of work to demonstrate their skill development and continued acquisition of graduate attributes throughout the year. Microbiology of Disease (Apprenticeship) 15 Credits Compulsory The module will introduce the subject of microbial disease and the identification and treatment of the microbes involved at a general level using selected examples. Subjects covered in the module will include the following. How bacteria spread and cause disease: the role of virulence factors in pathogenicity. The role of commensal bacteria. Bacterial growth; the design and use of diagnostic media; biochemical and serological tests and other methods used in diagnostic microbiology. Fungal classification, growth and pathogenicity. How viruses proliferate and cause disease. Classification and identification of viruses in the laboratory. An introduction to parasites associated with human disease. Key features used in their identification. An introduction to epidemiological methodology and how it is used to monitor the spread of infection . The role of the HPA. The importance of nosocomial infections and opportunistic infections. Basic infection control methods including vaccines and use of antimicrobial agents. -
Level 6
Module Credits Compulsory/optional Cellular and Molecular Pathology (Apprenticeship) 30 Credits Compulsory Collection, preparation and analysis of biological specimens. Clinical application of cellular pathology methods and techniques in diagnosis, treatment and management of cancer. Pathophysiology of tumours. Carcinogenesis and metastasis. Definitions and classification. Genetic and biological basis of cancer development. Treatment and patient management. Cancer prevention and screening programmes. Pathogenesis, clinical presentation, diagnosis, treatment and management of common solid tumours and haematological malignancies. Microorganisms and viruses as etiological agents of cancer and selected clinical disorders; clinical presentation and diagnostic methods. Clinical genetic. Identification of genetic mutations and polymorphisms and their influence on disease processes. Overview of tests that assess the molecular basis of cancer and selected diseases. Molecular techniques for disease investigation, diagnosis, screening and treatment. Topics will be supported by examples from a range of molecular, cellular pathology, microbiology and haematology methods for the diagnosis, management and treatment of selected clinical conditions. Clinical Biochemistry and Immunology (Apprenticeship) 30 Credits Compulsory The aim of the module is to enable the students to relate the measurement of biochemical parameters in bodily fluids to the diagnosis, treatment and monitoring of disease. Markers reflecting the pathophysiology in selected diseases including cardiac, renal, hepatic, bone and endocrine will be considered. The importance of quality management will be addressed. Tumour markers, will also be covered. Immune-mediated disorders: mechanisms of autoimmunity with specific examples of diseases, hypersensitivity reactions (types I-IV) with examples of specific clinical disorders. Immunological markers of disease, serum immunoglobulins, cytokines and related proteins. Transplantation immunology: HLA polymorphism, HLA function, mechanisms of host versus graft disease and graft versus host disease, anti-rejection therapy. Clinical Microbiology (Apprenticeship) 15 Credits Compulsory The aim of the module is to provide a more detailed and applied understanding of the problems associated with microbial diseases, their diagnoses and their control. The key areas covered will be: Bacterial pathogenicity: infections, disease and virulence factors; colonisation and invasion of host surfaces, evasion of the immune system; the mechanism of action of toxins and enzymes in the disease process; and the regulation of virulence. Students will have a detailed understanding of the pathogenicity of a range of bacteria that infect different sites on the body and the differences between how they survive inside a host and cause diseases. Viral pathogenicity: mechanisms of infection and virulence of a number of key infectious viruses. Prions will also be covered. Fungal and parasite pathogenicity: mechanisms of infection and virulence of a number of key infectious viruses. Design of diagnostic tests for pathogens including a comparison of traditional, seriological and molecular techniques such as PCR and MS MALDI-TOF. Issues regarding emerging infectious diseases, viable but nonculturable organisms (VBNC) and any current microbial problems (eg SARS or bird flu). Antibiotic susceptibility and resistance: the mechanisms of spread of antibiotic resistance and the problems associated with hospital and community-acquired antibiotic- resistant infections. Future antibiotic targets. Bioscience Research Project (Apprenticeship) 30 Credits Compulsory The Project provides the opportunity for extended, in-depth study on a selected aspect from those disciplines within the Bioscience Programme and may address one or more of the School's research objectives. Projects may be laboratory or non-laboratory based and the experimental work will be of 22 days duration but all students are encouraged to work on their project preparation from the beginning of their final year. All students have a University supervisor allocated to them in the level 5 module, Bioscience Research Methods. Tutorials with supervisors will include discussion on aims, objectives current theories, research design, data collection and analysis, and the structure of the report. Lectures/ workshop sessions provide support in aspects of analysis and presentation of results. Applied and Integrated Biomedical Science (Apprenticeship) 15 Credits Compulsory The module is designed to integrate the themes for the L6 Healthcare Science Practitioner apprenticeship standard in preparation of the End Point Assessment (EPA). Lectures aim to channel the students acquired skills and knowledge to appreciate innovations in diagnostics and biomedical research, advanced quality management processes, Health and Safety legislation, and leadership. Workshops will develop skills required for the EPA through practice exercises, reflective practice, critical discussions on ethical issues and troubleshooting in diagnostics. Case study scenarios will be provided that involve a range of patient presentations and laboratory findings to illustrate the multidisciplinary nature of patient diagnosis. Students will be required to analyse and communicate their conclusions on these considering data quality to ensure accurate diagnoses. Practical sessions will involve the clinical simulation suite sessions to challenge student's subject specialist knowledge and professional conduct, and computer-based exercises using Bioinformatics. The module is 100% coursework and determined by the End Point Assessment. Readiness for the EPA will be supported by workshops in the module and work-based training to complete the portfolio of evidence. To contribute to evidence collection reflective practice and observation of practical skills will be completed. There will be a continued focus on the patient to reinforce the impact of the role of the Biomedical Scientist in healthcare.
Professional Accreditations
The award of BSc (Hons) Applied Biomedical Science (Work-Based) is accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science.
On completion of the programme graduates will be eligible to apply to the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) to register as a Biomedical Scientist.
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Key staff
Carol d’Souza
Senior Lecturer, Employer Liaison TutorTerry McLaughlin
Programme Lead
Find out more about Terry McLaughlin -
Further information
Course fact sheets BSc (Hons) Applied Biomedical Science (Work-based) Download Programme specifications BSc (Hons) Applied Biomedical Science (Work-based) Degree Apprenticeship Download Additional information Sandwich placement or study abroad year
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Applications open to international and EU students
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