Biomedical Science

Biomedical Science with a Year Abroad - BSc (Hons)

UCAS code B943

This is an archived page and for reference purposes only

2018

Are you interested in a career in the health services, in a pharmaceutical company or in medical research? Would you like to explore diseases like cancer or the response to infection? Are you intrigued to learn how medicines are discovered and how they work?

Overview

In the School of Biosciences, we have a community spirit and students learn with and from each other. We are also renowned for our innovative teaching methods.

  • New ways of using IT in lectures allow you to revisit the teaching at a later date.
  • Our academics have developed animations to help explain tricky concepts.  
  • Special communication projects teach you how to share scientific knowledge with the public.

Our degree is accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS) and the Royal Society of Biology (RSB).

Our degree programme

During your studies you explore the biochemical processes that occur in the human body, learn how they respond to diseases and how this knowledge can be used to identify and treat diseases. In your future career, this scientific knowledge could be put to practical use within medical healthcare.

In your first and second years, you develop your skills as a bioscientist, covering areas including biological chemistry, genetics, molecular and cellular biology, human physiology and disease, and metabolism.

In your final year, your modules cover areas such as immunology, haematology and blood transfusion, and pathogens. Optional modules cover areas including the biology of ageing, neuroscience and cancer biology.

You also complete your own research project. Our research funding of around £4.5 million a year means that you are taught the most up-to-date science and this allows us to offer some exciting and relevant final-year projects.

We also offer between 20 and 30 paid Summer Studentships each year. You can apply to work in our research labs during the summer holiday and gain hands-on research experience before your final year of study.  

Year abroad

Biomedical Science offers the opportunity to go abroad for one year between Stages 2 and 3. Going abroad as part of your degree is an amazing experience and a chance to develop personally, academically and professionally.  You experience a different culture, gain a new academic perspective, establish international contacts and enhance your employability.

You can also choose to take a work placement as part of your degree with our Biomedical Science with a Sandwich Year programme or you have the option to take this programme as a three-year degree, without the year in industry. For details, see Biomedical Science

Study resources

We recently spent £2 million on our laboratories to ensure that you develop your practical skills in a world-class environment. We give you extensive practical training and you spend up to two days a week in the laboratory.

Extra activities

You can join BioSoc, a student-run society. Previous activities have included research talks and social events.

We also encourage our students to attend outside conferences and events. In 2015, Kent students competed with 280 teams and won the gold medal at the International Genetically Engineered Machine (iGEM) Giant Jamboree in the USA.

Professional network

Our school collaborates with research groups in industry and academia throughout the UK and Europe. It also has excellent links with local employers, such as:

  • NHS
  • GSK
  • MedImmune
  • Eli Lilly
  • Lonza
  • Aesica Pharmaceuticals
  • Sekisui Diagnostics
  • Cairn Research
  • Public Health England.

Think Kent video series

Echoing the tale of the Trojan Horse, National Teaching Fellow, Dr Dan Lloyd, explains how antibodies are being used as vehicles to target toxic molecules and radioisotopes to cancer cells exclusively, therefore resulting in more specific therapies and potentially minimising side effects.

Independent rankings

In the National Student Survey 2016, Biomedical Science at Kent was ranked 3rd for the quality of its teaching. Biosciences at Kent was ranked 8th for course satisfaction in The Guardian University Guide 2017.

Biomedical Science students who graduated from Kent in 2015 were the most successful in the UK at finding work or further study opportunities (DLHE).

Teaching Excellence Framework

Based on the evidence available, the TEF Panel judged that the University of Kent delivers consistently outstanding teaching, learning and outcomes for its students. It is of the highest quality found in the UK.

Please see the University of Kent's Statement of Findings for more information.

TEF Gold logo

Course structure

The following modules are indicative of those offered on this programme. This listing is based on the current curriculum and may change year to year in response to new curriculum developments and innovation.  

On most programmes, you study a combination of compulsory and optional modules. You may also be able to take ‘wild’ modules from other programmes so you can customise your programme and explore other subjects that interest you.

Stage 1

Modules may include Credits

This course will provide an introduction to biomolecules in living matter. The simplicity of the building blocks of macromolecules (amino acids, monosaccharides, fatty acids and purine and pyrimidine bases) will be contrasted with the enormous variety and adaptability that is obtained with the different macromolecules (proteins, carbohydrates, lipids and nucleic acids). The nature of the electronic and molecular structure of macromolecules and the role of non-covalent interactions in an aqueous environment will be highlighted. The unit will be delivered though lectures, formative practicals and related feedback sessions to ensure students fully understand what is expected of them. Short tests (formative assessment) will be used throughout the unit to test students' knowledge and monitor that the right material has been extracted from the lectures.

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15

This course aims to introduce the 'workers' present in all cells – enzymes, and their role in the chemical reactions that make life possible.

The fundamental characteristics of enzymes will be discussed – that they are types of protein that act as catalysts to speed up reactions, or make unlikely reactions more likely. Methods for analysis of enzymic reactions will be introduced (enzyme kinetics). Control of enzyme activity, and enzyme inhibition will be discussed.

Following on from this the pathways of intermediary metabolism will be introduced. Enzymes catalyse many biochemical transformations in living cells, of which some of the most fundamental are those which capture energy from nutrients. Energy capture by the breakdown (catabolism) of complex molecules and the corresponding formation of NADH, NADPH, FADH2 and ATP will be described. The central roles of the tricarboxylic acid cycle and oxidative phosphorylation in aerobic metabolism will be detailed. The pathways used in animals for catabolism and biosynthesis (anabolism) of some carbohydrates and fat will be covered, as well as their control. Finally how humans adapt their metabolism to survive starvation will be discussed.

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15

This module addresses key themes and experimental techniques in molecular and cellular illustrated by examples from a range of microbes animals and plants . It covers basic cell structure, and organisation including organelles and their functions, cytoskeleton, cell cycle control and cell division. The control of all living processes by genetic mechanisms is introduced and an opportunity to handle and manipulate genetic material provided in the laboratory. Monitoring of students' knowledge and progress will be provided by a multi-choice test and the laboratory report, with feedback.

Functional Geography of Cells: Introduction to cell organisation, variety and cell membranes. Molecular traffic in cells. Organelles involved in energy and metabolism. Eukaryotic cell cycle. Chromosome structure & cell division. Meiosis and recombination. Cytoskeleton.

Molecular biology: The structure and function of genetic material. Chromosomes, chromatin structure, mutations, DNA replication, DNA repair and recombination, Basic mechanisms of transcription, mRNA processing and translation.

Techniques in molecular and cellular biology: Methods in cell Biology - light and electron microscopy; cell culture, fractionation and protein isolation/electrophoresis; antibodies, radiolabelling. Gene Cloning – vectors, enzymes, ligation, transformation, screening; hybridisation, probes and blots, PCR, DNA sequencing. Applications of recombinant DNA technology.

Laboratory: PCR amplification of DNA and gel analysis.

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15

This module will consider the anatomy and function of normal tissues, organs and systems and then describe their major pathophysiological conditions. It will consider the aetiology of the condition, its biochemistry and its manifestation at the level of cells, tissues and the whole patient. It may also cover the diagnosis and treatment of the disease condition.

Indicative topics will include:

Cells and tissues

Membrane dynamics

Cell communication and homeostasis

Introduction to the nervous system

The cardiovascular system

The respiratory system

The immune system and inflammation

Blood cells and clotting

The Urinary system

The digestive system, liver and pancreas

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15

Subject-based and communication skills are relevant to all the bioscience courses. This module allows you to become familiar with practical skills, the analysis and presentation of biological data and introduces some basic mathematical and statistical skills as applied to biological problems. It also introduces you to the computer network and its applications and covers essential skills such as note-taking and essay writing.

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15

This module is an introduction to Mendelian genetics and also includes human pedigrees, quantitative genetics, and mechanisms of evolution.

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15

Students without A2 Chemistry (equivalent) on entry take Phases 1+2+3

N.B. Students with A2 Chemistry or equivalent below grade C will follow Phases 1+2+3

This approach allows fundamental concepts (Phase 1) to be taught to non-A2 Chemistry students. All students will participate in the core section: Phase 2.

This module links to Biological Chemistry A with identically designed phases (1, 2 and 3) to maximise teaching efficiency across all programs in the School of Biosciences.

Phase 1: Autumn Term (5 lectures, 6 x 2 hr Workshops)

Basic chemical concepts for biology will be taught and applied through examples in a workshop atmosphere. The five workshop topics covered are: (i) Atoms and states of matter (ii) valence and bonding (iii) basic organic chemistry for biologists (iv) molecular shapes and isomerism in biology and (iv) chemical reactivity and chemical equations.

Assessment feedback of basic chemistry (1 session/lecture)

Phase 2: Autumn Term (9 lectures, 2 x 2 hr Workshop, 3 extra support lectures)

Chemical and biochemical thermodynamics. Topics covered are: (i) energetic and work, (ii) enthalpy, entropy and the laws of thermodynamics (iii) Gibbs free energy, equilibrium and spontaneous reactions, (iv) Chemical and biochemical equilibrium (including activity versus concentration and Le Chatelier's principle). The two hour workshop is designed to be delivered as small group sessions to cover the applications and practice of thermodynamics concepts.

Chemistry applied to biological concepts: bonding, valence, hybridisation as well as biological applied thermodynamic process (biomolecular association/dissociation).

Assessment feedback (1 session/lecture)

Phase 3: Spring Term (17 lectures, 2 x 2 hr workshop)

Fundamental organic chemistry with biological examples. Topics covered: (i) Introduction and basic functional chemistry, (ii) Isomerism and stereochemistry, (iii) Reaction mechanisms, (iv) Alkanes/alkyl halides/alkenes/alkynes, (v) Aromatic compounds, (vi) Heterocyclic compounds, (vii) Amines and alcohols (viii) Carbonyl compounds and carboxylic acids and (ix) Biological inorganic chemistry. The two workshops is designed to be delivered as small group sessions to cover the applications of reaction mechanisms and reaction schemes.

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30

Students with A2 Chemistry (equivalent) on entry take Phases 2+3+4

Biology students with A2 Chemistry (or equivalent) will obtain additional chemical concepts (Phase 4) as their chemistry qualification at A2 will already furnish them with concepts from Phase 1. All students will participate in the core section: Phase 2.

Phases 2+3+4 students will use the Phase 1 coursework test as a formative assessment to recognise their required chemical knowledgebase as obtained at A2 level. This provides an opportunity to identify students requiring additional support.

This module links to Biological Chemistry A with identically designed phases (1, 2 and 3) to maximise teaching efficiency across all programs in the School of Biosciences.

Phase 2: Autumn Term (9 lectures, 2 x 2 hr Workshop, 3 extra support lectures)

Chemical and biochemical thermodynamics. Topics covered are: (i) energetic and work, (ii) enthalpy, entropy and the laws of thermodynamics (iii) Gibbs free energy, equilibrium and spontaneous reactions, (iv) Chemical and biochemical equilibrium (including activity versus concentration and Le Chatelier's principle). The two hour workshop is designed to be delivered as small group sessions to cover the applications and practice of thermodynamics concepts.

Chemistry applied to biological concepts: bonding, valence, hybridisation as well as biological applied thermodynamic process (biomolecular association/dissociation).

Assessment feedback (1 session/lecture)

Phase 3: Spring Term (17 lectures, 2 x 2 hr workshop)

Fundamental organic chemistry with biological examples. Topics covered: (i) Introduction and basic functional chemistry, (ii) Isomerism and stereochemistry, (iii) Reaction mechanisms, (iv) Alkanes/alkyl halides/alkenes/alkynes, (v) Aromatic compounds, (vi) Heterocyclic compounds, (vii) Amines and alcohols (viii) Carbonyl compounds and carboxylic acids and (ix) Biological inorganic chemistry. The two workshops is designed to be delivered as small group sessions to cover the applications of reaction mechanisms and reaction schemes.

Phase 4: Spring Term (8 lectures, 2 x 1 hr workshop)

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30

Stage 2

Modules may include Credits

This module will introduce the student to two of the four main branches of laboratory medicine, Clinical Biochemistry and Cellular Pathology, and begin to develop the skills students will require to work effectively and safely within a clinical setting.

Clinical Biochemistry:

The use of the laboratory, quality assurance and techniques (including Instrumentation and Automation, Clinical Applications, Antigen-Antibody Reactions, Separation techniques) will be introduced using the various screening and testing procedures as below.

Screening for disease – concepts, rationale and screening programmes, application of biochemical techniques to paediatrics and inborn errors of metabolism, tumour markers, liver function, iron and porphyrias, enzymes and their use in laboratory medicine, clinical applications of protein biochemistry, nutrition in health and disease, lipids and atherosclerosis.

Cellular Pathology:

Application of histological and cytological techniques in a clinical setting including cell and tissue sampling techniques for histological and cytological diagnosis.

Use histochemical and immunohistochemical stain techniques for diagnosis and selection of treatment.

Microscopic methods used in cellular pathology.

Quality control and quality assurance.

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15

Communication Skills in Biosciences: Essay writing, oral presentations, laboratory reports, the scientific literature and literature reviews. Working in groups.

Techniques in Biomolecular Science: Immunochemistry. Monoclonal and polyclonal antibody production, immuno-chromatography, ELISA and RIA. Electrophoresis, Immunoblotting, Protein Determination, Activity Assays, Purification.

Computing for Biologists: Bioinformatics, phylogenetic trees, database searches for protein/DNA sequences.

Mini-project – introduction to research skills: Students will work in groups of eight to undertake directed experimental work (Group Project) before extending the project further through self-directed experiments working as a pair (Mini Project).

Careers: The programme will be delivered by the Careers Advisory Service and will review the types of careers available for bioscience students. The sessions will incorporate personal skills, careers for bioscience graduates, records of achievement, curriculum vitae preparation, vacation work, postgraduate study, interview skills and action planning.

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15

Introduction: The ecological, medical, scientific and commercial importance of bacteria. Bacterial evolution and taxonomy.

Microbial biodiversity at the structural level: Composition of the average bacterial cell and basic bacterial cell structure. Gram positive and gram negative. Archea. Organisation of DNA. Membranes and the transport of small molecules into and out of the cell. Peptidoglycan and LPS and their importance in pathogenesis. The location and function of proteins. Capsule, flagella and adhesins.

Introduction to growth, fuelling and biosynthesis: Division by binary fission, including growth equations. Growth in batch and chemostat cultures; liquid vs. solid media. Nutritional and non-nutritional factors affecting growth (temperature, osmolarity, pH and antibiotics). Physiological state and balanced growth. Adaptation to extreme conditions.

Microbial biodiversity at the physiological and biochemical level: The diversity in bacterial metabolism (nutrient sources (particularly carbon and nitrogen)), photosynthesis, aerobic and anaerobic growth and alternative terminal electron acceptors. Fermentation. The inverse relationship between growth factor requirements and biochemical complexity. The ecological significance of bacteria.

Synthesis, localisation and assembly of macromolecular structures: DNA replication and transcription. Translational and protein localisation, assembly of flagella and adhesins. Membranes, including LPS. Peptidoglycan. Antibiotics that inhibit peptidoglycan biosynthesis. Capsules.

Microbial communities and ecology: growth and survival in the real world (e.g. soils and sediments), studying populations and individuals. Biofilms and complex communities. Diauxie and growth.

Signalling and physiological control: Introduction to bacterial genetics. The regulation of gene expression at the transcriptional and post-transcriptional level in response to environmental factors Chemotaxis.

Practical: "Antibiotics" in which students follow the growth of bacteria upon treatment with bacteriostatic and bactericidal antibiotics and answer questions about data concerning the mode of action of antibiotic resistance presented in the laboratory manual.

Workshop: "Growth and viable counts" in which the students are given numerical data + growth equations and have to define factors such as (i) dilutions needed to give specific cell numbers, (ii) generations of growth to achieve specific cells numbers (iii) growth rate/doubling time. Designed to give students the skills required to manipulate bacterial cells to achieve correct cell density and growth phase for practical work.

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15

This module will consider the anatomy and function of the immune system and immunopathology and then consider the diseases and microorganisms that affect the different organs and tissues of the human body. Indicative topics will include inflammation, innate and adaptive immunity to pathogens, immune defence mechanisms against bacterial, viral and parasitic infections, antibody classes and functions, antigen processing and presentation, complement, the generation of antibody diversity, cell communication and immunopathology, including autoimmunity, hypersensitivity and transplant rejection. In the medical microbiology section of the module, indicative topics will include epidemiology, virology, parasitology, fungal infections, skin infections, GI tract infections, CNS infections, respiratory tract infections, UTI and STD infections.

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15

Reproductive System: Male and female reproductive systems; Endocrine control of reproduction; Fertilisation; Early embryogenesis; Pregnancy and Parturition; Reproductive disorders.

Muscle: Muscle types: skeletal, smooth and cardiac; Structure of muscle; Molecular basis of contraction; Regulation of contraction including neural control; Energy requirements of muscle; Types of movement: reflex, voluntary, rhythmic; Muscle disorders.

Nervous System: Cells of the nervous system- neurons and glia; Electrical properties of neurons- action potential generation and conduction; Synaptic structure and function- transmitters and receptors; Structural organization of the central nervous system (CNS) and function of individual regions; Organization and function of the peripheral nervous system (PNS)- somatic motor, autonomic (sympathetic and parasympathetic) and sensory; Sensory systems- vision, hearing, taste, smell, pain. Disorders of the nervous system.

Endocrine System: Endocrine glands; Classes of hormones; Mechanisms of hormone action; Regulation of hormone release; Endocrine disorders.

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15

Introduction and basic principles of drug action: key drug targets including major receptor subtypes, ion channels, transporters, and structure-function relationships

Systems pharmacology: the biological basis of diseases states affecting different physiological systems, therapeutic approaches to treating these diseases, and the cellular/molecular mode of action of drugs used. Indicative diseases may include hypertension, asthma, Parkinson's disease, schizophrenia, infertility, depression and anxiety.

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15

This module covers the general principles of metabolic disorders and focuses on pathways, enzyme mechanisms, and diseases associated with:

Energy metabolism

Amino acid/nucleotide metabolism

The urea cycle

Cholesterol metabolism

Vitamin metabolism

Heme synthesis/breakdown

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15

Principles of metabolic regulation: Allostery, cooperativity, phosphorylation, and hormonal control. Metabolic regulation in response to cellular energy status.Transcriptional regulation.

Plant metabolism: Photosynthesis, carbon fixation, and secondary metabolites.

Microbial metabolism: Nitrogen cycle, stress responses, omics approaches, metals, and secondary metabolites.

Metabolism in biotechnology: Manipulating microbial metabolism for the production of useful compounds. Manipulating mammalian cell metabolism in biotechnology.

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15

The module deals with the molecular mechanisms of gene expression and its regulation in organisms ranging from viruses to man. This involves descriptions of how genetic information is stored in DNA and RNA, how that information is decoded by the cell and how this flow of information is controlled in response to changes in environment or developmental stage. Throughout, the mechanisms in prokaryotes and eukaryotes will be compared and contrasted and will touch on the latest developments in how we can analyse gene expression, and what these developments have revealed.

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15

The cell is the fundamental structural unit in living organisms. Eukaryotic cells are compartmentalized structures that like prokaryotic cells, must perform several vital functions such as energy production, cell division and DNA replication and also must respond to extracellular environmental cues. In multicellular organisms, certain cells have developed modified structures, allowing them to fulfil highly specialised roles. This module reviews the experimental approaches that have been taken to investigate the biology of the cell and highlights the similarities and differences between cells of complex multicellular organisms and microbial cells. Initially the functions of the cytoskeleton and certain cellular compartments, particularly the nucleus, are considered. Later in the unit, the mechanisms by which newly synthesised proteins are secreted or shuttled to their appropriate cellular compartments are examined.

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15

Year abroad

Going abroad as part of your degree is an amazing experience and a chance to develop personally, academically and professionally.  You experience a different culture, gain a new academic perspective, establish international contacts and enhance your employability.

Students on a four-year degree programme spend a year between Stages 2 and 3 at one of our partner universities in North America, Mainland Europe and South East Asia.  For a full list, please see Go Abroad. Places are subject to availability, language and degree programme.

Progression: To progress to stage 2 you must achieve an overall average of 65% in Stage 1 unless you applied before July and met the conditions of the entry offer made. If the 65% requirement is not met, you will be transferred to the equivalent 3-year programme which is identical except for the year spent away from the University.

Modules may include Credits

A synopsis of the curriculum

The Year Abroad involves delivery of taught content and assessment of student learning at an academic institution abroad. To achieve the subject specific and generic learning outcomes students are expected to undertake a full-time load (as defined by the host institution) during the academic year of approved study at one of the designated partner universities with which UoK has a Memorandum of Understanding that allows the transfer of ECTS academic credit.

Material studied will be relevant to the student's degree programme. It will be determined jointly by the student, the School, and the host institution and is subject to availability within agreements made between UoK and the host institution.

Students may elect to take courses to address areas of weakness or areas of special interest, especially where there are recognised to be particular strengths or unique emphases in teaching practices or content at the host institution compared with those in the student's UoK modules.

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120

Stage 3

Modules may include Credits

Part A: Eukaryotic pathogens (parasites)

Parasites and pathogenicity, transmission and diversity.

• Parasites and pathogenicity, transmission and diversity.

• Mechanisms of Pathogenesis and methods for studying them.

• Microbial pathogenicity: variations on a common theme.

• Definitions on parasitic lifestyle.

• Investigations on worldwide parasitic outbreaks and their socio-economical effects.

• Eukaryotic pathogens and their effect in the microbiome.

Part B: Bacterial pathogens

• Methodology of studying bacterial pathogenesis.

• Virulence factors including toxins and adhesins.

• Applications of virulence factors in the treatment and prevention of disease.

Part C: Viral pathogens

• Viruses and Human Disease - transmission and spread, overview of important human virus infections, mechanisms of transmission (Aerosol, Oral-faecal, Sexual etc.), epidemiology - patterns of endemic and epidemic disease.

• Mechanisms of Pathogenesis - spread in the body, disease mechanisms, mechanisms of cell killing (Herpes simplex and Polio), immunopathology and auto-immune disease.

• Virus infection – long term consequences for the host, escape through mutation and natural selection, disabling the immune system, avoidance mechanisms.

• Viruses and Cancer - mechanisms of virus transformation (EBV, Retroviruses & Papilloma), viruses and human cancer (Cervical carcinoma, Hepatocellular Carcinoma & Burkitt Lymphoma).

Part D: Human fungal pathogens

• Fungi and Human Disease - overview of major human fungal infections, clinical picture, diagnosis and mechanisms of transmission, epidemiological aspects of fungal infections.

• Mechanisms of Fungal Pathogenesis - adherence, invasion of eukaryotic cells, morphogenesis, virulence factors.

• Host resistance to infection and antifungal chemotherapy - host defence mechanisms to fungal infections, role of the humoral and cellular immune response, antifungal chemotherapy: azoles, polyenes, echinocandines and antimetabolites, future developments for the treatment of fungal infections.

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15

Early in the Autumn term, projects are assigned to students by the project co-ordinator (a member of academic staff), where possible in accordance with student choice. Students then meet with their project supervisor to discuss the objectives of the project and obtain guidance on background reading. During the Autumn term students write a brief formative literature review on the project topic providing them with a good background before embarking on the project work.

The main project activities take place in the Spring term. Students taking laboratory projects spend 192 hours (24 hours per week for 8 weeks) in the lab planning, carrying out and documenting experiments. A further 108 hours are allowed for background reading and report writing. There are informal opportunities to discuss the project work and relevant literature with the supervisor and other laboratory staff. Formal meetings may be arranged at the discretion of the student and supervisor. Students undertaking non-laboratory projects are based in the library or, occasionally, in the laboratory; they are expected to dedicate 300 hours to their project work. Non-laboratory students are strongly encouraged to meet with the supervisor at least once a week to discuss progress and ideas and to resolve problems. At the end of the formal project time, students are allowed time to complete the final project report, although they are encouraged to start writing as early as possible during the Spring term. The supervisor provides feedback on content and style of a draft of the report. In addition, students are expected to deliver their findings in presentation lasting 10 minutes with 5 minutes of questions.

• Wet/Dry Laboratory and Computing: practical research undertaken in the teaching laboratories, or on computers followed by preparation of a written report

• Dissertation: library-based research leading to production of a report in the style of a scientific review

• Business: development of a biotechnology business plan

• Communication: similar to dissertation projects but with an emphasis on presenting the scientific topic to a general, non-scientist audience

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30

The aim of this Advanced Immunology module is to review topical aspects of advanced immunology with emphasis on the regulation of the immune response, and the role of dysfunctional immune systems in the aetiology of a variety of disease states. Indicative topics include antigen processing and presentation, transplant rejection, autoimmunity, hypersensitivity, cell migration homing and extravasation, cytokines, tumour immunology, mucosal immunology and autophagy.

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15

This module describes the anatomy, physiology, pathology, and therapy of the blood and blood forming tissues, including the bone marrow. It covers a wide range of disorders including haematological malignancies, infection with blood-borne parasites that cause malaria, and inappropriate clotting activities such as deep vein thrombosis.

Haematology:

An introduction to haematology: module outline, aims and objectives

Haemopoiesis and the bone marrow

The red cell: structure and function

Inherited abnormalities of red cells

Anaemias – acquired and inherited

White blood cells in health and disease

An introduction to haematological malignancies

Bleeding disorders and their laboratory investigation

Thrombophilia

Blood borne parasites

Blood transfusion:

The ABO and Rhesus blood group systems

Other blood group systems

Blood banking techniques

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15

A synopsis of the curriculum

1. Outline of microbial physiology and genetics part II

2. Microbial taxonomy and phylogenetics

3. Microbial homeostasis - regulation of primary and secondary metabolism

4. Genomic regulation - Transcriptional and post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression

5. Experimental approaches used to study microbial physiology, microbial genomes and gene expression

6. Microbial biochemistry

7. Microbial biodiversity and complex signalling in the environment

8. Application of microbes in biotechnology

Practical on bacterial transcriptional regulation using gene-expression reporter fusions

Group presentation of a research paper relating to topic areas on "Microbial biodiversity at the physiological and biochemical level".

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15

Bioinformatics Data sources & Sequence analysis: Databases and data availability. Using sequence data for analysis – sequence searching methods, multiple sequence alignments, residue conservation, Protein domains and families.

Protein Bioinformatics Methods: Protein structure and function prediction. Prediction of binding sites/interfaces with small ligands and with other proteins. Bioinformatics analyses using protein data.

Genomics: An introduction to the analysis of genomic data, primarily focussing on the data available from genome sequencing – how it can be used to study genetic variants and compare genomes (i.e. comparative and functional genomics).

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15

The module aims to develop understanding and analytical skills in oncology, based around interactive seminars wherein students will analyse, present, and discuss the relevant research literature. The students will gain experience in scientific design, literature analysis, scientific communication, and the analysis of experimental data.

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Cancer formation and progression; underlying factors, cancer cell heterogeneity, uncontrolled cell division, invasive growth/ metastasis formation.

The Molecular Biology of Cancer: (Proto-)Oncogenes, tumour suppressor genes, cell cycle control, cell death.

Cancer therapies.

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A synopsis of the curriculum

The module overviews the importance of studying ageing, the organisms and methods used to do so and considers how organisms age together with providing a detailed understanding of the processes and molecular mechanisms that govern ageing.

Introduction

Importance and principles of ageing research

Why do organisms age and theories of ageing: e.g. Damage theory, telomeres, genetics and trade off theories.

How ageing and lifespan is measured

Overview of processes and pathways controlling ageing

Methods in ageing research

Model Organisms: Benefits and problems associated with studying ageing in model organisms. Including: Yeast, worms, flies, mice, primates.

Systems approaches to studying ageing: e.g. high throughput DNA/RNA sequencing, high throughput proteomics and, metabolomics. Pros and cons of these methods, what we have learned from them.

Signalling pathways that control ageing

Insulin signalling pathway and Target of Rapamycin (ToR) pathway

Organisation of pathways and the molecules involved, how they were discovered to be implicated in lifespan and ageing, ways of modelling and studying their molecular detail in animals e.g. genetic/ epistasis analysis

The processes downstream of these pathways that allow them to control lifespan/ageing e.g. stress resistance, autophagy, reduced translation, enhanced immunity etc…

Cross-talk between pathways.

Dietary restriction, lifespan and ageing

How dietary restriction works in different organisms, what signalling pathways and processes it affects.

Diseases of ageing

What these are e.g. Alzheimers, Huntington's

Overview of 'normal ageing’ associated processes e.g. muscle weakening.

How they can be studied in model organsims and the importance of ageing research for treating these disorders.

Ethics of ageing research

Pros and cons of studying ageing with a goal of extending human lifespan e.g. insurance, health system, social, psychological implications.

Workshop 1: Group discussion of key ageing research paper(s) (small groups).

Workshop 2: Data analysis session (whole class or 2-3 groups).

Workshop 3: Overview of the module in preparation for revision/exam (whole class).

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15

This module focuses on the endocrine system, which in conjunction with the nervous system, is responsible for monitoring changes in an animal's internal and external environments, and directing the body to make any necessary adjustments to its activities so that it adapts itself to these environmental changes.

The emphasis will be on understanding the underlying principles of endocrinology, the mechanisms involved in regulating hormone levels within tight parameters in an integrated manner and the central importance of the hypothalamic-pituitary axis.

During the lectures each major endocrine gland or functional group of glands will be explored in turn and specific clinical disorders will be used to illustrate the role of the endocrine organs in the maintenance of whole body homeostasis. The systems studied will include the following: thyroid gland, parathyroid gland and bone metabolism, adrenal gland, renal hormones (water and salt balance), pancreatic hormones, gut hormones and multiple endocrine neoplasia, gonadal function and infertility.

Consideration will be given to the methods available for the diagnosis of specific endocrine diseases, including the measurement of electrolyte and hormone levels, and the role of dynamic testing.

The role of the endocrine system in integrating metabolic pathways will be emphasised throughout the module and particular scenarios such as infertility, diabetes mellitus.

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15

This module is designed to provide students across the university with access to knowledge, skill development and training in the field of entrepreneurship with a special emphasis on developing a business plan in order to exploit identified opportunities. Hence, the module will be of value for students who aspire to establishing their own business and/or introducing innovation through new product, service, process, project or business development in an established organisation. The module complements students' final year projects in Computing, Law, Biosciences, Electronics, Multimedia, and Drama etc.

The curriculum is based on the business model canvas and lean start up principles (Osterwalder and Pigneur 2010) on designing a business plan for starting a new venture or introducing innovation in an established organisation.

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A synopsis of the curriculum

The module begins by overviewing the diverse mechanisms used by cells to communicate, considering the main modes of cell-cell communication, the major classes of signalling molecules and the receptor types upon which they act. It then focuses on nuclear, G-protein coupled, and enzyme linked receptors covering in molecular detail these receptors and their associated signal transduction pathways.

Introduction:

Principles of Cell Signalling.

Cell Adhesion and Cell Communication (adhesion and gap junctions).

Signalling Molecules: Hormones, neurotransmitters, growth factors.

Receptor Types: Nuclear, G-protein coupled, Ion-channel linked, Enzyme-linked.

Nuclear Receptors:

Cellular location and molecular organisation of receptors. Structure/function/activity relationships. Receptors as sequence-specific DNA binding proteins.

G-Protein Coupled Receptors:

Receptors coupled to heterotrimeric guanine nucleotide binding proteins (G proteins). Composition and classification of G-proteins, their activation and modulation by toxins and disease.

Second Messengers and Protein Phosphorylation (kinases and phosphatases).

Cyclic Nucleotide-Dependent Systems: G proteins in regulation of adenylyl cyclase-cAMP-protein kinase A (PKA) and guanylyl cyclase-cGMP pathways. Physiological roles e.g. in visual transduction and glycogen metabolism.

Inositol lipids in signal transduction: Regulation of phospholipase C. Inositol polyphosphates (e.g. IP3) and diacylglycerol (DAG) in regulation of Ca++-dependent kinases. Roles in specific cellular responses e.g. regulation of protein kinase C.

Interactions of Signalling Pathways:

'Cross-Talk' between different pathways and messenger molecules.

Enzyme Linked Receptors:

Receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs), e.g. epidermal growth factor receptor (EGF) family and insulin receptor, and their varied roles in cellular metabolism, cell behaviour, development and disease.

Molecular organisation of receptors, autophosphorylation of intracellular domains.

Intracellular signalling pathways: activation of monomeric G-protein Ras, leading to activation of the mitogen activated protein (MAP) kinase cascade.

Integration of signalling components: Role of adapter proteins (e.g. GRB2) and their protein-protein interaction domains (SH2, SH3 etc.) in linking ligand-receptor complexes to intracellular proteins.

Practical: Characterisation of G-protein coupled receptors using a cAMP-linked reporter gene assay.

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15

Cells and subcellular compartments are separated from the external milieu by lipid membranes with protein molecules inserted into the lipid layer. The aim of this module is to develop understanding of both the lipid and protein components of membranes as dynamic structures whose functions are integrated in cellular processes.

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15

Teaching and assessment

Teaching includes lectures, laboratory classes, workshops, problem-solving sessions and tutorials. You have an Academic Adviser who you meet with at regular intervals to discuss your progress, and most importantly, to identify ways in which you can improve your work further so that you reach your full potential.

Most modules are assessed by a combination of continuous assessment and end-of-year exams. Exams take place at the end of the academic year and count for 50% or more of the module mark. Stage 1 assessments do not contribute to the final degree classification, but all stage 2 and 3 assessments do, meaning that your final degree award is an average of many different components. On average, 26% of your time is spent in an activity led by an academic; the rest of your time is for independent study.

Programme aims

The programme aims to:

  • instil a sense of enthusiasm for biomedical science, confront the scientific, moral plus ethical questions raised and engage in critical assessment of the subject material
  • give students an understanding of scientific investigation of human health and disease
  • provide a stimulating, research-active environment in which students are supported and motivated to achieve their academic and personal potential
  • educate students in the theoretical and practical aspects of biomedical science
  • facilitate the learning experience through a variety of teaching and assessment methods
  • give students the experience of undertaking an independent research project
  • prepare students for further study, or training, and employment in science and non-science based careers, by developing transferable and cognitive skills
  • develop the qualities needed for employment in situations requiring the exercise of professionalism, independent thought, personal responsibility and decision making in complex and unpredictable circumstances
  • provide access to as wide a range of students as practicable
  • develop skills in appreciating learning in a foreign culture by allowing students to study at a university during the year abroad
  • experience and gain knowledge of the scientific working practices and culture of another country.

Learning outcomes

Knowledge and understanding

You gain knowledge and understanding of:

  • the structure, function and control of the human body
  • the main metabolic pathways used in biological systems in catabolism and anabolism, understanding biological reactions in chemical terms
  • the variety of mechanisms by which metabolic pathways can be controlled and the way that they can be co-ordinated with changes in the physiological environment
  • the genetic organisation of various types of organism and the way in which genes can be expressed and their expression controlled
  • molecular genetic techniques and the causes and consequences of alterations of genetic material
  • the structure and function of the main classes of macromolecules such as DNA, RNA, proteins, lipids and polysaccharides
  • the immune response in health and disease
  • the structure, physiology, biochemistry, classification and control of microorganisms
  • the main principles of cell and molecular biology, biochemistry and microbiology
  • the microscopic examination of cells (cytology) and tissues (histology) for indicators of disease
  • the qualitative and quantitative evaluation of analytes to aid the diagnosis, screening and monitoring of health and disease (clinical biochemistry)
  • immunological disease/disorders
  • the different elements that constitute blood in normal and diseased states (haematology)
  • the identification of blood group antigens and antibodies (immunohaematology and transfusion science)
  • pathogenic microorganisms
  • the main methods for communicating information on biomedical sciences
  • the way biomedical scientists are taught and trained in a different cultural setting.

Intellectual skills

You gain the following intellectual abilities:

  • understand the scope of teaching methods and study skills relevant to the biomedical sciences degree programme
  • understand the concepts and principles in outcomes, recognising and applying biomedical specific theories, paradigms, concepts or principles. For example, the relationship between biochemical activity and disease
  • acquire the skills for analysis, synthesis, summary and presentation of biomedical information
  • demonstrate competence in solving extended biomedical problems involving advanced data manipulation and comprehension using biomedical specific and transferable skills
  • integrate scientific evidence, to formulate and test hypotheses
  • structure, develop and defend complex scientific arguments by understanding and applying your knowledge base
  • plan, execute and interpret the data from a short research project
  • recognise the moral and ethical issues of biomedical investigations and appreciate the need for ethical standards and professional codes of conduct.

Subject-specific skills

You gain subject-specific skills in the following:

  • the ability to handle biological material and chemicals safely, thus being able to assess any potential hazards associated with biomedical experimentation
  • perform risk assessments prior to the execution of an experimental protocol
  • use basic and advanced experimental equipment in executing the core practical techniques used by biomedical scientists
  • find information on biomedical topics from a wide range of information resources and maintain an effective information retrieval strategy
  • plan, execute and assess the results from experiments using acquired subject-specific knowledge
  • identify the best method for presenting and reporting on biomedical investigations using written, data manipulation/presentation and computer skills
  • awareness of the employment opportunities for biomedical graduates.

Transferable skills

You gain transferable skills in the following:

  • receive and respond to a variety of sources of information
  • communicate effectively to a variety of audiences using a range of formats
  • Problem-solve by a variety of methods, especially numerical, including the use of computers
  • Use the internet and other electronic sources critically as a means of communication and as a source of information
  • interpersonal and teamwork abilities that allow you to identify individual and collective goals, recognise and respect the views and opinions of other team members
  • self-management and organisational skills
  • awareness of information sources for assessing and planning future career development
  • the ability to function effectively in a working environment
  • the ability to work and communicate effectively within a different cultural setting.

Careers

Graduate destinations

Our recent graduates have gone on to careers including:

  • healthcare in the NHS
  • medical research based in academic, government, industrial and medical labs
  • biotechnology
  • teaching
  • industry and commerce
  • scientific publishing
  • marketing
  • information technology.

Help finding a job

The School of Biosciences runs employability events with talks from alumni outlining their career paths since graduation.

The University also has a friendly Careers and Employability Service, which can give you advice on how to:

  • apply for jobs
  • write a good CV
  • perform well in interviews.

Career-enhancing skills

You graduate with an excellent grounding in scientific knowledge and extensive laboratory experience. In addition, you also develop the key transferable skills sought by employers, such as:

  • excellent communication skills
  • teamwork
  • the ability to analyse problems
  • time management.

You can also gain new skills by signing up for one of our Kent Extra activities, such as learning a language or volunteering.

Professional recognition

Our degree is accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS) and the Royal Society of Biology (RSB). For future employers, this accreditation helps to demonstrate a wide-ranging scientific education with practical skills and experience.

Independent rankings

Bioscience students who graduated from Kent in 2015 were the most successful in the UK at finding work or further study opportunities (DLHE).

According to Which? University (2017), the average starting salary for graduates of this degree is £18,000.

Professional recognition

Our Biomedical Science degree programme is accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS) and the Royal Society of Biology (RSB).

University tends to be when you grow up… There’s no better place to do this than at Kent.

Bal Sandher Biomedical Science BSc

Entry requirements

Home/EU students

The University will consider applications from students offering a wide range of qualifications, typical requirements are listed below. Students offering alternative qualifications should contact the Admissions Office for further advice. It is not possible to offer places to all students who meet this typical offer/minimum requirement.

Qualification Typical offer/minimum requirement
A level

ABB including Biology or Human Biology grade B or Double Award Applied Science at grade BB including the practical endorsement of any science qualifications taken.

GCSE

Mathematics grade C

Access to HE Diploma

The University of Kent will not necessarily make conditional offers to all access candidates but will continue to assess them on an individual basis. If an offer is made candidates will be required to pass the Access to Higher Education Diploma with 36 level 3 credits at distinction and 9 at merit, and to obtain a proportion of the total level 3 credits in particular subjects at distinction or merit grade.

BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma (formerly BTEC National Diploma)

The university will consider applicants holding BTEC National Diploma and Extended National Diploma Qualifications (QCF; NQF;OCR) on a case by case basis. Typical offers when made are Distinction*, Distinction, Distinction.

International Baccalaureate

34 points overall or 16 points at HL including Biology 5 at HL or 6 at SL and Mathematics 4 at HL or SL

International students

The University welcomes applications from international students. Our international recruitment team can guide you on entry requirements. See our International Student website for further information about entry requirements for your country.

If you need to increase your level of qualification ready for undergraduate study, we offer a number of International Foundation Programmes.

Meet our staff in your country

For more advice about applying to Kent, you can meet our staff at a range of international events.

English Language Requirements

Please see our English language entry requirements web page.

Please note that if you are required to meet an English language condition, we offer a number of 'pre-sessional' courses in English for Academic Purposes. You attend these courses before starting your degree programme. 

General entry requirements

Please also see our general entry requirements.

Fees

The 2018/19 annual tuition fees for this programme are:

UK/EU Overseas
Full-time £9250 £18400

For details of when and how to pay fees and charges, please see our Student Finance Guide.

For students continuing on this programme, fees will increase year on year by no more than RPI + 3% in each academic year of study except where regulated.* 

Your fee status

The University will assess your fee status as part of the application process. If you are uncertain about your fee status you may wish to seek advice from UKCISA before applying.

Fees for Year in Industry

For 2018/19 entrants, the standard year in industry fee for home, EU and international students is £1,385

Fees for Year Abroad

UK, EU and international students on an approved year abroad for the full 2018/19 academic year pay £1,385 for that year. 

Students studying abroad for less than one academic year will pay full fees according to their fee status. 

General additional costs

Find out more about accommodation and living costs, plus general additional costs that you may pay when studying at Kent.

Funding

University funding

Kent offers generous financial support schemes to assist eligible undergraduate students during their studies. See our funding page for more details. 

Government funding

You may be eligible for government finance to help pay for the costs of studying. See the Government's student finance website.

Scholarships

General scholarships

Scholarships are available for excellence in academic performance, sport and music and are awarded on merit. For further information on the range of awards available and to make an application see our scholarships website.

The Kent Scholarship for Academic Excellence

At Kent we recognise, encourage and reward excellence. We have created the Kent Scholarship for Academic Excellence. 

For 2018/19 entry, the scholarship will be awarded to any applicant who achieves a minimum of AAA over three A levels, or the equivalent qualifications (including BTEC and IB) as specified on our scholarships pages

The scholarship is also extended to those who achieve AAB at A level (or specified equivalents) where one of the subjects is either Mathematics or a Modern Foreign Language. Please review the eligibility criteria.

The Key Information Set (KIS) data is compiled by UNISTATS and draws from a variety of sources which includes the National Student Survey and the Higher Education Statistical Agency. The data for assessment and contact hours is compiled from the most populous modules (to the total of 120 credits for an academic session) for this particular degree programme. 

Depending on module selection, there may be some variation between the KIS data and an individual's experience. For further information on how the KIS data is compiled please see the UNISTATS website.

If you have any queries about a particular programme, please contact information@kent.ac.uk.