Biomedical Science

1

In semester 1 you will learn the key scientific principles underpinning the biomedical sciences and develop a systemic knowledge of core cellular and molecular processes underlying health and disease in more of the core pathology specialisms of biomedical science. You will have the option to study one of the following: Advanced Biomedical Practice in Blood Science, Cellular Science, or Infection Science.

You will develop your ability to communicate and critically evaluate current advances in biomedical science. You will also develop professional skills in the design, analysis, interpretation and crucial appraisal of research studies.

In semester 2 you will develop your knowledge of human factors and ergonomics and an advanced understanding of evidence-based tools and techniques to improve the reliability and safety of healthcare systems and processes. You will gain the skills to conduct and critically analyse organisational development, including its consequences in human resource management. You will also gain an advanced understanding of quality management and regulation within clinical laboratories.

In semester 3 you will undertake an independent research project relevant to biomedical science. For students currently working within a Biomedical laboratory, the expectation is that the Research Project will normally be undertaken within the workplace.

Part Time

YEAR 1

In semester 1 you will you will learn the key scientific principles underpinning the biomedical sciences and develop a systemic knowledge of core cellular and molecular processes underlying health and disease in more of the core pathology specialisms of biomedical science. You will have the option to study one of the following: Advanced Biomedical Practice in Blood Science, Cellular Science, or Infection Science.

In semester 2 you will gain the skills to conduct and critically analyse organisational development, including its consequences in human resource management. You will also gain an advanced understanding of quality management and regulation within clinical laboratories.

In semester 3 you will develop your knowledge of human factors and ergonomics and an advanced understanding of evidence-based tools and techniques to improve the reliability and safety of healthcare systems and processes.

Year 2

In semester 1 you will develop your ability to communicate and critically evaluate current advances in biomedical science. You will also develop professional skills in the design, analysis, interpretation and crucial appraisal of research studies.

In semester 2 and 3 you will undertake an independent research project relevant to biomedical science. For students currently working within a Biomedical laboratory, the expectation is that the Research Project will normally be undertaken within the workplace.

Learning Methods

Taught modules are delivered through a combination of lectures, tutorials, practical exercises, discussions, data analysis exercises and self-directed learning. You will be taught via our virtual learning environment, CampusMoodle, allowing considerably flexibility to you enabling you to undertake the course from home or the workplace.

Activity Summary

• Tutorial approximately 15 students per group, 4 hours per week
• Project Supervision individual project, 2 hours per week

How long is a Biomedical Science course?

The Biomedical Science MSc can be successfully completed in 12 months 1 or 24 months part time.

Staff Delivering on This Course

Staff delivering this course are practiced academics, many with appropriate professional body registration, including membership of the Institute of Biomedical Science, and the Royal College of Biology. Most of our staff members are research-active or have connections to industry. Professional involvement in the design of this course ensures its alignment with the requirements of the industry and increases your employability. Our school has unique relationships with, for example NHS Grampian and NHS Highland, and the Scottish National Blood Transfusion Service.

The Course Leader is your central point for information and support with regard to the delivery of the course. The learning material has been designed in collaboration with practicing Biomedical Scientists. They review the learning materials and provide real-life clinical case studies.

Assessment

Typically students are assessed:

• 3 written assignments, including essay
• 3 reports
• 1 dissertation
• 1 portfolio
• 4 oral assessments and presentation
• 1 practical skills assessment

Feedback

We aim to provide you with feedback within 20 working days of submission of coursework.

Independent Study

All your materials will be provided online and are designed to allow self-assessment of learning needs.

Job Prospects

The course will produce highly knowledgeable and skilled graduates who are equipped for a career in Biomedical Science, enabling lifelong learning and professional development.

A Master’s level degree is considered essential in order to progress to a senior laboratory role as per NHS Agenda for Change therefore this degree is needed if you’re looking to progress within a hospital laboratory.

A Master’s level degree is also transferrable, and has value in the wider industrial perspective. The course also fulfils the required qualifications to become a Chartered Scientist (CSci), which will demonstrate your ability to lead, use specialist knowledge and an appreciation of the application of science and technology to design, develop and improve laboratory provision.