BSc Biomedicine (C930)

Course Code UNU1C930301
Duration 3 Years
Attendance Full Time
Award Degree of Bachelor of Science

Overview
Why Choose Us
Requirements
Course Profile
Fees and Funding
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Overview

This course is designed to give students marketable skills in the medically-related biological sciences. It has proved to be an extremely popular programme for students who are keen to apply cellular and molecular research techniques to the understanding and treatment of human diseases such as cancer and arthritis and areas such as ophthalmology, cardiology and gastroenterology.

You will gain a thorough grounding in the core subjects essential to understanding the basis of human disease throughout your degree. These core elements are then complemented with a choice of advanced units which allow you to extend your knowledge in areas such as microbiology, cell, molecular or developmental biology.

In both the second and third years you also have 20 credits of free choice which allows you to select from a huge range of units offered by BIO and other schools within the University.

Facilities

The School of Biological Sciences lies at the centre of a great expansion in Biomedical Sciences occurring in East Anglia, and strong links exist between BIO and the new School of Medicine, Health Policy and Practice as well as the Norfolk & Norwich University Hospital. Biomedicine is an active and advancing area of research within the School ensuring the relevance and up-to-date content of our degree course. Leading researchers carry out much of the teaching, while clinical aspects of the course are taught by consultants from the Hospital. Furthermore, a new £17 million Biomedical Research Centre is currently under construction on a site adjacent to the BIO building and direct links between the School and the Centre will further facilitate and improve the breadth and quality of biomedical teaching at the UEA.

UEA offers a large array of amenities to facilitate your studies in Biomedicine. These include a 24-hour IT facility, spacious, well-equipped teaching laboratories, an impressive library which also offers access to a huge array of e-journals over the internet, and well-appointed, comfortable lecture theatres and seminar rooms. The School of Biological Sciences is developing e-learning and online student support, however, we also feel that it is important that students maintain personal contact with their lecturers and tutors, and we assign every student a personal adviser. Our students receive a high level of pastoral care within the School, and the University as a whole operates a well-resourced student welfare and support system.

Course Organiser

Prof Vincent Ellis

Course Brochure

View Course Brochure

Why Choose Us?

Biological Sciences now offer 20 different full-time undergraduate degree programmes (plus three part-time degrees) in a wide range of subjects. Approximately 150 new undergraduates join us each year to study Biological Sciences (including a range of specialised programmes), Biomedicine, Biochemistry and Ecology.

Our students also have the opportunity of studying abroad for a year in either Europe, North America or Australasia, or spending a year in industry. Indeed we are one of a very few departments in the UK able to offer such a comprehensive spectrum of biology-related degree programmes.

Two of the distinguishing features of the degree courses we offer are excellence and choice. You are able to choose from a large number of degree programmes composed of a wide range of teaching modules. Lectures and seminars introduce the latest ideas and understanding of biology, and you will gain a thorough training in modern experimental methodology through hands-on practical or fieldwork sessions.

Why Study Biology?

The biological sciences comprise a broad range of inter-linked disciplines which encompass the study of life from the molecular level, through cells, tissues and organisms, to populations and ecosystems.

As well as being intellectually interesting, advances in the Biological Sciences have direct relevance to our everyday lives. Examples of this are to be found in new medical treatments, increased agricultural output, the protection of endangered species and the development of new food products. These breakthroughs have improved the quality of life for millions of people over the past few decades, and led to a greater understanding of our impact on the environment and the need for better resource management and conservation.

Some examples of recent advances include:

The development of new vaccines
The development of rapid and accurate diagnostic tests for infectious diseases
The production of recombinant hormones in bacteria, e.g. insulin for the treatment of diabetes
The development of new techniques for the forensic detection of crimeThe development of disease and drought resistant strains of crop plants
The designation of thousands of wildlife reserves and national parks worldwide to protect and conserve endangered species and areas of special ecological interest
The development of biological control techniques to combat weeds and pests thereby reducing the use of herbicides and insecticides
The development of bioremediation – using naturally occurring plants or microbes to clean up pollution, e.g. oil spills

Continuing research into the biological sciences is essential if we are to overcome problems such as cancer, HIV and tuberculosis, find ways to treat or cure genetic diseases such as Muscular Dystrophy and Cystic Fibrosis, unlock the secrets encoded in the Human Genome Sequence, protect endangered species, conserve ‘at risk’ habitats, and combat threats such as bioterrorism and emerging infectious diseases. Biological Scientists are at the forefront of biomedical, pharmaceutical, agricultural and ecological research, so if you are looking for an exciting, flexible field of study with excellent career prospects, both within science and in the wider employment market, then look no further than the biological sciences.

Entry Requirements

A Level ABB to include Biology. AS-level Chemistry grade B or above.
International Baccalaureate 32 points with 3 HL Subjects at grade 5 including Biology AND SL Chemistry Grade 5.
Scottish Highers AABBB including Biology and Chemistry.
Scottish Advanced Highers ABB including Biology and Chemistry. Other Advanced Higher level science would confer an advantage.
Irish Leaving Certificate AABBBB at higher level including Biology,Chemistry and one other science subject.
Access Course See below
HND Please contact university for further information
European Baccalaureate 75% overall, including 7.5 in Biology and Chemistry.

Students for whom English is a foreign language

If English is not your first language you must have a recognised English Language qualification: Minimum IELTS 6.0 with a 5.5 in each sub-section, or TOEFL 550 (213 CBT / 80 IBT). Please contact us for more information about other qualifications that we may consider.

If you do not meet the academic and or English requirements for direct entry our partner, INTO University of East Anglia offers guaranteed progression on to this undergraduate degree upon successful completion of a preparation programme. Depending on your interests, and your qualifications you can take a variety of routes to this degree:

International Foundation in the Sciences

Interviews

The majority of candidates will not be called for an interview. However, for some students an interview will be requested. These are normally quite informal and generally cover topics such as your current studies, reasons for choosing the course and your personal interests and extra-curricular activities.

Gap Year

We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year, believing that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry and may wish to contact the appropriate Admissions Office directly to discuss this further.

Special Entry Requirements

A2-level Biology and AS-level Chemistry (grade B) or equivalent is required for Biomedicine. In addition to this, applicants are asked to have two other A2-level subjects. General Studies and Critical Thinking are not accepted.

Intakes

The School's annual intake is in September of each year.

Alternative Qualifications

We encourage you to apply if you have alternative qualifications equivalent to our stated entry requirement. Please contact us for further information.

Pass the Access to HE Diploma with Distinction in 36 credits at Level 3 and Merit in 9 credits at Level 3, including 12 Level 3 credits in Biology and 6 Level 3 credits in Chemistry.

GCSE Offer

Students are required to have Mathematics and English Language at minimum of Grade C or above at GCSE Level.

Year 1
Year 2
Year 3

Year 1

Compulsory Study (30 credits)

Students will select 30 credits from the following module(s).

Name	Code	Credits	Period
Introductory Chemistry for Life Sciences This module will give students of biology a basic knowledge of general chemistry, to include aspects of inorganic and organic chemistry that are most relevant to the life sciences. more...	BIO-1A61	10	Semester 1
Physical Biochemistry THIS MODULE IS RUNNING IN 2012/3 ONLY. BIO-1A15 is open to students registered on Biochemistry, Biomedicine, Biological and Medicinal Chemistry, Science with a Foundation Year and Natural Science degree programmes. This module aims to provide students with an introduction to the physical principles that underpin understanding of biological systems, drugs and the interactions between them. Topics that are discussed include thermodynamics, kinetics, acid-base chemistry, electrochemistry and spectroscopy. Students must have A-Level chemistry or equivalent. more...	BIO-1A15	10	Semester 1
Seminars in Biochemistry This year-long module combines small-group seminars and lectures. Seminars will discuss biochemical aspects of material covered in Fundamentals of Molecular Biology and Genetics (BIO-1A13), Fundamentals of Cell Biology and Biochemistry (BIO-1A14) and Physical Biochemistry (PHAN1HE1). You will use a range of literature- and web-based methods to prepare for seminars on topics including: DNA biochemistry, amino acids, acid-base chemistry, protein structure, electronic absorbance spectroscopy, enzyme kinetics and thermodynamic aspects of respiration. Lectures on this module will emphasise how to access scientific material and use it critically in essays, oral presentations and posters. THIS MODULE IS ONLY AVAILABLE TO YEAR 1 STUDENTS. THIS MODULE IS NOT AVAILABLE TO VISITING/EXCHANGE STUDENTS. more...	BIO-1A3Y	10	Year Period

Essential Study (90 credits)

Students will select 90 credits from the following module(s).

Name	Code	Credits	Period
Foundations for Physiology Through a series of lectures, tutorials and practicals, BIO-1A58 aims to provide the basic knowledge of physico-chemical, biochemical and system-related mechanisms essential for the functioning of tissues, organs and organisms. Physiological processes like vision, hearing, respiration or temperature regulation are amongst the examples used throughout the module to demonstrate the interplay of these mechanisms. more...	BIO-1A58	10	Semester 2
Fundamentals of Cell Biology and Biochemistry The module aims to provide an introduction to the basic aspects of biochemistry and cell biology. Basic biochemical processes will be explored, as well as catalysis and enzymology. There will be an introduction to the nature of the living cell, its membranes, and organelles, how cells communicate and also how they are visualised. more...	BIO-1A14	20	Semester 2
Fundamentals of Molecular Biology and Genetics The module aims to provide an introduction to the basic aspects of biochemistry, molecular biology and genetics. The module explores the fundamental properties of macromolecules, DNA structure, synthesis and replication, as well as the structure and function of proteins. The genetic code, genes and their expression will be covered as well as the rapidly expanding area of molecular biology. The module also covers chromosome structure, mechanisms of heredity, medical genetics and cytogenetics. more...	BIO-1A13	20	Semester 1
Introduction to Biomedicine RESERVED FOR STUDENTS ON COURSE C930 (BIOMEDICINE DEGREE STUDENTS). Small group seminars are used to introduce students to the fundamental principles and topical issues in the biomedical field. The emphasis of this module is on the structure-function relationships associated with the organ system and the pathophysiological consequences when they fail. THIS MODULE IS ONLY AVAILABLE TO YEAR 1 C930 STUDENTS. THIS MODULE IS NOT AVAILABLE TO VISITING/EXCHANGE STUDENTS. more...	BIO-1A9Y	30	Year Period
Maths and Statistics for Biologists A combination of lectures and workshops will be used to introduce a range of topics in maths and statistics that are absolutely essential for a contemporary undergraduate studying the biological sciences. THIS MODULE IS ONLY AVAILABLE TO YEAR 1 STUDENTS. THIS MODULE IS NOT AVAILABLE TO VISITING/EXCHANGE STUDENTS. more...	BIO-1A6Y	10	Year Period

Year 2

Compulsory Study (80 credits)

Students will select 80 credits from the following module(s).

Name	Code	Credits	Period
Biochemistry This module builds on the principles of biochemistry taught in BIO-1A14. Selected topics in intermediary metabolism are covered in greater depth and extended to include the specific roles of coenzymes in metabolic pathways. In turn this leads to a discussion of the roles of hormone-receptor interactions and signal transduction in metabolic regulation. The recent contributions of structural biology to cellular biochemistry are acknowledged in both the lecture series and associated practical classes, whilst ATP utilization is illustrated by consideration of the active transport of molecules across membranes in both prokaryotes and eukaryotes. more...	BIO-2B01	20	Semester 1
Clinical Genetics This module imparts the theory and practice of clinical genetics. A detailed comprehension of basic genetics will be obtained from lectures provided within BIO-2B17 (Genetics). Students undertaking this module will then build on these details to identify how genetics is important in a modern, well-founded clinical setting. A thorough treatment of clinical genetics services will deal with aspects ranging from molecular pathology and techniques for DNA analysis through to genetic assessment and genetic counselling. The module is restricted to C930 Biomedicine students and builds on the content provided by the following modules: BIO-1A5Y and BIO-1A13 (both pre-requisites) and BIO- 2B30 (Clinical Biochemistry) co-requisite. more...	BIO-2B19	20	Semester 1
Investigation of Human Disease This module imparts the theory and practice of laboratory investigation into human disease. A comprehension of how clinical biochemistry data impacts on diagnosis, treatment and prognosis will be gained. An introduction to analytical methods will be followed by examples of the molecular basis of acquired and inherited diseases, their diagnosis and assessment in the clinical laboratory, and disease management. The module is restricted to C930 Biomedicine students and builds on the content provided by the following modules: BIO-1A5Y, BIO-2B01and BIO-2B05 (all pre-requisites) and BIO-2B19 (Clinical Genetics), co-requisite. more...	BIO-2B30	20	Semester 2
Microbiology A broad module covering all aspects of the biology of microorganisms, providing key knowledge for specialist Level 3 modules. Detailed description is given about the cell biology of bacteria, fungi and protists together with microbial physiology, genetics and environmental and applied microbiology. The biology of disease-causing microorganisms (bacteria, viruses) and prions is also covered. Practical work provides hands-on experience of important microbiological techniques, and expands on concepts introduced in lectures. The module should appeal to biology students across a wide range of disciplines and interests. more...	BIO-2B28	20	Semester 2

Essential Study (40 credits)

Students will select 40 credits from the following module(s).

Name	Code	Credits	Period
Cell Biology This module explores the molecular organisation of cells and the regulation of dynamic cellular changes, with some emphasis on medical cell biology. Dynamic properties of cell membranes, cell signalling, growth factor function and aspects of cancer biology and immunology. Regulation of the internal cell environment (nuclear organisation and information flow, cell growth, division and motility), the relationship of the cell to its extracellular matrix and the determination of cell phenotype. Aspects of cell death, the ageing process, developmental biology, mechanisms of tissue renewal and repair. It is strongly recommended that students taking this module should also take BIO-2B02 or BIO-2B17. more...	BIO-2B06	20	Semester 2
Human Physiology The module aims to provide an understanding of the physiology of several organ systems found within the human body. Learning Outcomes: On completion of the module it is expected the student will have gained an understanding of: - Information transmission within the body by the nervous system and the integrative processes within the spinal cord and brain. - Reaction to the environment through reception of external stimuli by sensory receptors, such as the eye. - Effector systems, including muscle contraction and its control. - Respiration, gas transport, blood circulation and heart function. - Kidney function in excretion and in water and mineral ion homeostasis - The digestive system and nutrition, including patterns of health and sickness. - Endocrine regulation and integration, including reproduction cycles in the female. The module is backed up with a comprehensive programme of practical work involving human physiological experiments. more...	BIO-2B05	20	Semester 1

Year 3

Compulsory Study (60 credits)

Students will select 60 credits from the following module(s).

Name	Code	Credits	Period
Biomedicine AVAILABLE TO C930 BIOMEDICINE DEGREE STUDENTS ONLY. This module addresses the molecular and cellular aberrations that lead to the diseased state. An understanding of the underlying mechanisms is vital to the research and development of drugs that intervene in disease processes. For each disease considered, an overview of tissue pathology will be followed by an analysis of the epidemiological and basic research studies associated with the submission of a drug into clinical trials. An important component will be problem-based discussions of the material covered in each aspect of the module. more...	BIO-3C34	20	Semester 2
Data Analysis An alternative to the laboratory or field based project (BIO-3D1Y). The module involves the student undertaking their own rigorous analysis of existing biological data (either from the literature or from biological databases). The source of the data for analysis is provided by the project supervisor. The project report is usually submitted at the end of the Spring Semester. Projects may also be available for suitably qualified year long visiting students registered in BIO. more...	BIO-3D2Y	40	Year Period
Research Project Open to all BIO finalists (or BIO-3D2Y, Data Analysis, or BIO-3C40, Scientific Research Skills) except those on C180/2/3/4 (who take BIO-3C9Y). Projects involve extensive data collection, either in the laboratory or field, of a particular topic supervised by a member of staff of BIO or an affiliated institute. Topics are chosen in consultation with the supervisor. The project report is submitted at the end of the Spring Semester. Projects may also be available for suitably qualified year long visiting students registered in BIO. more...	BIO-3D1Y	40	Year Period

Option A Study (60 credits)

Students will select 60 credits from the following module(s).

Name	Code	Credits	Period
Cancer Biology This module deals with the concepts and principles of genetic analysis of cancer. The various roles of genes in development, apoptosis, the cell cycle, metastasis and angiogenesis are covered for example. A discussion on the potential of novel therapies concludes the module. This module takes advantage of several experts from the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital. Students will thus gain an in-depth appreciation of cancer as a disease process from both the scientific and clinical viewpoints. It is highly advantageous to have taken BIO-2B02 as well as BIO-2B06. more...	BIO-3C27	20	Semester 1
Cell Biology and Mechanisms of Disease This module is concerned with the structure and function of cells in health and disease. It includes demonstrations of some of the imaging techniques used in the study of Cell Biology and workshops focused on how to design experiments and analyse research papers. Topics to be covered include: ubiquitination, the cytoskeleton and mechanics of cell division, signalling and cell migration, differentiation and apoptosis. more...	BIO-3C18	20	Semester 2
Cellular Signalling The module deals with signal transduction mechanisms, particularly in mammalian cells and with emphasis on human disease. Topics include the molecular basis of cell surface receptor activation, G-protein coupled receptors, kinases/phosphatases, 2nd messengers such as calcium and inositol lipids, and ion channels. The module then goes on to consider signalling mechanisms important for cell growth, differentiation and survival. (With the agreement of the module organiser, students who have taken BIO-2B01 but not BIO-2B06 may be allowed to take this module.) more...	BIO-3C03	20	Semester 1
Evolution in Health and Disease The module aims to provide an up-to-date and thought-provoking discussion about evolutionary medicine and the evolution of disease. The module will examine how evolutionary principles illuminate and provide fresh insight into a broad range of contemporary health problems including infectious, chronic and nutritional diseases and disorders. Topics are introduced in a multidisciplinary approach that takes into account the relationship between biology and society as it relates to understanding, treating, and preventing disease. Evidence will be presented that all aspects of the human condition have an evolutionary basis. The course will cover 4 broad areas: (i) principles of evolutionary medicine - humans in their evolutionary context, and discussion of the factors that drive evolutionary change; (ii) evolution and non-infectious diseases (cancer, lifestyles, ageing); (iii) evolution and infection (vaccines, antibiotics, pathogens, emerging diseases); (iv) personalised medicine and social context of evolutionary medicine. more...	BIO-3C57	20	Semester 1
Genomes, Genes and Genomics This module will provide a description of contemporary biological studies of genomes. There will be a focus on a molecular understanding of gene expression within organisms, with a particular emphasis on regulatory processes that affect expression at the genome level. Topics to be covered include comparative and functional genomics, organization of prokaryotic and eukaryotic genomes, global regulation of genome expression and mechanisms involved in maintaining genome integrity. Lectures and the associated practical will also provide a thorough grounding in technologies that analyse genomes and their gene products. more...	BIO-3C41	20	Semester 1
Infection and Immunity This module aims to provide a detailed coverage of the biology of selected infectious microorganisms, in the context of host and responses to pathogens. The properties of organs, cells and molecules of the immune system are described, along with the mechanism of antibody diversity generation, and the exploitation of the immune response for vaccine development. Examples of microbiological pathogens such as Salmonella typhimurium and Mycobacterium tuberculosis are used to illustrate major virulence strategies. The impact of genomics on the study of infection, and on mechanisms used by pathogens to evade host responses will be discussed. The module's theme is the molecular and cellular biology events at the host-pathogen interface. more...	BIO-3C28	20	Semester 2
Microbial Biotechnology This module provides a training in the culture techniques, microbial physiology and genetics that underpin the production of bioproducts such as biofuels, bioplastics, antibiotics and food products, and the use of micro-organisms in wastewater treatment and bioremediation. more...	BIO-3C09	20	Semester 1
Molecular and Cellular Principles of Development This module will discuss the molecular and cellular principles that drive embryonic development, including the signals and signalling pathways that lead to the establishment of the body plan, pattern formation and differentiation/organogenesis. Lectures will cover a number of different model organism used in the study of development including plants and Drosophila, however there is a focus on vertebrate systems. The relevance of embryonic development to our understanding of human development and disease is a recurring theme throughout the module. more...	BIO-3C39	20	Semester 1
Molecular Enzymology The module sets out to explain the molecular basis of the often complex catalytic mechanisms of enzymes in biological systems. Covered are the underlying principles of enzyme catalysis and techniques for the study of enzyme mechanism and structure. These provide a foundation for discussions of the catalytic and cellular mechanisms of proteinase families such as the serine and metalloproteinases as well as mechanism-based drug design for the retroviral aspartic proteinase, HIV-1pr. Covered also are molecular motors , complex nanomachines involved in vesicle transport, ATP synthesis and DNA replication. Finally, the biosynthesis of the signalling molecule nitric oxide and the P450s involved in the metabolism of drugs and other xenobiotics are presented. An extended practical based on the kinetics of a model enzyme, chymotrypsin, helps underpin concepts learnt in the module. more...	BIO-3C01	20	Semester 1
Science Communication This module aims to bring an understanding of how science is disseminated to the public. Students on the module will be made aware of the theories surrounding learning and communication. They will investigate science as a culture and how this culture interfaces with the public. Students will examine case studies in a variety of different scientific areas. They will look at how information is released in scientific literature and how this is subsequently picked up by the public press. They will gain an appreciation of how science information can be used to change public perception and how it can sometimes be misinterpreted. Students will also learn practical skills by designing, running and evaluating a public outreach event at a school or in a public area. OPEN TO ALL STUDENTS REGISTERED IN THE SCIENCE FACULTY. more...	BIO-3C6Y	20	Year Period

Disclaimer

Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules and regular (five-yearly) review of course programmes. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, there will normally be prior consultation of students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff or sabbatical leave. Where this is the case, the University will endeavour to inform students.

UEA

Biological Sciences Courses

Biological Sciences

BSc Biomedicine (C930)

Year 1

Year 2

Year 3

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