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.
Prof Vincent Ellis
Biological Sciences offer 11 different full-time undergraduate degree programmes (plus three part-time degrees) in a 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.
THIS UNIT IS NOT NORMALLY AVAILABLE TO VISITING/EXCHANGE STUDENTS. Through a series of lectures, seminars and practicals, BIO-1A58 provides a broad knowledge of basic physio-chemical processes such as optics, fluid dynamics and membrane potentials that play critical roles in physiological systems. The processes of hearing, vision, respiration and temperature regulation are amongst several examples used throughout the unit to demonstrate these important relationships.
The unit aims to provide an introduction to the basic aspects of biochemistry, 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. This unit will also provide an introduction to developmental biology.
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.
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.
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.
THIS MODULE IS ONLY AVAILABLE TO STUDENTS IN THE SCHOOL OF BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES. 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 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. THIS MODULE IS ONLY AVAILABLE TO YEAR 1 STUDENTS. THIS MODULE IS NOT AVAILABLE TO VISITING/EXCHANGE STUDENTS.
This small-group seminar module is year-long, involving a minimum of 18 one-hour sessions. It addresses a number of biochemical problems related to material covered in BIO-1A13, BIO-1A14 and PHAN1HE1. For students lacking a background in Maths or Physics it will establish principles needed to understand physical chemistry in a biochemical context. You will be asked to use a range of literature- and web-based methods to prepare for the different sessions. The module will provide experience in both oral and written communication of science, and in problem solving. Assessment is by a mixture of essay and problem solving exercises and contribution to seminars.
Compulsory Study (120 credits)
Students must study the following modules for 120 credits:
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 bioenergetics 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.
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.
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.
The major emphasis of this unit is on the mechanisms that regulate human body organ systems and their interplay. Considerable attention is directed to cell physiology, which serves as the basis for body functions. In particular, the nervous, muscle, sense organ, renal, cardiac, respiratory, circulatory, gastrointestinal, endocrine, and reproductive systems are dealt with in detail. Practical work involves physiological experiments on these systems and histopathology of some tissues. (CHE-1C24 IS AN ACCEPTABLE ALTERNATIVE TO BIO-1A58 AS A PREREQUISITE).
This module imparts the theory and practice of clinical biochemistry. A comprehension of the impact of clinical biochemistry results on diagnosis, treatment and prognosis will be gained. An introduction to analytical methods will be followed by examples of laboratory based procedures for the investigation of the chemical composition of plasma, urine, CSF, amniotic fluid etc. in relation to a number of clinical conditions. 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.
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.
Compulsory Study (60 credits)
Students must study the following modules for 60 credits:
AVAILABLE TO C930 BIOMEDICINE DEGREE STUDENTS ONLY This unit 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 unit.
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.
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.
Option A Study (60 credits)
Students will select 60 credits from the following modules:
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 & 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.
This module is concerned with the structure and function of cells and it has a strong emphasis on experimental methodologies used to study cell dynamics. Topics to be covered include: DNA cloning and gene expression, microscopy and image analysis, cell junctions and communication, mechanics of cell division, cell signalling in motility, cytoskeleton, extracellular matrix and tissue function, growth factors and proliferation and cell differentiation. The module also includes three demonstrations of current techniques used to study cells and review sessions where students have an opportunity to ask questions on aspects of cell biology.
The module deals with the mechanisms involved in signal recognition, transduction and response in animal cells. Topics include the molecular basis of receptor activation and the way in which this is interpreted either in changes in second messenger levels or in protein-protein interactions and ultimately in changes in protein kinase activities. The module then goes on to look at some of the effects on cell behaviour that result from signal input. (With the agreement of the module organiser, students who have taken BIO-2B01 but not BIO-2B06 may be allowed to take this module.)
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.
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.
This module aims to provide a detailed coverage of the biology of selected infectious microorganisms, in the context of host 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 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 unit's theme is the molecular and cellular biology events at the host-pathogen interface.
Lectures cover various aspects of applied microbiology, focusing on microorganisms as sources of products. Specific topics are: batch and continuous culture of microorganisms, fermenter design, production of small molecules, metabolic engineering, protein secretion, fermentations for food, fungal biotechnology, antibiotic synthesis, biopolymers. A practical class and problems-based exercise introduce the principles and applications of different culture methods.
The aim of this unit is to provide a thorough understanding of the concepts and principles of developmental biology from bacteria through to vertebrates. Special emphasis will be placed on vertebrate developmental biology and where applicable this will be compared to human development. Students will gain an understanding of the molecular basis of pattern formation and morphogenetic events during embryogenesis.
The unit 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 mechanisms of specific enzyme families such as the aspartic proteinases (e.g. the HIV-1 proteinase), of enzymes involved in DNA replication and ATP synthesis. Many of the examples presented are of relevance in medicine. An extended practical based on the kinetics of a model enzyme, chymotrypsin, helps underpin concepts learnt in the unit.
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.
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.
Entry Requirements
A Level:
ABB including Biology, Chemistry to a minimum AS Level grade B
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
We welcome applications from students from all academic backgrounds. We require evidence of proficiency in English (including writing, speaking, listening and reading). Recognised English Language qualifications include:
IELTS: 6. overall (minimum 5.5 in any component)
TOEFL: Internet-based score of 78 overall (minimum 20 in Speaking component, 17 in Writing and Listening components and 18 in Reading components.
PTE: 55 overall (minimum 51 in any component).
If you do not meet the University's entry requirements, our INTO Language Learning Centre offers a range of university preparation courses to help you develop the high level of academic and English skills necessary for successful undergraduate study.
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
A Level Biology required, Chemistry to a minimum AS Level grade B, GCSE Maths grade B.
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 at Grade B or above and English Language at minimum of Grade C at GCSE Level.
Fees and Funding
Undergraduate University Fees
We are committed to ensuring that Tuition Fees do not act as a barrier to those aspiring to come to a world leading university and have developed a funding package to reward those with excellent qualifications and assist those from lower income backgrounds. Full time UK/EU students starting an undergraduate degree course in 2013 will be charged a tuition fee of £9,000. The level of fee may be subject to yearly increases. Full time International students starting an undergraduate degree course in 2013 will be charged a tuition fee of £14,400. The level of fee may be subject to yearly increases.
The School of Biological Sciences has 2 £1,000 year one scholarships available for 2013 entry. The Scholarship deadline is 15th January 2013. Please contact the Admissions office at bio.ug.admiss@uea.ac.uk for more information.
The University offers around £1 million of Scholarships each year to support International students in their studies. Scholarships are normally awarded to students on the basis of academic merit and are usually for the duration of the period of study. Our University international pages gives you more details about preparation for studying with us, including Fees and Funding http://www.uea.ac.uk/international
UCAS Apply is a secure online application system that allows you to apply for full-time Undergraduate courses at universities and colleges in the United Kingdom. It is made up of different sections that you need to complete. Your application does not have to be completed all at once. The system allows you to leave a section partially completed so you can return to it later and add to or edit any information you have entered. Once your application is complete, it must be sent to UCAS so that they can process it and send it to your chosen universities and colleges.
The UCAS code name and number for the University of East Anglia is EANGL E14.
Further Information
If you would like to discuss your individual circumstances with the Admissions Office prior to applying please do contact us:
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.
Biological Sciences offer 11 different full-time undergraduate degree programmes (plus three part-time degrees) in a 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.