Biological Sciences

HEALTHCARE SCIENCE PRACTITIONER (BIOMEDICAL SCIENCE) DEGREE APPRENTICESHIP

Biomedical Scientists have long-been at the frontline in the fight against human disease. Never has this been more apparent than during the COVID19 pandemic. To inspire the future biomedical workforce, the University of East Anglia, in consultation with the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital, has developed a Biomedical Science specialism of a Healthcare Science Practitioner Degree Apprenticeship (HSP). The HSP programme in Biomedical Science will provide employers with the opportunity to ‘grow your own’ highly qualified biomedical scientists. In tandem, the apprenticeship programme will offer NHS employees the prospect of career progression via vocationally focussed staff development and full-time employment. Through a blended learning approach, utilising on-line learning platforms, study days and work based learning, the UEA HSP programme in Biomedical Science aims to provide graduates with an understanding of laboratory-based investigation of human disease and a framework for personal and professional development.

Programme Content and Delivery

Programme Content

Level 4 – Skills for Biomedical Scientists, Introduction to Biomedicine, Biological Chemistry, Cell Biology and Physiology, Molecular Biology and Genetics;

Level 5 – Human Physiology, Cell Biology and Pathology, Clinical Genetics, Laboratory Investigation of Human Disease, Medical Microbiology, Blood Biomedicine;

Level 6 – Research Project, Cancer Biology, Infection and Immunity, Translational Biomedicine, Professional Practice (inc. End Point Assessment).

Duration and Delivery

4 years part-time, 20% ‘Off-the-Job’ training per week.

6 study days on campus per yearand work-based learning will be complemented by synchronous (live) and asynchronous (recorded) on-line teaching activities that will take place over the equivalent of one day per week throughout the calendar year.

Entry Requirements

English Language and Maths (GCSE C/4, B/5); AND at least two A levels (including biology) OR equivalent BTEC National qualifications (inc. suitable chemistry and biology modules) OR Level 3 or 4 Healthcare Science apprenticeship OR an Access to HE course from a relevant QAA-recognised programme. Work experience will be taken into consideration in lieu of academic qualifications.

Benefits of Working with UEA

Flexible programme design - A blended learning approach - Utilising online learning platforms, study days and work-based learning provides a flexible study pattern that optimises on-the-job learning and balances off-the-job study with work commitments
Workforce development - Apprenticeships provide a means of developing a highly skilled, motivated, resilient and qualified workforce
Enriching the workforce - Biomedical Scientists graduating from degree apprenticeships contribute to the development of an agile and skilful Biomedical Science workforce
Recruitment - Open up career progression to new or current employees who may be reliant on an income whilst they study
Retention - Raising aspiration and promoting social mobility is transformational and can contribute to local staff recruitment and retention
Science & Technology - Develop a Biomedical Science workforce that keeps pace with the rapid advances in science and technology
Professional recognition - The Healthcare Science Practitioner apprenticeship programme will be accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS; awaiting final approval with provisional ‘commendations’ for academic and career development, and for creation of a flexible approach to developing the biomedical workforce) and provide a pathway towards HCPC registration in Biomedical Science.

We are looking to work with employers and organisations to form new partnerships for this course across the Eastern region and beyond.

Information for Employers

Information for Students

Information for Employers

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