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School of Pharmacy and Life Sciences
“RGU is one of the only universities that offers a truly integrated degree, enabling you to gain insight into what your future career will entail. I spent my placement working in the Pathology and Haematology labs at Aberdeen Royal Infirmary. I am a great believer in putting into action what you have learned as I find this the easiest way to understand and remember things.”
Claire Birnie Applied Biomedical Science Graduate
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We offer a progressive multidisciplinary portfolio of highly practical and professional courses to equip you with the knowledge and skills to succeed in the world of pharmacy and life sciences.
Watch our video to get a feel for the facilities you’ll have access to as a student at RGU
Our courses are innovative in their approach, with a strong emphasis on practice-based learning. You will have access to a range of state-ofthe-art laboratories and learning environments to facilitate the development of skills required for your chosen career. You’ll emerge with valuable practical skills in laboratory techniques, analysis and problem-solving together with the interpersonal and professional skills that are vital for a successful career.
We have also developed strong links with local and international companies as well as public sector organisations to prepare you for the professional world. With all our courses bearing accreditation, you can be confident they are of industry standard, and where work placements are available you can gain valuable exposure to the working world and your chosen career path. Where possible, we practice interprofessional learning allowing you to benefit from shared learning experiences across a broad range of subject areas, such as; biomedical sciences, analytical and medicinal chemistry, forensic science, nutrition, pharmacy practice and pharmaceutical sciences. By using this teaching method you will learn about the roles of other professions enabling effective collaboration as you gain experience of partnership working. Our facilities will give you access to modern instrumentation and cutting-edge technology. We offer a range of chemistry, formulation, molecular biology, cell culture, microbiological, forensic science, food handling and aseptic laboratories in our modern, purpose-built facility. We also have a number of informal and formal learning spaces, including pharmacy and clinical simulation centres, a dedicated
Mock Crime Scene House, and access to a Moot Courtroom to present forensic evidence. Our sustained investment in these facilities emphasises that our equipment and teaching is ever evolving to provide you with the relevant, high quality analytical, biological, clinical, and professional skills so you are well prepared for entering the job market.
www.rgu.ac.uk/pals RGUPALS
www.rgu.ac.uk/applied-bioscience
BSc (Hons) | UCAS Code: C9B9 | 4 Years
Highly practical course providing you with the essential knowledge and laboratory skills for a career in bioscience.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS * SQA Higher: BBCC (Biology/Human Biology & one other Science. English, Maths & Chemistry required at National 5 B) GCE A Level: CCC (Biology & one other Science. English, Maths & Chemistry required at GCSE 6)
Irish Leaving Certificate:
H3H3H3H3 (Biology & one other Science. Chemistry, English & Maths required at Ordinary Level B) IB Diploma: 26 (Higher Level Biology at grade 5 & one other Science. Standard Level English & Maths required at grade 4) HNC/HND: A relevant HNC from one of our partner colleges will be considered for Year 2 entry
Alternative Qualifications:
Equivalent overseas qualifications, SQA, BTEC, S/NVQs and some Access programmes will be considered *Applicants whose first language is not English should check the relevant course page on our website for entry requirements. WHY STUDY THIS COURSE AT RGU?
■ Ranked 1st in Scotland for career prospects in biosciences (Guardian
University Guide 2021) ■ Accredited by the Royal Society of Biology which verifies it is of industry standard and you can be confident you’re learning the necessary skills sought after by employers ■ You will graduate with the skills to help solve some of the biggest challenges currently faced by people and the planet – fighting disease, protecting the environment, and feeding our growing population ■ You may have the opportunity to study abroad in your final year as part of a 12-week project ■ We have state-of-the-art laboratory facilities which will provide you with hands-on experience, from microbiology to bioanalytical work and cell culture; skills which are essential to any Bioscientist.
WHAT YOU WILL STUDY
YEAR 1 Applied Microbiology, Ecology and Ecosystems, Chemistry for Life Sciences, Biology for Life Sciences, Biomolecular Science, Analytical Techniques for Life Sciences, Practical Skills for Life Sciences. YEAR 2 Vertebrate Anatomy and Physiology, Bioanalysis, Principles of Pharmacology, Biochemistry of Eukaryotes and Prokaryotes, Plant Biology, Genetics and Molecular Biology. YEAR 3 Medical Microbiology, Public Health, Bioinformatics, Quality Assurance and Regulations for Industry, Toxicology and Environmental Analysis, Bioscience and Society, Advanced Microbiology, Current Trends in Bioscience. YEAR 4 Omic Technologies, Biotechnology and Synthetic Biology, Research Methods, Bioscience Honours Research Project.
CAREER PROSPECTS Because of the highly practical nature of the course you will be well-prepared for the working world, and have the skills to adapt to changes throughout your career. You will find Bioscientists working all over the world in a diverse range of settings including research and development laboratories (for example microbiology, marine science, molecular biology and genetics), biotechnology, drug, environmental and toxicology companies, teaching, or as sales representatives. Many of our graduates have found employment within private or public sector research.
We offer two BSc (Hons) courses in Biomedical
Both routes follow a common pathway for Year 1, introducing you to the basic scientific principles and technical skills in biomedical science, along with an understanding of the professional requirements necessary
WHICH COURSE IS RIGHT FOR ME?
of Biomedical Scientists who work in the healthcare science sector. At the end of Year 1 you can make an informed decision about which route you wish to follow. Students will be invited to undergo selection for entry to the BSc (Hons) Applied Biomedical Science route which offers hospital laboratory placement opportunities in Years 2 and 3.
UPON COMPLETION OF THE COMMON FIRST YEAR, YOU CAN CHOOSE TO SPECIALISE IN ONE OF THE FOLLOWING COURSES:
Designed for those who wish to study a broader range of subjects such as public health, pharmacology, toxicology and environmental analysis. This course will prepare you for a career in research, commercial laboratories, or as a strong foundation to further study in medicine, dentistry or PhD.
This course will provide a unique laboratory training programme giving you hands-on experience in all the major laboratory disciplines. Most of our graduates secure employment within the NHS Laboratory Service.
This route offers placement experience in Years 2 and 3.
www.rgu.ac.uk/biomedical-science
BSc (Hons) | UCAS Code:B902 | 4 Years
Giving you exposure to a broad variety of subjects and scope to work in a wide range of medical or pharmaceutical sectors.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS * SQA Higher: BBBB (Biology/ Human Biology & one other Science (Maths counted). Chemistry, English & Maths required at National 5 B) GCE A Level: BCC (Biology & one other Science (Maths counted). Chemistry, English & Maths required at GCSE grade 6/B)
Irish Leaving Certificate:
H2H2H3H3 (Biology & one other Science (Maths counted). Chemistry, English & Maths required at O2) IB Diploma: 28 (Higher Level Biology & one other Science (Maths counted) at grade 5. Standard Level English & Maths required at grade 4) HNC/HND: Relevant HNC/HND from one of our partner colleges will be considered for Year 2 or 3 entry
Alternative Qualifications:
Non-standard qualifications or work experience will be considered on an individual basis *Applicants whose first language is not English should check the relevant course page on our website for entry requirements. WHY STUDY THIS COURSE AT RGU?
■ Ranked 1st in Scotland for graduate prospects in biological sciences (The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2021) ■ Accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science, a robust industry standard, so you can be confident you’re learning the necessary skills sought after by employers ■ Will help you develop an in-depth understanding of human disorders and diseases from both a scientific and an NHS Pathology practitioner’s perspective ■ We host state-of-the-art laboratory facilities, including analytical science and cell culture laboratories, which will provide you with hands-on experience preparing you for the working world ■ Studying a wide range of topics gives you a strong foundation for postgraduate education and research. Our graduates go on to study medicine, dentistry, or Master/Doctorate level qualifications.
WHAT YOU WILL STUDY
YEAR 1 Applied Microbiology, Biomedical Science: Personal Skills Development, Chemistry for Life Sciences, Biology for Life Sciences, Biomolecular Science, Biomedical Science: Professional Practice, Analytical Techniques for Life Sciences, Practical Skills for Life Sciences. YEAR 2 Fundamental Histology and Cytology, Human Anatomy and Physiology, Principles of Pharmacology, Public Health, Human Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology. YEAR 3 Medical Microbiology, Fundamental Blood Sciences, Diagnostic Histology and Cytology, Clinical Immunology, Toxicology and Environmental Analysis, Advanced Microbiology, Current Trends in Biomedical Science, Applied Pharmacology. YEAR 4 Diagnostic Blood Sciences, Omic Technologies, Research Methods, Biomedical Science: Honours Research Project, Biology of Disease.t
WHAT OUR STUDENTS SAY
Student Experience: Raashi Joshi
CAREER PROSPECTS This course will equip you with the relevant skills needed to work within a variety of roles including pathological disciplines such as infection science, cellular science, blood science, genetics, or roles in quality, manufacturing, research and teaching. It can also provide a foundation to further studies such as medicine, dentistry, or PhD.
www.rgu.ac.uk/applied-biomedical-science
BSc (Hons) | UCAS Code:B902 | 4 Years
WHY STUDY THIS COURSE AT RGU?
■ Ranked 1st in Scotland for graduate prospects in biological sciences (The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2021) ■ Learn about diagnosis, treatment and monitoring of disease preparing you for a future career in this exciting field ■ Accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science and approved by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). If you plan to work in the UK you need to undertake an approved programme in order to practice as a biomedical scientist upon graduation ■ Placements are fully integrated into the course in Years 2 and 3 to allow you to gain hands-on experience in haematology, biochemistry, microbiology, pathology, immunology and blood transfusion service, with funding available ■ Designed in partnership with professionals within NHS Grampian, NHS
Highland, and the Aberdeen and North East of Scotland Blood Transfusion
Service, ensuring you gain all the required skills for a successful career ■ We host state-of-the-art laboratory facilities, including analytical science and cell culture laboratories, which will provide you with industry relevant experience.
WHAT YOU WILL STUDY
YEAR 1 Completed via BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science. Applied Microbiology, Biomedical Science: Personal Skills Development, Chemistry for Life Sciences, Biology for Life Sciences, Biomolecular Science, Biomedical Science: Professional Practice, Analytical Techniques for Life Sciences, Practical Skills for Life Sciences. YEAR 2 Fundamental Histology and Cytology, Human Anatomy and Physiology, Biomedical Science: Professional Practice, Human Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology. YEAR 3 Medical Microbiology, Fundamental Blood Sciences, Diagnostic Histology and Cytology, Clinical Immunology, Biomedical Science: Professional Practice. YEAR 4 Diagnostic Blood Sciences, Omic Technologies, Research Methods, Biomedical Science: Honours Research Project, Biology of Disease.
WHAT OUR GRADUATES SAY
Graduation Story: Dionne Milne Graduation Story: Charlotte McInnes This course provides a unique laboratory training programme giving you hands-on experience in all the major hospital laboratory disciplines.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS * These requirements relate to the first year of the BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science (B902). Entry to BSc (Hons) Applied Biomedical Science is by selection at the end of Year 1 of Biomedical Science. SQA Higher: BBBB (Biology/ Human Biology & one other Science (Maths counted). Chemistry, English & Maths required at National 5 B) GCE A Level: BCC (Biology & one other Science (Maths counted). Chemistry, English & Maths required at GCSE 6/B)
Irish Leaving Certificate:
H2H2H3H3 (Biology & one other Science (Maths counted). Chemistry, English & Maths required at O2) IB Diploma: 28 (Higher Level Biology & one other Science (Maths counted) at grade 5. Standard Level English & Maths required at grade 4)
Alternative Qualifications:
Non-standard qualifications or work experience will be considered on an individual basis Interview: A selection interview will take place at the end of Year 1 and is based on academic merit and interview. *Applicants whose first language is not English should check the relevant course page on our website for entry requirements.
CAREER PROSPECTS Most of our graduates secure employment within the NHS Laboratory Service. The course will also equip you with the relevant skills needed to work within the pharmaceutical and healthcare industries including; technical and marketing departments, forensic science laboratories, teaching and clinical research, as well as postgraduate education.
www.rgu.ac.uk/forensic-science
BSc (Hons) | UCAS Code: F410 | 4 Years
Offering a crime scene to courtroom learning experience to provide you with key problem solving and analytical skills to progress in an exciting and fascinating forensic or analytical science career.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS * SQA Higher: BBBC (Chemistry & one other Science (Biology/ Human Biology/Maths/ Physics/Environmental Science). English & Maths required at National 5 B) GCE A Level: BCC (Chemistry & one other Science (Biology/ Human Biology/Maths/Physics/ Environmental Science). English & Maths required at GCSE 6)
Irish Leaving Certificate:
H2H3H3H3 (Chemistry & one other Science (Maths counted). English & Maths required at O2) IB Diploma: 27 (Higher Level Chemistry at grade 5 & one other Science (Maths counted) at Higher Level. English & Maths required at Standard Level grade 4) HNC/HND: Relevant HNC/HND from one of our partner colleges will be considered for Year 2 or 3 entry
Alternative Qualifications:
Non-standard qualifications or work experience will be considered on an individual basis *Applicants whose first language is not English should check the relevant course page on our website for entry requirements. WHY STUDY THIS COURSE AT RGU?
■ Ranked 1st in Scotland for graduate prospects in archaeology and forensic sciences (The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2021) ■ Accredited by the Chartered Society of Forensic Scientists (CSFS).
Additionally, you will also satisfy criteria for Associate Membership of the
Royal Society of Chemistry
■ You have the option to spend one year in a scientific laboratory between
Years 3 and 4 (subject to availability) providing you with sought-after work experience, helping to boost your CV ■ You will benefit from our excellent facilities on campus including: a dedicated Mock Crime Scene House and Moot Court, and purpose-built analytical, forensic imaging and biological sciences laboratories ■ Significant forensic and industry practitioner involvement in the course which provides a great opportunity to develop your subject knowledge and professional links ■ Extensive practical elements using a wide array of analytical instrumentation to enhance your learning experience.
WHAT YOU WILL STUDY
YEAR 1 Introduction to Crime Scene and Forensic Techniques, Applied Microbiology, Chemistry for Life Sciences, Biology for Life Sciences, Biomolecular Science, Analytical Techniques for Life Sciences, Practical Skills for Life Sciences. YEAR 2 Analytical Science, Forensic Examination and Analysis, Fundamentals of Organic Chemistry, Legal Framework, Genetics and Molecular Biology. YEAR 3 Analytical Chemistry, Fire, Explosions and Firearms, Trace Evidence Analysis, Forensic Biology and Anthropology, Forensic Toxicology and Substances of Abuse, Spectral Analysis and Interpretation. YEAR 4 Advanced Analytical Techniques, Project, Forensic DNA Profiling, Interpretation, Evaluation and Presentation of Evidence, Criminology.
Watch our Forensic and Analytical Science video
WHAT OUR GRADUATES SAY
Graduation Story: Natalie Campbell
CAREER PROSPECTS A diverse range of opportunities within the Scottish Police Authority and Forensic Science Laboratories are available, including: scene examination, fire investigation, laboratory analysis, health and safety and police graduate entry. The key forensic science problem solving and analytical skills developed during the course are also sought after in other industrial sectors including: oil and gas, pharmaceutical, environmental and food and drink.
Food, Nutrition and Human Health
www.rgu.ac.uk/nutrition
BSc (Hons) | UCAS Code: B400 | 4 Years
WHY STUDY THIS COURSE AT RGU?
■ Ranked 1st in Scotland for food science (Complete University
Guide 2021) ■ Ranked 1st in Scotland for student satisfaction and graduate prospects in food science (Complete University Guide 2021) ■ Accredited by the Institute of Food Science and Technology (IFST) and the Association for Nutrition (AfN). You can apply for direct entry to the UK Voluntary Register of Nutritionists (UKVRN) as a
Registered Associate Nutritionist (ANutr) upon graduation ■ A 12-week full-time placement in Year 4 (in the UK or abroad) involves working with a Nutritionist, Dietitian or Food Technologist in public health, sports nutrition, the food industry, or nutrition research.
This placement, together with your research project, provides the opportunity to specialise in the areas that interest you most - enhancing your employability ■ We have excellent links with industry, NHS and research institutes.
These are utilised to provide external speakers, study visits, projects and placements, ensuring our course is aligned to employer needs.
WHAT YOU WILL STUDY
YEAR 1 International Nutrition and Culture, Applied Microbiology, Chemistry for Life Sciences, Biology for Life Sciences, Food, Energy and Nutrients, Food Analysis, Biomolecular Science. YEAR 2 Metabolism, Assessment Of Nutritional Status, Food Science and Management Systems, Human Anatomy and Physiology, Introduction to Research, Nutrition through the Life Span, Plant Foods, Phytochemicals and Health. YEAR 3 Diet and Disease, Sports Nutrition, Professional Skills for Nutritionists, Nutrigenetics and Molecular Nutrition, Public Health Nutrition, Food Product Development. YEAR 4 Nutrition Placement, Systematic Literature Review in Nutrition, Research Project, Gut Microbiome, Diet and Health.
Based on the scientific study of nutrients and other substances in food, and how they affect our growth and development, health and disease, and athletic performance.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS * SQA Higher: BBCC (Biology/ Chemistry & one other Science (Maths/Health & Food Technology/ Environmental Science). Biology, Chemistry, English & Maths required at National 5 B) GCE A Level: CCC (Biology/ Chemistry & one other Science (Maths/Food & Nutrition/ Environmental Science). Biology, Chemistry, English & Maths required at GCSE grade 6/B)
Irish Leaving Certificate:
H3H3H3H3 (Biology/Chemistry & one other Science (Maths/Home Economics: Scientific & Social). Biology, Chemistry, English & Maths required at grade O2) IB Diploma: 26 (Higher Level Biology/Chemistry at grade 4 & one other Science at Higher Level (Maths counted). Biology, Chemistry, English & Maths required at Standard Level grade 4)
Alternative Qualifications:
Non-standard qualifications or work experience will be considered on an individual basis *Applicants whose first language is not English should check the relevant course page on our website for entry requirements.
CAREER PROSPECTS
www.rgu.ac.uk/pharmacy
MPharm | UCAS Code:B230 | 4 Years
Our course produces effective practitioners with the knowledge and skills to deliver the very best pharmaceutical care for patients.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS * SQA Higher: AABB (Chemistry & two other Sciences (Maths counted) at grade B. Higher English (p135) at grade C) GCE A Level: BBB (Chemistry & one other Science (Maths counted) at grade B at first sitting. English & Maths at GCSE grade 6) Irish Leaving Certificate: H2H2H2H2 (Chemistry & two other Sciences (Maths counted) at H2 at first sitting. English at H3) IB Diploma: 30 (Higher Level Chemistry at grade 6, one other Science, Maths and English (p135) at Higher Level grade 5)
Alternative Qualifications:
Non-standard qualifications or work experience will be considered on an individual basis Special Requirements: Offers of a place on the MPharm course are subject to compliance with the General Pharmaceutical Council’s Standards for Pharmacy Professionals and a satisfactory Good Health and Good Character declaration. You will be required to obtain Protecting Vulnerable Groups clearance prior to commencing the MPharm. Please note that additional recruitment and selection processes may be put in place for 2022 applicants. Please refer to our course webpage. *Applicants whose first language is not English should check the relevant course page on our website for entry requirements. WHY STUDY THIS COURSE AT RGU?
■ Ranked 2nd in Scotland for pharmacy and pharmacology (Guardian University Guide 2021) ■ Ranked 1st in Scotland for graduate prospects in pharmacology and pharmacy (Complete University Guide 2021) ■ Accredited by the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) and therefore upon graduation, provided you comply with the GPhC’s Standards for Pharmacy Professionals, you will be eligible to undertake a Foundation Training year ■ You will spend over 100 hours of the course in practical placement allowing you to experience a broad range of practice settings ■ You will benefit from learning in our purpose-built facilities, including our Pharmacy Simulation Centre and top-of-the-range chemistry, formulation, biomedical and microbiological laboratories ■ We have close relationships with employers and practitioners so you can be confident you will learn the necessary skills that are in demand now and in the future.
WHAT YOU WILL STUDY
YEAR 1 Biological Science, Foundations in Pharmacy Practice, Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Foundations in Medicine Design, Integrated Physiology. YEAR 2 Biomolecular Pharmacy, Developing Pharmacy Practice, Medicine Design and Manufacture, Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Pharmaceutical Microbiology. YEAR 3 Medicinal Analysis and Aseptic Control, Integrated Pharmacy Practice, Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Professional Development, Therapeutic Delivery. YEAR 4 Research Project, General Pharmaceutical Care Provision, Consolidating Pharmacy Practice, Professional Development, Public Health for Pharmacists, Specialised Pharmaceutical Care Provision.
WHAT OUR STUDENTS SAY
Student Experience: Dami Yusuf
CAREER PROSPECTS
As a Pharmacist you will have wide and varied career options. You may focus on a clinical career and progress as a hospital Pharmacist or work in a community pharmacy. You are likely to train as a Pharmacist Independent Prescriber if you want to follow a management career route either within the NHS, the pharmaceutical industry or a community pharmacy company. Some of our graduates return to academia to teach and carry out research. Alternatively you could follow a career in a more unusual area such as veterinary pharmacy, regulation, the military or health journalism.
“The best part of the forensic degree was being able to feel like you were actually working on a case. From entering a crime scene in a full white suit, mask, goggles, gloves and shoe covers to then analysing the evidence I collected and presenting an expert witness report in front of a mock jury and judges - I was able to get a feel for all aspects of the forensic process.”
