Diary COURSE: Biomedical Science
What will my first year of university be like? How many academics teach on my course?
How many students will be on the course?
Do you share modules?
You have probably asked yourself these questions loads of times! Choosing a university and a course is a big decision, there is so much information out there, sometimes too much, so how do you know you’re making the right choice? We’ve put together a snapshot of what your first year as a Biomedical Science student at the University of Salford might look like, you can find out a bit more about the modules you’ll study, field trips you’ll go on and a few hints and tips from a current first year student. Our Biomedical Science course is relatively small compared to some other universities you may be looking at, we have up to 140 students on the first year of the course. Some of the modules you’ll be studying are shared across a number of our related programmes, so you’ll get to meet students from other courses such as Biology, Zoology and even Marine Biology. You’ll be taught by about 15 - 20 tutors in the first year of your Biomedical Science course and you’ll also have a personal tutor who you will meet as a group about ten times a year but your personal tutor will have weekly office hours so you can always book an appointment if you need to chat to them. Your personal tutor is there to help you with any problems you may have throughout your course.
Your first field trip!
Monkey
forest
During your induction week we take you to Trentham Monkey Forest where you can stroll around a woodland and get up close to some Barbary Macaques. This is just a fun day out where you can get to know your fellow students and lecturers and form some lasting friendships. There’s no cost, we provide all the transport and we go there and back in a day so it’s a really easy way to experience your first field trip!
What will I study in my first year? In your first year of our Biomedical Science programme you’ll study the following modules:
- Molecules to Microbes - Genetics - Cell Biolo gy
- Human A natomy - Biomedica l Skills - Professio nal Skills
But what do I actually study in those modules?
In each year of your course, you need to obtain 120 credits, so each of these modules is worth 20 credits each. You will study each of these modules for the whole year rather than studying some modules up to Christmas then studying new modules up to Easter. This means that we can spread your assessments out a little bit better! In this section, we are going to give you a bit more information on each of those modules, so you have a better understanding of not just what you will study, but how and what assessments will be involved. The amount of time you spend in lectures and seminars can vary throughout the year, you are expected to do assignments, reading and independent study as well as your scheduled activities. All your activities should add up to about 35 - 40 hours a week (the same as a full-time job).
MODULE: Molecules to Microbes This module is split into two sections: Biochemistry of Macromolecules Microbiology
Covers the basic structure and function of the molecules of life that are required by all living cells, tissues, organs and organisms. Will cover the biology of bacteria, fungi and viruses all of which are made up of, and use, biological molecules for survival.
Aims and objectives of the module: To acquire an understanding of the basic principles involved in the build-up of bio-organic molecules from atoms. To gain insight into the formation, properties and importance of biological macromolecules. To deliver an understanding of the diverse nature of micro-organisms. To develop comprehension of micro-organism structure and function and their significance.
What will the assessments be like? In January, you will take a 45-minute test worth 30% of the overall module mark. The test comprises multiple choice questions and will be based on the first section of this module, Biochemistry of Macromolecules. Your second assessment will take place in May and is based on the second section of the module, Microbiology. This will be a 90-minute examination with part of the exam consisting of multiple choice questions and for the other part of the exam you will choose to answer one of three essay questions. The whole exam will be worth 70% of your overall module mark.
Who will teach me? The number of tutors on a module can vary and usually depends on a tutor’s area of expertise, you will usually have three to four tutors teaching you throughout this module.
MODULE: Genetics In this module, you will gain an understanding of how genetic, evolutionary and developmental processes operate within a range of organisms including humans. These processes are closely inter-related and each one needs to be studied in the light of the others. Recent discoveries in molecular genetics and genetic engineering (recombinant DNA) have enabled us to gain a greater understanding of human development, human genetic diseases and evolutionary processes as well as the basic mechanisms of genetics itself.
Aims and objectives of the module: To develop an understanding of genetics, an introduction to molecular genetics, evolution and development. To encourage an awareness of how these disciplines are relevant to humans and animals. To form a coherent course of study for those students not intending to study the subject beyond level 1, whilst providing a suitable background for those students wishing to pursue the subject further.
What will the assessments be like? In January, you will take a 45-minute test under exam conditions worth 30% of the overall module mark, comprising of multiple choice questions. Your second assessment will consist of a 90-minute examination and will take place in May. Part of the exam will consist of multiple choice questions and for the other part of the exam you will answer one essay question. The whole exam will be worth 70% of your overall module mark.
Who will teach me? The number of tutors on a module can vary and depends on a tutor’s area of expertise, you will usually have three tutors teaching you throughout this module.
Get ahead with your reading Leland Hartwell c2011 Genetics: from genes to genomes
MODULE: Cell Biology This module will look at the multidisciplinary nature of cell biology and the basic structure of cells, focusing on animal cells. It’ll help you develop a theoretical knowledge of the fundamental physiological and biochemical functions carried out by cells.
Aims and objectives of the module: To gain an understanding of the structure, function and life-cycle of animal cells. To develop a theoretical knowledge of cellular metabolic processes and their control.
What will the assessments be like? In January, you will take a 45-minute test under exam conditions worth 30% of the overall module mark, comprising of multiple choice questions. Your second assessment will consist of a 90-minute examination and will take place in May. Part of the exam will consist of multiple choice questions and the other part of the exam you will answer one essay question. The whole exam will be worth 70% of your overall module mark.
Who will teach me? The number of tutors on a module can vary and depends on a tutor’s area of expertise, you will usually have four tutors teaching you throughout this module.
MODULE: Human Anatomy This module introduces you to aspects of human anatomy/embryology and enables the appreciation of structure-function relationships at the level of the cell, tissue, organ, system and organism. You will have weekly lectures and model labs.
Aims and objectives of the module: To provide a systems-led approach to understand basic human anatomy and embryology. To enable the understanding of structure-function relationships of key systems in the human body through the study of gross anatomy and tissue histology.
What will the assessments be like? In January, you will take a 45-minute test under exam conditions worth 30% of the overall module mark, comprising of multiple choice questions. Your second assessment will consist of a 90-minute examination and will take place in May. Part of the exam will consist of multiple choice questions and for the other part of the exam you will answer one essay question. The whole exam will be worth 70% of your overall module mark.
Who will teach me? You will be taught by two tutors throughout this module.
Get ahead with your reading Gerard J Tortora Bryan Derrickson; Mark Nielsen Principles of anatomy & physiology ; and, A brief atlas of the skeleton, surface anatomy, and selected medical images. Hoboken, NJ : John Wiley and Sons Ltd. 13th Edition c2006-2011
MODULE: Biomedical Skills In this module, you will explore a number of key skills associated with safe and successful lab practice. You will develop a series of important practical, numerical and analytical skills, which will prepare you for the rest of your degree and your future scientific career. You’ll have weekly lab practicals as part of this module along with associated supporting computer classes.
Aims and objectives of the module: To develop competencies in core skills employed in biological laboratory practice. To facilitate the safe and effective use of equipment/instrumentation and samples/specimens in common laboratory applications, taking account of accuracy, calibration, precision and reliability. To promote good laboratory practices and awareness of the need for compliance with relevant health and safety policies. To develop data handling, analysis, interpretation and communication skills.
What will the assessments be like? You’ll be assessed through a variety of methods during this module, including lab reports, in-class worksheets, assessed practical classes and skills assessments.
Who will teach me? You will have several tutor’s supporting you throughout this module.
MODULE: Professional Skills This module will provide an introduction to both the study skills you need throughout your time at university and the professional aspects of work as a biomedical scientist. It’ll help you to place your studies into a professional context and will allow you to understand the process of evidence collection, which underpins meeting the requirement for competency in order to be fit to practice as a biomedical scientist. The module is taught by a combination of lectures (face to face in a lecture theatre or via online recordings) and small group tutorials with an allocated personal tutor.
Aims and objectives of the module: Develop understanding about the role of a biomedical scientist. Introduce you to a range of skills appropriate to professional practice and future employability. Encourage you to enhance your learning by engagement with feedback and reflection on learning activities. Introduce the portfolio as a learning resource and relate this to professional practice.
What will the assessments be like? The module will be assessed by a portfolio of coursework exercises, attendance and engagement with the module will also contribute to your overall module mark.
Who will teach me? Several tutors will deliver the lectures and online recordings and you’ll have regular tutorials with your personal tutor. There are also a number of contributors from local hospitals who cover aspects of the modules such as professional practise.
How does my week look? Don’t put these in your calendar just yet, timetables change each year and you will get your actual timetable during your induction week!
Mon
9
MORNING 10 11 12
1
AFTERNOON 2 3 4
5
Work experience
Tue Molecules es to microb 9-11
Human anatomy 11-1
Wed Part-time job
Thu ’s McDonald for lunch
Fri Genetics 9-11
Sat Sun
Cell Biology 11-1
Biomedical Skills 9-1
Professio Skills 2-4
nal
Drinks at the Student Union
Week in the life Meet Karolina
iomedical
t year B iecka, firs
tan Karolina S
udent
Science st
Monday Mondays are my days off from university, so I use this time to gain some experience related to the career I want to pursue. My current work experience involves going into theatres and observing surgeries while shadowing different roles within that department. This includes surgeons, anaesthetists, scrub nurses and operating department practitioners, specifically to learn what their jobs are and how they carry them out, to help me broaden my clinical knowledge, in addition to the content of my degree.
Tuesday On Tuesday I have two lectures from 9am-1pm, which is okay, it does not sound great as it’s a 9am start but these modules are so fascinating it is totally worth it! 9-11am: Molecules to Microbes, we’re currently learning in depth about different macromolecules including proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, enzymes etc. exploring their structure and functions, how they all work and what the consequences would be if they were in any way abnormal. 11-1pm: I have Human Anatomy, which is my favourite! But I’ll try not to be biased :) We learn about all the systems in the body and what organs are involved. We’ve already covered the amazing musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, nervous, respiratory and digestive systems, as well as, embryology! We’re currently on the urinary and reproductive systems, which are very fascinating, especially exploring the structures of the kidneys and bladder. These topics are quite full on and there is a lot of information you need to take in, so if I ever feel like I need a moment, taking a walk in Peel Park does the trick – just breathe, take in the views and if need be, go over what you remember in your head, take mental notes and revise it at home.
Wednesday Wednesday is also a day off for us! I use this day to do a full shift at my part-time job as a receptionist in a hospital. In this role I gain very important communication and time management skills, which combined with the skills and knowledge I gain from my degree will prepare me for the professional environment.
Thursday On Thursday I have my Biological Skills module, which is basically working on our practical techniques in our amazing Mega Labs! Here, we learn everything from perfecting our micropipetting to using a spectrophotometer accurately. I am currently writing my first full lab report for one of the experiments we carried out on different methods of determining protein concentration, therefore after our session I’ll take a two minute walk down to our library where I can sit on the quiet floor and focus on my work. Don’t worry if you ever forget your laptop as it’s super easy to borrow one using the library services! For lunch I usually go down to Subway in the Maxwell Building (when I feel like being healthier) or down to McDonald’s just over the road from Salford Crescent station, if I feel like having a treat!
Friday Friday, I have Genetics from 9-11am and Cell Biology from 11-1pm, great morning to take a trip within a cell – whether looking at the genetic material or at all the wonderful cell organelles. We have just recently finished our Human and Animal Genetics and Development topic, which involved going all the way round the life cycle from a fertilised zygote to a fully-grown adult, briefly exploring the nature vs nurture discussion. In Cell Biology, we are currently looking at the cytoskeleton of the cell and all its contents, as well as, the extracellular matrix and its functions. This information really allows us to understand and link together all our knowledge to explain how and why things occur right down to cellular level, it is truly an amazing feeling when all the pieces of the puzzle finally come together! After my lectures I’ll go down to Atmosphere in the SU with my friends to have a drink or two and a chat to relax and finish of our academic week.
Top tip! If I get in early on a morning just before my 9am lectures, breakfast is super cheap and super tasty in the cafeteria in the Maxwell Building! Or if I’m late, on my way to the lecture hall in the Mary Seacole Building I’ll quickly stop at the Costa Coffee stand in the entrance for a hot drink and a pain au chocolat to-go! Being a member of the BioMed Society as formed by older students in the university, I am currently planning on getting involved in their upcoming event on networking and careers, this is a great way for me to work as part of a team and to build my confidence in public speaking and engagement.
Our facilities Our labs are state-of-theart with industry-standard equipment…
r labs
Bodme
But what does any of that mean? It means that our labs host the equipment that is used in most professional labs. This is a great advantage for you when you graduate as when you start a new job in a lab, you’ll already know how most of the equipment works, it will also make you stand out in the interview process as you can mention the equipment that you already know how to use. We are regularly updating the equipment in our labs to make sure they are up-to-date and technologically advanced. This benefits not only you, but also our staff who are carrying out active research. We also have external organisations such as Kidscan (a children’s cancer charity), which is based in our labs and as well as our yearly placement students who also need access to the latest technology.
During your first year you will have your practical lab sessions mainly in our Bodmer Lab (or the Mega Lab as it is referred to by our students!). This has been purpose built to support your learning, so we have really thought about what you’ll need to help you in your practical sessions. One of the unique features of our Bodmer Lab is the TV/AV support system, this allows your tutor to carry out a practical task on their desk whilst you follow along in real-time via the TV screens, which are at the end of each set of benches. You will be able to hear the instructions clearly through the whole lab via the speaker system.
how to g in w o n K l fessiona o r p e s u eat nt is gr e m ip u eq ity ployabil m e r o f
Want to know more? You can find out more about some of the equipment we have by watching our facilities video at www.vimeo.com/universityofsalford/elsfacilities
We hope you’ve found this information useful and you know what to expect in your first year studying Biomedical Science at the University of Salford now! Remember, this is just a sample of the information you’ll receive in your induction week so some of the information may change a little, especially the timetable!
VISIT OUR WEBSITE TODAY TO LEARN MORE! www.salford.ac.uk/study/ biomedical-science