SCHOOL OF SCIENCES Faculty of Science and Engineering
THE UNIVERSIT Y OF OPPORTUNIT Y
SCHOOL OF SCIENCES Faculty of Science and Engineering As a University and as a Faculty, we are pivotally positioned in the rebuilding of the technological and scientific capacity vital for the regeneration of related commercial and industrial expertise within the region and throughout the country.
WOLVERHAMPTON SCHOOL OF ARTS EST. 1851 2
We support the regeneration of the Black Country and, to meet national and global demand, we are committed to growing our base in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM). This is of paramount importance for the rebuilding of the economy. The Black Country is home to a diverse manufacturing base and it needs a strong, vocational university to support it. We have built on our rich and long history of science and technology, teaching and local skills and training provision to become a significant player in the STEM re-skilling that is of importance both nationally and in the Black Country. We work closely with many local and national employers such as the NHS, Crestwood Environmental, Campden BRI and Eurofins who benefit from the skilled
graduates necessary in the science and technology resurgence. Our School of Sciences is home to over 1,500 students and 70 staff and offers excellent laboratories and facilities in support of and across all science-based subject areas, including a realistic scene of crime suite, first-rate chemistry facilities, and a newly equipped physiology lab. Biosciences students benefit from quantitative real-time PCR, fluorescence microscopy, confocal microscopy and fluorescence activated cell sorting. The biotechnology lab includes microbial and fermentation facilities, as well as sophisticated glasshouses which include facilities for growing tropical and xerophytic plants. The Rosalind Franklin Building is an exciting state-of-the-art addition to the City Campus, where students are taught the key practical skills associated with their studies in three large 90-seater teaching laboratories. You will work alongside research staff on projects which contribute towards new scientific discoveries in their field. Whichever course you choose, you will find a strong practical emphasis in your studies, putting theories into practice, which will prepare you for employment in your chosen field. Full details of all courses and entry requirements can be found at: wlv.ac.uk/postgraduate
COURSES • Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology (MSc)
• Forensic Science (MSc)
• Biomedical Science (MSc)
• Instrumental Chemical Analysis (MSc)
• Biomedical Science (Professional Doctorate)
• Molecular Biology with Bioinformatics (MSc)
• Chemistry (MSc)
• Physician Associate Studies (PG Dip)
• Fire Scene Investigation (MSc)
• School of Sciences research degrees (MPhil / PhD)
• Forensic Genetics and Human Identification (MSc)
• Wildlife Conservation (MSc)
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APPLIED MICROBIOLOGY AND BIOTECHNOLOGY MSc With an emphasis on the application of knowledge and skills to real-world challenges, the course is designed for graduates looking to prepare themselves for a career in the biotechnology field, as well as for those in relevant employment.
WHY WOLVERHAMPTON? You will be able to use our excellent laboratories, such as analytical and fermentation facilities, plus a molecular biology research laboratory, to carry out advanced studies in applied microbiology and related aspects of biotechnology. You will gain experience of applying up-to-date scientific knowledge in these areas to industrial situations and the analysis of environmental problems.
FULL-TIME: 1 year
PART-TIME: 2 years
LOCATION: City Campus
START: Semester 1
a topic of your choice in greater depth. This modular course incorporates methods of sampling, analysis and data handling, investigation management, critical appraisal of literature, and the communication of scientific ideas. Typical modules include: • Fermentation Biotechnology • Molecular Genetics and Genomics • Bioremediation
HOW WILL THIS COURSE IMPROVE MY EMPLOYABILITY?
• DNA Data Mining
Career paths following this course vary from technical to managerial in the areas of general microbiology, environmental science, medical science and biotechnology (including pharmaceuticals). Many students progress to postgraduate research at academic or private sector institutions or embark on science teaching careers.
• Microbial Biotechnology
WHAT WILL I STUDY? Through a substantial research project, you will develop high-level skills in cutting-edge technologies, strengthen your problem-solving abilities and study
• Food Production and Deterioration • Master’s Laboratory Techniques • Research Methods • Research Project
HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED? Assessment methods include exams, written assignments, case studies, practical reports, independent research and presentations.
OTHER COURSES YOU MAY BE INTERESTED IN: • MSc Molecular Biology with Bioinformatics
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BIOMEDICAL SCIENCE MSc
FULL-TIME: 1 year
PART-TIME: 2 years
LOCATION: City Campus
START:
The MSc Biomedical Science courses provide you with the relevant knowledge and skills to pursue a broad range of career opportunities. You can study either on the generic route or one of the specialist routes.
Semester 1
WHY WOLVERHAMPTON? The courses are accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS) which assures you and prospective employers that the learning outcomes meet or exceed the Quality Assurance Agency’s descriptors for a qualification at Master’s level. The University has held accredited status for over 25 years.
Typical modules include:
Close collaboration between academics and NHS practitioners ensures that the course is delivered by specialists engaged in cutting-edge research and current service delivery.
• Molecular Genetics and Genomics
HOW WILL THIS COURSE IMPROVE MY EMPLOYABILITY?
• Specialist Discipline Modules
An IBMS-accredited postgraduate degree does not count towards the academic requirements for Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) registration, but does meet the requirements for registration with the Science Council as a Chartered Scientist (CSci). In addition, our awards provide you with the higher level specialist knowledge and skills needed to pursue a career in the dynamic area of biomedical sciences and related fields.
WHAT WILL I STUDY?
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quality management and undertake your own research study in our state-of-the-art science facility.
In addition to the main pathology disciplines, you can learn about current developments in genomics and patient therapy, advance your knowledge and skills in laboratory and
• Principles of Integrated Biomedical Science • Clinical Immunology • Independent Study Modules • Research Methods in Biomedical Science • Biomedical Science Research Project
HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED? A variety of assessment types are used across the courses, ranging from exams and case studies, to reports and presentations.
COURSE PATHWAYS: • MSc Biomedical Science (Cellular Pathology) • MSc Biomedical Science (Clinical Biochemistry) • MSc Biomedical Science (Haematology) • MSc Biomedical Science (Medical Microbiology)
BIOMEDICAL SCIENCE Professional Doctorate This course is for advanced practitioners in biomedical science laboratories who already hold an MSc (or equivalent) in Biomedical Science and have extensive experience (five years plus) in a biomedical science laboratory.
HOW WILL THIS COURSE IMPROVE MY EMPLOYABILITY? It will equip you with the research skills necessary to complement your clinical laboratory responsibilities and may further the opportunities for you to achieve promotion in your current laboratory, or open up opportunities for you to move into an exciting new career in research.
WHAT WILL I STUDY? The course combines analytical appraisal of your continuing practice
with a major research project (at a similar level to a PhD project), which may be undertaken in the workplace laboratory, or with one of the active biomedical science research groups in our Research Institute in Healthcare Science. You will be able to attend for one full day per week in order to minimise your time away from work. Typical modules include: • Project and Portfolio Development and Proposal • Advanced Research Methods • Seminars in Biomedical Science • Interim Report • Professional Practice Portfolio
PART-TIME: 4 years
• Doctorate of Biomedical Science Research Project
LOCATION: City Campus
START: Semester 1
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CHEMISTRY MSc
FULL-TIME: 1 year
PART-TIME: 2 years
LOCATION: City Campus Chemistry is at the heart of science. At Wolverhampton, Chemistry is not confined to the conventional boundaries of a chemistry department – our academic staff work closely with colleagues in pharmacy, biology and chemical engineering to provide an enhanced experience applying chemistry to the real world.
WHY WOLVERHAMPTON? You will receive in-depth classes based on the latest concepts and ideas in the main branches of chemistry from academic staff who are active researchers in their respective fields. Research forms a strong underpinning basis and your ability to apply knowledge, think critically and report your findings will be developed through an extensive research project.
HOW WILL THIS COURSE IMPROVE MY EMPLOYABILITY? You will gain in-depth knowledge and understanding of modern, cuttingedge chemistry that will enhance your employability and critical skills. You will apply scientific methods to a variety of research challenges and work on ‘real’ projects with companies to solve problems that they may have encountered.
WHAT WILL I STUDY? You will receive training in advanced practical methods, thorough grounding in the principles of scientific research,
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START: Semester 1
and transferable skills such as independent planning, experimental design and testing. The relative merits of established methods are explored through critical evaluation and you will have the opportunity to develop and test new investigative methods through the extended research project. Typical modules include: • Advanced Organic Chemistry • Advanced Inorganic Chemistry • Advanced Physical Chemistry • Advanced Analytical Chemistry • MSc Research Methods and Project
HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED? Assessment methods include presentations, examinations, poster presentations, written reports, essays and laboratory reports.
OTHER COURSES YOU MAY BE INTERESTED IN: • MSc Instrumental Chemical Analysis • MPhil / PhD Chemistry
FIRE SCENE INVESTIGATION MSc Develop an in-depth knowledge and understanding of how fire scenes are investigated. The course develops and uses modern methods and approaches used by modern crime and fire scene investigators.
WHY WOLVERHAMPTON? This course is a partnership between the University and the West Midlands Fire Service (WMFS). You will be taught by academic staff with extensive real-world experience in the investigation of fire scenes. The WMFS Fire Investigation facility at Oldbury provides students with a realistic practical experience of modern fire investigation underpinned by a sound theoretical understanding.
HOW WILL THIS COURSE IMPROVE MY EMPLOYABILITY?
2 years
The course provides opportunities to enhance critical skills and apply scientific analysis to a fire scene. The applied nature of the course opens up a number of career pathways which include crime scene investigation and fire investigation for the Fire Service or insurance companies.
LOCATION:
WHAT WILL I STUDY?
FULL-TIME: 1 year
PART-TIME:
City Campus
START: Semester 1
The course provides a sound theoretical basis of the science, technology and legal issues that underpin and inform the investigation of fire scenes. You will receive a thorough grounding in the principles of scientific research and transferable skills such as
independent planning, experimental design and testing. You will explore and evaluate the relative merits of established investigative methods and develop and test new methods through an extended research project. Typical modules include: • Fire Science and Building Construction • Evidence Gathering at Fire Scenes • Fire Scene Investigations Practical • Interpretation of Fire Scenes • Managing Fire Scenes and Report Writing • Research Project • Research Methods
HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED? Assessment methods include presentations, examinations, poster presentations, written reports, essays and laboratory reports.
OTHER COURSES YOU MAY BE INTERESTED IN: • MSc Forensic Genetics and Human Identification • MSc Forensic Science
SCHOOL OF SCIENCES 7
FORENSIC GENETICS AND HUMAN IDENTIFICATION MSc
FULL-TIME: 1 year
PART-TIME: 2 years
LOCATION: City Campus
START:
This comprehensive course on human identification and mass fatality incident analysis incorporates the full methodological repertoire of forensic genetics and DNA analysis, physical anthropology, crime scene investigation and human identification based on biometric assessment of a variety of physical characteristics.
This is such a rewarding course and it has given me a fantastic start to my career. ANTONIA DODSWORTH, MSC FORENSIC GENETICS AND HUMAN IDENTIFICATION
WHY WOLVERHAMPTON? This course is unique in the national and international market in terms of its structure and combination of key topics, whilst being designed to generate a postgraduate level of competence in the important as well as exciting area of forensic science.
HOW WILL THIS COURSE IMPROVE MY EMPLOYABILITY? This course will be good preparation for graduates looking for a career in the disaster victim identification / mass disaster victim identification areas and those who wish to work in a forensic DNA laboratory.
WHAT WILL I STUDY? We deliver our Master’s programmes in two semesters of taught subject materials, followed by a full-time intensive research project over the summer. Current and advanced topics in human identification are taught by forensic scientists and practitioners in comprehensive lecture series. Lecture topics are discussed in seminars and reinforced in practical teaching sessions. A two-week orientation prior to the programme provides assistance and advice for managing the day-to-day life
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Semester 1
and familiarisation with University facilities. The ten-week full-time research project is accompanied by training in scientific writing, project design and oral presentation skills. Typical modules include: • Forensic Genetics • Forensic Anthropology • Human Identification from Physical Characteristics • Professional Skills in Forensic Science • Laboratory Techniques • Molecular Genetics and Genomics • Research Methods • Research Project
HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED? Assessment will include a literature review, experimental design and project planning, an oral presentation, and a research project.
OTHER COURSES YOU MAY BE INTERESTED IN: • MSc Fire Scene Investigation • MSc Forensic Science
FORENSIC SCIENCE MSc
The course provides you with the opportunity to study the breadth of Forensic Science whilst allowing you to maximise your potential by selecting more than one specialised topic such as: Forensic Genetics; Fire Scene Investigation; Drug Analysis or Forensic Mark Comparison.
FULL-TIME: 1 year
PART-TIME: 2 years
LOCATION: City Campus
START: Semester 1
WHY WOLVERHAMPTON?
Indicative modules include:
You will be taught by a number of highly experienced forensic practitioner specialists, including specialists from the West Midlands Police, as well as expert academic staff in modern laboratory spaces, the recently expanded Crime Scene House, our ballistics facility and entomology labs.
• Professional Skills in Forensic Science
HOW WILL THIS COURSE IMPROVE MY EMPLOYABILITY?
HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED?
This course will equip you with the relevant scientific and transferable skills for a range of employment options in the forensic science sector, including with independent providers of forensic analysis, police scientific work, insurance companies, or in the forensic analysis of foods and water or in other laboratory-based work.
• Forensic Entomology • Forensic Anthropology • Evidence Gathering at Fire Scenes • Investigating Drug Crime: From Scene to Court • Forensic Mark Comparison
Assessments will include practical reports, case studies, presentations (including court room presentations), written assignments, and examinations.
OTHER COURSES YOU MAY BE INTERESTED IN: • MSc Forensic Genetics and Human Identification • MSc Fire Scene Investigation
WHAT WILL I STUDY? You will study a number of core and optional theory and practicalbased modules over two trimesters, followed by an extended research project in the third trimester.
SCHOOL OF SCIENCES 9
INSTRUMENTAL CHEMICAL ANALYSIS MSc
FULL-TIME: 1 year
PART-TIME: 2 years
LOCATION: City Campus
Analytical chemistry transcends the boundaries usually associated with chemistry as a subject, finding applications in forensics, biochemistry, pharmaceutical analysis, environmental science, food science (chemical engineering), cancer and disease research, and more.
START: Semester 1
WHY WOLVERHAMPTON? Our analytical chemistry academics work closely with colleagues in other disciplines and departments, both internally and externally. Research underpins both the taught material and the extended research project. You will be taught the latest concepts and ideas in analytical chemistry and laboratory management from academic staff who are active researchers in their respective fields, and gain hands-on experience with laboratory instrumentation.
HOW WILL THIS COURSE IMPROVE MY EMPLOYABILITY? You’ll gain an in-depth knowledge of modern, cutting-edge instrumental chemical analysis. You’ll have the opportunity to enhance your critical skills and work on projects with companies and research groups to provide solutions to real-world problems, applying scientific methods to challenges in a variety of scenarios – from cancer research to food science.
WHAT WILL I STUDY? The course will provide enhanced, research-led studies in instrumental analytical chemistry, demonstrating how widely applicable the discipline is. You will also be training in methods of quality assurance of paramount importance in 10 SCHOOL OF SCIENCES
any analytical methodology. An extended research project will provide you with extensive training in the principles of scientific research and the transferable skills associated with designing, carrying out, reporting and critically evaluating research work. Typical modules include: • Advanced Analytical Chemistry • Pharmaceutical Analysis • MSc Research Methods and Project Along with one option selected from: • Quality Assurance and Laboratory Management • Advanced Organic Chemistry • Advanced Inorganic Chemistry • Advanced Physical Chemistry
HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED? Assessment methods include presentations, examinations, poster presentations, written reports, essays and laboratory reports.
OTHER COURSES YOU MAY BE INTERESTED IN: • MSc Chemistry • MPhil / PhD Chemistry
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MOLECULAR BIOLOGY WITH BIOINFORMATICS MSc
FULL-TIME: 1 year
PART-TIME: 2 years
LOCATION: City Campus
START:
We have a long-standing reputation for the provision of training in molecular biology at all levels. The course is at the forefront of the identification of bioinformatic skills and has led to graduates achieving high-profile employment as bioinformaticians.
Semester 1
WHY WOLVERHAMPTON? You will benefit from working with expert staff, excellent technology and research equipment in our state-of-the-art laboratories, and will receive a thorough grounding in the necessary computing skills needed to access important online databases, such as the human genome.
HOW WILL THIS COURSE IMPROVE MY EMPLOYABILITY? This course is for biosciences graduates looking to open up a route into industry, and for practising professionals seeking to widen their experience and qualifications, and extend their knowledge. Career paths in this active job market vary from technical to managerial in the industrial, educational, health and research sectors, typically in the areas of general molecular biology, biochemical science, medical science and biotechnology (including pharmaceuticals). You may also progress to postgraduate research or embark on a science teaching career.
WHAT WILL I STUDY? This course provides a sound understanding of the subject’s key principles, as well as how they can be effectively applied to a wide range of industrial and environmental
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applications. It addresses the rapidly developing field of modern genetics and the post-genomics era. You will be challenged to look to the frontiers of (and even beyond) current thinking in the subject, and to be aware of how your studies impact on your future career/professional role. Typical modules include: • Modern Computer Science • Data Management • DNA Datamining • Master’s Laboratory Techniques • Molecular Genetics and Genomics • Research Project
HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED? Assessment methods include presentations, written assignments, case studies, independent research, and portfolios.
OTHER COURSES YOU MAY BE INTERESTED IN: • MSc Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology
PHYSICIAN ASSOCIATE STUDIES PG Dip This course enables you to develop the skills required to become a competent and confident Physician Associate (PA). The range of core PA qualities you will gain include holistic assessment techniques and appropriate therapeutic interventions, with the ability to diagnose and/or manage an agreed range of clinical problems.
WHY WOLVERHAMPTON?
WHAT WILL I STUDY?
Physician Associates are pivotal to the provision of optimal, higher level care delivery in current and future health arenas. To contribute to this agenda, the programme develops your core PA characteristics as a critical enquirer and a professional with confidence and competence to challenge, lead and innovate at different levels of care delivery within a dynamic, interprofessional healthcare context.
You will study six 20-credit modules which will include an option module for study in an area of your choice.
There will be contributions in modules from the Medical Professoriate who are actively involved in research that is influencing care in local, regional, national and international arenas.
FULL-TIME: 2 years
LOCATION: City Campus
START: Semester 1
HOW WILL THIS COURSE IMPROVE MY EMPLOYABILITY? The programme has been developed in response to identified and anticipated demands for increasing the number of Physician Associates with advanced skills and critical understanding.
Typical modules include: • Foundations of Clinical Practice for the Physician Associate • Foundations of Clinical Medicine • Clinical Reasoning and Decision Making for the Physician Associate • Personal and Professional Development of the Physician Associate • Foundations of Primary Care for the Physician Associate • Applied Pharmacology You will have an opportunity to develop your practice skills in a range of clinical settings.
OTHER COURSES YOU MAY BE INTERESTED IN: • MSc Health and Social Care (Institute of Community and Society)
The programme develops you to be a flexible and adaptable practitioner, enabling you to engage in new ways of working in relation to healthcare priorities, and lead and develop practice to ensure high-quality patient care delivery. SCHOOL OF SCIENCES 13
SCHOOL OF SCIENCES RESEARCH DEGREES MPhil / PhD
FULL-TIME: MPhil: Up to 2 years PhD: Up to 4 years
PART-TIME: MPhil: Up to 4 years PhD: Up to 8 years
LOCATION: City Campus Within the School of Sciences, we offer supervision for MPhils and PhDs in a range of research areas, including:
the development and promotion of healthcare science research activities. It includes the following groups:
• Animal Behaviour and Wildlife Conservation
• Brain Tumour Research Centre
• Biomedical Sciences • Biological Sciences • Chemistry • Forensic Science • Microbiology • Molecular Biology As a research student at Wolverhampton, you will be part of one of our research institutes and centres. Our Research Institute in Healthcare Science (RIHS) is a cross-school initiative supporting interdisciplinary research with appropriate critical mass, and providing a platform for
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• Diabetes, Physiology and Molecular Medicine Research Group • Food Biology, Medical Microbiology and Disinfection Research Group • Molecular Pharmacology Research Group Please find out more about our research, the expertise of our staff and areas of supervision available for research degrees on our website: wlv.ac.uk/research/ institutes-and-centres
START: Any time throughout the year
WILDLIFE CONSERVATION MSc This comprehensive course provides an in-depth view of the contemporary issues and techniques required of professional wildlife conservationists working both in the UK and overseas.
WHY WOLVERHAMPTON? You will be taught not only by our experienced academic staff but with the assistance of world-leading experts and conservation practitioners both in class and in the field. We stress a holistic appreciation of the link between field and laboratorybased work, and the necessity of professional-level communication with a range of audiences.
HOW WILL THIS COURSE IMPROVE MY EMPLOYABILITY?
FULL-TIME: 1 year
PART-TIME: 2 years
LOCATION:
This course prepares you for a role as a conservation professional working with strong applied and field-based components. It gives you key opportunities for employment in conservation-type roles in the UK and beyond, where higher-level qualifications are essential for demonstrating topic knowledge and technical competency.
City Campus
WHAT WILL I STUDY?
START:
The focus throughout is on animals in their wild settings, and as such there is a strong emphasis on fieldwork and applied wildlife research. Where possible, teaching will be through workshops and
Semester 1
seminars providing a more immersive environment, helping you understand the operation of professional-level applied conservation skills in communication and problem-solving. Typical modules include: • Conservation Genetics • Advanced Survey and Monitoring Techniques • Primate Conservation and Behaviour • Research Methods for Wildlife Conservation • Field Course • Conservation of UK Protected Species • Master’s Project
HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED? Assessment methods include reports, examinations, essays, coursework, presentations and professional portfolios.
OTHER COURSES YOU MAY BE INTERESTED IN: • MSc Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology
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School of Sciences Wulfruna Building Wulfruna Street Wolverhampton WV1 1LY Tel: +44 (0)1902 321 000 sci.eng@wlv.ac.uk @WLVsci_eng /WLVsae wlv.ac.uk/fse
This Faculty booklet describes in outline the programmes offered by the University of Wolverhampton. These, as well as other details, are correct at the time of going to print. However, programmes and modules can be added or withdrawn without notice. Support offered and other details are subject to change. For the most up-to-date information and list of programmes currently offered, as well as campus tours, student case studies, and lots more useful information, please visit: wlv.ac.uk/postgraduate. We regularly review our courses to ensure they reflect the needs of students and employers. Courses advertised ‘subject to approval’ have successfully completed the first stage of the approval process. We welcome applications for these courses. However, their full academic detail is subject to final approval and may change – in rare instances a course may not run. If you have applied for a course that is subject to approval, our Admissions team will keep you informed of any changes to the advertised course. By accepting an offer from the University of Wolverhampton, a legal contract is formed between you and the University. The University’s terms and conditions and the course-specific information provided at the time of your offer form the basis of this contract. Admissions terms and conditions (found at wlv.ac.uk/admissions-terms-and-conditions) contain important information you must carefully read before accepting your offer. The University’s Policies and Regulations webpages at wlv.ac.uk/polsandregs also contain important information about rights and responsibilities, including complaints procedures.