course specification · course specification template – september 2018 page 1 of 38 course...

Course Specification Template – September 2018 of 38

Course Specification PART A: About the Course 1. Qualification (award and title and, where appropriate, Apprenticeship Standard

title and code):

BSc (Hons) Pharmacology BSc (Hons) Pharmacology with Foundation BSc (Hons) Pharmacology with Placement BSc (Hons) Pharmacology with Foundation and Placement

2. Delivery Partners and Recognition: who delivers this course, where? Is it accredited by any professional bodies?

Campuses/Partners Recognised/accredited by

UWL (Paragon House, St Mary’s Road)

3. Course Description: a short descriptive statement used for publicity (max. 1150 characters):

Pharmacology is the study of how drugs act on the human body and vice versa. It is the science of drugs, as well as their physical and chemical properties. It is thanks to Pharmacologists that an individual can take an aspirin for a headache, or an anaesthetic for a filling. The course will cover the drugs that affect major systems of the body including the central nervous, cardiovascular, respiratory and endocrine systems. Topics include pharmacological techniques, toxicology and anticancer drugs. The course will provide an in-depth knowledge of a wide range of drug classes, safety and efficacy and drug action. It also will give a sound understanding of the drug development process


4. Course Structure Diagram: a visual overview of the programme of study

LEVE

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MODULE TITLE

BIO

MED

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NU

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3 20 1 Academic Performance C C C 3 20 1 Laboratory Practice C C C 3 20 1 Mathematics Essential skills for scientific study C C C 3 20 2 Applied Health Professions C C C 3 20 2 Introduction to Applied Science C C C 3 20 2 Personalised Learning C C C

4 20 1 Molecules and Cells C C C 4 20 1 Fundamentals of Evolution C C C 4 20 1 Medical Microbiology C C C

4 20 2 Fundamentals of Biochemistry C C C 4 20 2 Genetics and Disease C C C 4 20 2 Molecular Biology C C C

5 20 1 Principles of Biological Chemistry C O C 5 20 1 Essential Skills for Biological Sciences C O O 5 20 1 Innovation in Biology C O O 5 20 1 Essentials of Nutrition C 5 20 1 Neuroscience, Endocrine, & Gastrointestinal

Pharmacology C

5 20 2 Biochemical Skills: Practical Methods C C C 5 20 2 Research Methods C C C 5 20 2 Human Anatomy and Physiology C 5 20 2 Clinical Nutrition C 5 20 2 Respiratory, Renal & Cardiovascular Pharmacology C

1/2 Placement Module

This module is taken only by students in degree with placement

6 20 1 Clinical Immunology and Haematology C O 6 20 1 Applied Molecular Medicine C O 6 40 1/2 Final Year Research Project C C C 6 20 1 Food Choices C 6 20 1 Nutritional Assessment C 6 20 1 Antimicrobial, Antineoplastic and Neuropharmacology C

6 20 2 Fundamentals of Genes and Cancer C O 6 20 2 Current perspectives in Bioscience C O O


6 20 2 Diet and Sustainability O 6 20 2 Food Policy and Governance C 6 20 2 Professional Issues in Drug Development

& Clinical Trials C

BSC (HONS) PHARMACOLOGY

All modules are new, with the exception of the generic level 3 modules Academic Performance and Personalised Learning

LEVEL 3

Semester 1 Semester 2 Academic Performance Core – 20 credits

Applied Health Professions Core – 20 credits

Laboratory Performance Core – 20 credits

Introduction to Applied Science Core – 20 credits

Mathematics Essential Skills for Scientific study Core – 20 credits

Personalised Learning Core – 20 credits

LEVEL 4

Semester 1 Semester 2

Molecules and Cells Core – 20 credits

Fundamentals of Biochemistry Core – 20 credits

Fundamentals of Evolution Core – 20 credits

Genetics and Disease Core – 20 credits

Medical Microbiology Core – 20 credits

Molecular Biology Core – 20 credits

Note: students doing the degree part time must earn 60 credits per year In their first year they must complete the three modules listed above as ‘semester 1’. Similarly, in their second year they must complete the modules listed above as ‘semester 2’ over the course of two semesters.

LEVEL 5


Principles of Biological Chemistry Core – 20 credits

Biochemical Skills: Practical Methods Core – 20 credits

Essentials for Biological Sciences Optional – 20 credits

Research Methods Core- 20 credits

Innovation in Biology Optional – 20 credits

Respiratory, Renal & Cardiovascular Pharmacology Core – 20 credits


Neuroscience, Endocrine & Gastrointestinal Pharmacology Core – 20 credits

Note: students doing the degree part time must earn 60 credits

Placement Year

Placement 0 credit

This module is taken only by students in degree with placement Core

Note: compulsory for students doing degree with placement

LEVEL 6


Clinical Immunology and Haematology Optional - 20 credits

Fundamentals of Genes and Cancer Optional – 20 credits

Applied Molecular Medicine Optional – 20 credits

Current perspectives in Bioscience Optional – 20 credits

Antimicrobial, Antineoplastic and Neuropharmacology Core – 20 credits

Professional Issues in Drug Development & Clinical Trials Core – 20 credits

Final Year Research Project Core – 40 credits

NB The final year research project runs across both seminars

Note: students doing the degree part time must earn 60 credits per year. They need first to do pharmacology modules, and to choose one of the optional modules listed above under ‘semester 2’. Then in their final year they must do the Final Year Project plus one of the other optional modules listed under ‘semester 2’.

5. Course Aims and Content by Level: what is this course all about and how does

it build and develop over time? Level 3: Foundation Year Level 3 The Foundation level aims to provide an understanding of the key subjects at level 3 in order to meet the prerequisites for level 4 study on BSc (Hons) Pharmacology. Students develop: an understanding of fundamental theories that will be developed further within the degree programme; the necessary skills and

Reference Points: • The Frameworks for

Higher Education Qualifications of UK Degree-Awarding Bodies


knowledge to study successfully at level 4. These involve primarily generic skills required to embark with confidence on any bachelor's level degree in applied human science. The specific modules work together to supply a sound foundation for future progress, focussing on numeracy skills, laboratory techniques and practice, and the fundamental scientific theories and concepts basic to our understanding of the physiology and function of the human body. In addition, to ensure a coherence and academic growth from the outset, there is a module focussing on professionalism, introducing students to the required skills, commitments and competencies to undertake specific roles – to think about the relationship between their degree studies and the career paths they aim to take subsequent to completion of the degree. All of these skills will develop over the duration of the programme. The foundation year assessment will be a written assignment and computer-based assessments. MODULES Level 3 - Semester 1 Academic Performance: The module introduces students to a range of investigative and research techniques including how to evaluate and select appropriate evidence from a range of learning resources. The module also aims to develop critical thinking and writing strategies in students, encouraging them to become aware of personal learning development. Mathematics: essential skills for scientific study: The module equips students with the skills to understand and apply mathematical concepts and symbols, and to communicate their significance to others, clearly and with confidence; to give the students the conceptual groundwork and practical skills to marshal the basic mathematical methods needed to succeed in any applied science degree. Laboratory Practice: The module introduces students to the laboratory environment, equipping them with the skills to use basic laboratory techniques to address questions in the biological sciences. This will involve the use of laboratory equipment, techniques relating to measurement, data collection, record-keeping, and employing basic health and safety procedures as a matter of routine. Level 3 – Semester 2 Personalised Learning: The aims of this module are to prepare the student for undergraduate studies and to ensure they develop the skills to be a reflective and successful learner. Applied Health Professions: The module is designed to provide students with a broad understanding of the scientific basis of human health and disease, so that students may gain an understanding of the skills and competency required to make the transition to the required degree program. The module aims to get students to think about the relationship between their degree studies and their career paths in future.

• Subject Benchmark Statements – Biomedical Sciences

• Characteristics Statements

• All available at: http://qaa.ac.uk/quality-code/the-existing-uk-quality-code# Apprenticeship standards Available at: https://www.gov.uk/topic/further-education-skills/apprenticeships/latest • PSRB standards (as

appropriate)

http://qaa.ac.uk/quality-code/the-existing-uk-quality-code



https://www.gov.uk/topic/further-education-skills/apprenticeships/latest





Introduction to Applied Science: The module aims to equip students for level 4 biomedical science, by providing a basic introduction to the physiology and function of the human body, from the cells through to the whole body, including a basic understanding of diseases, the genetics biochemical characteristics and coordinated responses and control. Level 4 – First year

Level 4 then provides the student's basic introduction to degree level biological science, building on the skills, knowledge and competencies acquired at level 3 and providing the basis for the specific applications and growth of these skills to be studied at levels 5 and 6. In line with the structure and content across both the foundation modules and the modules to follow at level 5, the range of modules constituting the offering at this level is interdisciplinary and applied from the outset, introducing students to anatomy, physiology, biochemistry and bodily systems including digestion. Through their specific modules students will gain an overall picture of the human organism and its essential functions, including microbiology, the structural features of all cells that make up the living system, fundamental genetic mechanisms essential for the evolution of life and function, and the genetics and molecular biology underpinning human biology and health. This broad picture of the human organism and its related functions gives students the map into which their future study of the processes fits. It facilitates their development in the studies that follow at level 5 and 6, where they will look at broader issues of human health, equipped with a picture of the complex relationships between human biological systems and functions. The introduction of the core topics will enable assessment through written exams, laboratory reports and computer-based assignments.

MODULES

Level 4 Semester 1 Molecules and Cells: This module, shared with students on other biomedical sciences degrees, introduces students to the basic structure, composition and function of cells, including: core concepts relating to the organisation and specialisation of eukaryotes, prokaryotes and viruses; cellular components involved in the regulation of key functions such as the generation of energy, movement, cell growth, division and differentiation techniques common to cell biology to determine cell structure and function. Fundamentals of Evolution. This module, shared with students on other biomedical sciences degrees, introduces students to fundamental genetic mechanisms essential for the evolution of life and function. Students learn about fundamental evolutionary concepts and theories, showing how genetic mechanisms help determine the patterns of observed evolution. They also learn to


apply evolutionary concepts to a broad selection of areas of Life Sciences. Medical Microbiology. This module, shared with students on other biomedical sciences degrees, explains the crucial role microbes play in maintaining the natural environment, teaching students to use appropriate techniques for assessing microbial diversity. Students examine the role of microbes in disease processes and how the immune system protects against infections. Level 4 -Semester 2 Fundamentals of Biochemistry. This module, shared with students on other biomedical sciences degrees, provides an overview of metabolic pathways, energy, and flow in cells, and a basic understanding of proteins, with emphasis on protein structure and folding, post-translational modifications of proteins and implications for cell function. Genetics of Disease. This module, shared with students on other biomedical sciences degrees, provides knowledge and understanding of the structure of nucleic acids (DNA and RNA) and how these molecules encode the properties of cells – providing students with a basic grounding in the genetics and molecular biology underpinning human biology and health. Molecular Biology. This module, shared with students on other biomedical sciences degrees, presents basic techniques for experimentally cloning genes, analysing their structure and function. Students are introduced to the use of molecular biology technologies to solve problems in biology, food security and medicine, and ethical issues associated with genetic and molecular technologies. LEVEL 5

This level aims to build on level 4, having understood the multi-disciplinary approach required for human health and diseases, it will specifically build on the knowledge of human health aspects, by further understanding a wide range of disease processes combined with the principles of laboratory and practical methods. It also consists of six modules including Essential Skills for Biological Sciences and Innovation in Biology. Learning outcomes will include building on techniques, increasing their Biomedical skills and research as well as Good Laboratory Practices when diagnosing diseases alongside Health and Safety requirements. At this level students are gaining much insight into scientific methods therefore laboratory reports, essays and assignments, data interpretation exercises and critical analysis of cases, presentation of journal articles will be performed. It will be assessed through written examinations, oral & written assignments and practicals. MODULES Level 5 – Semester 1


Principles of Biological Chemistry. This module introduces principles of the chemical processes that are required to understand pharmacological principles. These include basic thermodynamic principles and biological energetics, principles of chemical reaction rates to quantify enzymatic reactions and pharmacokinetics. Essential skills for Biological Sciences. Students will improve their communication skills, both spoken and written. The module, shared with students doing other biomedical science degrees, focuses on listening, questioning and respecting others, as well as contributing to discussions, preparing and giving presentations and thinking creatively to develop appropriate solutions. Classes will also focus on time management, deadlines and prioritising workloads, active participation in groups but being able to work independently. Innovation in Biology. This module explores themes which are driving biological research in the UK and globally. Students will develop skills to investigate research topics and communicate their findings and views on them. In the process they will encounter international and global perspectives as professionals/citizens; locate, discuss, analyse, evaluate information from different sources; considering issues from a variety of cultural perspectives, and consider ethical and social responsibility issues. Neuroscience, Endocrine & Gastrointestinal Pharmacology This module will provide an understanding of the mechanisms of the neuroscience, endocrine and gastrointestinal systems also the various disorders and the how drugs are used, also how it affects the individual systems. Level 5: Semester 2 Biochemical Skills: Practical Methods. The module introduces students to a range of practical skills and analytical techniques that are applicable to many fields of modern biology. Students are equipped to understand the relevance of experimental skills across all biological disciplines, to develop their research skills and to understand the importance of the relationship between quantitative skills and key skills. Research Methods. This module equips students to understand and employ a broad range of research methods including chemical, mathematical and computer simulations, in vitro tests, whole animal models, and human epidemiological studies and clinical trials. Students are encouraged to think critically and reflectively about the process of selecting research methods, with reference to epistemic and ethical considerations and limitations.

Respiratory, Renal & Cardiovascular Pharmacology This module will demonstrate how the respiratory system is regulated also it will identify the role of the glands and the blood vessels associated with it. It will examine the function and structure of the


renal system. Students will also learn of the role and function of the vascular systems. Each system will demonstrate the action of drugs affecting their functions.

Placement Year This module develops the students’ employability skillset and enhances professional development and career prospects. The module requires students to undertake 45 weeks full-time employment relevant to Pharmacology. The aim of the Industrial Placement year is to enhance students’ employment prospects by developing industry-related skills in a real work environment. It also aims to enhance and develop students’ personal and interpersonal skills, knowledge and practical abilities through an individually negotiated portfolio of activities. LEVEL 6:

Successful completion of level 5, and placement year for those undertaking placement, enables students to build on their understanding of the research methods and skills required to progress to Level 6. This level enables students to undertake a research project allowing for individuals to explore a topic of particular interest to them as individuals, whilst studying the complex nature of disease as it affects biological systems. Modules such as Clinical Immunology and Haematology and Applied Molecular Medicine, also Fundamentals of Genes and Cancer will be covered here. This will give the students an insight into their proposed pathway for their career, be it a research career or to conduct further research studies, working in a routine diagnostic lab or a company. Assessments will include oral and poster presentations, assignments, project reports which will include data interpretations and written examinations.

MODULES

Level 6 -Semester 1

Clinical Immunology and Haematology. In this module students will gain knowledge of the main components of the mammalian immune system and the role of the blood cells. Students will be examine the blood group antigens and the blood components for transfusion. An overall understanding of the immune mechanisms that host defences, including what happens if the immune system malfunctions and how it affects the human health. Students will examine the diseases which are associated with the blood cells. Applied Molecular Medicine. This module teaches the use of molecular and computational approaches in the study and treatment of human disease. It will also demonstrate how


regenerative medicine and the extracellular matrix defines specific diseases processes and their treatments. The use of stem cell therapeutics will be examined. Students will be taught the ability to apply Biochemistry and Biomedicine methods to critically evaluate and interpret knowledge to solve biological and biomedical complex problems. Final year research project. The module aims to further develop the skills of critical appraisal, interpretation, analysis, defending and reflection through the design and/or execution of a Pharmacology focused research project. Antimicrobial, Antineoplastic and Neuropharmacology This module will provide an understanding of antibacterial chemotherapy applied to human diseases which is as a consequence of some commonly known viruses. It will further investigate the mechanisms of actions and practical applications of chemotherapy, and the role of neuropharmacology agents. Level 6 – Semester 2 Current perspectives in Bioscience. This module enables students to take a critical viewpoint on science by understanding the past, present and future – how it relates to society, how it is perceived by scientists and non-scientists, and how best to approach some of the problems confronting applied science in the current era. Fundamentals of Genes and Cancer. This module teaches the way in which cancer occurs at the molecular and cellular levels, the role of oncogenes and tumour suppressor genes in the development of human cancer. They will be taught the hallmarks of cancer and what are the therapeutic strategies and limitations. Finally, they will learn the role of technologies such as bio-informatics shaping cancer progression. Students will develop skills to critically evaluate and interpret the published literature in the field of cancer biology. Professional Issues in Drug Development & Clinical Trials This module demonstrates the process for the development of drugs, starting from the development of the drugs, through to the procedure for conducting clinical trials, and providing information on the drugs are then licenced and marketed. Student will learn about the regulatory framework which underlies the licencing of new drugs.

QAA Benchmark standards for Biomedical Sciences (November 2015) Code 6.6, 8.9

Requirements for code 6.6.numbered i – iv, code 8.9 numbered i- v are taken from QAA Benchmark standards for Biomedical Sciences (November 2015), please see Appendix A


QAA BENCHMARKING STANDARDS IN BIOMEDICAL SCIENCES (November 2015)

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v N.B: Please see Appendix A for the description of the requirements for code 6.6 and 8.9

6. Course Contact Hours: how much time should I commit to this course?


Learning hours are determined by credits. One credit is worth 10 learning hours, so a 20 credit module is 200 learning hours, a 30 credit module is 300 hours etc. This is the amount of time you should be prepared to commit to each module.

Learning hours are divided into: taught or ‘contact’ hours, i.e., the amount of time students spend in contact with academic staff, whether through face-to-face classes or online learning; and independent study, i.e., the amount of time students are expected to spend on their own study and assessment preparation. Some kinds of learning mix contact time and independent study, for instance presentations or workshops by invited experts, or sessions where you are working in groups on a project but can call on academic staff for advice or feedback on your work so far. You also have one-to-one time with academic staff in personal tutorials.

Continue to the next page for Section 7.


7. Course Learning Outcomes: what can I expect to achieve on this course? Complete the following table

Level 3 Level 4

Level 5

Placement Level 6

List of modules • Academic Performance (AP)

• Laboratory Practice (LP)

• Mathematics: Essential skills for scientific study (ME)

• Applied Health Professions (AHP)

• Introduction to Applied Science (IAP)

• Personalised Learning (PL)

• Molecules and Cells (MC)

• Fundamentals of Evolution (FE)

• Medical Microbiology (MM)

• Fundamentals of Biochemistry (FB)

• Genetics and Disease (GD)

• Molecular Biology (MB)

• Principles of Biological Chemistry (PBC)

• Essential Skills for Biological Sciences (ESBS)

• Innovation in Biology (IB)

• Biochemical Skills: Practical Methods (BSPM)

• Research Methods (RM)

• Human Anatomy & Physiology (HAP)

• • Neuroscience,

Endocrine & Gastrointestinal Pharmacology (NEGP)

• Respiratory, Renal & Cardiovascular

• Placement module

• Cellular Immunology and Disease (CID)

• Applied Molecular Medicine (AMM)

• Final Year Project (FYP)

• Fundamentals of Genes and Cancer (FGC)

• Current Perspectives in Bioscience (CPB)

• Antimicrobial, Antineoplastic and Neuropharmacology (AAN)

• Professional Issues in Drug Development & Clinical Trials (PIDDCT)


Pharmacology (RRCP)

Knowledge and understanding

• Identify and outline fundamental concepts, principles and methods of study relevant to applied biological sciences.(All)

• Demonstrate general

awareness of ideas, narratives and discourses, and how they are framed within bioscience discourse.(All

• Knowledge of the contribution of a subject to the development and understanding of the complexity of human health and disease.

• Understanding of the processes and mechanisms of life from the molecular and cellular levels through to the whole body.

• Understanding of the essential facts, major concepts, principles and theories associated with individual subjects.

• Understanding & knowledge of the information and data, accompanied by critical analysis and assessment to enable assimilation of the subject as a whole.

• Competence in the basic experimental and/or survey skills appropriate to the subject.

• Understanding of how to apply and communicate knowledge of Pharmacology to meet the needs in healthcare and society.

• Knowledge of the methods for acquiring, interpreting and analysing the subject information with a critical understanding of the appropriate context for its use through the study of texts, original papers, reports and data sets.

• Understanding of the engagement with current developments in the field and their applications, also the ethical and philosophical issues involved.

Intellectual skills

• Use given classifications and principles to identify and explain information within biomedical discourse and practice. (All)

• Draw inferences about basic information and

• Recognise and apply subject-specific theories, paradigms, concepts of principles where appropriate.

• Make evidence-based decisions.

• In order to formulate and test hypotheses, obtain and integrate several lines of subject-specific evidence.

• Apply the scientific principles of Pharmacology in a practical context with reference to health and wellbeing of individual

• Apply subject knowledge and understanding to address known and unknown problems.

• Recognise the moral and ethical issues of investigations and appreciate the need for ethical standards


situations related to organisms and biological systems. (All)

• Sort and order information and ideas into a logical line of argument. (All)

groups and populations.

and professional codes of conduct.

Subject practical skills

• Draw on and refer to the prescribed literature and information sources. (All)

• Communicate effectively both orally and in writing. (All)

• Work effectively with others. (All)

• Demonstrate competence in the basic experimental skills appropriate to the subject.

• Demonstrate an understanding of statistical significance and statistical power.

• Plan an experiment providing the hypothesis, sample, test or observations, controls, observable outcomes and use of appropriate statistical package.

• Obtain, record, collate, and analyse data using appropriate practical techniques, working individually or in a group.

• When collating and analysing data, ensure validity, accuracy, calibration, precision, replicability and highlight uncertainty during collection.

• Understanding of how to apply scientific and ethical standards explained and discussed in level 4 and 5 modules in a professional context.

• Conduct and report on investigations, which may involve primary or secondary data.

• Undertake practical investigations in a responsible safe and ethical manner. Taking note of risk assessment, relevant health and safety regulations, ethical issues. Obtaining the relevant ethical permission and informed consent. Issues relating to animal welfare and knowledge of the potential impact of any investigations on the study and on other stakeholders.


• Solve problems by a variety of methods, such as the use of the appropriate software.

• Evaluate published studies by interpreting methodology and experimental data. Make judgements on the strength of evidence presented.

Transferable skills

Clearly communicate information, attitudes, and ideas in a specified written, verbal or visual form. (All) Access specified resources, collect and use the information and data for a given purpose, and carry out simple exploration of a topic with clear support and guidance. (All) Use specified ICT such as Excel for closely defined purposes and tasks. (All) Meet given objectives and own responsibilities within a group situation,

• Develop an adaptable, flexible and effective approach to study and work.

• Recognise and respect the views and opinions of peers in a group study.

• Communicate about their subject appropriately to a variety of audiences using a range of formats, approaches and scientific language.

• Evaluate the performance of others.

• Begin to develop an appreciation of the interdisciplinary nature of science and of the validity of different points of views.

• Apply and substantially develop subject-specific skills in a work context.

• Critically

evaluate the requirements of the placement experience through articulation of professional abilities, personal goal setting and the selection of a suitable

• Cite and reference work in an appropriate manner, avoiding plagiarism.

• Developing skills to work independently, managing time, being organised and knowledge transfer skills.

• Knowledge and understanding of the role and impact of intellectual property (IP) within a work environment.

• Use of media critically as a means of communication and a source of information.


and use given approaches, to operate with others in restricted and given situations. (All) Present simple ideas in an order which enables understanding. (All)

placement opportunity.

• Critically self-

evaluate the individual contribution of the work experience undertaken to one’s own personal, social and professional development.


8. Learning, Teaching and Assessment Strategies: how will I learn, how will my

learning be assessed, and why are these the most appropriate methods? Level 3 Students are given the opportunity to develop their academic skills with particular reference to their subject areas in preparation for Level 4 study. They have two study skills modules which introduce them to essential skills such as how to structure academic papers and how to use citations and references. Seminar sessions will involve group discussions and students will be encouraged (sometimes via preparatory exercises on Blackboard) to come prepared with questions and points of discussion, defending their view on a particular problem or situation described in the preparatory material. In addition to these broad academic skills, they are also introduced to the skills central to working in a scientific environment. This means that, in addition to attending classes and seminar discussions they spend time in a laboratory environment, learning basic empirical research techniques, recording and ordering data, and working co-operatively with others. These activities also help them understand the importance of health and safety procedures and respecting one’s co-workers. This diverse range of foundational modules equips students with a well rounded approach to working in the applied sciences, mastering such diverse skills as writing narrative reports and using mathematical methods of analysis. To assess these very different skills the course employs a range of assessments. Formative assessment forms an essential part of their overall coursework, providing them with guidance and practical learning by doing and by reflecting on feedback. Students will submit written assignments including progress and laboratory reports, as well as doing in-class tests, preparing them for the range of assessments they will need to take in the degree level studies. Level 4 Teaching and learning at level 4 includes lectures, tutorials and practical sessions. Lectures enable and encourage students to develop skills in listening and selective note taking, to appreciate how information is structured and presented and to understand how to obtain scientific information. Students will be encouraged to “make” notes rather than simply “take” notes, being given time to pause at points within a lecture, to think about what is being said and summarise it in their own words. At all levels, students will be encouraged to use Blackboard and will be equipped with questions and propositions to consider. This will help them prepare not only for group seminars but also for lectures, which will typically take the form of “interrupted exposition” – students will be encouraged to ask questions and request clarification or justification for some of the key points the lecturer makes. Group tutorial sessions allow students to ask questions, raise problems and concerns, and also to present their own ideas and defend their views in a group context, thinking critically about their assumptions and facing challenges to their


reasoning. Such sessions provide the opportunity for students to seek further clarification and support in acquiring further information. Practical sessions include laboratory classes or field work. Here students will learn to deal with various methodologies, data handling and statistics. As with level 3, the range of teaching and learning methods is appropriately assessed by a diversity of assignments. Students will be assessed via a mixture of written exams, class tests and coursework including essays, practical work, group work, presentations and reports. This diversity of teaching, learning and assessment methods prepares students well for the development and application of their broad, bioscientific skills be addressed at levels 5 and 6. Level 5 Building on the knowledge and skills acquired at level 4, students will attend weekly lectures and seminar discussions. These sessions are supported online, via the Blackboard system, with guided reading, preparatory questions to consider and examples of individual cases to be analysed in class discussions. It is important to use all of these methods in conjunction to enable students to get the most out of the contact time, acquiring the full range of knowledge and skills to provide them with a strong conceptual framework and empirical knowledge, in preparation for the range of challenging applied issues and problems to be confronted in the final year. Students will be given assistance in preparing for the exam, which will enable them to: demonstrate knowledge of fundamental nutritional theories and concepts; demonstrate the intellectual skills of articulating and critically analysing real problems with reference to their knowledge base; demonstrate subject practical skills and transferable skills of explaining, evaluating and suggesting solutions to common problems with reference to methods of thinking and analysis acquired in the modules. They will receive feedback on this discussion and be invited to produce a written response to the discussion and feedback, indicating any ways in which their views might have altered following the discussion, and any additional factors they might now take to be relevant. This exercise should help students get a clear sense of the differences between oral and written presentation of data and argument and gives them experience in presenting their views and articulating their knowledge and reasoning in a variety of ways in different contexts. The nature of the cases discussed helps students develop their skills in applying generic knowledge to very specific cases and problems, sometimes thinking creatively to bridge the gaps between general theory and potentially unique human situations: making the links between scientific theory and data on the one hand and real human health problems on the other – essential skills to carry forward to level 6. Level 6 In addressing these diverse issues students will develop the crucial academic and transferable skills of intellectual creativity and adaptability, learning to look at their


problems from a broad range of perspectives and gaining the insight that their area is an evolving one: new theories and frameworks are developing as the empirical knowledge base grows. So it is essential, to be a good practitioner that one learns the basic research and critical thinking skills of updating knowledge and approaches, applying methods critically, embracing the insights of other methodologies to continually expand one’s conceptual and knowledge base. So again, there will be a combination of lectures and seminars supported by online guidance. It is essential that students bring their own questions, as well as responses to questions raised in advance of the class by tutors to provide the basis for discussion. Students will also have specific supervision sessions running throughout the year for their research project, enabling them to focus on their specific research and career interests. To assess the application of subject knowledge and methods to this diverse range of topics, students are required to produce written assignments and a final year research project. In each case, preparation for the assignments will include guidance on how to focus their knowledge and methods on specific, practical applications. A dissertation will be written that will be assessed.

9. Formal and Informal Links with External Organisations/Industrial Partners:

what opportunities are there for me to interact with professional contacts?

Science and Innovation Industry speakers/site visits organised by Industry. Access to local industry such as GlaxoSmithKline, Merk &Co. Aspar Pharmaceuticals. Attending conferences and events organised by the Association of the British Pharmaceutical Industry https://www.abpi.org.uk/

10. Admissions Criteria: what qualifications and experience do I need to get onto the course?

112 UCAS tariff points at Level 4 entry - Must include a science subject Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma (first teaching from September 2016) DDD 70 UCAS tariff points at level 3 entry – Must include a science subject IELTS Score for International Students (including the minimum score in all elements)

Standard UG: 6.0

No lower than 5.5 in any individual element


11. Student Support Arrangements, including ‘in-company’ support for Apprenticeships and PDP: what kinds of academic and pastoral support and advice are available?

STUDENT SUPPORT University-wide Support Services for all students:

• Careers and Employment Services • Student Advice • Disability and Mental Health Advice • Information and Funding Team • Accommodation Service • Chaplaincy • Counselling • Students’ Union • Mentoring

Student advice, help and support is further detailed in the Student Handbook with regard to University facilities, services and current policies: http://www.uwl.ac.uk/students/current-students/student-handbook Undergraduate and taught postgraduate courses The University-wide support framework encompasses:

• Induction • Course Leaders • Module Leaders • Personal Tutors • VLE (Blackboard) • In-course learning skills development* • Personal Development Planning (PDP)**

*Learning skills include critical appraisal, reflection, literature searching, information technology, peer review, group work, presentation, research, practice/professional skills, note-taking, writing skills, electronic information retrieval, communication skills and independent study at home. **PDP has been formalised on undergraduate degree courses via the Personal Tutorial system delivered through levels 4-6. These tutorials are designed to support the development of academic skills (at level 4) employability (at level 5) and personal reflection and research enquiry linked to career options (at level 6). PDP is developed informally in other areas of learning through students’ development of personal skills such as time management, leadership, and teamwork. Guest speakers and field visits provide students with networking opportunities.

http://www.uwl.ac.uk/students/current-students/student-handbook


12. Assessment Matrix: a list of all the assessments on the course, along with how much they count for and where they come in

the year. Add or delete rows to the table as required and delete level numbers as appropriate

Module Title and Code

Core /Optional (write C or O)

Credit Assessment Type (choose from the dropdown list)

Weighting (%)

Overall pass mark

Minimum percentage (PSRBs and Apprenticeships only)

Apprenticeships Only: contributes to ‘End-Point Assessment’ (write YES or NO)

Submission: Week Number (indicative)

Level 3:

Academic Performance

C 20 Written assignment

100 40% N/A N 14

Laboratory Practice C 20 Written assignment

100 40% N/A N 16

Mathematics Essential skills for scientific study


30 40% N/A N 6



30 40% N/A N 11



40 40% N/A N 16

Applied Health Professions


100 40% N/A N 12





Weighting (%)

Overall pass mark




Introduction to Applied Science


100 40% N/A N 12

Personalised Learning C 20 Portfolio 100 40% N/A N 14

Level 4:

Molecules and Cells C 20 Practical 20 40% N/A N 8

Molecules and Cells C 20 Written assignment

20 40% N/A N 12

Molecules and Cells C 20 Written examination

60 40% N/A N 16

Fundamentals of Evolution

C 20 Practical 20 40% N/A N 8



20 40% N/A N 12


C 20 Written examination

60 40% N/A N 16

Medical Microbiology C 20 Practical 20 40% N/A N 8

Medical Microbiology C 20 Written assignment

20 40% N/A N 12

Medical Microbiology C 20 Written examination

60 40% N/A N 16





Weighting (%)

Overall pass mark




Fundamentals of Biochemistry




20 40% N/A N 12


C 20 Written examination

60 40% N/A N 16

Genetics of Disease C 20 Practical 20 40% N/A N 8

Genetics of Disease C 20 Written assignment

20 40% N/A N 12

Genetics of Disease C 20 Written examination

60 40% N/A N 16

Molecular Biology C 20 Practical 20 40% N/A N 8

Molecular Biology C 20 Written assignment

20 40% N/A N 12

Molecular Biology C 20 Written examination

60 40% N/A N 16

Level 5:

Principles of Biological Chemistry C 20 Practical 40 40% N/A N 12

Principles of Biological Chemistry C 20 Written

examination 60 40% N/A N 16





Weighting (%)

Overall pass mark




Essential Skills for Biological Sciences

O 20 Oral assignment

20 40% N/A N 8


O 20 Written assignment

20 40% N/A N 12


O 20 Written examination

60 40% N/A N 16

Innovation in Biology O 20 Oral assignment

20 40% N/A N 8

Innovation in Biology O 20 Written assignment

20 40% N/A N 12

Innovation in Biology O 20 Written examination

60 40% N/A N 16

Neuroscience, Endocrine & Gastrointestinal Pharmacology



C 20 Written assignment 20 40% N/A N 12





Weighting (%)

Overall pass mark





C 20 Written examination 60 40% N/A N 16

Biochemical Skills: Practical methods C 20 Practical 50 40% N/A N 12

Biochemical Skills: Practical methods C 20 Written


Research Methods C 20 Written assignment 50 40% N/A N 12

Research Methods C 20 Written assignment 50 40% N/A N 16

Respiratory Renal & Cardiovascular Pharmacology

C 20 Practical

20 40% N/A N 8


C 20 Written

assignment 20 40% N/A N 12


C 20 Written


Placement:

C Written assignment 100% 40% N/A N





Weighting (%)

Overall pass mark




C Oral assignment 0% N/A N/A N

Level 6:

Final Year Project C 40 Written


Clinical Immunology and Haematology O 20 Practical 20 40% N/A N 8

Clinical Immunology and Haematology O 20 Written


Clinical Immunology and Haematology O 20 Written


Applied Molecular Medicine O 20 Written


Applied Molecular Medicine O 20 Written


Antimicrobial, Antineoplastic and Neuropharmacology

C 20 Practical

20 40% N/A N 8


C 20 Written






Weighting (%)

Overall pass mark





C 20 Written


Fundamentals of Genes and Cancer O 20 Oral


Fundamentals of Genes and Cancer O 20 Written


Fundamentals of Genes and Cancer O 20 Written


Current perspectives in bioscience

O 20 Oral

examination 20 40% N/A N 10-12

Current perspectives in bioscience

O 20 Written

assignment 80 40 N/A N 16

Professional Issues in Drug Development & Clinical Trials

C 20

Written assignment 50 40% N/A N 12

Professional Issues in Drug Development & Clinical Trials

C 20

Written examination 50 40% N/A N 16


13. External Examiner Arrangements: who checks the standards and quality of the course?

Continue to the next page for PART B.


PART B: Key Information

1. Awarding Institution University of West London

2. UWL School/College

School of Biomedical Sciences

4. Academic Partners and type of arrangement

N/A

5. Course recognised by

6. Sites of delivery SMR & Paragon

7. Modes and duration of delivery

Full time (3 years route) Part time (6 years route) Full time with Foundation (4 years route) Full time with Placement (4 years route) Full time with Foundation and Placement (5 years route)

8. Sequencing September only start

9. Final enrollable award(s)

BSc (Hons) Pharmacology BSc (Hons) Pharmacology with Foundation BSc (Hons) Pharmacology with Foundation and Placement

10. Level of final award 6


11. Credit for final

award (CATS and ECTS)

BSc (Hons) = 360 CATS, 180 CATS

12. Exit awards and credits

Non-enrollable; for students who do not complete, Level 3: Certificate of Achievement in Pharmacology 120 L3 credits Level 4: Certificate of Higher Education in Pharmacology 120 L4 credits Level 5: Diploma of Higher Education in Pharmacology 240 L4 & L5 credits BSc Pharmacology ordinary degree: 300 credits at level 4, 5, 6

13. UCAS code(s) (UG programmes)

B400

14. QAA Subject Benchmarking Statement

QAA Subject Benchmark Statement for Biomedical Sciences UK Quality code for Higher Education

15. Apprenticeship Standard title and code

N/A

16. Course-specific Regulations

Standard UWL regulations apply

17. Language of study English 18. Original approval

Date Click here to enter text.

Last Revision Date

30th September 2019


PART C: Record of Approved Modifications Use the following table to list all modifications made to the programme between Validation/Review events. Add rows as necessary.

Approved Modifications to Course Specification since Validation/last review Course Specification Title

Module Level and title

Brief Outline of Modification

Approval by School/College Quality Committee

Approval effective from

Student cohort affected

Specify award titles/routes affected by change

Click here to enter text.



Date and meeting minute



e.g. students entering Level 5 from AY2018



Appendix A

Explanation taken from QAA Subject Benchmark Statement – Biomedical Science Nov 2015 UK Quality code for Higher Education Part 1: Setting and maintaining academic standards page 15

Pharmacology: includes the importance of drug actions in the living organism Modules Neuroscience, Endocrine and Gastrointestinal Pharmacology, Respiratory, Renal and Cardiovascular Pharmacology, Antimicrobial Antineoplastic and Neuropharmacology and Professional Issues in Drug Development & Clinical Trials – all modules will introduce the role of drugs in the various areas on major organs and systems and how it affects them.

Pharmacodynamics (what drugs do to the body) in health and disease, including: molecular targets of drug action: receptors, enzymes, ion channels, transporters and others etc

Modules Neuroscience, Endocrine and Gastrointestinal Pharmacology, Respiratory, Renal and Cardiovascular Pharmacology, Antimicrobial Antineoplastic and Neuropharmacology and Professional Issues in Drug Development & Clinical Trials. Areas covered will include providing info on antibacterial chemotherapy applied to human diseases caused by viruses including HIV/AIDS or bacteria example TB and parasites including Malaria. Understanding the drug treatment for disorders of the brain such as pathophysiology, ion channels and receptors. A basic understanding of neuroscience and the operation of the nervous system, providing knowledge of the homeostatic mechanism of the endocrine and the role of the gastrointestinal tract, and describing drugs affecting the system. Knowledge and the function and structure of the respiratory cardiovascular and the renal system and how impairment can be modified through drugs. The process for the development of new drugs from clinical development, including clinical trials to licence and marketing.

Pharmacokinetics (what the body does to drugs): includes: adsorption, distribution and excretion. individual variation in drug action and toxicity Module; Respiratory, Renal and Cardiovascular Pharmacology It demonstrates this by showing awareness of how an impairment in the operation of the systems can be treated with the appropriate drugs. Side effects of the drugs and what are the problems associated with it in relation to individual’s variation.

Pharmacological methods: including practical experience of drug concentration/dose-response relationships, ethical and legal issues etc. Module; Professional Issues in Drug Development & Clinical Trials, students would be familiar with understanding the steps involved in designing, developing and implementing the use of new drugs, describe how drug safety is assessed and approved. Have knowledge of the clinical trial design to clinical end point. Be familiar with the ethical and regulatory framework underlying clinical research and licencing new drugs.


QAA Benchmark Subject-specific, knowledge, understanding and skills: Pharmacology

Code 6.6

A pharmacology graduate will have the following core knowledge, understanding and skills:

i Pharmacodynamics (what drugs do to the body) in health and disease, including:

• molecular targets of drug action: receptors, enzymes, ion channels, transporters and others

• drug-receptor relationships, including agonism (full, partial, biased and inverse), antagonism (competitive and non-competitive), and an understanding of how these properties relate to drug specificity, selectivity and potency

• the main molecular targets for drugs, knowledge of their structure and function, and the ways in which drugs alter this function at the molecular level

• changes in receptor signalling caused by drug action, including mechanisms of desensitisation and tolerance

• how drug action affects the major organ systems of the body as well as drug effects on cell function, cell proliferation and cell death

• emerging technologies in personalised medicine (for example small molecular inhibitors, antisense therapy, biopharmaceuticals, novel drug delivery systems).

ii Pharmacokinetics (what the body does to drugs), including absorption, distribution, biotransformation and excretion

iii Individual variation in drug action and toxicity for example: the effects of ethnicity, gender, age, pregnancy, genetic factors, disease and drug-drug interactions, in addition to the potential for allergy and drug addiction

iv Pharmacological methods, including knowledge and/or practical experience of:

• drug concentration/dose-response relationships

• experimental methods and techniques applied to pharmacology (for example bioassays, receptor binding, receptor cloning, recombinant proteins for therapy, animal models of disease, genetic manipulation of cells and animals and their uses)

• ethical and legal issues pertaining to the use of animals in research, as outlined in the Animal (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986, with knowledge of approaches to replace, refine and reduce their use

• drug discovery and development, including toxicology, with knowledge of the regulatory processes that monitor drug quality, safety, and effectiveness


• principles of clinical trials, for example: the avoidance of bias, the effect of sample size, the placebo effect, the concept of therapeutic index which relies upon the integration of pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics, toxicology and other safety information to contribute to an understanding of the risk associated with a drug, as well as the ethical issues surrounding the use of human study participants and human tissues.

Code 8.9 Pharmacology: Subject-specific threshold standard

On graduating with an honours degree in pharmacology, the graduate will have the following specialist knowledge, understanding and skills:

i knowledge and understanding of the science of drugs, their chemical and physical properties

ii an understanding of the actions of drugs on living tissues and systems, and their effects on health and disease

iii an understanding of drug absorption, distribution, metabolism and elimination

iv an extended understanding of the relationship between drug concentration and response, the principle mechanisms of drug action, the drug discovery process, factors affecting drug safety and efficacy

v experience in a range of practical skills of relevance to the investigation of drug action.


Appendix B

Written Examination

Oral Examination

Written Assignment

Oral Assignment

Portfolio Artefact Practical

Level 3 Semester 1 Academic Performance Laboratory Practice Mathematics Essential skills for scientific study Semester 2 Applied Health Professions Introduction to Applied Science Personalised Learning

Level 4 Semester 1

Molecules and Cells Fundamentals of Evolution Medical Microbiology

Semester 2 Fundamentals of Biochemistry Genetics and Disease Molecular Biology

Level 5 Semester 1

Principles of Biological Chemistry Essential Skills for Biological Sciences Innovation in Biology Neuroscience, Endocrine & Gastrointestinal Pharmacology

Semester 2


Written Examination

Oral Examination

Written Assignment

Oral Assignment

Portfolio Artefact Practical

Biochemical Skills: Practical Methods Research Methods Respiratory, Renal & Cardiovascular Pharmacology

Placement

Level 6 Semester 1

Final Year Research Project Clinical Immunology and Haematology Applied Molecular Medicine Antimicrobial, Antineoplastic and Neuropharmacology

Semester 2 Fundamentals of Genes and Cancer Current perspectives in Bioscience Professional Issues in Drug Development & Clinical Trials

course specification · course specification template – september 2018 page 1 of 38 course...

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