BSc (Hons) Biomedical Sciences with a Year in Industry Bachelor's degree at Royal Holloway, University of London

Develop understanding of key scientific concepts and effective science communication. Learn to process and critique different forms of information, and communicate science to both scientific and non-scientific audiences using diverse media, forms and methods. Examine ethical issues surrounding research and intervention.

Develop understanding of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cell biology and key functions of structures and organelles. Learn the origin of life and principles of natural selection and evolution. Learn practical techniques in microscopy, including fixation techniques for analysis of cell ultrastructure and aseptic techniques for bacterial culture.

Develop understanding of genes and their behaviour in individual organisms, populations, and at molecular level within the cell. Look at cellular genetics with respect to mitosis, meiosis, inheritance and recombination. Consider fundamentals of gene expression, its control, and DNA replication. Gain practical experience with techniques in microscopy, including slide preparation for observation of chromosomes.

Develop understanding of fundamental chemistry of life processes and laboratory experiments. Look at basics of biological chemistry, including chemical bonding and reactivity of important biomolecules, intermolecular forces, 3D structure and isomerism. Analyse equilibria in acid/base biochemistry and solve related problems. Learn basic biochemical lab techniques and carry out consequent data analysis.

Develop understanding of basics of biochemistry. Look at key techniques for biochemical analysis, including spectroscopy, and fundamentals of protein structure. Examine structure/function relationships in myoglobin, hemoglobin and serine proteases. Learn to solve biochemical kinetic problems using the Michaelis-Menten equation and thermodynamic problems including equilibrium constants.

Develop understanding of main concepts of classic protein biochemistry including protein purification, enzyme kinetics, and enzyme structure. Look at basic principles of protein purification techniques and basic enzyme kinetics using the Michaelis-Menten equation. Examine underlying biochemistry of analytical methods and their applications in research and diagnostics. Learn to analyse the concept of biochemical buffers.

Develop understanding of fundamental physiological systems required to maintain complex multi-cellular animals, specifically those involved in communication, transport and homeostasis. Look at how systems and specialised organs have evolved and interact. Consider mechanisms, organisation, functions and integration of nervous and endocrine systems. Examine evolution of closed circulatory system and four-chambered heart.

Explain function of organ systems in humans and consequences of disease on physiological function. Cover structure, organisation and function of key brain structures, and how special sensory systems convert light, sound and position/movement into electrical signals. Explain function and regulation of mammalian kidney and lungs, roles of adrenal gland. Cover basic haematology and skeletal muscle function and neural regulation.

Describe key principles of academic integrity, focusing on university assignments. Describe plagiarism, collusion and commissioning as activities that undermine academic integrity, and possible consequences of engaging in such activities. Provide activities with feedback for reflection and development of understanding of academic integrity principles.

Develop understanding of function and integration of selected human physiological systems in normal physiology and disease. Look at endocrine control in human body, specifically role of hypothalamo-pituitary axis and function and regulation of thyroid hormones. Examine organisation and integration of nervous, cardiovascular, respiratory systems and principles of whole muscle physiology. Consider composition and functions of blood and haemostasis.

Develop understanding of chemical structure of DNA and RNA, and how genes are organised and expressed. Look at gene characterisation using recombinant DNA technology and DNA as template for RNA synthesis. Become familiar with molecular biology techniques widely used in life sciences, including preparation and handling of purified DNA, restriction enzyme digestions, and polymerase chain reaction.

Develop understanding of mammalian immune systems at cellular and molecular levels, determined by antibody structure and function, complement system, and immunoglobulin genetics. Look at role of T cells as effectors and regulators of immune responses, allergic reactions, transplant rejection, and HIV virus and pathogenesis of AIDS. Examine antibody antigen reaction techniques and isolation and purification of lymphocytes.

Develop understanding of structure of nervous system, including main types of cells and transmission of signals within neuronal networks. Look at process of synaptic transmission, including electrical and chemical synapses. Examine different types of neurotransmitters and receptors and mechanism of intracellular signaling, considering role of second messenger signaling pathways.

Develop understanding of drug-receptor interactions and methods used to characterise drug action. Look at factors that influence drug action and drug toxicity within body, examining concepts of drug absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion. Consider pharmacology of major drug classes, including antihypertensives, antidepressants, analgesics, general and local anaesthetics and drugs affecting autonomic system.

Provide opportunity to gain experience in working environment, increasing confidence, expanding skills and boosting attractiveness to future employers. Placements can be taken in variety of settings including research laboratories of industrial or research institute employer, or environmental organisations or consultancies. Develop and strengthen range of professional skills and attributes.

Carry out individual laboratory or theoretical investigation supervised by appropriate member of staff. Apply knowledge and skills learned throughout studies and learn to organise data in logical, presentable and persuasive way. Produce report of approximately 8,000 words in length and deliver oral presentation with summary of findings.

Develop understanding of theory, technology, and clinical practice of human molecular genetics. Look at range of genetic disorders and inborn errors of metabolism such as muscular dystrophies, cystic fibrosis, haemophilia, lysosomal storage disorders, haemoglobinopathies, mitochondrial respiratory chain disorders.