BSc (Hons) Applied Biomedical Science Bachelor's degree at Westminster

Enables exploration of diversity and function of biological molecules through lectures, practicals and tutorials. Develops laboratory skills through formative practical exercises aligned with theoretical content. Assessment both formative and summative. Covers: properties and reactions of biological molecules; biomolecular processes; energy for life's processes and laboratory techniques for biochemistry and molecular biology.

Assessment: Formative and summative

Introduction to cell biology and fundamental processes and interactions during the life of a cell. Covers biodiversity of cells within the Tree of Life, with focus on domains Prokarya and Eukarya. Examines cell division, specialisation, ageing and death, gene inheritance, transmission and expression, and the role of genetic variance and natural selection. Covers cell behaviour, communication and interactions, and impact on environment. Virtual practical work included.

Develops understanding of how structural organisation of different cell types within tissue/organ enable and support the tissue/organ's normal function. For every tissue/organ studied, the functional role in the whole body is studied alongside Human Physiology. Evaluates the impact of pathological processes on whole body physiology and integrity.

Introduction to the organisation, communication, and support systems of the human body. Covers major physiological systems with emphasis on the maintenance of homeostasis via feedback mechanisms.

Level 4 module requiring demonstration of knowledge and competence in fundamental aspects of work flow and team working in the diagnostic laboratory, understanding of quality assurance, and incident reporting. Completed assessments provide evidence to meet Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) Standards of Proficiency, which may lead to Registration with the HCPC.

Assessment: Work-based assignments

Introduces concepts of employability and professionalism in the workplace with specific reference to the Bioscience/Life Science industry. Covers conducting oneself as a credible scientist with ethical, professional and honest manner. Teaching includes scientific communities, diversity, constructive discussions on scientific topics, and critical examination of scientific literature credibility. Documents transferrable skills linked to career development pathway in a professional development port

Assessment: Variety of assessments for professional development portfolio

Level 5 module requiring integration of aspects of knowledge and demonstration of powers of critical appraisal of current practice and career developments within diagnostic biomedical laboratories. Completed assessments provide evidence to meet Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) Standards of Proficiency which may lead to Registration with the HCPC.

Assessment: Work-based assignments

Builds on knowledge of human physiology, biochemistry and anatomy acquired at Level 4 to provide biological insight into understanding disease processes. Students will explain the patho-physiological alterations occurring in disorders and elucidate shared mechanisms within or between disease states. Introduces principle laboratory tests carried out by specialist Biomedical Science disciplines and their integrated role in disease investigation.

Overview of pathogenic microorganisms, factors contributing to virulence and pathogenicity, and diseases they cause, combined with overview of human immune system, its evolutionary development and interactions with microorganisms. Covers different components of immune system in depth, roles of different leucocytes and effector molecules in immune response including key features and effectors of inflammation. Covers roles of immune system in elimination of microorganisms and mechanisms used by pa

Students build on knowledge of classical genetics, molecular biology and biochemistry. Teaching of molecular genetics, epigenetics and genomics technologies underpinned by vital elements of biochemistry. Introduction to fields of medical and population genetics through study of common and rare human genetic disorders and genetic studies on experimental organisms. Explores importance of genetics and genomics through study of diagnostic genetics and introduction to genetic counselling. Covers rece

Comprehensive overview of modern biochemistry. Topics include major pathways for degradation and/or biosynthesis of carbohydrates, fatty acids and amino acids, respiration and oxidative phosphorylation, role of enzymes in metabolic processes, underpinned with stress on underlying thermodynamic principles. Provides thorough overview of various strategies (enzyme regulation, cell signaling, etc.) employed by organisms to regulate their metabolism and maintain homeostasis. Examines important metabo

Covers essential elements of research methods, data analysis (as relevant to the Biosciences) and key laboratory techniques. Students develop expertise to extract and interpret scientific information from peer-reviewed original sources, produce a literature review of a specific area in the biosciences, prepare a design for final year research project and undertake skill-based evaluation of competencies.

Explores cellular and molecular basis of disease at advanced level, building knowledge needed to critically evaluate both routine laboratory practice and emerging molecular diagnostic techniques. Focuses on cancer, including both solid and blood tumours. Uses integrated case studies to examine diagnostic process in detail, explore methods for assessing prognosis, and consider role of predictive testing in guiding personalised medical treatment.

Explores immune responses to pathogens, tumour cells, and prevention of infectious diseases. Examines immunodeficiency, hypersensitivity, and autoimmunity, including their investigation, diagnosis, pathology, and treatment. Studies manipulation of immune responses, including use of vaccines and immunotherapy, and principles of transplantation, rejection, and immunosuppression. Covers scientific basis, clinical applications, and practical aspects of blood transfusion.

Explores clinical and technical theory and practice that underpins modern biochemistry and haematology laboratory investigations of selected disorders. Teaches evaluation of laboratory methods and incorporation of quality assurance systems to support accurate and reliable decision-making.

Students are supervised and guided to design and carry out an independent research project, analyse and interpret the results and report their findings in scientific style. Covers safe laboratory practices, ethical considerations, study designs, selecting and applying appropriate statistical tools and other aspects of scientific professionalism. Students encouraged to think about preparation for entry into job market or postgraduate education.

Teaches detection, identification, and characterisation of pathogenic microorganisms. Explores pathogenesis, transmission, and epidemiology of infectious diseases, with focus on treatment and prevention. Emphasis on diseases of current and global importance, including emerging pathogens. Covers laboratory automation, antibiotic resistance, microbial genomics, and bioinformatics, as well as public health measures used to control the spread of disease.

The IBMS Registration Training Portfolio is a record of education and training, providing evidence that the knowledge, skills and competences required for registration have been achieved. Must be completed by final year (Year 4).