Applied Biomedical Science (Distance Learning) (Degree Apprenticeship) BSc (Hons)

Delivered in partnership with hospital-based training officers, this module supports the completion of the first five modules of the IBMS Registration Training Portfolio, covering personal responsibility and development, equality, diversity and inclusion, communication, patient records and data handling, and professional relationships. Combining academic study with work-based learning, the module explores the professional standards and regulatory requirements set by the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS) and the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). It examines the principles of fitness to practise, ethical and professional conduct, and the recognition and mitigation of everyday biases in healthcare and their role in creating discrimination and the legal framework of identifying that behaviour.

You'll study the structure and function of key biological molecules and the biochemical processes, such as cellular metabolism, that drive and sustain life. Understanding how these processes are regulated will provide a molecular-level insight into how the body functions. Building on this, in molecular biology, we focus on the structure and function of DNA, RNA, and proteins, as well as the basic molecular events that regulate cell function. You'll also look at cell biology, human anatomy and physiology, and pharmacology.

You'll gain the skills and tools needed to excel in your studies and develop as a reflective and effective biomedical scientist. A strong focus is placed on written and verbal communication and scholarship, helping you to communicate ideas clearly and professionally to audiences of variable levels of education and English language skills. You will learn how to structure your writing, reference sources accurately using Vancouver format, and critically engage with scientific literature. The module incorporates the use of learning resources and information technology, including the ethical and effective application of generative AI, to enhance your knowledge, understanding, study, research and writing skills. You will learn basic mathematical and statistical skills relevant to biomedical science, how to perform laboratory calculations and apply mathematical principles to analyse experimental data. You will be taught a range of statistical methods that are crucial for interpreting laboratory findings and supporting evidence-based conclusions. You'll also learn the fundamental chemistry underpinning biomedical science, understand and demonstrate basic laboratory methods, and reflect on your own learning.

This module also introduces the principles and applications of near-patient testing (NPT)/point-of-care testing, highlighting its role in screening, diagnosis, treatment, and disease monitoring. You'll examine the integration of NPT into patient pathways and consider the relevant quality assurance processes required for its effective use. Additional topics include therapeutic drug monitoring and the investigation of substance abuse.

This module focuses on the study of the structure, function, and mechanisms of action of the innate and adaptive immune systems and their cellular and chemical regulation. Topics include acute and chronic inflammation, immune dysfunction and selected immunopathological conditions, such as hypersensitivity reactions, neoplastic diseases, and transplantation reactions. You will explore their detection, diagnosis, treatment (including prophylaxis and immunotherapy), and monitoring.

In the haematology section, you'll examine the structure, function, and production of blood cells, including red cells, white cells, and platelets, as well as the regulation of haemostasis in health and disease. You'll learn to identify normal white blood cells and common abnormalities in red blood cells, and apply this knowledge to the diagnosis and monitoring of anaemias, haematological malignancies, and haemorrhagic or thrombotic conditions. Emphasis will be placed on the principles and practice of haematological techniques used in screening, diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring. The transfusion science section covers the genetics, inheritance, and role of red cell antigens and their importance in blood grouping. You will explore the causes of blood group anomalies, antibody screening, and immune-mediated destruction of blood cells. The module also addresses the preparation, storage, and clinical use of blood components, patient blood management, and the selection of appropriate blood components for transfusion, including the assessment and management of potential adverse effects.

You'll develop a thorough understanding of the gross and ultrastructure of normal cells and tissues, alongside the structural changes that occur during disease. You'll also learn about the collection of cytological and histological specimens, their preservation, preparation and examination. The module integrates reproductive science, exploring infertility and embryology, and extends to developmental biology topics, including embryonic development, human life cycles, ageing, stem cells, and regenerative medicine, highlighting their relevance to clinical and research applications. Through both theoretical and practical learning, You'll examine the preparation of cells and tissues for microscopic analysis and also explore the principles and applications of visualisation and imaging techniques, such as microscopy, contextualising these skills within the diagnosis of disease and the selection of appropriate treatments.

This module covers a wide range of pathogens, including viruses, bacteria, fungi, protozoa, and helminths, offering insights into their pathogenic mechanisms and their impact on human health. You'll explore the principles of public health microbiology, including the epidemiology and control of infectious diseases, and the concept of One Health, which emphasises the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health. The module also delves into the techniques used for screening, diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring of infectious diseases, including laboratory methods for detecting and identifying microorganisms. Key topics include the prevention and control of infection through vaccination, environmental and vector control strategies, and antimicrobial chemotherapy. The growing challenge of antimicrobial resistance across antibiotics, antivirals, antifungals, and anti-parasitics is also a focus, highlighting its implications for public health and clinical practice.

Building on your previous learning and workplace experience, this module explores the complexities of biomedical science service provision within the NHS. You'll critically examine aspects of service provision including service contracts and service level agreements, the implications of service disruption and contingency planning, and strategies for continuous service improvement. A detailed understanding of health and safety legislation will be developed, including risk management, compliance, and staff wellbeing in laboratory settings, personal responsibilities and the responsibilities of employers for health and safety. This module also introduces principles of management and leadership, the application of quality management principles, and also reinforces the scientific and technical competencies required for performing standard investigations and engaging in research and development within a clinical laboratory environment. You'll also undertake verification of your IBMS Registration Portfolio, demonstrating your readiness for professional registration with the HCPC following graduation.

You'll explore an in-depth study of clinical genetics, focusing on the identification of genetic mutations and polymorphisms and their influence on disease processes. Key topics include pharmacogenetics, personalised medicine, and the principles and techniques used in genetic testing for screening, diagnosis, and monitoring of disease. Ethical considerations associated with genetic testing will be critically examined. You'll develop an understanding of the role of multidisciplinary team (MDT) working and interprofessional education (IPE) in the diagnosis and management of patients with complex pathologies. You'll also engage with case studies, and utilise a problem-based learning approach to investigate, diagnose, and monitor selected human pathologies.

This module emphasises the integration of research with real-world professional practice, enabling you to contribute to evidence-based improvements in pathology services and patient care. You'll explore key aspects of hospital-based scientific research, from identifying a research question and conducting a critical literature review to selecting appropriate study designs and methodologies. You'll also gain essential skills in project management, cover ethical and regulatory requirements, develop your analytical and statistical skills, and learn how to communicate scientific findings effectively through written reports, presentations, and professional discussions.