Programme And Module Handbook
 
Programme Specification


Date Specification Approved 26/09/2014
College College Life and Env Sci
School School of Bioscience
Department School of Biosciences
Partner College and School
Collaborative Organisation and Form of Collaboration
Qualification and Programme Title B.Sc. Biological Sciences with Professional Placement Full-time
Programme Code 5015
Delivery Location Campus
Language of Study English
Length of Programme 4 Year(s)
Accreditations This programme has no outside accreditations
Aims of the Programme To provide access to BSc Honours level education in Biology for higher quality students of which the majority are traditionally post A-level;
To develop a broad appreciation in UG students of the scope of modern biology, encompassing levels of biological organisation from molecules to ecosystems, and major groups of organisms;
To maximise flexibility and opportunities for choice of modules and degree programmes so that UG students develop from an initial understanding of a broad core of biological sciences and maintain that breadth of study throughout the programme or move towards increasing specialisation;
To provide students with the possibility of experiencing current research, its methodology and significance;
To encourage students to progress from dependent to independent learners and critical thinkers;
To stimulate students to acquire a long-term interest in, and enthusiasm for, biology and scientific scholarship;
To enable students to move into a range of biological careers, either immediately after graduation or following further specialist training;
To encourage the development of transferable skills (e.g. intellectual, numerical, analytical, communication) enabling students to move into diverse contemporary occupations;
To provide pastoral support and guidance to enable students to maximise their achievements within their degree programme;
To enable students to experience practical application of subject in the working environment.
Programme Outcomes
Students are expected to have Knowledge and Understanding of: Which will be gained through the following Teaching and Learning methods: and assessed using the following methods:
Many aspects of modern biology from molecules to ecosystems
One or more specialised areas of biology
The methods of biological research, and how to carry out specified experimental procedures, and how to assess critically the nature of numerical data and their correct interpretation
The relationship between the academic subject and how it is practised in the workplace
Take responsibility for the development of your own learning and develop the skills required to negotiate with those in authority
Lectures, tutorials, seminars, laboratory practicals, IT-based learning exercises; extended dissertation in final year. Work placement, usually in a research laboratory or conservation organisation where training and supervision in research methods will be given.
Unseen exams at the ends of Years 1, 2 and 3. In-course assessment by means of assessed essays, laboratory reports and tests. Assessed project report and/or library-based dissertation in Year 3. Students will also write a report, which will be assessed by a member of Biosciences academic staff.
Students are expected to have attained the following Skills and other Attributes: Which will be gained through the following Teaching and Learning methods: and assessed using the following methods:
Enhanced critical and judgemental abilities to meet the demands of life in a technological society
The capacity to further their education and training through independent study
Transferable communication skills such as written, oral communication and IT skills needed for further study, research or employment
Report writing and oral reporting
Teamwork and independence
Relating to authority
Time management
Business, Medical and Environmental ethics
Dedicated skills modules in Years 1 and 2 include interactive sessions and learning materials on report writing and oral presentation; assessed team-based practical work; personal and group tutorials; IT-based learning resources. Work placement, usually in a research laboratory or conservation organisation, where training and supervision in research methods will be given.
Assessed essays, oral presentations and practical reports; exam in IT skills; assessed exercises on experimental design; information retrieval and interpretation; assessed dissertation and project reports during Year 3. Additional skills will be assessed as part of the work based project agreement module. The academic tutor will assess them using company appraisal reports or other feedback from work placement, a short report written by the student, and tutorial discussions with the student.