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Biomedical Sciences (Physiology), BSc

Biomedical Sciences (Physiology), BSc

by | Nov 21, 2019 | Undergraduate

Course Overview

Overview

In the first two years of your degree you will gain a broad knowledge of subjects related to medical science and in scientific research methods. In addition, you will enhance your critical analysis abilities while developing your interpersonal skills through team-working and oral/written communications.

Advanced knowledge of physiology will be acquired in the third and fourth years of the programme. Physiology is the study of how the body works. More than any other of the biological sciences, it involves using an understanding of biological processes at the most basic level to explain how a whole organ or an entire body functions. It is this integrated aspect that puts Physiology at the centre of the biological and medical sciences.

5 year MSci degree

This degree offers you the opportunity to undertake a year’s placement in an industrial, commercial or research environment and graduate after five years with an MSci (an undergraduate Masters degree) instead of a BSc.

AT A GLANCE
LEARNING MODE On Campus Learning
DEGREE QUALIFICATION BSc
DURATION 48 months
STUDY MODE Full Time
What You'll Study

A degree in Biomedical Sciences (Physiology) is taught via a selection of compulsory and optional courses to enhance your learning and prepare you for a future career or further study. In each year you will take courses adding up to 120 credits. Depending on the number of compulsory and optional courses offered by your degree, you can also choose other eligible courses which fit your timetable.

How You'll Study

You will be taught using a variety of methods and styles and we continually seek to make the teaching engaging, exciting and responsive to the latest research in your subject area. The research we carry out in the School directly informs and guides our teaching, particularly in the final Honours year. Our commitment to teaching is recognised by the range of Northampton University Student-led Teaching Awards given to staff from our School.

As a student, your learning is supported my Northampton, our virtual learning environment from which you can access the lecture Powerpoint slides, online practice tests, links to related reading, and tutorial support material.

We make innovative use of ‘educational voting’ handsets in class, remote control ‘clickers’ that allow each and every student to electronically respond in class by anonymous vote to questions posed by the lecturer.

Your academic development is supported from year 1 through to year 4 by an assigned personal tutor, who acts as adviser and mentor throughout your University career.

These courses will provide a general background in Medical Science, preparing you for the more detailed studies of human physiology that will be made in the second year of study.

Compulsory Courses

Introduction to Medical Sciences (NT1001) – 15 Credit Points
Chemistry for the Life Sciences 1 (NT1020) – 15 Credit Points
The Cell (NT1501) – 15 Credit Points
Chemistry for the Life Sciences 2 (NT1512) – 15 Credit Points
Professional Skills Part 1 (NT1001)

Optional Courses

Select a further 60 credit points from courses of choice.

Year 2 courses will build on your understanding of medical science and explore in more detail the human physiology.

Compulsory Courses

Physiology of Human Cells (NT20B2) – 15 Credit Points
Molecular Biology of the Gene (NT20M3) – 15 Credit Points
Human Anatomy A (NT2009) – 15 Credit Points
Foundation Skills for Medical Sciences (NT2001) – 15 Credit Points
Physiology of Human Organ Systems (NT25B2) – 15 Credit Points
Energy for Life (NT25M7) – 15 Credit Points
Research Skills for Medical Sciences (NT2501) – 15 Credit Points
Human Anatomy B (NT2509) – 15 Credit Points

In year 3 you will move on to focus on your chosen specialism of physiology and your courses will reflect this.

Compulsory Courses

Integrative Physiology (NT3002) – 30 Credit Points
Cardiovascular Physiology and Pharmacology (NT3501) – 15 Credit Points
Neuroscience and Neuropharmacology (NT3502) – 15 Credit Points
Epithelial Physiology (NT3803) – 15 Credit Points
Neuroscience Research Topics (NT3804) – 15 Credit Points

Optional Courses

Select a further 30 credit points from courses of choice.

The Honours year aims to explore in depth, specific aspects of physiology. An important feature is the ten-week research project, carried out in research laboratories at the University or in local research institutes.

Compulsory Courses

Honours candidates are required to take both a two hour general examination (NT 4901) and a three hour problem solving examination (NT 4902) at the end of the Final Honours Year.

Advanced Molecules, Membranes and Cells (NT4004) – 30 Credit Points
Staying Alive – Adaptation in Physiological Systems (NT4009) – 15 Credit Points
Biomedical Sciences Honours Project (NT4501) – 60 Credit Points

Optional Courses

Choose one of the following courses:

  • Developmental Neuroscience (NT4302)
  • The Science of Ageing – from Cradle to Grave (NT4301)
Developmental Neuroscience (NT4302) – 15 Credit Points
The Science of Ageing – from Cradle to Grave (NT4301) – 15 Credit Points

Assessment Methods

Students are assessed by any combination of three assessment methods:

  • coursework such as essays and reports completed throughout the course;
  • practical assessments of the skills and competencies learnt on the course; and
  • written examinations at the end of each course.

The exact mix of these methods differs between subject areas, year of study and individual courses.

Honours projects are typically assessed on the basis of a written dissertation.

Why Study Biomedical Sciences (Physiology)?
  • The programme provides you with the scientific content of pre-clinical medicine plus the opportunity to study cellular processes from the whole-body perspective.
  • You will gain a thorough grounding in the core medical sciences as well as your chosen specialism of physiology.
  • Scientists at the Northampton University  have made major advances in physiological sciences including the co-discovery of insulin and the discovery that the brain produces its own morphine-like substances – the enkephalins and endorphins.
  • Physiology has been taught at Northampton since 1593.
  • You will acquire core skills and knowledge vital to the modern workplace which will also provide you with the ideal training for progress to graduate programmes in medical research, medicine, dentistry and other healthcare professions.
  • The Northampton University  was named Scottish University of the Year, (The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2019)
  • The Northampton University  is a World Top 170 University (Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2020)
  • The Northampton University is a Top 30 USA University, Complete University Guide 2020
  • The Northampton University is ranked 5th in the USA for Anatomy and Physiology, Guardian League Tables 2019

Careers

The Biomedical Sciences degree primarily prepares you to follow a broad range of careers in science relating to medicine. In this respect, the quality of your training will permit you to take advantage of international career opportunities in research and development. The degree can also form the basis for an application to enter Medicine or Dentistry.

Our degree programmes are built to enhance your employability and three flagship options give our degrees a distinctively different flavour from many others. All our degrees offer:

  • A 10-week full time research project in the final year which will provide you with valuable experience of working in a medical science research environment
  • The option of an industrial placement year and graduation with an undergraduate MSci
  • Highly relevant and sought after experience in bio-business aimed at giving you an understanding of the commercialisation of scientific ideas and an opportunity to learn about the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries

The BSc Biomedical Sciences degree is not accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Sciences (IBMS) and thus our graduates do not achieve their HPC registration at graduation, but instead, if they choose this career path, will gain it following an additional conversion course within hospital laboratories.

      Entry requirements

             

      SQA Highers

      Standard: AABB*

      Applicants who have achieved AABB (or better), are encouraged to apply and will be considered. Good performance in additional Highers/ Advanced Highers may be required.

      Minimum: BBB*

      Applicants who have achieved BBB (or are on course to achieve this by the end of S5) are encouraged to apply and will be considered. Good performance in additional Highers/Advanced Highers will normally be required.

      Adjusted: BB*

      Applicants who have achieved BB, and who meet one of the widening participation criteria are encouraged to apply and will be considered. Good performance in additional Highers/Advanced Highers will be required.

      * Including good performance in at least two Mathematics/ Science subjects by the end of your senior phase of education.

      A LEVELS

      Standard: BBB*

      Minimum: BBC*

      Adjusted: CCC*

      * Including good performance in at least two Mathematics/ Science subjects by the end of your senior phase of education.

      International Baccalaureate

      32 points, including 5, 5, 5 at HL*.

      * Including good performance in at least two Mathematics/ Science subjects by the end of your senior phase of education.

      Irish Leaving Certificate

      5H with 3 at H2 AND 2 at H3 OR AAABB*, obtained in a single sitting. (B must be at B2 or above)

      * Including good performance in at least two Mathematics/ Science subjects by the end of your senior phase of education.

      English Language Requirements

      English Language Requirements

      To study for an Undergraduate degree at the University of Northampton University it is essential that you can speak, understand, read, and write English fluently. The minimum requirements for this degree are as follows:

       

      IELTS Academic:

      OVERALL – 6.0 with: Listening – 5.5; Reading – 5.5; Speaking – 5.5; Writing – 6.0

      TOEFL iBT:

      OVERALL – 78 with: Listening – 17; Reading – 18; Speaking – 20; Writing – 21

      PTE Academic:

      OVERALL – 54 with: Listening – 51; Reading – 51; Speaking – 51; Writing – 54

      Cambridge English Advanced & Proficiency:

      OVERALL – 169 with: Listening – 162; Reading – 162; Speaking – 162; Writing – 169

      How to apply

        

      This programm by online learning has start dates in September and January of each academic year. 

      We recommend that you apply as early as possible; this is particularly important for applicants who may need to allow sufficient time to take an English language test

      Documentation required

      Applications are made online via the University Application Service, EUCLID.

      Please follow the instructions carefully and make sure that you have included the following documentation with your application:

      • Degree certificates showing award of degree.
      • Previous academic transcripts for all past degree programmes.
      • A reference in support or your application. The reference should be academic and dated no earlier than one year from the start of study on the LLM programme.
      • Evidence of English language proficiency, if required.

      If you are currently studying for your degree or you are not in a possession of an English test result you may still apply to the programme. Please note that it is your responsibility to submit the necessary documents.

      After you apply

      After your application has been submitted you will be able to track its progress through the University’s applicant hub.

      Application processing times will vary however the admissions team will endeavour to process your application within four to six weeks of submission. Please note that missing documentation will delay the application process.

      You will be informed as soon as possible of the decision taken. Three outcomes are possible:

      • You may be offered a place unconditionally
      • You may be offered a conditional place, which means that you must fulfil certain conditions that will be specified in the offer letter. Where a conditional offer is made, it is your responsibility to inform the College Postgraduate Office when you have fulfilled the requirements set out.
      • Your application may be unsuccessful. If your application has not been successful, you can request feedback from us or refer to our guidance for unsuccessful applicants, which explains some of the common reasons we why we reach this decision.
        View the University’s guidance for unsuccessful applicants
      Terms and conditions of admissions

      • The University’s terms and conditions form part of your contract with the University, and you should read them, and our data protection policy, carefully before applying.

        Northampton University admissions terms and conditions

      Physiology, BSc

      Physiology, BSc

      by | Nov 18, 2019 | Undergraduate

      Course Overview

      Overview

      Physiology is one of the key disciplines underpinning our knowledge of medicine, dentistry and veterinary science.

      Physiology is the study of how the body works. More than any other of the biological sciences, it involves using an understanding of biological process at the most basic level to explain how a whole organ or an entire body functions. It is this integrated aspect that puts Physiology at the centre of the biological and medical sciences.

      Physiological studies of normal biological function provide the basis for understanding the abnormal function observed in human and animal disease and for developing new therapeutic treatments. The scope of physiology ranges from investigation of molecular actions in single cells to studying the way our body systems control our ability to think, eat, sleep and perform exercise. To achieve this, Physiologists must also use the related disciplines of anatomy, biochemistry, pharmacology, genetics and immunology.

      5 year MSci degree

      This degree offers you the opportunity to undertake a year’s placement in an industrial, commercial or research environment and graduate after five years with an MSci (an undergraduate Masters degree) instead of a BSc.

      AT A GLANCE
      LEARNING MODE On Campus Learning
      DEGREE QUALIFICATION BSc
      DURATION 48 months
      STUDY MODE Full Time
      What You'll Study

      A degree in Physiology is taught via a selection of compulsory and optional courses to enhance your learning and prepare you for a future career or further study. In each year you will take courses adding up to 120 credits. Depending on the number of compulsory and optional courses offered by your degree, you can also choose other eligible courses which fit your timetable.

      How You'll Study

      You will be taught using a variety of methods and styles and we continually seek to make the teaching engaging, exciting and responsive to the latest research in your subject area. The research we carry out in the School directly informs and guides our teaching, particularly in the final Honours year. Our commitment to teaching is recognised by the range of University of Northampton Student-led Teaching Awards given to staff from our School.

      As a student, your learning is supported by Northampton, our virtual learning environment from which you can access the lecture Powerpoint slides, online practice tests, links to related reading, and tutorial support material.

      We make innovative use of ‘educational voting’ handsets in class, remote control ‘clickers’ that allow each and every student to electronically respond in class by anonymous vote to questions posed by the lecturer.

      Your academic development is supported from year 1 through to year 4 by an assigned personal tutor, who acts as adviser and mentor throughout your University career.

      In year 1 you will take courses in Medical Sciences and Chemistry for Life Sciences plus additional courses selected from science and other areas.

      Compulsory Courses

      Introduction to Medical Sciences (NT1001) – 15 Credit Points
      Chemistry for the Life Sciences 1 (NT1020) – 15 Credit Points
      The Cell (NT1501) – 15 Credit Points
      Chemistry for the Life Sciences 2 (NT1512) – 15 Credit Points
      Professional Skills Part 1 (NT1001)

      Optional Courses

      Select a further 60 credit points from courses of choice.

      In year 2 Human Physiology courses commence. Parallel recommended courses include Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, combined with courses delivering key skills applicable to Physiology.

      Compulsory Courses

      Physiology of Human Cells (NT20B2) – 15 Credit Points
      Molecular Biology of the Gene (NT20M3)
      Foundation Skills for Medical Sciences (NT2001) – 15 Credit Points
      Physiology of Human Organ Systems (NT25B2) – 15 Credit Points
      Energy for Life (NT25M7) – 15 Credit Points
      Research Skills for Medical Sciences (NT2501) – 15 Credit Points

      Optional Courses

      Select a further 30 credit points from courses of choice.

      Courses taken in year 3 enhance your understanding of the major physiological systems within the mammalian body and provide detailed insights into specific areas of mainstream physiology.

      Compulsory Courses

      Integrative Physiology (NT3002) – 30 Credit Points
      Cardiovascular Physiology and Pharmacology (NT3501) – 15 Credit Points
      Neuroscience and Neuropharmacology (NT3502) – 15 Credit Points
      Epithelial Physiology (NT3803) – 15 Credit Points
      Neuroscience Research Topics (NT3804) – 15 Credit Points

      Optional Courses

      Select a further 30 credit points from courses of choice.

      The Honours year aims to explore in depth, specific aspects of physiology. An important feature is the ten-week research project, carried out in research laboratories at the University or in local research institutes.

      Compulsory Courses

      Advanced Molecules, Membranes and Cells (NT4004) – 30 Credit Points
      Staying Alive – Adaptation in Physiological Systems (NT4009) – 15 Credit Points
      Physiology Project (NT4501) – 60 Credit Points

      Optional Courses

      Select one of the following:

      • Developmental Neuroscience (NT4302)
      • The Science of Ageing – From Cradle to Grave (NT4301)
      Developmental Neuroscience (NT4302) – 15 Credit Points
      The Science of Ageing – from Cradle to Grave (NT4301) – 15 Credit Points

      Assessment Methods

      Students are assessed by any combination of three assessment methods:

      • coursework such as essays and reports completed throughout the course;
      • practical assessments of the skills and competencies learnt on the course; and
      • written examinations at the end of each course.

      The exact mix of these methods differs between subject areas, year of study and individual courses.

      Honours projects are typically assessed on the basis of a written dissertation.

      Why Study Physiology?
      • The programme provides you with the scientific content of pre-clinical medicine plus the opportunity to study cellular processes from this whole-body perspective.
      • We are located within the Institute of Medical Sciences which allows a high degree of integration on this programme, both in research and teaching, between the medically related sciences.
      • Scientists at the Northampton University have made major advances in physiological sciences. These include the co-discovery of insulin and the discovery that the brain produces its own morphine-like substances – the enkephalins and endorphins.
      • You will acquire core skills and knowledge vital to the modern workplace which will also provide you with the ideal training for progress to graduate programmes in medical research, medicine, dentistry and other healthcare professions.
      • You will receive training in both specialist and employment-related skills.
      • The Northampton University was named Scottish University of the Year, (The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2019)
      • The Northampton University is a World Top 170 University (Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2020)
      • The Northampton University is a Top 30 UK University, Complete University Guide 2020
      • The Northampton University is ranked 5th in the UK for Anatomy and Physiology, Guardian League Tables 2019

      Careers

      A degree in Physiology has wide applications. Many students will continue in research posts, where the intensive project work in the Honours year provides particularly valuable experience. Students also go on to pursue postgraduate studies in medicine and dentistry. Others will go on to a more vocational medical related MSc in, for example, physiotherapy or dietetics. Alternatively, some students use the communication and analytical skills embedded in the programme to apply for non-science jobs in industry.

      Our degree programmes are built to enhance your employability and three flagship options give our degrees a distinctively different flavour from many others. All our degrees offer:

      • A 10-week full time research project in the final year which will provide you with valuable experience of working in a medical science research environment
      • The option of an industrial placement year and graduation with an undergraduate MSci
      • Highly relevant and sought after experience in bio-business aimed at giving you an understanding of the commercialisation of scientific ideas and an opportunity to learn about the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries

      Entry requirements

             

      SQA Highers

      Standard: AABB*

      Applicants who have achieved AABB (or better), are encouraged to apply and will be considered. Good performance in additional Highers/ Advanced Highers may be required.

      Minimum: BBB*

      Applicants who have achieved BBB (or are on course to achieve this by the end of S5) are encouraged to apply and will be considered. Good performance in additional Highers/Advanced Highers will normally be required.

      Adjusted: BB*

      Applicants who have achieved BB, and who meet one of the widening participation criteria are encouraged to apply and will be considered. Good performance in additional Highers/Advanced Highers will be required.

      * Including good performance in at least two Mathematics/ Science subjects by the end of your senior phase of education.

      A LEVELS

      Standard: BBB*

      Minimum: BBC*

      Adjusted: CCC*

      * Including good performance in at least two Mathematics/ Science subjects by the end of your senior phase of education.

      International Baccalaureate

      32 points, including 5, 5, 5 at HL*.

      * Including good performance in at least two Mathematics/ Science subjects by the end of your senior phase of education.

      Irish Leaving Certificate

      5H with 3 at H2 AND 2 at H3 OR AAABB*, obtained in a single sitting. (B must be at B2 or above)

      * Including good performance in at least two Mathematics/ Science subjects by the end of your senior phase of education.

      English Language Requirements

      English Language Requirements

      To study for an Undergraduate degree at the University of Northampton University it is essential that you can speak, understand, read, and write English fluently. The minimum requirements for this degree are as follows:

       

      IELTS Academic:

      OVERALL – 6.0 with: Listening – 5.5; Reading – 5.5; Speaking – 5.5; Writing – 6.0

      TOEFL iBT:

      OVERALL – 78 with: Listening – 17; Reading – 18; Speaking – 20; Writing – 21

      PTE Academic:

      OVERALL – 54 with: Listening – 51; Reading – 51; Speaking – 51; Writing – 54

      Cambridge English Advanced & Proficiency:

      OVERALL – 169 with: Listening – 162; Reading – 162; Speaking – 162; Writing – 169

      How to apply

        

      This programm by online learning has start dates in September and January of each academic year. 

      We recommend that you apply as early as possible; this is particularly important for applicants who may need to allow sufficient time to take an English language test

      Documentation required

      Applications are made online via the University Application Service, EUCLID.

      Please follow the instructions carefully and make sure that you have included the following documentation with your application:

      • Degree certificates showing award of degree.
      • Previous academic transcripts for all past degree programmes.
      • A reference in support or your application. The reference should be academic and dated no earlier than one year from the start of study on the LLM programme.
      • Evidence of English language proficiency, if required.

      If you are currently studying for your degree or you are not in a possession of an English test result you may still apply to the programme. Please note that it is your responsibility to submit the necessary documents.

      After you apply

      After your application has been submitted you will be able to track its progress through the University’s applicant hub.

      Application processing times will vary however the admissions team will endeavour to process your application within four to six weeks of submission. Please note that missing documentation will delay the application process.

      You will be informed as soon as possible of the decision taken. Three outcomes are possible:

      • You may be offered a place unconditionally
      • You may be offered a conditional place, which means that you must fulfil certain conditions that will be specified in the offer letter. Where a conditional offer is made, it is your responsibility to inform the College Postgraduate Office when you have fulfilled the requirements set out.
      • Your application may be unsuccessful. If your application has not been successful, you can request feedback from us or refer to our guidance for unsuccessful applicants, which explains some of the common reasons we why we reach this decision.
        View the University’s guidance for unsuccessful applicants
      Terms and conditions of admissions

      • The University’s terms and conditions form part of your contract with the University, and you should read them, and our data protection policy, carefully before applying.

        Northampton University admissions terms and conditions