undergraduate programme specification€¦ · one-year work placement in a relevant life science or...

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UNDERGRADUATE PROGRAMME SPECIFICATION

Programme Title: BSc (Hons)/MSci Biological

Science

Awarding Body: Staffordshire University

Teaching Institution: Stoke-on-Trent College (Level 3) Staffordshire University (Level 4 – 7)

Final Awards: BSc (Hons) Biological Science MSci Biological Science Pathways:

• (Ecology & Environmental Management)

• (Genomics)

• (Pharmacology) • (Pre-Med)

Intermediate Awards: Certificate Higher Education - Biological Science Diploma Higher Education - Biological Science

Mode of Study: On campus

UCAS Codes: C100, C101 (with Foundation year), C102 (MSci Integrated Masters), C104 (with Placement year)

QAA Subject Benchmarks:

Biosciences

JACS Code: C100

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Professional/Statutory Body:

Royal Society of Biology (RSB) *

Excluding MSci route

Entry Year: 2019

If you require this document in a larger text or a different medium, please contact us.

https://www.rsb.org.uk/education/accreditation/allprogrammes

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EDUCATIONAL AIMS OF THE PROGRAMME

BSc (Hons) Biological Science from level 3 through 6 aims:

• To provide a thorough grounding in the basic knowledge, concepts and practical

skills that underpin life science-based disciplines (foundation year)

• To develop the study culture and behaviour necessary to pursue to completion, a

degree in life sciences (foundation year)

• To provide high quality learning, teaching and assessment which meets the

needs of students from a variety of educational backgrounds especially in the

foundation year.

• To provide intensive academic guidance and a range of learning support and

physical resources in foundation year.

• To refine, during foundation year, your transferable skills which are essential to

both continued study, and which will enhance your employability.

• To provide a progressively structured, stimulating and supportive educational

experience, which is informed by developments at the forefront of the discipline

• To provide opportunities to enhance your employability by developing as a

professional scientific practitioner

• To develop your skills in research, knowledge creation, co-creation and re-creation and apply these in practice.

• To provide graduate level knowledge of current biological research and enable

you to contribute to public debate on scientific and ethical issues

• To produce graduates who are work-ready in appropriate disciplines for careers

in the biosciences, research and related Life Science industry

• To provide opportunities to integrate fundamental biology with applied biological

topics designed to parallel the broad scope of the biosciences

• To enable you to understand how fundamental biological principles and science apply to the world around you

• To develop and refine your transferable skills, especially your digital capability, technological, practical and field skills, team working and communication skills.

• To provide opportunities for you to communicate on your science to different audiences including the development of skills for interdisciplinary working, societal and community work.

• To gain the skills necessary for independent learning and reflective practice including responsibility for your own life-long learning, personal and professional development in the UK and internationally.

In addition, the BSc (Hons) Biological Science (with Placement year) will provide

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you with:

• The opportunity to gain key experience and employability skills by undertaking a

one-year work placement in a relevant life science or related industry

In addition, the BSc (Hons) Biological Science pathway options provide you with:

Ecology and Environmental Management pathway:

• Greater focus in Ecology, Environmental Biology and Management on your

study programme, including emphasis on the skills development required for

future study or work in this area.

• The opportunity to graduate with a named degree pathway in Ecology and

Environmental Management which will support greater focus in your personal,

career and professional development.

Genomics pathway:

• Greater focus in Genomics and Genetics on your study programme, including

emphasis on the skills development required for future study or work in this

area.

• The opportunity to graduate with a named degree pathway in Genomics

which will support greater focus in your personal, career and professional

development.

Pharmacology pathway:

• Greater focus in Pharmacology on your study programme, including

emphasis on the skills development required for future study or work in this

area.

• The opportunity to graduate with a named degree pathway in Pharmacology

which will support greater focus in your personal, career and professional

development.

Pathway with Pre-Med:

• Greater focus on Human Biology and areas suitable for future study or work

in Medicine or careers allied to Medicine.

• The opportunity to graduate with a named degree pathway in Pre-Med and a

degree that comprises core study of the fundamental underpinning Chemistry,

Physics and Biology which lay the foundation for future study or work in

Medical Sciences, including graduate entry medicine.

In addition, the Integrated Masters MSci routes aim:

• To produce graduates with an integrated undergraduate masters’ degree,

with advanced skills in applied research suitable for further advanced study or

careers in life science research, development and consultancy.

• To provide an opportunity for students to undertake either a three-month

placement experience within life sciences or related industries, or a three-

month research assistantship within an existing research programme at the

university

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What is distinctive about this programme and its pathways?

The 21st century is the age of the Life Sciences and our Biological Science programme enables you to become part of the expanding and innovative developments that will shape our world and our lives. At Staffordshire, no matter what your background, you can begin your journey from foundation level through to integrated Masters’ and beyond into postgraduate study and onto specialised and rewarding global opportunities for work and enterprise. Our foundation year route is well suited to those of you with little prior science knowledge, including mature applicants without formal entrance requirements. The course develops your knowledge and understanding of a broad range of scientific concepts and enables you to continue your academic studies and progress onto your chosen discipline and pathway. The foundation year covers core curriculum that is studied by all students and is delivered at partner institutes which, as colleges of further education, have many years of experience delivering at this level. The delivery is designed to use a range of activities to build your confidence in the fundamental concepts important to the life sciences. On successful completion of the foundation year you can progress onto level 4 delivered wholly at Staffordshire University. The Biological Science programme provides the ability for a broad-based study of biological science with the ability to build upon this breadth by developing a sub-discipline focus if desired, via our pathway options. It is composed of a core of life science modules that are shared with the Biomedical Science programme at level 4. Central themes include cellular and molecular biology, genetics, evolution and diversity, biochemistry and applied physiology linking disease, health and environment. Key to level 5 curriculum is the development of your applied skills through an innovative professional laboratory and field skills study programme. Here you select and accumulate skills by participating in short courses offered at different times throughout the year. This enables you to flex your learning and is fully supported through embedded personal tutorials. Graduate skills and attributes are embedded throughout your course with core modules providing a backbone of support as you develop a diversity of learning approaches focused upon active engagement. Each year of study begins with all students and tutors engaged in investigating core biological ideas, practitioner skills workshops, “cutting edge” lectures and feedback/feed forward action planning sessions. This allows you to consolidate previous learning and maximise your approach in the tasks ahead at your new study level. Each year ends with a variety of student exposition events for example, the final year event is linked to communication of your Research Project at the university-wide student conference event, GradEx. You are allocated a personal academic tutor and at every level there is an embedded tutorial system with both small group and one-to-one guidance sessions. Placement opportunities from level 5 are flexible so you can tailor your experience towards your future aspirations. Activities include research internships, enterprise group projects with industrial or social partners, expedition-based research, educational projects with schools as well as the traditional work placement with external organisations. Your final year negotiated research project is linked to the focus of your award and is

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designed to enable you to undertake a major piece of investigative work culminating in a professional style paper and conference presentation. If you chose to focus your studies, you can opt for one of four pathways offered in Biological Science namely: Ecology and Environmental Management, Genomics, Pharmacology or Pre-Med. Each of these pathways enables you to spend greater study and skill development time in these disciplines. For those of you who are enrolled on the BSc (Hons) Biological Science with Placement year, between levels 5 and 6, you will undertake a one-year placement in industry to gain industry relevant experience and develop your employability skills. You might spend your year in a laboratory environment, in a fieldwork setting in the UK or abroad or working in an area where you are applying your knowledge of biology in helping tackle real-world challenges. The MSci route offers an extended programme of study through to master level, allowing you to develop enhanced professional attributes and research skills. The additional depth of study along with increased professionalism enhances your employment opportunities. Our science centre building and dedicated specialist equipment enables you to get hands-on use of a range of cutting edge technologies. This course focuses on developing you as a scientific practitioner. You will develop your graduate skills through a focus on your active engagement in practical and workshop sessions. The MSci research assistantship enables you to join an active research programme alongside PhD and full-time research staff thereby contributing to the generation of scientific knowledge, publication and output. Student selected components within the modules, particularly at Levels 5, 6 and 7, allow you to select topics for research and assignments which are orientated towards your potential career paths.

The Staffordshire Graduate

The Staffordshire Graduate represents a set of qualities that the University passionately believes is necessary for success in the 21st century. The Staffordshire Graduate is a reflective and critical learner with a global perspective, prepared to contribute in the world of work. Opportunities exist for the addition of a Staffordshire Graduate Award on completion and examination of appropriate evidence. Further details are provided during your course.

The Biological Science award aims to produce graduates who are reflective

and critical learners with a global perspective that are prepared to positively

contribute within the both the world of work and society in general.

As a Biological Science graduate, you will develop discipline expertise informed by your exposure and engagement with the learning programme underpinned by research, consultancy and advanced scholarship.

Upon graduation you should be able to demonstrate your professionalism by being work ready, enterprising and entrepreneurial in your outlook. You will understand the role of the professional bodies in regulation and development of professional standards within the developing research-led disciplines of Biological Science. You will have had the opportunity to develop both subject specific skills and a wider skill set that will form the foundations of you as a lifelong learner and aid your post-University development. You will be able to reflect on your skills and employability

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within the context of the broad Biological and related professions.

Activities such as finding new solutions to old problems or conducting a piece of research will demonstrate independence of thought, innovation, flexibility, initiative taking, leadership and risk-taking and will allow you to show creative ability in their delivery and effective communication. This ability will be both verbal and via a variety of electronic formats. This approach will also ensure you will be technologically, digitally and information literate, having used a range of technology in your degree including: technologies to access learning materials and information e.g. VLE and e-library resources; to record, collect and analyse data/information e.g. spreadsheets, analytical devices, diagnostic machinery and software.

You should also have developed the skills of independence of thought by social interaction and through teamwork to be able to identify opportunities, prioritise tasks and deploy appropriate skills to organise your time to enable problem-solving across a spectrum of activities to accomplish objectives. Equally, you should be able to adapt those skills and as appropriate demonstrate further skills of motivation, commitment, delivery, negotiation, leadership and responsibility to work effectively in team situations.

The completion of the inquiry-based learning programme will help develop your critical and reflective approach. Specifically, you will be able to understand the often-contested nature of knowledge and be confident to question/challenge views and perspectives, ask appropriate questions and seek or generate appropriate information and ‘data’ to answer those questions; examine ‘evidence’ objectively to make informed and considered evaluations and judgements on the value/credibility of information.

Science is global construct and as a Biology graduate you should develop as a global citizen with an understanding of both global issues and of your place in a globalised economy. You will develop and understand various perspectives within the Biological sciences including moral and ethical, national and international, those related to culture and diversity and those relating to the economy, society, environment and medical approaches.

Undertaking the placement year reinforces the importance of successfully achieving the Staffordshire Graduate Attributes, from your understanding of enterprise and industrial relationships, to interacting confidently with colleagues and communicating your experience in the most appropriate professional manner.

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PROGRAMME OUTCOMES What will this programme teach me to do? At the end of your foundation year (Level 3) studies you should be able to:

Knowledge and Understanding

Demonstrate knowledge of some fundamental theories and concepts in Science subjects.

Learning

Formulate judgements in accordance with simple theories and concepts within the Science subject area.

Enquiry

Demonstrate basic skills of enquiry and methods appropriate to the Sciences and an appreciation of some key aspects of information literacy

Analysis

Undertake straightforward analysis and interpretation of information in a Scientific context.

Problem Solving

Demonstrate a basic understanding of different approaches to solving problems within a Scientific context.

Communication

Communicate information accurately and reliably in oral and written forms

Application

Apply basic Scientific knowledge and skills in different contexts.

Reflection

Demonstrate an elementary understanding of the process of reflection as an aid to learning and skills development.

At the end of your BSc (Hons) Biological Science studies from level 4 through 6, you

should be able to:

Knowledge & Understanding

Demonstrate advanced knowledge & understanding of a complex body of biological

principles, concepts & theories, which extends beyond the directly taught

programme, at least some of which is at the forefront of biology

Benchmark statements: 4.2, 4.3, 4.4, 4.6, 5.2, 5.3, 5.5, 5.6

Learning

Recognise and take account of the ambiguity and provisional nature of knowledge

when drawing conclusions and evaluating information within biology

Benchmark statements: 4.5, 4.6, 5.2x, xi, xii, xiii, xiv, 5.3, 5.6

Enquiry

Select, evaluate & apply appropriate techniques to conduct biological investigations

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safely and ethically, and interpret, evaluate & present the data produced

Benchmark statements: 4.1, 4.2, 4.3, 5.2 iii, iv, 5.6

Analysis

Describe and comment upon research or advanced scholarship in biology, and

critically evaluate arguments, assumptions etc. to make judgements

Benchmark statements: 4.2, 4.3, 5.2iv, 5.5, 5.6, 5.7

Problem Solving

Develop questions to achieve a solution (or identify a range of solutions) to a

complex problem or series of problems

Benchmark statements: 4.3, 4.5, 4.6, 5.2iv, 5.3ii, iv, vi, 5.5ii, iii, 5.6, 5.7

Communication

Communicate effectively and confidently, in various formats, complex ideas and

reasoned arguments

Benchmark statements: 4.2, 4.4, 4.5, 5.2viii, 5.3iii, 5.5ii

Application

Apply advanced knowledge, understanding, methods and techniques, some of which

are at the forefront of the discipline, to an understanding of biology

Benchmark statements: 4.1, 4.5, 5.2ix, 5.3, 5.5i, 5.7

Reflection

Demonstrate personal responsibility, manage your own learning, & exercise initiative

in complex & unpredictable circumstances

Benchmark statements: 4.1, 4.5, 5.2x, xii, 5.3, 5.5v, 5.6vi.vii

At the end of your MSci (integrated Masters) in Biological Science studies at level 7, you should be able to:

Knowledge & Understanding

Demonstrate advanced knowledge & understanding of a complex body of biological

literature, principles, concepts & theories, which extends beyond the directly taught

programme and which is at the forefront of the biological sciences.

QAA benchmark statements: 3.2, 3.4, 3.5, 5.10, 5.14, 5.15, 5.17

Learning

Recognise and take account of the ambiguity and provisional nature of knowledge

when drawing conclusions and evaluating information in biological science, whether it

is from published literature or research generated data. Develop new skills to a high

level for continuing professional development.

QAA benchmark statements: 3.4, 3.5, 3.9, 5.7, 5.8

Enquiry

Select, evaluate & apply appropriate techniques to conduct biological investigations

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safely and ethically, and interpret, critically evaluate & present the data produced

including the proposition of new hypotheses.

QAA benchmark statements: 3.3, 3.4, 3.5, 3.6, 5.7, 5.8

Analysis

Describe and comment upon current biological research or advanced scholarship,

and critically evaluate arguments, analyses and assumptions to make scientific

judgements.

QAA benchmark statements: 3.3, 3.5, 3.6, 5.7, 5.8

Problem Solving

Develop questions to achieve a solution (or identify a range of solutions) to a

complex problem or series of problems. Employ appropriate decision-making in

complex and unpredictable situations.

QAA benchmark statements: 3.3, 3.4. 3.5, 3.6, 5.7

Communication

Communicate complex ideas and reasoned arguments effectively and confidently, in

varied formats, to different types of audiences.


Application

Apply advanced knowledge, understanding, methods and techniques, which are at

the forefront of the discipline, to research in biological science, including applied

research within the life science industries.


Reflection

Demonstrate the qualities and transferable skills necessary for employment requiring

the exercise of initiative and personal responsibility self-direction and originality in

tackling and solving problems and act autonomously in planning and implementing

tasks at a professional level.

QAA benchmark statements: 3.3, 3.5, 3.10

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PROGRAMME STRUCTURE, MODULES AND CREDITS BSc (Hons) Biological Science (Level 3 only delivered by Stoke-on-Trent College)

Level

3

Teaching Block 1 BIOL30463

Maths and Data Handling

(30 credits)

BIOL30461

Biology (30 credits)

BIOL30462

Chemistry (30 credits)

BIOL30460

Applied Science (30 credits)

Teaching Block 2

Level

4

Semester 1 BIOL40671 Bioscience

Concepts and Principles

(30 credits)

BIOL40677 Structure and

Function (30 credits)

BIOL40673 Building Blocks

of Life (30 credits)

BIOL40684 Professional

Practice for Life Scientists

(15 credits)

Semester 2 BIOL40669 Biology of Disease

Level

5

Semester 1 Semester 2

Applied Biosciences (40 credits) BIOL50719

Global Issues and Professional Development (20 credits) BIOL50721

Adaptation and Survival (20 credits) BIOL50717

Option (20 credits)

Option (20 credits)

Level 5 Options (all 20 credits):

BIOL50723 Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering Options available from the Biomedical Science programme:

BIOL50720 Ecology and Environmental Management

BIOL50724 Pharmacology and Medicinal Plants

BIOL50718 Animal Behaviour

BIOL50722 Medical Sciences

BIOL50725 Research and Development for the Life Science Industry

Placement year (120 credits)

L e v e l 6


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Level 6 Options (all 20 credit)

BIOL60670 International Experience

BIOL60668 Genomics and Bioinformatics BIOL60675 Molecular Pharmacology

BIOL60677 Toxicology

BIOL60663 Applied Parasitology and Medical Entomology

BIOL60674 Microbial Genomes and Pathogenesis BIOL60667 Diagnostic Pathology

BIOL60669 Integrated Biology of Disease

BIOL60676 The Brain BIOL60672 Managing the Natural World

BIOL60665 Conservation Biology

BIOL60673 Medical Immunology and Immunotherapy

BIOL60664 Cancer Biology and Regenerative Medicine

Level 7 MSci year – all routes and pathways

PROGRAMME STRUCTURE - Pathways

BIOL60678

Research Project (40 credit) BIOL60671 Option (20 credit)

Option (20 credit)

Option (20 credit) Current Advances and Bioethics (20 credit)

BIOL60666

Level

7


Advanced Research Methods and Biological Techniques (40 credit)

BIOL70645

MSci Life Sciences Placement (60 credit) BIOL70647

or

Biological Research Assistantship (60 credit) BIOL70648 Specialist Topics in Life Sciences

(20 credit) BIOL70646

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BSc (Hons) Biological Science (Ecology and Environmental Management)

Level

4


Practical Skills for Life Scientists (40 credit) BIOL40683

Developing Research and Professional Identity (20 credit) BIOL40679

Molecular and Cellular Biology (20 credit) BIOL40682

Genetics and Diversity (20 credit) BIOL40681

Disease, Health and Environment (20 credit) BIOL40680

Level

5


Applied Biosciences (40 credit) BIOL50719

Global Issues and Professional Development (20 credit) BIOL50721

Adaptation and Survival (20 credit) BIOL50717

Ecology and Environmental Management (20 credit) BIOL50720

Animal Behaviour (20 credit) BIOL50718

Placement year (120 credit)

Level

6

Ec

olo

gy

& E

nv

iro

nm

en

tal

Pa

thw

ay


Placement experience (0 credit) Award specific requirement (NOT for placement

year) BIOL60678 Research Project (40 credit)

BIOL60671 Conservation Biology (20 credit)

BIOL60665

Managing the Natural World (20 credit) BIOL60672


BIOL60666

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BSc (Hons) Biological Science (Genomics)

Level

4







Level

5





Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering (20 credit) BIOL50723

Optional core from Medical Sciences BIOL50722, Pharmacology and Medicinal Plants BIOL50724 or from the Biomedical Science programme (20 credit)


Level

6

Gen

om

ics

pa

thw

ay


Placement experience (0 credit) Award specific requirement (NOT for placement year)

BIOL60678 Research Project (40 credit)

BIOL60671 Genomics and Bioinformatics (20 credit)

BIOL60668

Microbial Genomes and Pathogenesis (20 credit) BIOL60674


BIOL60666

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BSc (Hons) Biological Science (Pharmacology)

Level

4







Level

5





Pharmacology and Medicinal Plants (20 credit) BIOL50724

Optional core from Biomedical Science programme or Research and Development for Life Science Industry (20 credit) BIOL50725


Level

6

Ph

arm

aco

log

y p

ath

way


Placement experience (0 credit) Award specific requirement (NOT for placement year)

BIOL60678 Research Project (40 credit)

BIOL60671 Molecular Pharmacology (20 credit)

BIOL60675

Medical Immunology and Immunotherapy (20 credit) BIOL60673


BIOL60666

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BSc (Hons) Biological Science (Pre-Med)

Level

4







Level

5





Medical Sciences (20 credit) BIOL50722

Optional Core from Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering BIOL50723, Pharmacology and Medicinal Plants BIOL50724 or from Biomedical Science programme (20 credit)


Level

6

Pre

-Med


Placement experience (0 credit) Award specific requirement (NOT for placement

year) BIOL60678

Research Project (40 credit) BIOL60671

Cancer Biology & Regenerative Medicine (20 credit) BIOL60664

Integrated Biology of Disease (20 credit) BIOL60669


BIOL60666

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HOW WILL I BE TAUGHT AND ASSESSED?

Teaching and Learning A key aim of your award is to develop you as a professional scientific practitioner and this is reflected in our approach to teaching, learning and assessment. You will start with high levels of tutor driven activities, often with in-class competence-based work and gradually develop the skills, confidence and capabilities to drive your own learning both with us and beyond. For example, your academic and practical skills - an essential skill set demanded by employers of bioscience graduates - will be developed and practised throughout your degree. To do this effectively you will spend a high proportion of class time in Levels 3 in workshops, Levels 4 and 5 in the laboratory and/or field. In Level 6 more specialist practical skills are developed via your independent research project. At Level 7 advanced research methods build upon skills development further creating highly desirable work-ready and high functioning life science graduates ready to contribute to scientific discovery and its application. Throughout your award theory and practice are integrated and many sessions will combine short lectures/seminars with practical work. This will allow theories and concepts to be explored, illustrated and reinforced and helps enhance your learning via direct experience. In-class activities will be supplemented by various online learning activities via the use of a virtual learning environment. Digital technology is becoming increasingly more embedded in learning. Some examples are the use of “flipped” sessions, Padlet, Socrative and Poll Anywhere. Being a scientific practitioner is not just about being adept in the laboratory or field; it is also about, amongst other things, being adaptable, enterprising, able to solve problems, self-managed, and with the ability to work and communicate effectively with others both within the sciences but also within a wider ethical and commercial framework. These skills reflect upon your own development, your ability to think scientifically and your understanding of the wider context of science, all of these are skills and understanding are valued highly by employers. These skills are encapsulated in the Staffordshire Graduate programme and this award enables you to develop the Staffordshire Graduate attributes embedded within three core modules; one at each level. If you study the foundation year you also focus key skills and likewise at MSci, in the Advanced Research Methods module we have embedded overt development of employability skills. While all modules to varying degrees will address some of these aspects, both Levels 4 and 5 include a 40-credit module which will focus on these skills. This will be achieved via a mixture of workshops and tasks, some carried out independently, both of which are integrated with a tutorial programme that runs throughout the academic year and culminates in a placement experience during or at the end of level 5. Additionally, your skills and attributes are employed fully at level 6 in your research project which is aligned with your award. At level 7 you can choose between placement and research assistantship, both providing opportunities for advanced skills development. At each level of study, you will be supported through our integrated tutorial system. At level 3 you have tutorial support embedded in your modules. At levels 4 and 5 the tutorials are embedded within a 20-credit module and are a mixture of one-to-one and small group tutorials focusing on the support for your learning, effective use of feedback and developing your graduate attributes. At level 6 and 7 in addition to tutorials with your project or placement supervisor, you continue to have tutorials with your personal tutor focused on personal development and career success.

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Assessment The assessments are designed to assess the knowledge, understanding and skills relevant to a career in the life sciences and are progressively structured; so, for example, the number of assessments reduce as you progress through the levels, as they become more demanding; this reflects your development as scientists and autonomous learners with developing skill sets. Typically, at all levels you will have two assignments per 20 credits. In levels 3 and 4, portfolio work with formative and summative assignments is common. Assessment will be by a mixture of coursework and time constrained elements. Coursework assessments are very varied (e.g. producing web pages, vlogs, blogs, wikis, scientific articles, posters and presentations, literature reviews, video diaries, delivering seminars, viva voce, report writing etc.) and are designed to develop and assess a range of skills relevant to employment. Practical skills will be assessed both directly via tests of competency in carrying out various laboratory (and/or field) techniques, and indirectly via the production of laboratory-based and other reports. At Level 7 laboratory books of industry standard are utilised for practical work. Normally you are expected to pass all module elements. PSRB requirements for BSc courses stipulate a minimum in all work within modules of 20%. In Level 4, examinations will assess your breadth of knowledge and understanding of the fundamental concepts of the discipline. In Levels 5 and 6 the examinations, whether practical, essay-based or short answer/multiple choice, will test your ability to analyse, synthesise and evaluate ideas, to justify and to develop arguments. At Level 6 the research project is produced as a scientific paper and a poster is presented in conference style simulating the scientific work environment. MSci assessment focuses on your abilities to produce and display high quality scientific work that is of interest to the scientific community. Therefore, assessment focuses on output of a professional nature such as publication, review, report writing, conference presentation, ‘work-in-progress’ talks, seminars, public engagement and media interview. MSci graduates will develop a portfolio of evidence showing their active engagement in the dissemination of their work. In addition, those undertaking a placement will be encouraged to use industry standard reporting methods as part of the assessment. Classification of Award Full details of the regulations governing classification of award can be found here: http://www.staffs.ac.uk/legal/policies/ Please note all routes except MSci are accredited by the Royal Society of Biology.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Entry Requirements (including IELTS score) What qualifications would I need to join this programme? The entry requirements for the award are normally:

http://www.staffs.ac.uk/legal/policies/

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• For foundation year – 48 UCAS points. Mature applicants assessed individually. • For BSc (Hons) Typical UCAS Offer: 112 points

o A levels: BBC, to include Biology at Grade C or above o BTEC: DMM Applied Science

We welcome applicants from a diversity of backgrounds and all applicants are individually assessed.

For details of UCAS tariff points please see the current online prospectus at: http://www.staffs.ac.uk/undergraduate/

Disability Statement Staffordshire University operates a policy of inclusive teaching and learning to ensure that all students have an equal opportunity to fulfil their educational potential. Details about how to apply to have your needs assessed can be found at: http://www.staffs.ac.uk/study/disabled/index.jsp

AWARD SPECIFIC INFORMATION

The following awards are accredited by the Royal Society of Biology: BSc (Hons) Biological Science including with foundation year, placement year and all pathway options. [NB awaiting confirmation from PSRB] PSRB accreditation requires deviation from award regulation 4.7. on Module assessment and Re-assessment. There is a minimum pass mark associated with each element of assessment and that is 20%. In all other respects regulation 4.7 applies. All BSc awards have a requirement to complete a placement experience as a core element by the completion of the final year. All BSc awards require that the research project is passed at 40% and cannot be compensated or condoned. As accredited routes, students should be aware that codes of professional behaviour apply. Further information is available in the Course Handbook.

Further information about the award can be found in the relevant Student Handbook and on the University Website. This includes

information about optional modules, learning outcomes at levels below honours, student support, and academic regulations.

http://www.staffs.ac.uk/undergraduate/

http://www.staffs.ac.uk/study/disabled/index.jsp

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THE STAFFORDSHIRE GRADUATE

The Staffordshire Graduate

AWARD TITLE: BSc (Hons) Biological Science with a Foundation Year

Attribute Characteristic Level Module(s) code: title No of Credits

Core or Option

C / K / O

Brief description of activity / activities How is achievement ‘assessed’?

(will assume it is an individual assessment - please indicate otherwise)

Work-ready and employable

3 Applied Science 30 C Develops generic skills such as communication as reports, group working and research skills within forensic science. Along with essential laboratory, data handling and statistical analysis skills.

Practical report and continuous assessment.

3 Biological Science 30 C Develops generic skills such as communication as reports, group working and research skills within forensic science. Along with essential laboratory, data handling and statistical analysis skills.


Understanding of enterprise and entrepreneurship

3 Applied Science 30 C Introduces the Forensic marketplace and the roles of individuals with it.

Formative exercise.

3 Biological Science 30 C Introduces the main subject areas within the Biological Science marketplace and the roles of individuals with it.

Not directly assessed.

Understanding of global issues and graduate’s place in the global economy

3 Applied Science 30 C Develops students understanding of global issues and social impact of forensic science.


3 Biological Science

30 C Develops students understanding of global issues and social impact of the biological


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sciences.

Communication skills 3 Applied Science 30 C Develops oral presentation, and

poster presentation skills.

Develops communication skills within a laboratory setting as students work in teams to gain knowledge of forensic techniques, analyse evidence and complete. Written and report writing skills.

Practical reports,

Written assignment

Formative and summative oral poster presentation

3 Chemistry 30 C Involve the development of team working and communication skills in a practical environment. Develops communication skills with regards to Chemical techniques, analyse results and complete practical reports.

Develops report writing

Practical reports,

Written assignment

3 Biological Science 30 C Involve the development of team working and communication skills in a practical environment. Develops communication skills with regards to Biological science techniques, analyse results and complete practical reports.

Develops report writing

Practical reports,

Presentation skills 3 Chemistry 30 C Develops scientific note taking, report writing and chemistry-based terminology.

Practical report

Applied Science 30 C Develops scientific note taking, report writing, oral presentation, and

poster presentation skills.

Practical report, production of contemporaneous notes.

Formative oral poster presentation

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Biological Science 30 C Develops scientific note taking, report writing, and Biological Science based terminology.

Practical report

The ability to interact confidently with colleagues

3 Chemistry 30 C Requires good communication skills when working in laboratory teams throughout the module and for the collation of data for report production.


3

Applied Science 30 C Requires good communication skills when working in laboratory teams throughout the module and for the collation of data for report production.


3 Biological Science 30 C Requires good communication skills when working in laboratory teams throughout the module and for the collation of data for report production.


Independence of thought

3 Chemistry 30 C Required in practical work and examinations

Developed during study skills tutorial sessions.


Examination

Biological Science 30 C Required in practical work and assessments



Examination

Applied Science 30 C Developed during study skills tutorial sessions.


Examination

Maths and Data Handling

30 C Required in formative activities and assessments


Examination

Skills of teamworking 3 Chemistry 30 C The developments of team working, and Not directly assessed

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communication skills are required in a practical environment.

3 Biological Science 30 C The developments of team working, and communication skills are required in a practical environment.

Not directly assessed

3 Applied Science 30 C The developments of team working and communication skills are required in a practical environment.


3 Maths and Data Handling

30 C Required in small group exercises Not directly assessed

Ability to carry out inquiry-based learning and critical analysis

3 Biological Science 30 C Developed in the practical work and interpretation of results

Practical examination, report and work book.

examination


30 C Developed in individual activities and small group exercises

examination

3 Chemistry 30 C Developed in practical sessions and analysis of laboratory results

Practical report

examination

3 Applied Science

30 C Developed in practical session for example involving the investigation of a fictitious case and subsequent evidence analysis.

Development of critical thinking of evidence submission and its evidential value

Practical report and formative activities

Written assignment

Examination

Skills of problem solving and creation of opportunities

3 Chemistry 15 C Developed during practical sessions and in tutorial work

Practical report

Examination

3 Applied Science 30 C Developed in the practical work and interpretation of results

Practical report

Examination

3 Biological Science 30 C Developed during practical sessions and in tutorial work

Practical report

Examination


30 C Developed in individual activities and small group exercises

Examination

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Technologically, digitally and information literate

3 Chemistry 30 C Presenting practical borne data Practical report

3 Biological Science 30 C presenting practical borne data Practical report

3 Applied Science 30 C Develop skills in digital photography, crime scene processing and presenting practical borne data.

Practical report

Written assignment

An understanding of the concepts of life-long learning and life-long success

3 All modules 30 C Aim to develop transferrable skills and to prepare students for future studies, including research and developments in the sciences science.


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THE STAFFORDSHIRE GRADUATE

MAPPING EXERCISE AGAINST EXISTING AWARDS

AWARD TITLE: BSc (Hons)/ MSci Biological Science

Attribute Characteristic

Level Module(s) code: title No of Credits

Core or Option

C / K / O

Brief description of activity / activities

How is achievement ‘assessed’?

(will assume it is an individual assessment - please indicate otherwise)

Work-ready and employable

4 • Practical Skills for Life Science

• Developing Research and

Professional Identity

40

20

C Development of core laboratory, data handling and statistical analysis skills

Demonstrating competency (team and individual)

Reflective Portfolio

5 • Global Issues and Professional

Development

20 C Professional practice/identify is explored in terms of ‘being a professional’ in work and employment. Design of practical investigation.

Oral presentation.

Placement Report

6 • Research Project 40 C Design implementation and analysis of a scientific investigation.

“Scientific Paper”

Viva voce

7 • Advanced Research Methods 20 C Demonstrate professional level research planning skills appropriate to a professional Bioscientist.

Project methodology, design and plan.

Understanding of enterprise and entrepreneurship




40 C Introduction to team working attributes (Belbin), effectiveness of working in a team. Identification and reflection on personal skills and attribute development (SWOT analysis).

Reflective portfolio on skills development – their identification of where they are at regarding the key skills identified as important by employers.

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Development

20 C Identifying opportunities, showing creativity and innovation are all part of scientific progress. Focused workshops embed the need for enterprise and entrepreneurship in both the industrial and wealth creation dimension but also as fundamental traits within the basic scientific skill set.

Oral presentation.

Placement Report

6 • Research Project 40 C Students need to identify novel approaches and solutions to complete the work, expanding on Level 5 development.


Viva voce

7 • Advanced Research Methods 20 C Students will need to be capable of providing a critical peer review. This involves identifying and defining key ideas and approaches, often novel, to assess the viability of the plans and solutions proposed.

Written peer review of oral presentation.

Understanding of global issues and graduate’s place in the global economy




40 C Attendance at a series of ‘key note’ lectures delivered by staff and guest speakers some of which will cover issues relating Biological Sciences within a global perspective. The content will also highlight the opportunities of a biological science student within an international employment market.

Within the team executed mini-research project and/or the individual presentation on a biological science topic of their choice.


Development

20 C Employability, professional development and scientific discovery are fundamental to this module, and are global issues, which have implication for the global economy. Students, through their engagement

Professional practice and the development of professional identify are assessed within the oral presentation and placement report

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with employability, professional development, and scientific discovery issues, develop an awareness of the global economy. The graduate has a place in the global economy because of their professional practice and the development of professional identify, and hence their awareness of their place in the global economy is facilitated through the demonstration of identify and practice.

6 • Research Project 40 C Students are working as a scientific professional and thus draw upon and communicate to the global audience.


Viva voce

7 • Advanced Research Methods 20 C Students are working as a “graduate level” presentation and peer reviewing scientific professional and thus need to draw upon and communicate to the global audience.

Oral presentation

Communication skills




40 C Team executed mini-project, subject specific presentation of their choosing.

Team executed mini-project, subject specific presentation of their choosing. Reflective portfolio on skills development.


Development

20 C The module encourages peer-interaction, oral presentation and written reflective pieces and video production

Oral presentation and placement report

6 • Research Project 40 C Participation in student conference “Scientific Paper”

Viva voce

7 • Advanced Research Methods 20 C Students need to effectively communicate the salient features of their experimental design and planning to a professional audience.

Data presentation

Project plan

Oral presentation

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Presentation skills 4 • Practical Skills for Life Science

Developing Research and





Development

20 C Learners become aware through a variety of activities how everything from body language to final summative written reports are encapsulated in the term ‘professional skills’


6 • Research Project 40 C Participation in student conference, production of “Scientific Paper” and Viva voce


Viva voce

7 • Biological Research Assistantship

• Life Science Placement

• Advanced Research Methods

60

60

20

K

K

C

Presentation of all material will be aiming for the professional Bioscientist level and will include a variety of written and oral presentations.

‘Work-in-Progress’ talks

Conference Paper

Oral presentation

The ability to interact confidently with colleagues







Development

20 C Peer-interaction and peer-evaluation are encouraged and while on placement students will work with a number of colleagues

Opportunities to develop confidence in peer-interaction are provided and formative discussion occurs. Formal summative assessment is made through reflective writing. Oral presentation and placement report. Team skills assessment.

6 • Research Project 40 C Execution of project, participation in student conference, production of “Scientific Paper” and Viva voce. Interaction with technical team

Viva voce

30

regarding obtaining equipment.

7 • Biological Research Assistantship

• Life Science Placement

• Advanced Research Methods

60

60

20

K

K

C

Execution of project, participation in peer, production of “Scientific Paper” and Viva voce. Interaction with technical team/workplace colleagues regarding planning, obtaining equipment and meeting set targets.

‘Work-in-Progress’ talks

Reflective report

Peer Review

Independence of thought




40 C Subject specific presentation of their choosing. Completion of a reflective portfolio on skills development.

Subject specific presentation of their choosing. Reflective portfolio on skills development.


Development

20 C Placement are obtained through independent action and thinking by the student. Self-evaluation of knowing ‘how they are doing’ and ‘what further needs doing’ in terms of assessed assignments resides primarily with the student. Collaborative learning environments will guide students in developing aspects of independent thinking

Both oral presentation and placement report require independent thinking and will be demonstrated through problem solving, reflection and enquiry learning outcomes

6 • Project 40 C Execution of project “Scientific Paper”

Viva voce

7 • Advanced Research Methods 20 C The design and planning of the project and contribution to the peer review process will help students refine and display independence of thought.

Project methodology, design and plan

Skills of team working




40 C Belbin test, team work activity workshop, team executed mini research project.

Poster, reflective portfolio on skills development.

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Development

20 C Student – led tutorials, group activities in designing and developing scientific experiments will all involve team work

Competence assessment that must be passed informs the final summative action plan.

6 • Research Project 40 C Interaction with technical team regarding obtaining equipment

7 • Advanced Research Methods 20 C Interaction with technical team/workplace colleagues regarding planning, obtaining equipment and meeting set research targets. Group discussions and peer review exercises will help students develop the wider context of science which is fundamentally a generically team focussed endeavour.

Data presentation and discussion.

Peer review

Ability to carry out inquiry-based learning and critical analysis




40 C Team executed mini research project. Poster


Development

20 C The scientific careers search model and the scientific approach to new knowledge generation are both enquiry based and require critical analysis. Action planning


6 • Research Project 40 C The project. “Scientific Paper”

Viva voce

7 • Advanced Research Methods 20 C The development of data analysis techniques and the iterative development of the project plan will provide the student with the vehicle to inquire, learn and refine their scientific approach.


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Skills of problem solving and creation of opportunities

4 • Developing Research and


• Practical Skills for Life Science

40 C Team executed mini research project, reflection on personal skills and attribute development

Poster, reflective portfolio on skills development.


Development

20 C Identifying opportunities, showing creativity and innovation are all part of scientific progress. Identifying and utilising placement opportunities and recognising personal growth

Placement report

6 • Research Project 40 C The project. “Scientific Paper”

Viva voce

7 • Advanced Research Methods 20 C Formulating a relevant scientific hypothesis, exploring the opportunities to refine and answer that hypothesis and the subsequent designing of an experimental regimen to test the hypothesis will allow a multi-facetted display of opportunity identification, creation and problem solving.


Technologically, digitally and information literate




40 C Development of core skills. Research for mini-project and presentation, presentation of data for the mini-project.

Competency test, Project poster.


Development

20 C Literature, placement searching. Statistical calculation, and date treatment. Identifying career, placement and reflective literature


6 • Research Project 40 C Data analysis and information searching needed for practitioner level project engagement.


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7 • Advanced Research Methods 20 C Data analysis and information searching needed for practitioner level project planning.

Data presentation and analysis portfolio

An understanding of the concepts of life-long learning and life-long success




40 C Demonstration of competencies. SWOT analysis, use of feedback diary.

Competency test, reflective portfolio on skills development.


Development

20 C Awareness of the changing global issues such as, employability, professional development and scientific discovery, encourages the recognition for the need to continue learning and to be able to recognise and evaluate what is ‘success’ in terms of the students own professional practice and identify.

Placement report

Team skills assessment

6 • Research Project 40 C The self-development and discovery linked to an original investigation, coupled with the nature of scientific advancement will force the student to recognise the importance of life-long learning to successes within the scientific arena.

7 • Advanced Research Methods 20 C The self-development and discovery linked to formulating an original hypothesis and planning an original investigation, coupled with the nature of scientific advancement and collaborative effort will encourage the student to recognise the importance of life-long learning to success within the scientific arena.

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ADDENDUM FOR DELIVERY AT A PARTNER INSTITUTION

This section should record any matters within the programme specification which do not apply to the delivery at the partner. It should also note any differences in delivery, course content, module choice etc.

Name and location of partner

Stoke-on-Trent College

Partnership Context

The awards listed below are part of a franchise arrangement with Staffordshire University.

Awards to be offered at partner

Foundation Year only

Aims / Learning

Outcomes

Curricula

Teaching and Learning

Assessment

Admissions Criteria

Specific

Regulations

Date of completion

All of the above sections should be completed as appropriate for each partner organisation.

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undergraduate programme specification€¦ · one-year work placement in a relevant life science or...

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