Course Summary

This course adds breadth and depth to your knowledge and understanding of human biology and potentially leads to the third year of the BSc (Hons) Human Biosciences Degree at The University of Plymouth. A degree in Human Biosciences provides the necessary skills for employment as a technician or laboratory scientist in biomedical science, public health or food quality control. It is also an excellent preparation for a career in science teaching or health education. The Human Biosciences Foundation Degree covers a broad range of areas within biology.

Course Details - Modules

The Human Biosciences Foundation Degree covers a broad range of areas within biology. Year one: Anatomy - studies the organisation of the human body into systems, including gross structure and histology, so providing the perfect preparation for year two studies of physiology. This module is based around a number of practical sessions, including dissection and microscope work. Human Life Cycle - looks at developments from conception to old age. Areas of study include contraception, fertility, embryological/foetal development, adolescence and ageing. Genetics - introduces you to the structure and function of genes and how these, together with environmental factors, affect the characteristics of individuals and populations. Biochemistry - examines the essential features of living organisms starting with the chemical and biological properties of small biological molecules and how they are assembled into macromolecules essential to the structure and functioning of cells. Microbiology - provides an introduction to microbiology, including the diversity of microorganisms, their growth requirements, and clinical and industrial importance. There is an emphasis on aseptic techniques and good laboratory practice. Statistics - develops previously learned mathematical skills within a scientific context and builds on these skills to allow students to learn statistical techniques which can be applied to testing scientific data. Developing Graduate Skills - helps you develop the qualities and transferable skills necessary for undergraduate academic work and employment requiring the exercise of responsibility and decision making. As part of this module you will complete at least 50 hours of relevant work experience. Year two: Cell Biology and Immunology - covers the basic structure and function of cells together with the principles underlying the major techniques used in modern studies of cellular biology. It contains a comprehensive introduction to immunology with particular reference to cellular and humoral responses to infection. Human Physiology - is the study of the functions of the various organs and systems of the human body and the changes that occur during stress. This module is largely theoretical with lectures and seminars, analysis of case studies and some practical work. Microbial World - develops students’ knowledge of the diversity of the microbial world including bacteria, fungi, protists and viruses. It teaches techniques used to study microorganisms in the laboratory and culminates in a research project designed and carried out by the student. Genetic Continuity and Diversity - considers the processes that maintain genetic stability and promote genetic diversity at different levels of biological organisation. It then develops a broad range of applications which have resulted from increasing awareness of the genome, its structure, and interaction with the environment. Biochemistry - builds on the content of year one and shows how metabolism involves a wide range of biochemical pathways. It concludes by explaining how the complex collection of chemical reactions required for human life is controlled and coordinated in a variety of ways. Research module - focuses on core skills and techniques in good laboratory practice essential to human biosciences. You will carry out your own practical research project, working safely and efficiently within an appropriate experimental design. Your project will be preceded by a literature review of the topic, addressing wider issues. The whole project will be written up formally in the style of an academic paper, and presented informally to your

Course Details – Assessment Method

Course assessment includes essays, presentations, laboratory reports and exams. Most modules have one coursework assessment during the year as well as a final exam. The coursework assessment usually makes up 60% of the final grade, with the exam being 40%.

Course Details – Professional Bodies

Professional Bodies are not listed for this Course.

How to Apply

26 January This is the deadline for applications to be completed and sent for this course. If the university or college still has places available you can apply after this date, but your application is not guaranteed to be considered.

Application Codes

Course code: C701

Institution code: P51

Campus Name: North Devon Campus

Campus code:

Points of Entry

The following entry points are available for this course:

Year 1

Entry Requirements for Advanced Entry (Year 2 and Beyond)

Entry Requirements for Advanced Entry are not listed for this Course.

International applicants

Standard Qualification Requirements

Applicants will need 48 UCAS points for entry, usually from A Levels, BTEC or Access to Higher Education, in a relevant subject. GCSE English and Maths at grade C are important. Mature applicants will also be considered based on their relevant experience and knowledge. Contact Ruth MacLaren, Programme Leader, at ruth.maclaren@petroc.ac.uk for further advice.

Please click the following link to find out more about qualification requirements for this course

Minimum Qualification Requirements

Minimum Further Information are not listed for this Course.

English language requirements

Test Grade AdditionalDetails
English Language Entry Requirement Information are not listed for this Course.

Unistats information

Student satisfaction : 93%

Employment after 15 months (Most common jobs): 0%

Go onto work and study: 0%

Fees and funding

Additional Fee Information

Fees to be confirmed

Provider information

Old Sticklepath Hill
Address2 are not listed for this Course.
Address3 are not listed for this Course.
Barnstaple
EX31 2BQ

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