Leeds Beckett University - City Campus,
Woodhouse Lane,
LS1 3HE
Bachelor of Science with Honours Biomedical Sciences (and Pathways), Level 6, 2023/24 - Course Handbook
Welcome to the Course
This handbook provides you with information that you will need on your course. You should find it helpful when you first start, when you are preparing for assessment and at any time that you need help or advice in connection with your studies here. You will also receive a Module Handbook for each module you study on your course.
The course team is looking forward to working with you this year and we hope that your time studying with us at Leeds Beckett University is both enjoyable and successful.
On behalf of our University and the whole course team I would like to wish you well in your studies.
Dr Wayne Roberts, Course Director, Biomedical Sciences
Welcome to your course in the School of Health. I am delighted to be able to welcome our new and returning students and apprentices into the 2023/24 academic year.
The year ahead will contain success, challenge, and personal growth for you, and the School's team of dedicated academics, learning officers and administrators are here to help you to achieve your potential.
Our School has a broad range of disciplines, including Biomedical Sciences, Health Promotion, Nursing and Healthcare, Nutrition and Dietetics, Occupational Therapy, Physiotherapy, Psychological Therapies and Mental Health, Safety and Environmental Health, Social and Community Studies and Sports and Exercise Therapy teams. Our academic teams work collaboratively - drawing on each other's expertise to support learning, undertake professional practice and consultancy, and delivery internationally recognised, societally impactful research.
Throughout the year ahead please do take time to let us know what you are enjoying and what you find valuable - but also please let us know if there are things we could do differently to improve your experience through feedback to your Course Director, at the School Forum or through the module evaluation and surveys.
I wish you every success for this academic year!
Dr Duncan Sharp, Dean of School
Leeds Beckett Students' Union (LBSU) is led by students for students! Their mission is to make your uni life better! Your Student Officer Team is elected by you to lead the Students' Union into the academic year. They represent all Leeds Beckett students and campaign for the changes you want to see in the university and beyond. They do this by representing your interests, giving you the chance to socialise and meet new people, hosting CV-boosting opportunities, and providing advice and support when you need it most. Shape your own experience by submitting your thoughts through your Course Rep, or if you'd like to influence the Students' Union's policy stance on particular issues or share ideas for improving the student experience across the University, submit your ideas on the Have Your Say platform, which is designed to make change happen! Below you'll find information on a few of their services but if you've any questions, please feel free to get in touch.
Silas Ozoya, your Academic Experience Officer, also wanted to say a few words to introduce himself: "Hey There! I'm Silas, your Academic Experience Officer. It's my job to ensure your academic experience at Leeds Beckett is the best it can be! We're a friendly and open-minded bunch at LBSU, so don't hesitate to get in touch with us! I'm looking forward to meeting you very soon!"
Contact LBSU at:
Email: lbsu-welcome@leedsbeckett.ac.uk
Phone: 0113 812 8400
Website: www.leedsbeckettsu.co.uk
- Following the lifting of all pandemic restrictions and advice from the Department for Education, we currently anticipate that no social distancing measures will be in place on campus during the 2023/24 academic year, enabling a normal on-campus experience. Our aim is to ensure that our students experience Leeds Beckett University, our courses, campuses, facilities and services to the fullest extent possible, while maintaining an environment where students and staff feel safe.
- In all cases, the health and safety of students and staff is our priority and we will continue to follow guidance from the UK Health Security Agency, the Department for Education and all other recognised government agencies (such as the Office for Students) in full and keep matters under close review at all times. The advice and restrictions may change before and/or during the academic year, either nationally or in response to local conditions and rates of infection and include the need for social distancing measures and other restrictions. Our flexible delivery model allows us to revert to a blended and/or remote delivery model if this becomes necessary. In a worst case scenario it is possible our campuses may need to close.
- In the event that delivery is restricted as a consequence of pandemic restrictions, we will keep you informed of planned changes as they arise, to ensure you are provided with accurate information.
Key Contacts & Keeping in Touch
Students will be allocated their Academic Advisor when they join Biomedical Sciences
Jo Featherby - 0113 812 3495
Sarah Kelly - 0113 812 2820
Healthsciences@leedsbeckett.ac.uk
School Office, Portland 513
Details of the course representatives will be provided when appointed.
The Academic Librarians for this course can be contacted at: sohlibrary@leedsbeckett.ac.uk
Or complete their online form for help with academic and research skills: Get Help form
The contact details of other key services, such as Student Advice, Disability Advice, Student Wellbeing, the Library, Student Money, Careers, Students' Union Advice Service and Students' Union Student Voice Team can be found on the Students web page.
Academic and administrative staff at our University use your student email address to contact you. It is important that you check this account regularly. You can forward emails from your student email address to a preferred personal email address, however, quarantine and spam filters needed by our University mean that emails sent from external email addresses may be delayed, blocked or deleted. It is therefore important that your student email address is the only email address that you use to contact University staff. Information on how to access your student email address can be found on the Library Student IT Support page http://libguides.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/it_support/office365/outlook
Please make sure that you inform your Course Administration team whenever you change your address and contact details. It is important that you also update your records yourself. You can do this via the My Account/Update my Data tab on MyBeckett. This will ensure we can always contact you in an emergency, and that you receive any important University communications that we may need to send you.
We will inform you of class activities and course notifications, including any cancellations as soon as possible via the student portal or email to your student email address or via text to the mobile phone number we have for you on our contact records. It is your responsibility to ensure that we have your most up-to-date mobile phone number.
For each module, the Module Handbook will include the preferred method of communicating general information about that module to you.
MS Teams is part of the Office 365 suite used by staff and students for communication and collaboration:
- Access via MyBeckett on University devices as well as on personal mobiles via a free downloadable app.
- Participate in online meetings and video conferencing in groups or one-to-one.
- Work on shared content, ideas, projects and online learning.
- Utilise breakout rooms to create more dynamic sessions
Further information is available on the Library's MS Teams FAQ web page.
Timetable Information
The University’s standard term dates are available on our Academic Calendars web page.
Taught sessions, both mandatory and optional, will be scheduled and included in your online timetable. Depending on your course, this may also include scheduled online teaching and learning sessions where student engagement is required at a specified time or tutor pre-recorded lectures.
Normally, timetables will be made available to continuing students on 31st July and during induction week for new students via:
- The Student Portal (MyBeckett)
- The Leeds Beckett app
You should discuss any difficulties relating to your engagement with timetabled sessions with your Course Administrator.
Course Overview
- To provide a sound higher education in biomedical sciences as applied to human health and disease.
- To provide a progressive programme of study that enables students to achieve a scientific approach within all of the disciplines that inform an understanding of human health and disease.
- To provide a supportive learning environment that encourages students to adopt the scientific process in order to formulate questions concerning healthcare sciences and to put forward and test the applicability of innovative solutions.
- To enable students to become lifelong learners through reflective and evaluative skills, allowing them to adapt and respond to change.
- To enable students to communicate effectively.
- To enable students to develop a critical appreciation of existing knowledge bases and to enable them to add to that knowledge by formulating and implementing effective research strategies to foster a responsible and thoughtful approach and an awareness of the ethical issues related to their studies.
- To enable students to graduate with a degree acceptable for the education requirements for registration as a biomedical scientist.
- Describe the main principles, theories and concepts of the contributory disciplines of biomedical sciences, and be able to discuss the relative importance of the contribution of each of these disciplines to an understanding of current issues in the field of biomedical sciences on a global level, while demonstrating a specialist knowledge in the pathway area they have chosen to study.
- To appreciate the contribution of biomedical sciences to current advances in health sciences both in developed and developing countries.
- Demonstrate the ability to integrate the knowledge base from different disciplines to promote innovative solutions to problems and dilemmas.
- Demonstrate the ability to add to the knowledge base by the formulation of research questions and the development and implementation of appropriate research strategies.
- Demonstrate a range of employability skills such as communication, critical analysis, problem-solving, reflection, information retrieval skills, team work, plus confidently use digital technologies to enhance academic, personal and professional development.
- Demonstrate the ability to carry out a range of laboratory techniques and procedures in line with those of a diagnostic or research laboratory.
By the end of level 6 students will be able to:
- Discuss the relative importance of the disciplines studied to show an understanding of current issues at a global level.
- Demonstrate the ability to integrate the knowledge base from different disciplines to promote innovative solutions to problems.
- Critically evaluate research within the different disciplines, specialising in the subject specific areas from the pathway chosen.
- Demonstrate a broad range of laboratory based and analytical skills.
- Demonstrate the acquisition of employability skills including digital literacy.
- Demonstrate the interpretation of complex scientific information and the ability to present balanced and contextualised arguments.
Assessment & Feedback
Level 4 is assessed by examinations with some coursework and practical assessments.
Level 5 is assessed by coursework with some examinations and practical assessments.
Level 6 is assessed by coursework with some examinations and practical assessments.
Please note the exam/assessment periods in the academic calendar and make sure that you are available during those periods. Further details of your schedule of examinations can be found on your timetable once the examination schedule is released. Coursework submission deadlines can normally be found on MyBeckett or in individual Module Handbooks/other module guides.
Disabled students requiring adjustments to assessments/examinations should contact Disability Advice as soon as possible. We can only guarantee that adjustments can be put in place if students have contacted us by the following deadlines:
Semester 1 - 10th November 2023
Semester 2 - 8th March 2024
Contact us:
Email: disabilityadvice@leedsbeckett.ac.uk
Tel: 0113 812 5831
Website: https://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/student-information/disability-advice/
It is important for your progression and achievement that you submit all work for all assignments in a timely manner. It is also important that you keep copies of all work submitted until after you have graduated. You should also keep any receipts confirming the submission of assignments. In the event of your submitted work being lost you may be required to produce a copy of the work and submission receipt. If you are unable to do so, your work will not be marked.
It is important to note that submitting all assignments is a requirement of your course. Should you experience extenuating circumstances which prevent you from submitting on time please make yourself aware of the Mitigation and Extenuating Circumstances process. Without any form of extenuating circumstances, standard penalties apply for late submission of assessed work. Full details of the penalties for late submission of course work are available in section 3 of the Academic Regulations at https://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/our-university/public-information/academic-regulations/
If you have been recommended 'flexibility around deadlines' as a reasonable adjustment in a Reasonable Adjustment Plan, your Course Administrator will be able to advise you of the process.
You are required to submit written work via Turnitin and information on Turnitin is available here: https://libguides.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/it_support/mybeckett/turnitin
Assessed work will normally be returned with appropriate feedback within four weeks of your submission. Each Module Handbook will provide you with specific guidelines on how and when you will receive feedback on your assessments. Many modules use gradebook as a way of giving marks back to students, and selective release of feedback forms enables feedback to be returned to students rapidly. At other times feedback may be given back through tutorials or in meetings with your academic advisor.
Results from module assessments and decisions on progression to the next level of study (e.g., from level 4 to level 5 of an undergraduate degree) or awards (if you are in the final level) are available on the Results Online system: https://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/student-information/exams-assessments-and-awards/results-online/
Results will appear on Results Online within five working days after the date of the Progression and Award Board meeting (the meeting where your end of level outcome will be decided) or the Module Board meeting (the meeting where modular outcomes are decided).
If you are unsure about when you might receive your results or have queries relating to your results, you should contact your Course Administrator.
The University recognises that, from time to time, students may encounter issues which may prevent them from being able to submit or take assessment. Where this is the case, students may be able to submit their 'extenuating circumstances' for consideration. Please see the Mitigation and Extenuating Circumstances web page for further information.
If you have not passed a module at the first attempt you will be eligible for re-assessment. See your Module Handbook for details of the relevant re-assessment process (e.g., whether it is coursework, an examination, a presentation or other form of assessment/when it will take place/what the deadline is). You will be advised via Results Online of your options for re-assessment. You are advised to contact your module leader or Academic Advisor for any clarification.
Details about our Appeals process can be found on the appeals web page.
Academic integrity means intellectual honesty and is part of good academic practice. Further information can be found on our academic integrity web page.
Teaching & Learning
The programme aims to provide a progressive and cohesive route of applied learning, enabling students to understand the relationship between biology and medical science and to apply this knowledge.
We aim to develop student's ability to critically evaluate and participate in multi-disciplinary work and to develop to a high level the professional skills and competencies essential for graduates in this field. The course includes a large amount of laboratory based practicals and projects, which develop technical and scientific skills as well as problem solving, analytical and other transferable skills.
In addition to subject specific knowledge and skills, graduates will have developed strong communication and IT skills, allowing them to function effectively and efficiently within the varied and demanding places of work.
The programme of academic study will develop reflective learners able to take responsibility and be accountable for the process of their learning and its practical application. This will lay the foundation for career-long professional development and lifelong learning to support best professional practice and the maintenance of professional and personal standards and aspirations.
A variety of learning and teaching strategies are used enabling students from a diverse range of backgrounds to participate and achieve effectively. Methods of delivery differ, from formal lectures, to tutorials and workshops, laboratory practical's, on line activities both as part of a classroom activity or independently ensure that all students can adopt an approach which is right for them, with guidance from their academic advisor.
This information is correct for students progressing through the programme within standard timescales. Students who are required to undertake repeat study may be taught alternate modules that meet the overall course learning outcomes. For information about part-time delivery contact the course team.
BSc (Hons) Applied Biomedical Sciences: Students who are studying this route undertake modules for their specific pathway as below, in addition to undertaking the placement module.
BSc (Hons) Biomedical Sciences Level 4 modules Biochemistry (20 credits) Cell Biology (10 credits) Genetics (10 credits) Human Physiology (10 credits) Immunology and Haematology (10 credits) Microbial World (20 credits) Practical and Study Skills (20 credits) Principles of Pharmacology (20 credits) | |
BSc (Hons) Biomedical Sciences Level 5 modules Semester 1 Medical Pathophysiology (20 credits) Physiology and Metabolism (10 credits) Professional Scientific Practice (20 credits) Research Methods in BioSciences (20 credits) Semester 2 Human Genetics (10 credits) Immunological Disorders (10 credits) Infectious Diseases (20 credits) Transfusion Science (10 credits) Research Methods in BioSciences continues | BSc (Hons) Biomedical Sciences Level 6 modules Semester 1 Biology of Cancer (20 credits) Enterprise in Biomedical Sciences (10 credits) Medical Genetics (10 credits) Project (40 credits) Semester 2 Blood Diseases (10 credits) Clinical Biochemistry (20 credits) Clinical Immunology (10 credits) Project continues |
Medical Biochemistry Pathway Level 5 modules Semester 1 Biochemistry of Common Diseases (20 credits) Medical Pathophysiology (20 credits) Professional Scientific Practice (20 credits) Research Methods in BioSciences (20 credits) Semester 2 Immunological Disorders (10 credits) Transfusion Science (10 credits) Metabolic Biochemistry (20 credits) Research Methods in BioSciences continues | Medical Biochemistry Pathway Level 6 modules Semester 1 Enterprise in Biomedical Sciences (10 credits) Global Topics in Infectious Diseases (20 credits) Medical Genetics (10 credits) Project (40 credits) Semester 2 Blood Diseases (10 credits) Clinical Biochemistry (20 credits) Clinical Immunology (10 credits) Project continues |
Medical Microbiology Pathway Level 5 modules Semester 1 Medical and Environmental Microbiology (20 credits) Medical Pathophysiology (20 credits) Professional Scientific Practice (20 credits) Research Methods in BioSciences (20 credits) Semester 2 Immunological Disorders (10 credits) Infectious Diseases (20 credits) Transfusion Science (10 credits) Research Methods in BioSciences continues | Medical Microbiology Pathway Level 6 modules Semester 1 Enterprise in Biomedical Sciences (10 credits) Global Topics in Infectious Diseases (20 credits) Medical Genetics (10 credits) Project (40 credits) Semester 2 Blood Diseases (10 credits) Clinical Biochemistry (20 credits) Clinical Immunology (10 credits) Project continues |
Molecular Biotechnology Pathway Level 5 modules Semester 1 Biochemistry of Common Diseases (20 credits) Medical Pathophysiology (20 credits) Professional Scientific Practice (20 credits) Research Methods in BioSciences (20 credits) Semester 2 DNA Technology (20 credits) Immunological Disorders (10 credits) Transfusion Science (10 credits) Research Methods in BioSciences continues | Molecular Biotechnology Pathway Level 6 modules Semester 1 Enterprise in Biomedical Sciences (10 credits) Global Topics in Infectious Diseases (20 credits) Medical Genetics (10 credits) Project (40 credits) Semester 2 Blood Diseases (10 credits) Clinical Immunology (10 credits) Medical Biotechnology (20 credits) Project continues |
Pharmacological Sciences Pathway Level 5 modules Semester 1 Biochemistry of Common Diseases (20 credits) Medical Pathophysiology (20 credits) Professional Scientific Practice (20 credits) Research Methods in BioSciences (20 credits) Semester 2 Immunological Disorders (10 credits) Pharmacological Treatment of Disease (20 credits) Transfusion Science (10 credits) Research Methods in BioSciences continues | Pharmacological Sciences Pathway Level 6 modules Semester 1 Enterprise in Biomedical Sciences (10 credits) Global Topics in Infectious Diseases (20 credits) Medical Genetics (10 credits) Project (40 credits) Semester 2 Advances in Pharmacology (20 credits) Blood Diseases (10 credits) Clinical Immunology (10 credits) Project continues |
A standard 20 credit module equates to 200 notional learning hours, comprising teaching, learning and assessment and independent study.
Overall Workload in hours | Level 4 | Level 5 | Level 6 |
Teaching and Learning | 288 | 288 | 392 |
Independent Study and Assessment | 912 | 912 | 808 |
Total | 1200 | 1200 | 1200 |
Details of School academic staff can be found on the School of Health Website.
Attendance & Absence
The University expects you to attend and contribute fully to all mandatory sessions on your timetable as set out in your student contract. Engagement in your lectures, seminars and practicals is an important part of your learning - contributing both to the University community and the learning experience of your fellow students on the course. This includes engagement in scheduled virtual learning and activities and meetings in online environments related to your studies.
We monitor your engagement at the University as regular attendance and academic achievement are closely linked. Moreover, by monitoring your engagement and attendance we can identify students who may need our guidance or support at an early stage to help them progress in their studies. This is part of our commitment to ensuring an excellent education and experience and supporting your success at Leeds Beckett.
The University does understand that from time to time there is good reason why you cannot attend a class, and in this instance you must contact your School office to let them know. This may then be recorded as an 'authorised absence'.
Please note that any attendance reports can be shared with you and your Course team. You might be asked to contact your School office so that appropriate academic or pastoral support can be offered, should your attendance record give cause for concern.
Our most important aim is to support your studies, but we are also required to report attendance to various external bodies such as the Student Loan Company and the Home Office. There are measures in place for students who seek to falsely register either their own or fellow students' attendance.
Our Academic Engagement Policy is available under 'Student Contract' on the Student Regulations web page.
Please note that if your course carries professional accreditation or recognition, there may be additional course-specific attendance requirements detailed elsewhere in this handbook.
You must notify your Course Administrator if you are absent (for example for an interview, emergency unforeseen circumstances, or for compassionate leave). If you are going to apply for mitigation you will need to provide written evidence of the reason for your absence.
Please note that if your course carries professional accreditation or recognition, there may be additional course-specific absence reporting requirements detailed elsewhere in this handbook.
If you are unable to study due to Covid-19 (coronavirus) symptoms, please see the guidance available on our Covid-19 web page.
If you are unable to study because of another illness for more than 14 consecutive days (including weekends), you must provide us with a Fit Note.
You can send a digital copy of your Fit Note to your Course Administrator, and then send the original by post.
If you are absent through illness on the day of an examination or assignment deadline and you intend to apply for mitigation, you must also provide us with details as possible. Your submission for mitigation may be made online and the circumstances surrounding it may be self-certified unless your period of absence is prolonged. Generally, all absences of 2 weeks or more will require the submission of verifiable documentary evidence.
For more information on 'fit to sit' and mitigation please visit our Mitigation web page.
Please note that if your course carries professional accreditation or recognition, there may be additional course-specific absence reporting requirements detailed elsewhere in this handbook.
Any Leeds Beckett student who suspects they may have, or have been diagnosed as having a serious infectious disease such as coronavirus, Mumps, TB, measles, meningitis or chicken pox should not attend campus. For notifiable diseases, students should notify their Course Director or Course Administrator as soon as possible giving information regarding which groups of students (and/or colleagues and clients on placements) you have been in contact with and when. For some diseases, such as TB and meningitis, your doctor and our Student Wellbeing Team have a responsibility to notify the West Yorkshire Public Health Protection Team who may also wish to speak to you (or your family) to determine if others require screening or medication. You should follow advice given by the hospital or your GP about when it is safe to return to University. Further information is available on the Student Wellbeing web page.
For guidance on what to do if you have symptoms of Covid-19 (coronavirus), please visit our Covid-19 web page.
If you are thinking about changing course or withdrawing from your course, further information can be found on our Student web pages.
International Students
Please be aware that our University fully complies with United Kingdom Visas and Immigration (UKVI) policy at all times. There are legal reporting requirements for all students in the UK on a Student visa, and full attendance is mandatory for all students who have a Student visa. Failure to meet UKVI attendance and engagement requirements could lead to your academic sponsorship being withdrawn and your visa being revoked.Students who hold a Student visa need to be aware of their responsibilities whilst in the UK, please see www.ukcisa.org.uk or our Student Immigration Advice and Compliance web page for full information.
For up-to-date information about visas, immigration issues and other matters relating to international students, please visit the International Students' web pages on the Students website or email the Student Immigration Advice and Compliance Team on siac@leedsbeckett.ac.uk.
You should have been enrolled on the International Student's Academic Introduction module in MyBeckett when you began your studies - if you missed this you can self-enrol and explore the content which introduces you to making the academic transition to a UK university. Please refer to Library page supporting international students
Professional Accreditation or Recognition Associated with the Course
Institute of Biomedical Science: https://www.ibms.org/accredited-degrees/
Royal Society of Biology: https://www.rsb.org.uk/
Institute of Biomedical Science
IBMS BSc accreditation ensures that a degree course covers the specified subjects at the required level to meet the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) Standards of Proficiency for biomedical scientists and that students receive a wide-ranging, research informed scientific education and develop practical skills and experience that employers value.
Royal Society of Biology
Accreditation by the Royal Society of Biology recognises and supports the advancement of skills and education in the biosciences, throughout the UK and internationally. Graduates from accredited degree programmes are equipped with well-rounded knowledge and skill sets, making them highly employable both within and beyond their chosen field.
'In Year' Work Placement Information
BSc (Hons) Applied Biomedical Sciences
Students who are successful in their application to the applied biomedical sciences route will undertake a ten month placement within an NHS lab after completing level 5. You will gain valuable work experience and training during your placement which will enable you to complete an IBMS registration portfolio while you study. When completed and verified, your portfolio will enable you to apply for entry onto the HCPC register as a Biomedical Scientist after graduating. You will be able to do this without the need for further training. Please note, placements may be limited so are subject to availability.
Skills, Employability & Graduate Opportunities
You will be able to develop an understanding of current issues in the field of biomedical sciences on a global level. You will develop research skills such as the ability to formulate research questions and conduct research investigations in biomedical science. You will demonstrate a range of employability skills such as critical analysis, problem-solving, reflection, and information retrieval skills and confidently use digital technologies to enhance academic, personal, and professional development. You will demonstrate the ability to carry out a range of laboratory techniques and procedures in line with those of a diagnostic or research laboratory.
You will have opportunities to gain recognition during your time at Leeds Beckett University for the extra activities you do in addition to your studies, including volunteering, student societies, playing in our University sports teams and being a Course Representative.
By joining a society with Leeds Beckett Students' Union, you can make new friends, have fun, try something new and enhance your CV - societies provide a great opportunity to learn new skills and improve your existing ones. It can be difficult to get to know new people at university but don't worry, everyone is in the same boat! Our Leeds Beckett Students' Union believe that joining a student-led society is the best way to meet new people and make lifelong friends. There are so many societies out there - from course-based to hobby-based to religious to political and campaigning. Whether you're just starting out at Leeds Beckett or working on your last year of study, it is never too late to find the right society for you - or start one yourself!
Course-based societies are a great way to meet people on your course, expand your networks and celebrate your achievements together such as end of year Society Balls. If you have a great idea for a society, we can help you get it up and running. There are resources and support available for all societies - including funding to help make your society goals a reality. For more information on starting your own society, visit: leedsbeckettsu.co.uk/societies/create.
Graduate attributes: https://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/student-information/academic-skills-and-advice/graduate-attributes/
There are three Graduate Attributes for Leeds Beckett University and these are tailored to suit your course. The three attributes you should achieve by the end of the course are for you to be digitally literate, have a global outlook and for you to be enterprising. Learning about these attributes and being assessed on these as part of your modules will provide you with capabilities for your future career and wider life as you move on from your studies here. Where appropriate these attributes have been embedded into modules and across levels of the course and are identified in individual module handbooks.
The course develops these attributes through each level of the course. Digital literacy is developed from the start of the programme, all modules have material on the VLE, requiring students to access course material. At level 4 the students are introduced to the VLE and the module Practical and Study Skills covers skills such as data gathering and information retrieval using digital tools. This module also introduces the students to group work, and problem solving. At level 5 Research Methods further develops digital literacy as the students study statistical data, this culminates in students completing a project at level 6 that is underpinned by data presentation and analysis. Enterprise skills are introduced at level 4 as students develop team working and problem-solving skills, these are further developed by the production of an original research protocol in Research Methods. At level 6, the module Enterprise further develops and assesses enterprise and employability skills. The modules Medical and Environmental Microbiology, Global Topics in Infectious Diseases and Research Methods all cover health and disease at a global level, while many modules such as Clinical Biochemistry looks at the differences in the incidence of diseases associated with lifestyle. Throughout the course students are made aware of how scientific discoveries have been made and the global nature and impact of the biosciences.
You are encouraged to become a reflective learner through the module Practical and Study Skills, which covers the skills required to become a graduate, and also forms the basis for continuing professional development and lifelong learning. This employability theme continues through levels 5 and 6, with the modules Professional Scientific Practice, Enterprise and the Research Project.
All of our pathways are accredited by the Royal Society of Biology (RSB) and the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS) and are intended to allow students to meet the requirements of IBMS for membership and meet the academic requirements for HCPC approval. This programme will enable students to apply to register as a Biomedical Scientist after completing the IBMS certificate of competence portfolio in a suitable IBMS approved lab. Many of our student progress to further study (MSc or PhD) or work in the pharmaceutical industry.
Learning Support
If you have a question or a problem relating to your course, your Course Administrator is there to help you. Course Administrators work closely with academic staff and can make referrals to teaching staff or to specialist professional services as appropriate. They can give you a confirmation of attendance letter, and a transcript. You may also like to contact your Course Rep or the Students' Union Advice team for additional support with course-related questions.
Your Academic Advisor will be an academic member of staff who teaches you on your course. Your Course Director will make sure that you are given the contact details of your Academic Advisor at the beginning of each year, usually in your course induction. Further details on the role of your Academic Advisor are available on the Academic Advisor web page.
If you need support, but you're not sure where to go, your Student Advice Team are here to help. The team are an essential part of your Student Support Network and are dedicated to ensuring you can access the advice and support you need, when you need it most.
Student Advice can also help in the practical elements of university. The team will produce your first campus card and assist you in replacing your campus card if needed throughout your time at Leeds Beckett. They can provide Confirmation of Enrolment and Bank Letters for our current students and full or partial transcripts for our graduates and fully enrolled students.
If you need help with more complex queries or concerns, our trained Student Life Advisers offer 1-1 appointments, providing a safe, confidential, and non-judgemental space to talk about your circumstances and identify support that you can access both within and outside of the university.
To contact the team, or to arrange an appointment, visit The Student Advice webpage for full details.
The Student Voice & Insight team at LBSU works alongside the elected Academic Experience Officer to effectively represent students' academic interests.
We provide support, training and ongoing development to over 1,000 Course Representatives, Postgraduate Research Reps, Student Community Leaders and Global Majority Student Ambassadors who represent you whilst you study at Leeds Beckett; and facilitate the collection of student feedback on your academic experience.
Unsure who your Course Rep is? Maybe you're interested in becoming a Course Rep or have feedback about your academic experience? Get in touch at:
- Email: studentvoice@leedsbeckett.ac.uk
- Telephone: 0113 812 8400
- Website: leedsbeckettsu.co.uk/your-voice
You can find information and resources online through the Support and Opportunities tabs in MyBeckett. In the Support tab, you can find details of a range of services that provide academic and personal support. These include Student Advice, Library Services, the Students' Union, Student Money, Disability Advice, Student Wellbeing, Student Immigration Advice and Compliance and Accommodation. There is also an A-Z of Support Services, and access to online appointments/registration.
In the Opportunities tab, you can explore the options you have for jobs, work placements, volunteering, and a wide range of other opportunities. For example, you can find out here how to get help with your CV, prepare for an interview, get a part-time job or a voluntary role, take part in an international project, or join societies closer to home.
If you have a disability, long-term physical or mental health condition, or a specific learning difference, we believe this should never be a barrier to studying at our University.
Please get in touch with us as soon as possible so we can ensure everything is in place before your course starts.
What should I do next?
- We will ask you to provide evidence of your disability, usually from a health professional or educational psychologist. Don't worry if you haven't got any, we can support you with this.
- Usually, we will arrange an appointment with your Disability Adviser to discuss any adjustments you might need and support you in applying for Disabled Students' Allowances (DSA).
- We will work with you to ensure any adjustments you need are available so you can fully participate on your course.
Please watch this short video about how the Disability Advice Team can work with you.
Disabled students can also access the Disability Resource Areas in each library and the support provided by the Library Learning Support Officer. More information is available on the Library website.
What is Disabled Students' Allowance (DSA)?
DSA is government funding to help with the cost of any additional support you might need while studying, such as: one-to-one support, specialist equipment (including useful software) and travel. For more information visit our website.
Contact Us:
Email: disabilityadvice@leedsbeckett.ac.uk
Tel: 0113 812 5831
Website: https://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/student-information/disability-advice/
The Library
The Library offers 24/7 support for your studies. You can access thousands of resources via MyBeckett or the Library website which also provides full details of all our services.
Library Academic Support
The Library Academic Support Team can help you develop your academic skills such as critical thinking, academic writing and analysing data, and research skills such as how to find, use and evaluate information for your studies. The team liaises with your lecturers to provide the information resources you need for your subject and to arrange academic skills sessions to support you in your studies.
The team maintains a number of websites and modules to support your learning:
- In your Subject guide, you'll find a variety of information resources which have been selected as a good starting point for research in that area. These are available on the Skills and Subject Support web page or via My Beckett.
- On the Skills for Learning website, you'll find online resources covering topics such as essay writing, research and time management, English Language and academic English plus information to help you reference and avoid plagiarism, alongside details of workshops that are designed to help you succeed in your assessments. The Skills for Learning website can be found on the Library website or via My Beckett.
- LBU Study Smart is a module in MyBeckett which introduces you to the key skills and services you'll need to study successfully at Leeds Beckett. There are also additional modules you can take as you move through your course to help you transition between study levels. The Academic Integrity Tutorial is a module in MyBeckett which introduces you to academic integrity at LBU and will help you develop the skills you need to attain good academic practice, including avoiding plagiarism and academic referencing.
- The Academic Integrity Tutorial is a module in MyBeckett which introduces you to academic integrity at LBU and will help you develop the skills you need to attain good academic practice, including avoiding plagiarism and academic referencing.
Library and Student IT Advice Service
The Library and Student IT Advice Service team can answer your queries on borrowing, finding information, passwords, multi-factor authentication (MFA) ,Office 365, online meetings, saving your work, MyBeckett and more:
- online (including 24/7 chat) via the Contact Us web page
- by phone - 0113 812 1000 (24/7 IT support)
- face-to-face in either of our Libraries, check Library opening times for details of when staff are available
They also have a wide range of short tutorials available on the Library's YouTube channel.
Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi on the University campus is provided by eduroam, a secure wireless network, which also allows you Wi-Fi access if you visit other universities. To connect:
- Select eduroam from available Wi-Fi
- Your login details are:
Username followed by @leedsbeckett: e.g. c1234567@leedsbeckett.ac.uk
Password: your normal university password
*Android Users: Select under Phase 2 Authentication - MS-CHAPv2
Help is available on the Library's Wi-Fi web page.
Microsoft Office 365
You are provided with free access to Office 365 and the latest version of Office can be downloaded from the IT tab in MyBeckett or from office.com. All students who are registered for a qualification at Leeds Beckett University are eligible and you can use the subscription for the duration of your course. For instructions and more information, please see the Office 365 support page.
OneDrive
OneDrive Leeds Beckett is your individual file storage with 1TB of storage space. With OneDrive you can access and share your files across your devices. This is accessible on University PCs and off-campus through Office 365 portal. See the Saving your Work pages on the Library website for more information.
Leeds Beckett RemoteApp
The Leeds Beckett RemoteApp gives you access to a range of specialist software for your course on your personal devices. See the RemoteApp page on the Library website for more information.
Media Equipment - free loans
You can borrow high-end Media Equipment for free. Browse, reserve and collect equipment ranging from GoPros to Remote Presenters from the ground floor of the Shelia Silver and Headingley Libraries. Further information is available on the Media Equipment web page.
University life can have its ups and downs, and occasionally you may find yourself in need of advice. That's where we come in. Here at the SU we have a free advice service that is here just for you, the students at Leeds Beckett University.
The Advice Service at LBSU is a confidential, non-judgmental service run by professional advisers.
The service is independent from the University, so if you are having any problems with your course you can talk confidentially with us - although we do work with the University to find the best solutions, we would only contact them with your permission. We can advise on a range of topics including all aspects of the University Regulations and Procedures, housing issues and finance issues. We can guide you through any processes or procedures.
We're here to help you with any questions or problems you might have while you are studying at Leeds Beckett.
Get more information at www.leedsbeckettsu.co.uk/advice.
Resources
MyBeckett, the portal and virtual learning environment provides:
- access to your modules and timetables;
- your reading lists and email account;
- your personal storage area on our University IT servers;
- information on where to look for academic or personal support (Support tab);
- information on opportunities such as jobs, careers, part-time work, placements and volunteering (Opportunities tab)
- access to Library and student IT advice
Further information and support for using MyBeckett can be found on the MyBeckett Support Pages.
https://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/school-of-health/facilities/
- Fluorescent microscopes
- Genome sequencers
- Metabolism analysers, with specialist data and AV technology
- Full Cat 2 microbiology facilities
- Cell culture suites
Our modern, purpose-built, biomedical sciences laboratories feature a range of the latest scientific testing equipment, including:
Student Voice
We are committed to working in partnership with you and the Students' Union to provide you with an inclusive, safe and engaging learning environment which is conducive to study for all our students and our staff. An important element of your time studying with us is your engagement in developing your learning. Your engagement and attendance on your course enables you to further your learning and supports your achievement, course completion and aspirations for the future. There is an expectation that students will attend, engage in their learning and submit on time for assessment. We provide support for you to maximise your time studying with us and to develop your learning, skills and abilities to support you in your chosen career path.
We seek active participation by all our students in the continuous enhancement of our courses and through our monitoring, annual review and enhancement processes. These are formal processes used by our University for assuring the academic standards and quality of your course and its continuous improvement. These processes utilise your feedback, External Examiners' reports, feedback from staff and others, data relating to student outcomes on the course and student surveys to reflect on areas of good practice and areas for further enhancement. We invite all students to participate in a range of opportunities to provide us with feedback on your course and modules. This may include discussions with staff, focus groups, and meetings (e.g. with Course Representatives or with staff) and formalised student surveys e.g. mid module reviews, end of module evaluations and specific course or other surveys such as the Student Barometer, National Student Survey and Graduate Outcomes Survey. We utilise the outcomes of these surveys to benchmark our courses nationally and to inform annual course enhancements.
Informal feedback is also welcome at any time either via your Academic Advisor or module tutor or via your Course Representative. Our partnership with you enables us together to make the most of your learning experience with us and to enhance the quality and reputation of your course. You can find out what actions have been taken in response to your feedback through your Course Representative, the Students' Union, your tutors or through the Library.
Course Representatives (Reps) at undergraduate and postgraduate taught levels are student volunteers who represent you in formal and informal meetings with the University, and follow up on actions that have occurred because of student feedback. You can become a Course Rep, volunteering to represent the views of your peers in order to improve students' academic experience.
In the first few weeks of your time at Leeds Beckett, your Course Director will facilitate an opportunity to appoint Course Reps on your course.
LBSU provides support, training and ongoing development for Course Reps and supports their engagement in enhancement activities throughout the academic year.
Being a Course Rep provides you with an opportunity to enhance your own learning and the development of relevant professional and employability skills alongside your studies. As a Course Rep you would play an important role in:
- Acting as a point of contact and advocate for students on your course and in supporting their active engagement.
- Gathering feedback from students on your course to inform enhancements to the quality of your course and the student experience.
- Facilitating good communication between students and staff on the course.
- Working with the Course Director, members of the course team and the Students' Union to enhance your course.
- Facilitating and engaging in meetings about your course; and
- Being an ambassador for your course.
Further information about being a Course Representative is available at:
We invite all students to participate in a range of opportunities to provide us with feedback on your course and modules. This may include discussions with staff, focus groups, and meetings (e.g. with Course Representatives or with staff) and formalised student surveys e.g. mid module reviews, end of module evaluations and specific course or other surveys such as the Student Barometer, National Student Survey and the Graduate Outcomes Survey.
We are committed to providing a high quality experience for all our students. We welcome comments and compliments from students, and find them valuable for on-going improvements to our provision. Comments and compliments about your course can be raised with your Course Representative or directly with your Course Director or Academic Advisor.
If you have a specific complaint about an act or omission of our University, you may be able to make a complaint under the Student Complaints Procedure. In the first instance, you should raise the matter as soon as possible with the member of staff most directly concerned, or with the person who can best resolve it. If this does not resolve the matter, or if the complaint is too serious to be addressed in this way, then you should make a formal complaint in writing. Information about how to make a complaint, including the student complaints procedure and a complaints form, is available on the Students web pages.
General Information
Certificate of Higher Education Medical Sciences
Diploma of Higher Education Medical Sciences (if meets the requirements of a pathway, this pathway title will be included here)
Bachelor of Science Medical Sciences (if meets the requirements of a pathway, this pathway title will be included here)
The contained awards are not accredited by IBMS or RSB.
Leeds Beckett University
Level 6 of the Framework for Higher Education Qualifications, with 120 credit points at each of Levels 4, 5 and 6 of the UK Credit Framework for Higher Education (360 credits in total)
Part-time delivery is usually at half the intensity of the full-time equivalent course. Some modules may be delivered in a different sequence from that provided in this handbook, but the modules offered within each level are consistent.
Course fees and additional course costs are confirmed in your offer letter. Course fees are presented to you annually through the online enrolment process. Please visit our Course and Tuition Fees Payment web pages for further information. Ongoing queries relating to additional course costs may be discussed with your Course Administrator.
Alternatively, you can contact any of the following teams:
For Student Finance related fee queries: studentfunding@leedsbeckett.ac.uk
Other fee related queries: fees@leedsbeckett.ac.uk
Payments: incomes@leedsbeckett.ac.uk
Policies, Standards & Regulations
Key University regulations and policies can be accessed on the following web pages:
- Academic Regulations (including assessment regulations) are available on our Academic Regulations web page
- The Student Contract is available on our Student Regulations web page
- The Student Charter is available on our Academic Regulations web page (Section 20)
Other Student regulations and University policies, including Safety, Health and Wellbeing policies, are available on our Student Regulations web page
You should also familiarise yourself with Support Report Respect where students and colleagues who are victims of any form of bullying, harassment or sexual misconduct, can access support, advice and guidance.
For advice on University regulations and policies, students should contact the Students' Union Advice Service.
Award titles
BSc (Hons) Biomedical Sciences
BSc (Hons) Biomedical Sciences (Medical Biochemistry Pathway)
BSc (Hons) Biomedical Sciences (Medical Microbiology Pathway)
BSc (Hons) Biomedical Sciences (Molecular Biotechnology Pathway)
BSc (Hons) Biomedical Sciences (Pharmacological Sciences Pathway)
BSc (Hons) Applied Biomedical Sciences
Students enrol in year one on BSc (Hons) Biomedical Sciences. At the end of year one, students can choose to continue the multidisciplinary studies on BSc (Hons) Biomedical Sciences or alternatively can choose to specialise in a specific pathway as named above. For the BSc (Hons) Applied Biomedical Sciences award, students must successfully complete a 45 week placement in an NHS pathology laboratory after year two (see below for more details).
Must pass assessments and modules for progression and award
IBMS requirements state that students must achieve a pass mark in all assessment components for modules that cover the clinical laboratory sciences subject areas. The condonement or compensation of failed assessments will not be permitted for these modules. Components of assessment and modules must be passed at the 40% pass mark for the following modules:
Level 5 Biochemistry of Common Diseases
Level 5 Immunological Disorders
Level 5 Infectious Diseases
Level 5 Medical Pathophysiology
Level 5 Transfusion Science
Level 6 Blood Diseases core
Level 6 Clinical Biochemistry
Level 6 Global Topics in Infectious Diseases
Level 6 Medical Genetics
Requirements for the Applied route
For the BSc (Hons) Applied Biomedical Sciences award, the following requirements also apply to the Placement module:
-100% attendance
-Pass/fail Placement module with zero credits - must be passed
-45-week placement, starting in September outside of the standard University calendar
- Certificate HE Medical Sciences
- Diploma HE Medical Sciences: The specific award title will depend on the modules passed at level 5. If 50% of the credits of the specific pathway are in a specific discipline then the student will be eligible for an award with a pathway title. If not, the award will be Diploma HE Medical Sciences.
- BSc Medical Sciences: The specific award title will depend on the modules passed at level 5 and level 6. If 50% of the credits of the specific pathway are in a specific discipline then the student will be eligible for an award with a pathway title. If not, the award will be BSc Medical Sciences.
Applied route: There are no contained awards for BSc (Hons) Applied Biomedical Sciences, as students who fail the placement revert to their pathway.
The contained awards are not accredited by IBMS or RSB.
Fitness for Practise
The BSc (Hons) Applied Biomedical Sciences course is authorised to use the University Fitness to Practise Policy. https://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/-/media/files/policies/student/ups_fitness_to_practise_policy_procedure.pdf
The External Examiner assures that you are assessed fairly in relation to other students on the same course and also that the standard of your own award is comparable to similar courses taken by students in other higher education institutions within the UK. The External Examiner(s) provide an annual report for your course. External Examiner reports are available on our External Examiner Reports web page, which is accessible via the Course Information link on the Students home page.
Dr Mark Carlile, University of Sunderland
Dr Michelle Cordingley, University of Chester
Dr Araida Hidalgo-Bastida, Manchester Metropolitan University
Dr Walid Omara, Sheffield Hallam University
Appendices
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