Programme Specifications

Biosciences

September 2023

• Provide knowledge and enable critical understanding of key academic disciplines which comprise genetics.

• Develop a detailed knowledge and systematic understanding of genetic themes, especially the mechanisms underpinning inheritance, the control of gene expression, and the dynamics of populations and species relationships.

Subject specific skills

• To integrate theory, experiment and investigation into the study of model genetic organisms.

• To develop a detailed and comprehensive understanding of genetic research, its current practice, applicable techniques, and future potential.

• Enable students to assimilate and evaluate the role of genetics in the context of human society.

• Equip students to engage fully in informed debate concerning the impact of genetics upon human society.

Generic and graduate skills

• To develop a critical and analytical approach in all aspects of study and problem solving, including the ability to deal with complex issues both systematically and creatively, and communicate to specialist and non-specialist audiences.

• Provide opportunities for specialisation in selected theoretical and applied topics.

• Enhance student employability through the development of knowledge, subject-specific skills, transferable skills, and opportunities for work experience.

Overall aim of the scheme

The course aims to provide students with an holistic, in-depth knowledge of theoretical and applied aspects of genetics, from the laws of inheritance laid down by Mendel, through to evolutionary theory and the post-genomic analyses of organisms across the phylogenetic spectrum.

By the end of their programme, all students are expected to be able to demonstrate:

• A1 A secure base of knowledge and understanding in biological subjects which underpin genetics, such as genetics, biochemistry, physiology, cell biology and molecular biology.

• A2 An advanced level of knowledge and understanding in specialised topics of particular relevance to genetics.

• A3 How to collect, analyse and interpret functional genomic data.

• A4 An understanding of how genetics translates into practical applications in the context of modern society.

• A5 An awareness of moral, ethical and social issues arising from the practical applications of genetics.
  
  

Learning and Teaching

Lectures; tutorials; student-led seminars; problem-based learning scenarios and case studies; field excursions and laboratory practicals; literature-based research; computer-assisted learning; research leading to a dissertation.

Assessment Strategies and Methods

Written examinations and coursework to include: report writing, essay writing, oral and poster presentations; the submission of a dissertation; assessment based on case studies.

10.2.1 Intellectual Skills

By the end of their programme, all students are expected to be able to demonstrate:

• B1 The skills needed for academic study and enquiry.

• B2 How to design and effectively execute an experiment, investigation or survey in order to solve a problem or to test an hypothesis or proposition.

• B3 How to critically evaluate information from a variety of sources, including current research and advanced scholarship, in order to advance understanding of theory and practice.
  
  

Learning and Teaching

Lectures; tutorials; student-led seminars; problem-based learning scenarios and case studies; field excursions and laboratory practicals; literature-based research; computer-assisted learning; research leading to a dissertation.

Assessment Strategies and Methods

Written examinations and coursework to include: report writing, essay writing, oral and poster presentations; the submission of a dissertation; assessment based on real life problems.

10.2.2 Professional practical skills (where applicable)

By the end of their programme, all students are expected to be able to demonstrate:

• C1 How to plan, design and execute a scientific investigation.

• C2 Competence in a range of laboratory skills and methods.

• C3 How to collect, record and critically analyse scientific information in a responsible, ethical and safe manner, paying due attention to risk assessment, animal welfare, relevant health and safety regulations, legislation concerning experimental animal use, legal requirements and sensitivity to the impact of investigations on the environment and personnel.

• C4 Ability to manage time and to work independently and as a member of a team.

• C5 Clear communication using appropriate tools to a range of audiences, including academics, practitioners, special interest groups and the wider public.
  
  

Learning and Teaching

Practical skills are acquired and promoted through practical laboratory classes, field visits, class activities, case studies and experimental research for the dissertation.

Assessment Strategies and Methods

Coursework to include: the submission of scientific reports, oral presentations and essays. Students are expected to demonstrate advanced critical, interpretative and analytical skills in both their coursework and written examinations. The dissertation should demonstrate student competence in practical and academic skills.

By the end of their programme, all students are expected to be able to demonstrate:

• D1 Research skills and problem solving.

• D2 Effective use of statistical methods and information technology.

• D3 Team work.

• D4 Effective communication.

• D5 Improvement in learning and performance, personal development and career planning.
  
  

Learning and Teaching

Transferable/key skills are incorporated within modules and related to relevant assessments as appropriate. Students learn and develop skills through student and tutor-led seminars; problem-based learning scenarios; self-directed learning, oral presentations and experimental dissertation work. Students are also given the opportunity to produce a CV and will gain feedback. Students will be encouraged to undertake work experience, including access to the Year in Employment Scheme. Students will also have access to an optional study exchange programme which will also develop transferable skills of communication, personal development and career planning.

Assessment Strategies and Methods

The skills listed above are assessed using exercise-based and essay assignments, project work, practical laboratory reports, the dissertation project, seminar presentations, unseen examinations essays and unseen short answer examinations.