BSc Biosciences Degree

Overview & facilities

BSc Biosciences Degree with Honours in London provides a window into the processes of life. Fascinating and profoundly elegant yet terrifyingly fragile, such processes define our existence.

This course embraces all aspects of living organisms, ranging in scale from molecules to cells and organisms to entire populations and ecosystems. Our BSc Biosciences Degree aims to produce a graduate who recognises the fundamental importance of research and has developed an enquiring, analytical mind.

You will develop skills in hypothesis formation, data collection, evaluation and dissemination. Field work is an important part of the course and there will be day and short residential trips.

Field work is used primarily for data collection and analysis but also to develop team skills and obtain additional specialist knowledge from expert personnel in their fields.

Middlesex recently opened its state-of-the-art bioanalytical laboratories for teaching and research. With investment totalling £3 million the facilities match, and in some cases surpass, those offered at UK medical schools.

The labs provide the next generation of scientific instrumentation for molecular analysis, post the genomic era - in line with the new focus in scientific research on protein-hunting rather than gene-hunting.

As well as being used by undergraduate and postgraduate students, they will be used by academic and research staff who continue to pioneer research particularly into developing affordable treatment for AIDS-related cancer patients in third world countries.
Some of the main features of the new laboratories are:

• Mass spectrometry and electron microscope suite - housing all new Shimadzu Krytos AXIMA CFR MALDI-TOF MS; LC-MS 2010A and GC-MS QP5050A instruments and a scanning electron microscope
• Biomedical Science teaching laboratory – A fifty-student capacity facility for hands-on laboratory skills teaching
• Molecular biology research laboratory housing real-time PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction -multiplication of a small part of a gene), and gene sequencing, as well as 2D gel electrophoresis and gel visualisation and analysis equipment
• Tissue culture research laboratory – three class II biological safety cabinets, video microscopy and full height roller bottle and standard CO2 incubators
• Histology research laboratory – housing cryostats, standard microtomes and Fluorescence microscopy imaging equipment
• General biochemistry research laboratory – housing immunoassay, Chromatography (separation techniques -separating mixtures and molecules), CZE, HPLC, FPLC, LC and general separation equipment.

Content & modules

Students on the Biosciences programme are provided with a comprehensive knowledge base, developed and extended throughout the programme. Introductory courses provide a framework of core knowledge in the basic bioscience disciplines. There is an emphasis on the development of laboratory skills throughout all modules but particularly in year 1 to enable acquisition of required abilities. Subsequent years build on this base to explore intracellular and organism interactions essential for life and develop knowledge of evolutionary principles.

This programme is based at our flagship Hendon campus.

Full-time students attend campus three days per week and part-time two days per week.

Modules

• Year 1

  Elements of Life (30 Credits) - Compulsory

  This module provides students with the skill and underpinning knowledge to pursue further studies in biological and biomedical sciences. Particular emphasis is place on chemistry for life sciences and genetics.

  Functional Anatomy and Pathology (30 Credits) - Compulsory

  This module aims to provide the students with a comprehensive understanding of the human anatomical and physiological systems together with an understanding of comparative anatomy of food animals. The module also develops an awareness of the pathological conditions affecting food animals; their causes and preventions. Develops an understanding of the legislative controls relating to unfit and unsafe meat and meat products.

  Laboratory Practice and Skills (30 Credits) - Compulsory

  This module aims to provide student s with an understanding of the biomedical/bioscience profession and employment opportunities. In addition, the module facilitates development of basic laboratory skills, safe laboratory practice, and appropriate administrative, communication and practical skills required for successful academic and professional progress, and to work in a clinical laboratory environment.

  Principles of Immunology and Microbiology (30 Credits) - Compulsory

  The module is designed to provide students with knowledge and understanding of the principles of cell biology, microbiology and immunology upon which can be built an understanding of the importance of micro organisms as pathogens, their diagnosis and control.

• Year 2

  Approaches to Experimental Research (30 Credits) - Compulsory

  The module aims to provide students with the skills necessary to plan, implement, analyse and report project-based work with focus on preparation for the final year project module. The module also develops core research skills fundamental to a scientific research design, irrespective of discipline. Specific research skills include analytical techniques appropriate to individual programme requirements.

  Global Biodiversity and Climate (30 Credits) - Compulsory

  This module introduces students to the concept of biodiversity, its origins, Phanerozoic history and current global threat status emphasising the current context of climatic change/fluctuation. Concepts of climate-biota interaction are introduced that in BIO3300 are extended in depth and breadth whilst previous interactive relationships between organisms and planetary systems are examined at a global level via a variety of data sources. Use of such evidence is examined as a means by which to examine current trends and their likely effects on Global Biodiversity. International conventions, national strategies and policies are examined to identify issues regarding biodiversity maintenance, and to investigate how these instruments can be practically applied to conserve, manage and use biodiversity sustainably for the foreseeable future. Mechanisms by which current global threats to biodiversity may be assessed and mitigated are examined with specific emphasis upon identifying issues associated with maintaining biodiversity in a rapidly changing world. Students are encouraged to investigate means by which these instruments can be practically applied to conserve, manage and use biodiversity sustainably. Case studies from More Developed Countries MDCs and Less Developed Countries LDCs will be used to illustrate practices.

  Microbiology (30 Credits) - Compulsory

  The module explores the relationship between micro-organisms, humans and the environment. Theoretical principles of growth, metabolism and survival are applied to disease transmission and control. Developing themes in microbiology are explored such as evolution of diseases, antibiotic resistance and biotechnology. Emphasis is placed on laboratory work to develop practical skills.

  Molecular and Metabolic Biochemistry (30 Credits) - Compulsory

  This module aims to build on previous modules and allow students to develop a more complete appreciation for the structure, function and regulation of key cellular molecules. With a running theme of enzyme function, students will be provided with an overview of molecular and metabolic pathways and a detailed compilation of the mechanisms by which they are regulated.

• Year 3

  Biology of Higher Organisms (30 Credits) - Compulsory

  This module aims to acquaint students with the organisation and complexity of multi-cellular animal and plant biota on Earth, their fundamental biological processes and interactions with each other and the environment. Students will gain a solid grounding regarding plant and animal diversity as well as specific, functional knowledge of how they reproduce, respond to stimuli and maintain the requirements of life. Emphasis is laid upon establishing links between each specific topic and between those in other modules so students may develop their own biological synthesis throughout the module. Students are encouraged to develop and present their own portfolio of special interest to complement broader themes inherent to the module. In addition, this module is designed to build upon topics contained within BIO3303 Global Biodiversity and Climate Change and complement BIO3300 Evolution.

  Biotechnology (30 Credits) - Compulsory

  This module explores the principles and applications of Biotechnology primarily in the fields of medical, industrial and environmental sciences. Use of micro-organisms in industrial processes, technological solutions for waste and to advances in gene technology is investigated. Principles and applications of genetic engineering form a core part of the module to extend and advance understanding of this field.

  Dissertation (30 Credits) - Compulsory

  This module aims to synthesise learning from the students undergraduate programme providing an opportunity for students to study independently and investigate a topic in depth. It fosters academic curiosity; an inquiry based approach, the employment and application of research skills thus facilitating the development of a higher level of theorising. Students will select a topic of personal interest, grounded in their placement experience that they wish to study in-depth and will manage their own learning during this module, with the support of an allocated supervisor for this period of independent study.

  Evolution (30 Credits) - Compulsory

  To provide students with knowledge of function and interaction of evolutionary processes upon Earth s biota. Effects of both natural and anthropogenic mechanisms/processes upon the evolution of extant and palaeobiota are examined within the context of specific case studies investigating events throughout the whole Phanerozoic. Astrobiology is introduced to engender appraisal of each topic at a planetary scale. Emphasis is placed upon critical appraisal of: - the role of extinction as a natural mechanism affecting taxa at a variety of temporal and spatial scales. - other mechanisms, from local to sidereal affecting evolution and maintenance of living systems. - interactions between palaeoclimate and palaeoecosystems and their relevance to current climatic/ecological trends. Factors affecting human evolution are covered in detail, together with current theories regarding subsequent effects of human evolution/increase/migration upon susceptible ecosystems

Download the course specification

Entry & applying

A levels 220-280 tariff points one of which should be Biology or Chemistry , plus GCSE A-C in Maths and English Language. Or BTEC National Diploma/Certificate /VCEs/International Bacc/Advanced Progression Diplomas/Access to Science course at Equivalent to the above. Applications from candidates without formal qualifications are welcomed, provided they can demonstrate appropriate levels of relevant ability and experience. Exemptions from parts of the programme are possible - students can seek accreditation of prior learning and experience from the University.

Entry requirements

Apply now

Qualifications accepted

For a comprehensive list of qualifications accepted by Middlesex, see further information under entry requirements

English language requirements

You must have competence in English language and we normally require Grade C GCSE or an equivalent qualification. The most common English Language requirements for international students are IELTS 6.0 (with minimum 5.5 in all four components) or TOEFL internet based 72 (with at least 17 in listening & writing, 20 in speaking and 18 in reading).

Middlesex also offers an Intensive Academic English course (Pre-Sessional) that ranges from 5-17 weeks depending on your level of English. Successful completion of this course would meet English language entry requirements. For more information on applying for the pre-sessional please email english@mdx.ac.uk.

Entry into year two or three (transfer students)

If you have achieved a qualification such as a foundation degree or HND, or have gained credit at another university, you may be able to enter a Middlesex course in year two or three. For full details of how this works see transfer students

UK/EU applicants with existing higher education qualifications

If you have already been awarded a qualification at the same level as the course you are applying for, you may not be eligible for a tuition fee loan, see fees and funding for more information.

Applying

Applications for UK and EU students should be made to UCAS – the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service. The institution code for Middlesex is M80, and the code name is MIDDX. You also need the code for the course you wish to apply for – this is found in the 'at a glance' box above.

International students from outside the EU can make a direct application.  We have a network of regional offices across the world to assist you with your application.  They have worked with people from your region coming to Middlesex before and can help. Read more on international applications

Fees & funding

The tuition fee for the 2012/2013 academic year for UK/EU students is £9,000.
The tuition fee for the 2012/2013 academic year for International students is £10,400.

Click here to find out more about fees, funding and our scholarships in 2012.

Careers & placements

Graduates can pursue careers in environmental management, laboratory work, ecosystem maintenance, agriculture and commerce. Many graduates enter the teaching profession following a PGCE and others go onto postgraduate study.

Our graduates find jobs in fascinating areas of science. Some enter careers where their subject knowledge is directly applied while others enter occupations that draw on the scientific skills and perceptions they have developed.

Biological science graduates can make a strong case for the possession of transferable skills, which are required in a range of managerial and professional careers and include:

• Technical expertise demonstrated in laboratory, statistics and computing work 
• Ability to research and critically analyse complex data
• Interpersonal skills developed in lectures and practicals
• Some graduates from this subject undertake further academic study often developing specific areas of interest within biological sciences.

Ecology pathway
Biological Sciences (Ecology) graduates enter a range of careers in environment, industry and commerce, as well as research and teaching. Conservation and wildlife organisations, water companies, local government, central government research agencies and environmental consultancies are some examples.

Some graduates enter careers where their subject knowledge can be directly applied while others enter occupations using the scientific skills and perceptions they have developed. Many graduates from this subject undertake further postgraduate study often developing specific areas of interest.
Alternatively, vocational courses will enable graduates to qualify for a range of diverse careers.
Examples found on Prospects website which include:

• Research scientist 
• Water conservation officer 
• Recycling officer 
• Nature conservation officer 
• Information scientist.