BSc Marine Biology
Academic Year 2018/19
A programme specification is required for any programme on which a student may be registered. All programmes of the University are subject to the University's Quality Assurance processes. All degrees are awarded by Queen's University Belfast.
Programme Title |
BSc Marine Biology |
Final Award |
Bachelor of Science |
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Programme Code |
MRN-BSC-S |
UCAS Code |
C160 |
HECoS Code |
100351 |
ATAS Clearance Required |
No |
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Mode of Study |
Full Time |
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Type of Programme |
Single Honours |
Length of Programme |
3 Academic Year(s) |
Total Credits for Programme |
360 |
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Exit Awards available |
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INSTITUTE INFORMATION
Teaching Institution |
Queen's University Belfast |
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School/Department |
Biological Sciences |
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Framework for Higher Education Qualification Level |
Level 6 |
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QAA Benchmark Group |
Biosciences (2007) |
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Accreditations (PSRB) |
REGULATION INFORMATION
Does the Programme have any approved exemptions from the University General Regulations None |
Programme Specific Regulations N/A |
Students with protected characteristics The programme does not contain barriers to access or progression among protected groups. |
Are students subject to Fitness to Practise Regulations (Please see General Regulations) No |
EDUCATIONAL AIMS OF PROGRAMME
On completion of the programme the student will be able to:
1. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of concepts and theories to Marine Biology.
2. Demonstrate a range of practical laboratory skills with respect to the investigation and manipulation of biological material and physical, chemical and biological measurements relevant to the biological sciences, and the application of these skills in a Marine Biology research project setting.
3. Demonstrate proficiency in the collation, quantitative analysis and interpretation of experimental data, and the ability to problem-solve.
4. Demonstrate an ability to communicate and apply knowledge of Marine Biology.
5. Demonstrate proficiency in the use of computers for data management and presentation.
6. Demonstrate intellectual, personal and team skills necessary for the world of employment and further study.
LEARNING OUTCOMES
Learning Outcomes: Cognitive SkillsOn the completion of this course successful students will be able to: |
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Demonstrate ability in quantitative analysis and interpretation of experimental data |
Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies Throughout the course progress is assessed through logical/numerical problems on which feedback is given. The relevant primary experimental data and derived results are reported and subject to critical assessment. Statistical analysis is taught via tutorial and ‘laboratory’ based practicals in levels 2 and 3. Methods of Assessment Continuous assessment in level 2 and 3 modules, where experimental, involves aspects of data analysis. |
Demonstrate the ability to problem solve |
Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies Elements of problem solving are covered primarily during field courses where students are required to develop their own experimental protocols in line with temporal and spatial constraints on sampling. Methods of Assessment Experimental designs are presented orally during field courses, and assessed formally during written continuous assessment. |
Show critical reasoning |
Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies Modules include elements of ‘peer teaching’ whereby students present a mini-lecture to the class on a given topic. Level 3 modules require students to undertake ‘oral critiques’ of contemporary studies. Methods of Assessment Group oral presentation (peer-teaching); individual and group oral presentation of scientific papers (critique) in level 3. |
Demonstrate the ability to reliably record and process experimental data |
Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies A strong emphasis on sampling rigour and experimental design is taught during field courses and during lab-based practicals at all three levels. These skills are refined at Level 3 during Honour’s project. Methods of Assessment Assessment during field courses and lab-based practicals via experimental write-ups. Data collected during honour’s project assessed by supervisor (including assessment of effort and diligence) and 2nd marker. |
Demonstrate proficiency in the use of computers for data management and presentation |
Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies Level 2 and 3 modules place a strong emphasis on computer literacy. This ranges from taught analytical practicals through to independent computer based learning and assessment. Literature review completed as part of Honour’s module. Methods of Assessment Oral presentations using PowerPoint at level 2 and 3. Data-base themed practicals at level 3. Literature review at level 3. |
Learning Outcomes: Knowledge & UnderstandingOn the completion of this course successful students will be able to: |
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Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the: |
Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies Knowledge-based subject-specific learning and teaching is provided through lectures, tutorials, directed reading, field-work and computer-based learning materials. QUB has a diverse range of marine related staff that allows teaching at all levels of biological complexity. Methods of Assessment Students are assessed through unseen written examinations and practical reports, oral and poster presentations, essays and an honour’s dissertation. Course work may be assessed personally, by peers or by staff. |
Learning Outcomes: Subject SpecificOn the completion of this course successful students will be able to: |
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Demonstrate an ability to comprehend the scientific literature relating to Marine Biology and integrate information there from |
Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies Skills in the analysis and interpretation of biological sciences data are developed in practical class exercises at Stages 1 and 2 and the research project at Stage 3. Competence in laboratory work is developed incrementally through set practicals and the final year research project. Students are instructed about safety protocols relating to practical work and prepare risk assessments as part of their research project. Methods of Assessment Students are assessed through written reports. Particularly at Stage 3, students are referred to the primary literature in support of taught modules, and prepare a project-oriented review. |
Carry out routine and investigative work in a biological sciences laboratory |
Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies Skills in the analysis and interpretation of biological sciences data are developed in practical class exercises at Stages 1 and 2 and the research project at Stage 3. Competence in laboratory work is developed incrementally through set practicals and the final year research project. Students are instructed about safety protocols relating to practical work and prepare risk assessments as part of their research project. Methods of Assessment Students are assessed through written reports. Particularly at Stage 3, students are referred to the primary literature in support of taught modules, and prepare a project-oriented review. |
Comply with health and safety regulations |
Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies Skills in the analysis and interpretation of biological sciences data are developed in practical class exercises at Stages 1 and 2 and the research project at Stage 3. Competence in laboratory work is developed incrementally through set practicals and the final year research project. Students are instructed about safety protocols relating to practical work and prepare risk assessments as part of their research project. Methods of Assessment Students are assessed through written reports. Particularly at Stage 3, students are referred to the primary literature in support of taught modules, and prepare a project-oriented review. |
Interrogate and evaluate scientific, bibliographic databases |
Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies Skills in the analysis and interpretation of biological sciences data are developed in practical class exercises at Stages 1 and 2 and the research project at Stage 3. Competence in laboratory work is developed incrementally through set practicals and the final year research project. Students are instructed about safety protocols relating to practical work and prepare risk assessments as part of their research project. Methods of Assessment Students are assessed through written reports. Particularly at Stage 3, students are referred to the primary literature in support of taught modules, and prepare a project-oriented review. |
Learning Outcomes: Transferable SkillsOn the completion of this course successful students will be able to: |
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Demonstrate good oral communication and presentation skills |
Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies Stage 1 provides initial training and assessment in communication, ICT, numeracy, problem solving, team working and personal development skills. As demonstrated by Skills Audit, these are enhanced during Stages 2 and 3 by assessed exercises embedded in compulsory modules on the degree pathway. ICT skills are consolidated throughout the pathway as an aid to report writing, visual presentation, literature searching and data handling. Although not formally assessed, qualities such as self-reliance, good time management and the ability to undertake independent study are fostered and encouraged throughout the course. Methods of Assessment Oral presentations are marked by a panel of academic staff as core components of CA within Level 2 and 3 modules. Clear marking criteria are given to students ahead of time and respective feedback provided along with assessment mark after the seminars. Oral presentations are also a key component of the Honour’s module at level 3. Writing skills are assessed at all levels culminating in the Honour’s project and literature review at level 3. Teamwork is assessed via a range of continuous assessment exercise ranging from literature critiques, oral presentation, experimental design, field-based data collection and statistical analysis. |
Demonstrate ability to communicate coherently and accurately in writing |
Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies Stage 1 provides initial training and assessment in communication, ICT, numeracy, problem solving, team working and personal development skills. As demonstrated by Skills Audit, these are enhanced during Stages 2 and 3 by assessed exercises embedded in compulsory modules on the degree pathway. ICT skills are consolidated throughout the pathway as an aid to report writing, visual presentation, literature searching and data handling. Although not formally assessed, qualities such as self-reliance, good time management and the ability to undertake independent study are fostered and encouraged throughout the course. Methods of Assessment Oral presentations are marked by a panel of academic staff as core components of CA within Level 2 and 3 modules. Clear marking criteria are given to students ahead of time and respective feedback provided along with assessment mark after the seminars. Oral presentations are also a key component of the Honour’s module at level 3. Writing skills are assessed at all levels culminating in the Honour’s project and literature review at level 3. Teamwork is assessed via a range of continuous assessment exercise ranging from literature critiques, oral presentation, experimental design, field-based data collection and statistical analysis. |
Demonstrate time management and planning |
Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies Stage 1 provides initial training and assessment in communication, ICT, numeracy, problem solving, team working and personal development skills. As demonstrated by Skills Audit, these are enhanced during Stages 2 and 3 by assessed exercises embedded in compulsory modules on the degree pathway. ICT skills are consolidated throughout the pathway as an aid to report writing, visual presentation, literature searching and data handling. Although not formally assessed, qualities such as self-reliance, good time management and the ability to undertake independent study are fostered and encouraged throughout the course. Methods of Assessment Oral presentations are marked by a panel of academic staff as core components of CA within Level 2 and 3 modules. Clear marking criteria are given to students ahead of time and respective feedback provided along with assessment mark after the seminars. Oral presentations are also a key component of the Honour’s module at level 3. Writing skills are assessed at all levels culminating in the Honour’s project and literature review at level 3. Teamwork is assessed via a range of continuous assessment exercise ranging from literature critiques, oral presentation, experimental design, field-based data collection and statistical analysis. |
Work effectively with other people |
Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies Stage 1 provides initial training and assessment in communication, ICT, numeracy, problem solving, team working and personal development skills. As demonstrated by Skills Audit, these are enhanced during Stages 2 and 3 by assessed exercises embedded in compulsory modules on the degree pathway. ICT skills are consolidated throughout the pathway as an aid to report writing, visual presentation, literature searching and data handling. Although not formally assessed, qualities such as self-reliance, good time management and the ability to undertake independent study are fostered and encouraged throughout the course. Methods of Assessment Oral presentations are marked by a panel of academic staff as core components of CA within Level 2 and 3 modules. Clear marking criteria are given to students ahead of time and respective feedback provided along with assessment mark after the seminars. Oral presentations are also a key component of the Honour’s module at level 3. Writing skills are assessed at all levels culminating in the Honour’s project and literature review at level 3. Teamwork is assessed via a range of continuous assessment exercise ranging from literature critiques, oral presentation, experimental design, field-based data collection and statistical analysis. |
Demonstrate the capacity to learn through independent study |
Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies Stage 1 provides initial training and assessment in communication, ICT, numeracy, problem solving, team working and personal development skills. As demonstrated by Skills Audit, these are enhanced during Stages 2 and 3 by assessed exercises embedded in compulsory modules on the degree pathway. ICT skills are consolidated throughout the pathway as an aid to report writing, visual presentation, literature searching and data handling. Although not formally assessed, qualities such as self-reliance, good time management and the ability to undertake independent study are fostered and encouraged throughout the course. Methods of Assessment Oral presentations are marked by a panel of academic staff as core components of CA within Level 2 and 3 modules. Clear marking criteria are given to students ahead of time and respective feedback provided along with assessment mark after the seminars. Oral presentations are also a key component of the Honour’s module at level 3. Writing skills are assessed at all levels culminating in the Honour’s project and literature review at level 3. Teamwork is assessed via a range of continuous assessment exercise ranging from literature critiques, oral presentation, experimental design, field-based data collection and statistical analysis. |
Show a level of self reliance |
Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies Stage 1 provides initial training and assessment in communication, ICT, numeracy, problem solving, team working and personal development skills. As demonstrated by Skills Audit, these are enhanced during Stages 2 and 3 by assessed exercises embedded in compulsory modules on the degree pathway. ICT skills are consolidated throughout the pathway as an aid to report writing, visual presentation, literature searching and data handling. Although not formally assessed, qualities such as self-reliance, good time management and the ability to undertake independent study are fostered and encouraged throughout the course. Methods of Assessment Oral presentations are marked by a panel of academic staff as core components of CA within Level 2 and 3 modules. Clear marking criteria are given to students ahead of time and respective feedback provided along with assessment mark after the seminars. Oral presentations are also a key component of the Honour’s module at level 3. Writing skills are assessed at all levels culminating in the Honour’s project and literature review at level 3. Teamwork is assessed via a range of continuous assessment exercise ranging from literature critiques, oral presentation, experimental design, field-based data collection and statistical analysis. |
MODULE INFORMATION
Stages and Modules
Module Title |
Module Code |
Level/ stage |
Credits |
Availability | Duration |
Pre-requisite |
Assessment | |||||
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S1 | S2 | Core | Option | Coursework % | Practical % | Examination % | ||||||
The World of Microorganisms | BIO1301 | 1 | 40 | YES | YES | 24 weeks | N | YES | 30% | 0% | 70% | |
Biodiversity | BIO1305 | 1 | 40 | YES | YES | 24 weeks | N | YES | 40% | 0% | 60% | |
Molecular Basis of Life | BIO1304 | 1 | 40 | YES | YES | 24 weeks | N | YES | 0% | 25% | 75% | |
Work Placement | BIO2303 | 2 | 20 | YES | YES | 24 weeks | N | YES | 100% | 0% | 0% | |
Introduction to Environmental Economics | BIO2204 | 2 | 20 | YES | 12 weeks | N | YES | 30% | 0% | 70% | ||
Cell Biology 1 | BIO2104 | 2 | 20 | YES | 12 weeks | N | YES | 100% | 0% | 0% | ||
Coastal and Oceanic Biology | BIO2206 | 2 | 20 | YES | 12 weeks | N | YES | 40% | 0% | 60% | ||
Applied Ecology | BIO2107 | 2 | 20 | YES | 12 weeks | N | YES | 100% | 0% | 0% | ||
Animal Biology and Physiology | BIO2306 | 2 | 40 | YES | YES | 24 weeks | N | YES | 5% | 25% | 70% | |
Applied Genetics | BIO2205 | 2 | 20 | YES | 12 weeks | N | YES | 25% | 0% | 75% | ||
Research Project | BIO3308 | 3 | 40 | YES | YES | 24 weeks | N | YES | 100% | 0% | 0% | |
Future Oceans | BIO3102 | 3 | 20 | YES | 12 weeks | N | YES | 100% | 0% | 0% | ||
Behavioural Ecology | BIO3108 | 3 | 20 | YES | 12 weeks | N | YES | 100% | 0% | 0% | ||
Global Change Biology | BIO3205 | 3 | 20 | YES | 12 weeks | N | YES | 50% | 0% | 50% | ||
Conservation Biology | BIO3206 | 3 | 20 | YES | 12 weeks | N | YES | 50% | 0% | 50% |
Notes
Stage 1: Students must take the compulsory modules (120 CATS) listed.
Stage 2: Students must take the compulsory modules (100 CATS) listed and either Cell Biology 1 or Work placement as the 20 CATS optional module
Stage 3: Students must take the compulsory modules 120 CATS module listed.