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Undergraduate Programme Specification

MSci MSci Biochemistry with Professional Studies

Academic Year 2021/22

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 MSci MSci Biochemistry with Professional Studies Final Award
(exit route if applicable for Postgraduate Taught Programmes)
Master in Science
Programme Code BIO-MSCI-P UCAS Code C705 HECoS Code 100344 - Biochemistry - 100
ATAS Clearance Required No
Mode of Study Full Time
Type of Programme Undergraduate Master Length of Programme Full Time - 5 Academic Year(s) Total Credits for Programme 600
Exit Awards available

Institute Information

Teaching Institution

Queen's University Belfast

School/Department

Biological Sciences

Quality Code
https://www.qaa.ac.uk/quality-code

Higher Education Credit Framework for England
https://www.qaa.ac.uk/quality-code/higher-education-credit-framework-for-england

Level 7

Subject Benchmark Statements
https://www.qaa.ac.uk/quality-code/subject-benchmark-statements

The Frameworks for Higher Education Qualifications of UK Degree-Awarding Bodies
https://www.qaa.ac.uk/docs/qaa/quality-code/qualifications-frameworks.pdf

Biosciences (2019)

Accreditations (PSRB)

Royal Society of Biology

Date of most recent Accreditation Visit 24-01-20

Regulation Information

Does the Programme have any approved exemptions from the University General Regulations
(Please see General Regulations)

None

Programme Specific Regulations

In addition to the Study Regulations for Undergraduate Programmes:

To be awarded the degree of MSci Biochemistry with Professional Studies, students must pass the final year project module BIO4301 (120 CATS).

Students that have not met the minimum credit requirement for an integrated Master’s degree will exit with the BSc in Biochemistry with Professional Studies.


In order to proceed to the MSCI degree, students must pass the honours project module BIO3308 (40 CATS) with a mark of 60% or more and must have an overall weighted average of at least 60%. Students who do not meet these requirements will be required to transfer to the BSc in Biochemistry.


To be awarded the exit award of the BSc Biochemistry with Professional Studies, in addition to the Study Regulations for Undergraduate Programmes students must pass the honours project module BIO3308 (40 CATS).


Transfers to and from the programme
Students enrolled on BSc in Biochemistry may transfer into this programme at any stage provided that they have a weighted mean mark of at least 60%.
Students enrolled on this pathway may transfer to BSc in Biochemistry up until the end of Stage 3.

To be eligible to graduate, in addition to the University requirements, students must pass the module Professional Studies. Students who fail the module Professional studies will automatically be transferred to the same named degree without Professional Studies in the degree title.

Degree Classification
The following module weightings should be used when calculating the honours classification: Stage 1 5%, Stage 2 10%, Professional Studies 10%, Stage 3 25%, Stage 4 50%.

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

The MSci Biochemistry Programme is designed to give graduates an extensive knowledge and understanding of the concepts and theories relating to Biochemistry. This will include a solid foundation in physical, analytical, bioinorganic and organic chemistry, which will equip students with the necessary subject knowledge to understand and explain biochemical processes underpinning the relationship between genotype and phenotype. This knowledge base will be supplemented with experience and proficiency across a wide range of practical laboratory skills and techniques. The programme is underpinned by an active research environment and involves an extended work placement to enable all students to develop comprehensive subject-specific knowledge with practical and transferable skills in the area of Biochemistry whilst, encouraging creative thinking and innovation. On completion of the programme, successful students will be proficient in the collation, quantitative analysis and interpretation of experimental data, and will have well developed problem solving abilities. An integral component of the course will be the completion of a year-long research project that is informed by the knowledge and understanding of the subject through current scholarship and research. Students will have a demonstrable ability to communicate biochemical principles and knowledge to a variety of audiences, and will be proficient in the use of computers for data management and presentation. Students will also have developed general intellectual, personal and teamwork skills necessary for the world of employment and further study.

Learning Outcomes

Learning Outcomes: Cognitive Skills

On the completion of this course successful students will be able to:

Demonstrate ability in quantitative analysis and interpretation of experimental data.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Outcomes are achieved through lectures, practical classes, discussions, field work, tutorials, group work, final year project work, MSci project, online learning via the University VLE and independent study.

Methods of Assessment

Students are assessed through unseen written examinations, class tests, practical reports, oral presentations, essays, posters,
case studies, data analysis and a project thesis.

Apply subject knowledge and understanding to generate hypotheses to address familiar and unfamiliar problems in the academic and work-related environment

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Outcomes are achieved through lectures, practical classes, discussions, field work, tutorials, group work, Professional Studies module, final year project work, MSci project online learning via the
University VLE and independent study.

Methods of Assessment

Students are assessed through unseen written examinations, class tests, practical reports, placement portfolio, oral presentations, essays, posters,
case studies, data analysis and a project thesis.

Demonstrate the ability to evaluate critically the appropriateness of different approaches to solving problems and appreciate the limitations of current hypotheses.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Outcomes are achieved through lectures, practical classes, discussions, field work, tutorials, group work, final year project work, MSci project online learning via the
University VLE and independent study.

Methods of Assessment

Students are assessed through unseen written examinations, class tests, practical reports, oral presentations, essays, posters,
case studies, data analysis and a project thesis.

Recognise the importance of academic and research integrity and ethical issues of investigations.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Outcomes are achieved through lectures, practical classes, discussions, field work, tutorials, group work, final year project work, MSci project online learning via the
University VLE and independent study.

Methods of Assessment

Students are assessed through unseen written examinations, class tests, practical reports, oral presentations, essays, posters,
case studies, data analysis and a project
thesis.

Learning Outcomes: Knowledge & Understanding

On the completion of this course successful students will be able to:

Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the chemistry, structure and function of biological molecules

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Knowledge-based subject-specific learning and teaching is provided through lectures, module practical classes, discussions, tutorials, group work, final year project work, MSci project, online learning via the University VLE
and independent study.

Methods of Assessment

Students are assessed through unseen written examinations, class tests, practical reports, oral presentations, essays, posters,
case studies, data analysis and a project thesis.

Describe and explain major metabolic pathways in eukaryotes and prokaryotes.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Knowledge-based subject-specific learning and teaching is provided through lectures, module practical classes, discussions, tutorials, group work, final year
project work, online learning via the University VLE and independent study.

Methods of Assessment

Students are assessed through unseen written examinations, class tests, practical reports, oral presentations, essays, posters,
case studies, data analysis and a project thesis.

Explain the biochemical processes underpinning the link between genotype and phenotype

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Knowledge-based subject-specific learning and teaching is provided through lectures, module practical classes, discussions, tutorials, group work, final year
project work, MSci project online learning via the University VLE and independent study.

Methods of Assessment

Students are assessed through unseen
written examinations, class tests, practical
reports, oral presentations, essays, posters, case studies, data analysis and a project thesis.

Learning Outcomes: Cognitive Skills

On the completion of this course successful students will be able to:

Demonstrate an understanding of the principles relating to a wide range of biochemical techniques, including: basic molecular biology, cell biology, microbiology, enzyme kinetics, the determination of biomolecular structure,
spectrophotometry, and biochemical separation techniques.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Knowledge-based subject-specific learning and teaching is provided through lectures, module practical classes, discussions, tutorials, group work, final year project work, MSci project, online learning via the University VLE
and independent study.

Methods of Assessment

Students are assessed through unseen
written examinations, class tests, practical
reports, oral presentations, essays, posters,
case studies, data analysis and a project
thesis.

Learning Outcomes: Knowledge & Understanding

On the completion of this course successful students will be able to:

Demonstrate an understanding of the structure and function of prokaryote and eukaryote cells.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Knowledge-based subject-specific learning and teaching is provided through lectures, module practical classes, discussions, tutorials, group work, final year project work, MSci project, online learning via the University VLE and independent study.

Methods of Assessment

Students are assessed through unseen
written examinations, class tests, practical
reports, oral presentations, essays, posters,
case studies, data analysis and a project
thesis.

Biochemical aspects of human disease and nutrition.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Knowledge-based subject-specific learning and teaching is provided through lectures, module practical classes, discussions, tutorials, group work, final year project work, MSci project online learning via the University VLEand independent study.

Methods of Assessment

Students are assessed through unseen
written examinations, class tests, practical
reports, oral presentations, essays, posters,
case studies, data analysis and a project
thesis.

Learning Outcomes: Subject Specific

On the completion of this course successful students will be able to:

Comprehend the scientific literature relating to Biochemistry and use the literature to address problems, form and test hypotheses.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Scientific writing workshops, library courses, online teaching material. Subject specific practicals, final year Honours project, MSci project and compulsory work placement. Skills
in laboratory work and in the analysis and
interpretation of data is developed incrementally beginning at stage 1 and 2 through to the final year and MSci
research project. Students will follow safety protocols relating to practical work at all stages and will prepare risk assessments as part of their research projects.

Methods of Assessment

Students are assessed through written reports, direct observation in the laboratory (OSPE) or field, essays, and MSci and honours project thesis. Students are referred to the primary literature in support of taught modules and prepare a project-oriented review. Practical reports, completion of practical skills portfolio. Completion of /compliance with Ethical procedures, COSHH and Risk Assessments.

Demonstrate practical proficiency in a wide range of biochemical techniques,
including: basic molecular biology, cell biology, microbiology, enzyme kinetics,
the determination of biomolecular structure, spectrophotometry, and
biochemical separation techniques.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Scientific writing workshops, library courses, online teaching material. Subject specific practicals, final year Honours project, compulsory work placement. Skills in laboratory work and in the analysis and interpretation of data is developed incrementally
beginning at stage 1 and 2 through to the final year and MSci research projects. Students will follow safety protocols relating to practical work at all stages and will prepare risk assessments as part of their research projects.

Methods of Assessment

Students are assessed through written reports, direct observation in the laboratory (OSPE) or field, essays, and MSci and honours project thesis. Students are referred to the primary literature in support of taught modules and prepare a project-oriented review. Practical reports, completion of practical skills portfolio. Completion of /compliance with Ethical procedures, COSHH and Risk Assessments.

Conduct data visualisation and analysis, including the application of data transformations.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Scientific writing workshops, library courses, online teaching material. Subject specific practicals, final year Honours project MSci project and, compulsory work placement. Skills
in laboratory work and in the analysis and
interpretation of data is developed incrementally beginning at stage 1 and 2 through to the final year and MSci research project. Students will follow safety protocols
relating to practical work at all stages and will prepare risk assessments as part of their research projects.

Methods of Assessment

Students are assessed through written reports, direct observation in the laboratory (OSPE) or field, essays, and MSci and honours project thesis. Students are referred to the primary literature in support of taught modules and prepare a project-oriented review. Practical reports, completion of practical skills portfolio. Completion of /compliance with Ethical procedures, COSHH and Risk Assessments.

Interrogate and evaluate biochemical data, using informatics software and databases.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Scientific writing workshops, library courses, online teaching material. Subject specific practicals, final year Honours project MSci project and, compulsory work placement. Skills
in laboratory work and in the analysis and
interpretation of data is developed incrementally beginning at stage 1 and 2 through to the final year and MSci research project. Students will follow safety protocols
relating to practical work at all stages and will prepare risk assessments as part of their research projects

Methods of Assessment

Students are assessed through written reports, direct observation in the laboratory (OSPE) or field, essays, and MSci and honours project thesis. Students are referred to the primary literature in support of taught modules and prepare a project-oriented review. Practical reports, completion of practical skills portfolio. Completion of /compliance with Ethical procedures, COSHH and Risk Assessments.

Learning Outcomes: Transferable Skills

On the completion of this course successful students will be able to:

Demonstrate an ability to communicate and apply biochemical knowledge to
peers and non-scientists using a range of media.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

The development of transferrable skills is embedded throughout the curriculum. Learning methods underpinning transferrable skill acquisition is through
lectures, module practical classes, discussions, field work, tutorials, group work, final year project work, MSci project,
online learning via the University VLE and
independent study. Certain transferable skills, such as self-motivation, adaptability and flexibility are embedded within the learning and may not be
separately assessed. However, satisfactory
achievement of the learning outcomes requires that such skills are developed to an appropriate level.

Methods of Assessment

Students are assessed through unseen written examinations, class tests, practical reports, oral presentations, essays, posters,
case studies, data analysis and a project thesis.

Exhibit the personal and intellectual skills necessary for the world of
employment and lifelong learning including:
- intellectual independence,
- self-motivation,
- effective time management and planning,
- an adaptable, flexible approach to learning
- the ability to work as part of a team.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

The development of transferrable skills is embedded throughout the curriculum. Learning methods underpinning transferrable skill acquisition is through lectures, module practical classes, discussions, field work, tutorials, group work, final year project work, Professional Studies module, MSci project online learning via the University VLE and
independent study. Certain transferable skills, such as self-motivation, adaptability and flexibility are embedded within the learning and may not be separately assessed. However, satisfactory
achievement of the learning outcomes requires that such skills are developed to an appropriate level.

Methods of Assessment

Students are assessed through unseen written examinations, class tests, practical reports, oral presentations, placement portfolio, pre-placement assignment, essays, posters,
case studies, data analysis and a project thesis.

Demonstrate innovation in science through discovery and the application of
knowledge.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

The development of transferrable skills is embedded throughout the curriculum. Learning methods underpinning transferrable skill acquisition is through
lectures, module practical classes, discussions, field work, tutorials, group work, final year project work, MSci project online learning via the University VLE and
independent study. Certain transferable skills, such as self-motivation, adaptability and flexibility are embedded within the learning and may not be separately assessed. However, satisfactory
achievement of the learning outcomes requires that such skills are developed to an appropriate level.

Methods of Assessment

Students are assessed through unseen
written examinations, class tests, practical
reports, oral presentations, essays, posters,
case studies, data analysis and a project
thesis.

Demonstrate proficiency in the use of computers for data management and presentation.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

The development of transferrable skills is embedded throughout the curriculum. Learning methods underpinning transferrable skill acquisition is through
lectures, module practical classes, discussions, field work, tutorials, group work, final year project work, MSci project online learning via the University VLE and
independent study. Certain transferable skills, such as self-motivation, adaptability and flexibility are embedded within the learning and may not be separately assessed. However, satisfactory
achievement of the learning outcomes requires that such skills are developed to an appropriate level.

Methods of Assessment

Students are assessed through unseen
written examinations, class tests, practical
reports, oral presentations, essays, posters,
case studies, data analysis and a project
thesis.

Demonstrate proficiency in the collation, quantitative analysis, graphical
presentation, and interpretation of experimental data, and the ability to
problem-solve.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

The development of transferrable skills is embedded throughout the curriculum. Learning methods underpinning transferrable skill acquisition is through
lectures, module practical classes, discussions, field work, tutorials, group work, final year project work, MSci project online learning via the University VLE and
independent study. Certain transferable skills, such as self-motivation, adaptability and flexibility are embedded within the learning and may not be separately assessed. However, satisfactory
achievement of the learning outcomes requires that such skills are developed to an appropriate level.

Methods of Assessment

Students are assessed through unseen written examinations, class tests, practical reports, oral presentations, essays, posters,
case studies, data analysis and a project thesis.

Learning Outcomes: Cognitive Skills

On the completion of this course successful students will be able to:

Analyse, synthesise and critically evaluate scientific literature.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Outcomes are achieved through lectures, practical classes, discussions, field work, tutorials, group work, final year project work, MSci project, online learning via the University VLE and independent study.

Methods of Assessment

Students are assessed through unseen written examinations, class tests, practical reports, oral presentations, essays, posters,
case studies, data analysis and a project thesis.

Learning Outcomes: Knowledge & Understanding

On the completion of this course successful students will be able to:

Demonstrate in-depth knowledge and understanding of a specific aspect of the subject through research led discovery

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Through MSci research project

Methods of Assessment

Project proposal, research lab book, interim reports and final dissertation.

Learning Outcomes: Cognitive Skills

On the completion of this course successful students will be able to:

Design, plan and manage a significant research project

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Through MSci research project

Methods of Assessment

Project proposal, research lab book, interim reports and final dissertation.

Manage and deliver project type work in the workplace setting.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Outcomes are achieved through Professional Studies module

Methods of Assessment

Students are assessed through preplacement assignment (CV, Cover letter, Reflective document), a Placement Portfolio (Work Based Learning activity, Placement Provider report, Reflective report, Log Book) and presentation

Module Information

Stages and Modules

Module Title Module Code Level/ stage Credits

Availability

Duration Pre-requisite

Assessment

S1 S2 Core Option Coursework % Practical % Examination %
Structure, Reactivity and Mechanism in Organic and Bioorganic Chemistry CHM1004 1 20 YES 12 weeks N YES 100% 0% 0%
Fundamentals of Chemistry CHM1011 1 20 YES 12 weeks N YES 100% 0% 0%
The World of Microorganisms BIO1301 1 40 YES YES 24 weeks N YES 40% 0% 60%
Molecular Basis of Life BIO1304 1 40 YES YES 24 weeks N YES 40% 0% 60%
Cell Biology BIO2104 2 20 YES 12 weeks N YES 100% 0% 0%
Advanced Cell Biology BIO2304 2 20 YES 12 weeks Y YES 40% 0% 60%
Molecular Genetics and Bioinformatics BIO2305 2 40 YES YES 24 weeks N YES 50% 0% 50%
Experimental Biochemistry BIO2102 2 20 YES 12 weeks Y YES 100% 0% 0%
Microorganisms in Action BIO2202 2 20 YES 12 weeks Y YES 40% 0% 60%
Professional Studies BIO3303 3 120 YES YES 40 weeks N YES 100% 0% 0%
Research Project BIO3308 4 40 YES YES 24 weeks N YES 100% 0% 0%
Microbiome: Biotechnological applications and ‘Omic manipulations BIO3203 4 20 YES 12 weeks N YES 40% 0% 60%
Industrial Microbiology BIO3103 4 20 YES 12 weeks N YES 100% 0% 0%
Immunology and Immunotherapy BIO3104 4 20 YES 12 weeks N YES 100% 0% 0%
Biomolecules in Health and Disease BIO3304 4 40 YES YES 24 weeks N YES 20% 0% 80%
Research Project (MSci) BIO4301 5 120 YES YES 24 weeks N YES 100% 0% 0%

Notes

Stage 1: Students must take the compulsory modules (120 CATS) listed. CHM1004 pre-requisite: A-Level Chemistry

Stage 2: Students must take the compulsory modules (120 CATS) listed BIO2202 Pre-requisite BIO1301 BIO2304 Pre-requisite BIO2104 BIO2102 Pre-requisite CHM1011

Stage 4: Students must take the compulsory module (120 CATS) listed.

Students must take the compulsory modules (100 CATS) listed and 20 CATS points from the optional module(s) listed. BIO3203 Pre-requisite: BIO1301 Students are expected to commit to, and complete the MSci programme. Those who wish to exit the programme at the end of Stage 3 may be permitted to transfer to the corresponding BSc (Hons) by their Adviser of Studies . .

Year out: All students will spend an extended period in a work placement during which they will carry out some project type work. Students will begin preparations for the placement in the first semester of Stage 2 and the placement will be assessed within the module Professional Studies, BIO3303. Students unable to secure a year placement will be transferred to the MSci Biochemistry programme.