Biological Sciences Undergraduate Programmes · Biological Sciences Award Cluster: The BSc (Hons) / MBiol (Hons) Biology route develops student skills and knowledge towards an understanding

Faculty of Science and Engineering School of Science and The Environment

Biological Sciences Undergraduate Programmes

Programme Specification

This document provides a concise summary of the main features of the course(s) and associated award(s) offered through this Programme Specification, and includes the learning outcomes that a typical student might reasonably be expected to achieve and demonstrate if s/he takes full advantage of the learning opportunities provided. More detailed information on the learning outcomes, curriculum content, teaching/learning, assessment methods for each unit and on the Programme’s relationship to QAA Subject Benchmark Statements may be found in the dedicated student handbook for the Programme. The accuracy of the information in this document is reviewed periodically by the University and may be subject to verification by the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education

Versioning of Programme Specification This programme specification is valid for the period of approval confirmed at the time of the approval/last review event and relates to provision approved at that point. Programme specifications are updated on an annual basis to include modifications approved through the University’s quality assurance processes. This version provides a description of the programme as approved for the academic session indicated in section 3 of the following table.

1 Date of initial Approval or last review: 16 June 2017

2 Effective date of Approved/Reviewed Programme Specification: 1 September 2018 – 31 August 2024

3 This Version effective from: September 2018

4 Version number: Sept 18/V1

Students who commenced their study on awards within this programme specification prior to September 2018 should refer to the previous version of the programme specification published on the CASQE website.

Cross Referencing of Programme Specifications

The following elements of provision included in this document is/ are also included in the following programme specifications

Award Programme Specification

Biological Science units shared with Environmental Science are as follows:

6F4Z1104 Ecology

6F5Z1112 Landscape Ecology

6F5Z1114 Plant and Soil

Ecology

6F6Z1117 Tropical Field Course

6F6Z1103 Coastal Ecology and

Ecosystem Services

6F6Z1111 Impacts of Global

Change on Ecosystems

6F6Z1114 Temperate

Conservation and Habitat

Management

BSc (Hons) Biology.

units shared with Geography and Biological Sciences are as follows:

6F5Z3117 Professional Practice

Geography units shared with Environmental Science and Biological Sciences are as follows:

Environmental Science Undergraduate Programme Geography Undergraduate Programmes Biological Sciences Undergraduate Programmes Geography Undergraduate Programmes

http://www.mmu.ac.uk/academic/casqe/specs/index.php

6F6Z3118 Undergraduate

Consultancy

MBiol Biology Integrated Masters units shared with the School Postgraduate Programmes:

6F7Z1016 Genetics of Populations

6F7Z1019 Behavioural Biology

6F7Z1015 Species Conservation

6F7Z1018 Avian Biology and

Conservation

Foundation Year units leading to BSc (Hons) Environmental Science

6F3Z1003 Foundation Biology

6F3Z2001 Foundation

Chemistry

6G3Z3006 Foundation Data

Analysis

6G3Z0001 Academic Skills for

Higher Education

Biological Sciences Undergraduate Programmes School of Science and the Environment Postgraduate Programmes Science and Engineering Foundation Year

Amendments made to provision listed in this table, must also be reflected in the relevant programme specifications listed above

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ CASQE Page 1 of 54 Programme Specification

CENTRE FOR ACADEMIC STANDARDS & QUALITY ENHANCEMENT

Programme Specification

The information in this document is organised into the following sections: Section A – Administrative and Regulatory Information Section B – Outcomes Section C – Structure Section D – Teaching, Learning and Assessment Section E – Programme Management

SECTION A – ADMINISTRATIVE AND REGULATORY INFORMATION

1 Overarching Programme Specification Title


2 Brief Summary This should contain the main headlines to be published in the prospectus

Biological Sciences Award Cluster: The BSc (Hons) / MBiol (Hons) Biology route develops student skills and knowledge towards an understanding of the science of life and the patterns and processes in biological systems with a focus on the origin, structure and behaviour of a wide range of organisms, communities and environments as well as the underlying cellular processes. Specialist routes enable students to concentrate on the structure, function, uses and modes of life of microorganisms and the molecular processes involved in genetic information and cellular function (BSc (Hons) Microbiology and Molecular Biology); mechanisms and functions underlying a range of animal behaviours and how animals interact with each other and with the environment (BSc (Hons) Animal Behaviour); ecology, conservation and management of species and communities (BSc (Hons) Wildlife Biology); or animal biology including the evolution, behaviour, molecular biology, genetics, physiology, classification and distribution of animals (BSc (Hons) / MBiol Zoology). The Biology cluster of courses are designed to give a wide-ranging experience for students with real-world relevance. It develops student skills and knowledge in recent advances in the life sciences. The course and students benefit from a multidisciplinary research-active teaching team that includes molecular biologists, microbiologists, animal behaviourists, physiologists, ecologists, conservation experts, wildlife biologists, environmental scientists and geneticists. A wide range of field trips and laboratory work has been integrated into the Biological Sciences courses and these allow students to practice and reflect on their applied knowledge and analytical skills. Routes are available for those studying part-time whilst employed in the biological sciences sector and for students who wish to study abroad or undertake a placement for an academic year. Graduates will demonstrate a comprehensive knowledge of principles and techniques relevant to their life science discipline.

3 Awarding institution

Manchester Metropolitan University

4 Home Faculty Science and Engineering


5 Home Department/ School/ Institute

School of Science and the Environment

6 UCAS/UTT code(s)

Biological Sciences Award Cluster

BSc (Hons) Animal Behaviour: C120

MBiol (Hons) Biology: C101

BSc (Hons) Biology : C101

BSc (Hons) Microbiology and Molecular Biology: CC57

BSc (Hons) Wildlife Biology: C300

MBiol (Hons) Zoology C304

BSc (Hons) Zoology C302 All courses, except MBiol titles, have an option to include a Sandwich Year or Study Abroad. These four year options cannot be entry options, and are therefore not advertised through UCAS. However, they will remain as exit awards (Section 13)

7 Framework for HE Qualifications position of final award(s) Framework for HE Qualifications

Certificate (Level 4) Intermediate (Level 5) Honours (Level 6) Masters (Level 7)

8 Alignment with University Curriculum Framework Curriculum Frameworks

Undergraduate

9 Engagement with the University-wide provision (eg Uniwide Language, EdLab) This is currently only applicable to programmes aligned to the Undergraduate Curriculum Framework. Uniwide Language Provide a statement confirming that all or part (state which part) of the provision within this programme specification includes opportunities to engage with Uniwide language provision OR provide a rationale for non-engagement. EdLab EdLab is optional and must be approved through PARM processes before inclusion within the programme curriculum structure. Provide a statement stating which part of the provision includes opportunities for engagement with EdLab

Students choosing to undertake a 15-credit Uniwide Language or EdLab option will substitute a 15 credit unit by negotiation with the course leader as appropriate to the programme of study. Uniwide language is not available at level 7 of the MBiol (Hons) Biology and MBiol (Hons) Zoology titles. Foundation Year: Uniwide Language provision is not available to Foundation Year students.

10 Compliance with University Assessment Regulations

Undergraduate

http://www.qaa.ac.uk/publications/information-and-guidance#page-1

http://www.mmu.ac.uk/academic/casqe/regulations/curriculum-frameworks.php


University Assessment Regulations

11 Approved Variations/Exemptions from University Assessment Regulations

Units bearing practice-credit only These do not contribute to the year average for the programmes that they serve but are required to be assessed as satisfactory before the unit can be awarded. The units are:

Sandwich Year (6F6Z3151)

Negotiated Learning Agreement at Overseas

University (6F6Z3150) leading to the award BSc

(Hons) ‘title’ with Study Abroad

12

Relationship with Faculty Foundation Year

Successful completion of the Faculty of Science and Engineering Foundation Year entitles students to entry at Level 4 of:

BSc (Hons) Biology

Awards

13 Final award title(s) All titled awards including:

Sandwich awards

‘Fallback’ awards for students who pass academic credits but fail PSRB licence to practice element

Mark any PSRB final awards conferred as “PSRB Award”

BSc (Hons) Animal Behaviour: 6106

BSc (Hons) Animal Behaviour (Sandwich): 611N

BSc (Hons) Animal Behaviour with Study Abroad: (code tbc)

MBiol (Hons) Biology: 614N

BSc (Hons) Biology: 6105

BSc (Hons) Biology (Sandwich): 6146

BSc (Hons) Biology with Study Abroad: (code tbc)

BSc (Hons) Microbiology and Molecular Biology: 611J

BSc (Hons) Microbiology and Molecular Biology (Sandwich): 611M

BSc (Hons) Microbiology and Molecular Biology with Study Abroad: (code tbc)

BSc (Hons) Wildlife Biology: 6113

BSc (Hons) Wildlife Biology (Sandwich): 611L

BSc (Hons) Wildlife Biology with Study Abroad: (code tbc)

MBiol (Hons) Zoology (code tbc)

BSc (Hons) Zoology (code tbc)

BSc (Hons) Zoology (Sandwich) (code tbc)

BSc (Hons) Zoology with Study Abroad (code tbc)

http://www.mmu.ac.uk/academic/casqe/regulations/assessment.php


All routes are available part-time (normally up to 6 years). The exact programme of study each year for a part-time student is agreed pre-enrolment following discussion with the Programme Leader.

14 Combined Honours There is no Combined Honours provision within this programme specification

14a

(i) Combined Honours Awards available eg:

BSc/BA (Hons) AB

BSc/BA (Hons) AB and XY

BSc/BA (Hons) AB with XY (ii) Single Honours Awards available

through Combined Honours (ie Named Awards)

(iii) Approved Subject Combinations

administered by this Programme Specification (ie “home” combinations)

N/A

14b Approved Subject Combination administered by other Programme Specifications

Approved Combination Home Programme Specification & Home Dept

N/A N/A

15 Interim exit awards and Subject title(s)

No exit award available at the end of Level 3 (Foundation Year).

Successful completion of 120 credits at Level 4 for all subject titles leads to: o CertHE Biology

Successful completion of 120 credits at Level 4 and 120 credits at Level 5 leads to: o DipHE Animal Behaviour* o DipHE Biology* o DipHE Microbiology and Molecular Biology * o DipHE Wildlife Biology* o DipHE Zoology*

*Successful completion of 120 credits at Level 4 and 120 credits at Level 5, plus successful completion of 120 Study Abroad practice credits leads to DipHE (title) with Study Abroad; successful completion of 120 credits at Level 4 and 120 credits at Level 5, plus successful completion of 120 Sandwich practice credits leads to DipHE (title) (Sandwich).


For Integrated Masters courses, successful completion of 120 credits at Level 4, 120 credits at Level 5 and 120 credits at Level 6 leads to: o BSc (Hons) Biology o BSc (Hons) Zoology

Arrangements with Collaborative Partners (where applicable)

16 Approved Collaborative partner(s)

Partner Name Type of Collaborative Partnership

N/A

N/A

17 Articulation Arrangements with Partners (Other than collaborative). Include for each partner named:

the MMU award(s) (inc levels) to which the arrangement relates;

the approved date of the Memorandum of Understanding governing the arrangement;

whether the arrangement provides guaranteed entry to the MMU award(s).

Partner Name Details of Arrangements

N/A

N/A

Professional, Statutory and Regulatory Bodies

18 PSRB(s) associated with final award of any route within the programme specification

None

19 Date, outcome & period of approval of last PSRB approval/accreditation

N/A

Approval Status

To be updated AFTER each PARM activity is finalised

20 Date and period of approval of most recent MMU review/ approval

(i) Date of Latest review/approval Periodic Review and Major Modification to disaggregate the School of Science & The Environment Undergraduate Programmes Specification into five separate Programme Specifications as follows:


Chemistry Undergraduate Programmes

Environmental Science Undergraduate Programme

Geography Undergraduate Programmes

UCert Biological Recording Programmes (in accordance with the Flexible Curriculum Framework for Accredited Provision) 16 June 2017.


(ii) Length & Dates of Period of approval given In (i) above:

Years: Six years

From: 1 September 2018

To: 31 August 2024

(iii) Major Modifications to Programme Specification since last review/approval

21 Next Scheduled Review Date:

2023/2024

22


SECTION B – OUTCOMES

23 MMU Graduate Outcomes

On successful completion of their course of study MMU graduates will be able to:

GO1. apply skills of critical analysis to real world situations within a defined range of contexts;

GO2. demonstrate a high degree of professionalism characterised by initiative, creativity, motivation and self-management;

GO3. express ideas effectively and communicate information appropriately and accurately using a range of media including ICT;

GO4. develop working relationships using teamwork and leadership skills, recognising and respecting different perspectives;

GO5. manage their professional development reflecting on progress and taking appropriate action;

GO6. find, evaluate, synthesise and use information from a variety of sources; GO7. articulate an awareness of the social and community contexts within their disciplinary

field. NB the above align to the Employability outcomes on the unit specifications Foundation Year Outcomes It is recognised that the University’s General Educational Outcomes will be met in full on completion of the total student experience over the period of study towards a degree. On successful completion of the University Foundation Year a student will be able to:

FY1. Demonstrate knowledge in the subject matter of their units appropriate to Level 3 and apply what has been learned;

FY2. Engage in discussion on topics/issues related to contemporary debate in the subject matter of their units;

FY3. Demonstrate safe and effective use of specific media/equipment/material where appropriate;

FY4. Extract, summarise and synthesise relevant information; FY5. Produce a coherent and structured piece of written work; FY6. Demonstrate a readiness for lifelong learning and personal development; FY7. Participate effectively in group working and team activities; FY8. Demonstrate communication and presentation skills by clear and effective use of

speech, writing and other appropriate methods; FY9. Demonstrate a basic level of critical thought; FY10. Apply a range of study skills methods to enhance their academic development; FY11. Demonstrate numeracy skills in both everyday situations and in their specific subject

areas where appropriate; FY12. Demonstrate basic IT skills relating to word processing, spread sheets, simple

databases and the Internet; FY13. Demonstrate an awareness of the programme of study in a wider context.


24 Programme Rationale

The School of Science and the Environment was formed in 2009, amalgamating Biological Sciences and Chemistry/Forensic Science (previously in the School of Biology, Health Science and Chemistry) with the Department of Environmental and Geographical Sciences. The current Undergraduate Programme Specification (2013-18) brought together degrees titles in all these areas into a single programme on the grounds of consolidation and rationalisation of provision in the newly formed School of Science and the Environment. The current titles are successful but changing to course-specific UG programme specifications focuses on strengthening the core disciplines of geography, biology and chemistry aligned to School research and enterprise strengths. Smaller programme specifications also develop a greater sense of course identity amongst students as well as empowering staff to innovate and improve their teaching and learning quickly in response to degree-specific needs. The programmes benefit from a research active biology teaching team, including animal behaviour, ecology, tropical biology, genetics and microbiology and molecular biology experts. The new programmes will ensure we deliver stimulating, coherent and challenging curricula throughout the School, as well as incorporating initiatives surrounding vocational (including links with the Faculty of Education (University-Wide EdLab units) and the Faculty of Arts and Humanities (Uniwide Languages)) and international opportunities. All programmes are offered in full-time and part-time modes, with a sandwich placement year or year studying abroad option, apart from integrated masters routes. For students who wish to pursue research/research and development careers, either in industry or in academia, integrated masters awards are increasingly seen as the required qualification. The School therefore offers the MBiol (Hons) Biology and MBiol (Hons) Zoology programmes for students, who wish to develop an in-depth knowledge and critical awareness of a substantial area of their discipline, and be suitably prepared for contemporary professional practice or for further study at doctoral level.

25 QAA Benchmark Statement(s)

Biosciences (2015)

26 Programme Specific Outcomes

The award learning outcomes for Biological Sciences are aligned to the QAA Benchmarking Statement for Biosciences. (a) Final Award Learning Outcomes

BSc (Hons) Animal Behaviour On successful completion of BSc (Hons) Animal Behaviour, students will be able to:

PLO1-Explain key concepts, principles and theories which will demonstrate an understanding of animal behaviour.

PLO2-Contextualise the discipline of animal behaviour and its significance in the contemporary world.

PLO3-Formulate and clarify questions relating to contemporary issues within the field of animal behaviour.


PLO4-Develop practical and cognitive skills of analysis and synthesis in the context of investigation within the field of animal behaviour.

PLO5-Undertake advanced studies in chosen areas of animal behaviour. BSc (Hons) Biology On successful completion of BSc (Hons) Biology, students will be able to:

PLO1-Explain key concepts, principles and theories which will demonstrate an understanding of biology.

PLO2-Contextualise the discipline of biology and its significance in the contemporary world.

PLO3-Formulate and clarify questions relating to contemporary issues within biology.

PLO4-Develop practical and cognitive skills of analysis and synthesis in the context of biological investigation.

PLO5-Undertake advanced studies in chosen areas of biology.

MBiol (Hons) Biology A systematic and broad understanding of key biology concepts will be assumed prior to undertaking master’s level study (see PLO1-5 for BSc (Hons) Biology). In addition to the BSc (Hons) Biology PLOs, on successful completion of MBiol (Hons) Biology students will be able to:

PLO6- Contextualise selected aspects of the specialised body of biology knowledge, some of which may be informed by research and original thinking at current boundaries of theoretical knowledge.

PLO7- Apply and integrate their knowledge and skills in the planning and execution of an original research project.

BSc (Hons) Microbiology and Molecular Biology On successful completion of BSc (Hons) Microbiology and Molecular Biology, students will be able to:

PLO1-Explain key concepts, principles and theories which will demonstrate an understanding of microbiology and molecular biology.

PLO2-Contextualise microbiology and molecular biology, their relationship to other areas of biology and their significance in the contemporary world.

PLO3-Formulate and clarify questions relating to contemporary issues within microbiology and molecular biology to undertake reflection and reflective practice.


PLO5-Undertake advanced studies in chosen areas of microbiology or molecular biology.

BSc (Hons) Wildlife Biology On successful completion of BSc (Hons) Wildlife Biology, students will be able to:

PLO1-Explain key concepts, principles and theories which will demonstrate an understanding of wildlife biology.

PLO2-Contextualise ecology, evolution, the study of animals and plants in their constituent habitats and ecosystems.

PLO3-Review the variety of adaptations that allow animals and plants to live in a range of environments.

PLO4-Contextualise the discipline and the significance of wildlife biology in the contemporary world.

PLO5-Formulate and clarify questions relating to contemporary issues within wildlife biology.


PLO6-Gain skills in the analysis and interpretation of data relevant to animal and plants in their natural environment.

PLO7-Develop practical, field and cognitive skills of analysis and synthesis in the context of biological investigation.

BSc (Hons) Zoology On successful completion of BSc (Hons) Zoology, students will be able to:

PLO1-Explain key concepts, principles and theories which will demonstrate an understanding of zoology.

PLO2-Contextualise the discipline of zoology and its significance in the contemporary world.

PLO3-Formulate and clarify questions relating to contemporary issues within zoology.

PLO4-Develop practical and cognitive skills of analysis and synthesis in the context of zoological investigation.

PLO5-Undertake advanced studies in chosen areas of zoology. MBiol (Hons) Zoology A systematic and broad understanding of key zoology concepts will be assumed prior to undertaking master’s level study (see PLO1-5 for BSc (Hons) Zoology). In addition to the BSc (Hons) Zoology PLOs, on successful completion of MBiol (Hons) Zoology students will be able to:

PLO6- Contextualise selected aspects of the specialised body of zoology knowledge, some of which may be informed by research and original thinking at current boundaries of theoretical knowledge.

PLO7- Apply and integrate their knowledge and skills in the planning and execution of an original research project.

Additional outcomes for Sandwich routes:

Develop enhanced interpersonal and employability skills in a workplace situation and an understanding of how organisations work.

Consolidate, complement and extend the academic programme and enable its integration with professional practice.

Additional outcomes for with Study Abroad routes:

Use diverse cultural frames of reference, and alternate perspectives to think critically and solve problems.

Critique differences in the way their academic disciplines are viewed and practiced between their host country and the UK.

(b) Combined Honours Learning Outcomes

N/A

(c) Pass Degree Learning Outcomes

Students who do not qualify for the award of a Bachelor’s degree with honours may be eligible for the award of a Pass degree. Criteria for the award of a Pass degree are detailed within the University’s Assessment Regulations for Undergraduate Programmes of Study

http://www.mmu.ac.uk/academic/casqe/regulations/assessment-regulations.php


27 Interim Award Learning Outcomes

CertHE Biology On successful completion of the CertHE Biology students will be able to:

PLO1-Acquire a basic knowledge including key concepts, principles and theories which will support an understanding of biology.

PLO2-Develop an understanding of the discipline of biology and its significance in the contemporary world.

PLO3-Be aware of contemporary issues within biology.

PLO4-Develop basic practical and cognitive skills of analysis and synthesis in the field of biology.

DipHE Animal Behaviour On successful completion of the DipHE Animal Behaviour students will be able to:

PLO1-Acquire a knowledge base including key concepts, principles and theories which will support an understanding of animal behaviour.

PLO2-Develop a broad appreciation and understanding of the discipline of animal behaviour and its significance in the contemporary world.

PLO3-Undertake advanced studies in chosen areas of animal behaviour.

PLO4-Formulate and clarify questions relating to contemporary issues within the field of animal behaviour.

PLO5-Develop practical and cognitive skills of analysis and synthesis in the context of investigation within the field of animal behaviour.

DipHE Biology On successful completion of the DipHE Biology students will be able to:

PLO1-Acquire a knowledge base including key concepts, principles and theories which will support an understanding of biology.

PLO2-Develop an appreciation and understanding of the discipline of biology and its significance in the contemporary world.

PLO3-Formulate and clarify questions relating to contemporary issues within biology.


DipHE Microbiology and Molecular Biology On successful completion of the DipHE Microbiology and Molecular Biology students will be able to:

PLO1-Acquire a knowledge base including key concepts, principles and theories which will support an understanding of microbiology and molecular biology.

PLO2-Develop an appreciation and understanding of microbiology and molecular biology, their relationship to other areas of biology and their significance in the contemporary world.

PLO3-Formulate questions relating to contemporary issues within microbiology and molecular biology undertake reflection and reflective practice.


DipHE Wildlife Biology


On successful completion of the DipHE Wildlife Biology students will be able to:

PLO1-Acquire a knowledge base including key concepts, principles and theories which will support an understanding of wildlife biology.

PLO2-Develop an understanding of ecology, evolution, the study of animals and plants in their constituent habitats and ecosystems.

PLO3-Review the variety of adaptations that allow animals and plants to live in a range of environments.

PL04-Develop an understanding of the discipline and the significance of wildlife biology in the contemporary world.

PLO5-Gain skills in the analysis and interpretation of data relevant to animals and plants in their natural environment.

PLO6-Develop practical, field and cognitive skills of analysis and synthesis in the context of biological investigation.

DipHE Zoology On successful completion of the DipHE Zoology students will be able to:

PLO1-Acquire a knowledge base including key concepts, principles and theories which will support an understanding of zoology.

PLO2-Develop an appreciation and understanding of the discipline of zoology and its significance in the contemporary world.

PLO3-Formulate and clarify questions relating to contemporary issues within zoology.

PLO4-Develop practical and cognitive skills of analysis and synthesis in the context of zoological investigation.

SECTION C – STRUCTURE

28 Structures, modes of delivery (eg FT/PT/DL etc), levels, credits, awards, curriculum map of all units (identifying core/option status, credits, pre or co-requisites) potential entry/exit points and progression/award requirements

OPTION UNITS Option units listed in the following curriculum structures are approved for delivery but may not run in any one academic session. Occurrence of units may change.

A. Awards with Study Abroad Students will take the following 120-credit, core unit between Levels 5 and 6 of their programme of studies:

6F6Z3150 Negotiated Learning Agreement at Overseas University

120 credits (Practice Credits)

This unit will be negotiated with the individual student on the basis of units of study available at their overseas university and will be assessed on a pass/fail basis. The learning outcomes of the programme of study at the overseas university are normally closely matched to the learning outcomes of the appropriate programme of study at MMU. The exchange programme of study is organised by the School Exchange Tutor in collaboration with MMU International staff and students. While on exchange,


supervision is provided by the overseas institution and monitoring by the University is undertaken by the Exchange Tutor and MMU International staff. A student is normally required satisfactorily to complete this unit (6F6Z3150) for an award title ‘with Study Abroad’. Students are normally required to pass Level 5 of the route in the summer Examination Board in order to be eligible to take up the study abroad option.

B. Awards with Sandwich Year

Students must take the following 120-practice credit unit between Levels 5 and 6 of their programme of studies:

6F6Z3151 Sandwich Year 120 practice credits

The placement period will normally be not less than 36 weeks of full-time placement in an organisation that provides work experience, skills application and skills acquisition appropriate to a student’s degree discipline. Placements are organised by the Sandwich Year Coordinator in collaboration with students. Prerequisite workshops and tutorials supported by on-line resources are used to prepare for the placement and there are also sessions to provide feedback on the experience. While on placement, supervision is provided by a designated workplace supervisor and monitoring by the University is undertaken by the Sandwich Year Coordinator and other specified tutors. This unit will be assessed on a pass/fail basis. A student is normally required satisfactorily to complete this unit (6F6Z3151) for the award title ‘Sandwich’. Students are normally required to pass Level 5 of the route in the summer Examination Board in order to be eligible to take up the Sandwich study.

Level 3 – Faculty Foundation Year

Core Units

Code Occ Pre-requisite Unit Title No of credits

6F3Z1003 9 None Foundation Biology 30

6F3Z2001 9 None Foundation Chemistry 30

6G3Z3006 9 None Foundation Data Analysis 30

6G3Z0001 9 None Academic Skills for Higher Education 30

European Union and International Students European and international students will replace one of the above units (the least relevant to their intended degree subject) with:

Core Units


443Z0005 9 None English for Academic Study 30

Successful completion of the Faculty Foundation Year entitles access to BSc (Hons) Biology.


BSc (Hons) Animal Behaviour Level 4

Core Units


6F4Z1101 1 None Biodiversity Monitoring 15

6F4Z1102 9 None Comparative Anatomy and Physiology 15

6F4Z1103 1 None Diversity 15

6F4Z1104 9 None Ecology 15

6F4Z1105 1 None Introduction to Genetics and Evolution 15

6F4Z1106 9 None How Science Works 15

6F4Z1109 9 None Principles of Animal Behaviour 15

6F4Z1110 1 None Applied Animal Behaviour 15

On successful completion of Level 4 – interim exit award: CertHE Biology Level 5

Core Units


6F5Z1101 9 6F4Z1106 Professional Skills for Biologists 15

6F5Z1102 9 6F4Z1109 Animal Health and Welfare 15

6F5Z1106 9 6F4Z1105 or 6F4Z1109

Brain and Behaviour 15

6F5Z1115 9 6F4Z1102 or 6F4Z1109

Sex and Survival 15

6F5Z1116 1 6F4Z1102 or 6F4Z1105

Species Interactions 15

Option Units Choose three units from the options listed below

6F5Z1107 9 6F4Z1103 or 6F4Z1104 or 6F4Z1105

Conservation Biology 15

6F5Z1108 1 6F4Z1103 or 6F4Z1104

Conservation Science in Practice 15

6F5Z1109 1 6F4Z1101 or 6F4Z1104 or 6F4Z1106

Field Course 15

6F5Z1117 1 6F4Z1109 Wildlife Rehabilitation and Release 15

6F5Z3117 1 6F4Z1106 Professional Practice 15

Students will normally take 60 credits in term 1 and 60 credits in term 2. On successful completion of Levels 4 and 5 – interim exit award: DipHE Animal Behaviour


Level 6

Core Units


6F6Z1121 9 6F5Z1101 Project in Animal Behaviour 30

6F6Z1120 9 ? Animal Behaviour and Conservation 15

6F6Z1112 1 6F5Z1106 or 6F5Z1115 or 6F5Z1116

Movement Physiology and Ecology 15

6F6Z1115 1 6F5Z1106 or 6F5Z1115 or 6F5Z1116

The Social Life of Animals 15

Option Units Choose three units from the options listed below 6F6Z1102 9 6F5Z1107 or

6F5Z1108 or 6F5Z1116

Biological Responses to Environmental Change 15

6F6Z1116 1 6F5Z1107 or 6F5Z1108

Tropical Ecology and Conservation 15

6F6Z1117 9 6F5Z1107 or 6F5Z1108 or 6F5Z1109

Tropical Field Course 15

6F6Z1118 9 6F5Z1116 Vertebrate Evolution 15

6F6Z1119 9 6F5Z1102 or 6F5Z1107 or 6F5Z1108 or 6F5Z1109 or 6F5Z1117

Wildlife Ecology and Behaviour 15

6F6Z3118 1 6F5Z1101 or 6F5Z3117

The Undergraduate Consultancy 15

Students will normally take 60 credits in term 1 and 60 credits in term 2 and subject to having studied the pre-requisite unit. On successful completion of Level 6 – Final award: BSc (Hons) Animal Behaviour

BSc (Hons) Biology Level 4

Core Units









6F4Z1107 9 None Biomolecules and Cells 15

6F4Z1108 1 None Fundamental Microbiology 15


Core Units



Option Units Choose seven units from the options listed below 6F5Z1103 1 6F4Z1105 or

6F4Z1107 or 6F4Z1108

Applied Molecular Biology 15

6F5Z1104 9 6F4Z1107 Biochemistry 15

6F5Z1105 1 6F4Z1107 or 6F4Z1108

Biotechnology 15

6F5Z1106 9 6F4Z1105 or 6F4Z1107


6F5Z1107 9 6F4Z1103 or 6F4Z1104 or 6F4Z1105 or 6F4Z1106 or


6F5Z1108 1 6F4Z1103 or 6F4Z1104 or 6F4Z1105 or 6F4Z1106


6F5Z1109 1 6F4Z1101 or 6F4Z1104 or 6F4Z1106 or

Field Course 15

6F5Z1113 9 6F4Z1107 or 6F4Z1108

Microbiology 15

6F5Z1114 1 6F4Z1104 or 6F4Z1105 or 6F4Z1108

Plant and Soil Ecology 15

6F5Z1115 9 6F4Z1102 Sex and Survival 15

6F5Z1116 1 6F4Z1102 or 6F4Z1105


6F5Z3117 9, 1 6F4Z1106 Professional Practice 15

Students will normally take 60 credits in term 1 and 60 credits in term 2. On successful completion of Levels 4 and 5 – interim exit award: DipHE Biology. Level 6


Core Units


6F6Z1122 9 6F5Z1101 Project in Biology 30

Option Units Choose six units from the options listed below 6F6Z1102 9 6F5Z1107 or

6F5Z1108 or 6F5Z1114 or 6F5Z1116


6F6Z1103 9 6F5Z1114 or 6F5Z1116

Coastal Ecology and Ecosystem Services 15

6F6Z1104 1 6F5Z1103 Conservation and Genetics of Populations 15

6F6Z1105 1 6F5Z1113 or 6F5Z1114

Environmental Microbiology 15

6F6Z1108 9 6F5Z1104 or 6F5Z1105

Frontiers in Biotechnology 15

6F6Z1109 9 6F5Z1103 Genetic Data and Analysis 15

6F6Z1120 9 6F6Z1120 Animal Behaviour and Conservation 15

6F6Z1111 1 6F5Z1114 Impacts of Global Change on Ecosystems 15

6F6Z1112 1 6F5Z1106 Movement Physiology and Ecology 15

6F6Z1114 1 6F5Z1108 Temperate Conservation and Habitat Management

15

6F6Z1115 1 6F5Z1106 or 6F5Z1115 or 6F5Z1116


6F6Z1116 1 6F5Z1114 Tropical Ecology and Conservation 15

6F6Z1117 9 6F5Z1107 or 6F5Z1108 or 6F5Z1109




6F6Z3118 9, 1 6F5Z3117 or 6F5Z1101


Students will normally take 60 credits in term 1 and 60 credits in term 2 and subject to having studied the pre-requisite unit. On successful completion of Level 6 – Final award: BSc (Hons) Biology MBiol (Hons) Biology Level 4

Core Units












Core Units



Option Units Choose seven units from the options listed below 6F5Z1103 1 6F4Z1105 or

6F4Z1107 or 6F4Z1108



6F5Z1105 1 6F4Z1107 or 6F4Z1108

Biotechnology 15

6F5Z1106 9 6F4Z1105 or 6F4Z1107


6F5Z1107 9 6F4Z1103 or 6F4Z1104 or 6F4Z1105 or 6F4Z1106 or




6F5Z1109 1 6F4Z1101 or 6F4Z1104 or 6F4Z1106 or

Field Course 15

6F5Z1113 9 6F4Z1107 or 6F4Z1108

Microbiology 15

6F5Z1114 1 6F4Z1104 or 6F4Z1105 or 6F4Z1108



6F5Z1116 1 6F4Z1102 or 6F4Z1105


6F5Z3117 9, 1 6F4Z1106 Professional Practice 15


Students will normally take 60 credits in term 1 and 60 credits in term 2. On successful completion of Levels 4 and 5 – interim exit award: DipHE Biology Level 6

Core Units


6F6Z1122 9 6F5Z1101 Project in Biology 30

Option Units Choose six units from the options listed below 6F6Z1102 9 6F5Z1107 or

6F5Z1108 or 6F5Z1114 or 6F5Z1116


6F6Z1103 9 6F5Z1114 or 6F5Z1116



6F6Z1105 1 6F5Z1113 or 6F5Z1114


6F6Z1108 9 6F5Z1104 or 6F5Z1105



6F6Z1120 9 6F6Z1120 Animal Behaviour and Conservation 15

6F6Z1111 1 6F5Z1114 Impacts of Global Change on Ecosystems 15


6F6Z1114 1 6F5Z1108 Temperate Conservation and Habitat Management

15

6F6Z1115 1 6F5Z1106 or 6F5Z1115 or 6F5Z1116


6F6Z1116 1 6F5Z1114 Tropical Ecology and Conservation 15

6F6Z1117 9 6F5Z1107 or 6F5Z1108 or 6F5Z1109




6F6Z3118 9, 1 6F5Z3117 or 6F5Z1101


Students will normally take 60 credits in term 1 and 60 credits in term 2 and subject to having studied the pre-requisite unit. On successful completion of Level 6 – interim exit award: BSc (Hons) Biology Level 7


Core Units


6F7Z1102 9 6F6Z1101B Integrated Masters Project 60

6F7Z1103B 9 6F6Z1101B Statistics and Research Design (Biology) 30

Option Units Choose one unit from the options listed below 6F7Z1016 9 6F6Z1101B Genetics of Populations 30

6F7Z1019 9 6F6Z1101B Behavioural Biology 30

6F7Z1015 9 6F6Z1101B Species Conservation 30

6F7Z1018 1 6F6Z1101B Avian Biology and Conservation 30

6F7Z1101 9 6F6Z1104 or 6F6Z1109 or 6F6Z1105

Current Topics in Molecular Biology and Microbiology

30

On successful completion of Level 7 – final exit award: MBiol (Hons) Biology BSc (Hons) Microbiology and Molecular Biology Level 4

Core Units











Core Units



6F5Z1103 1 6F4Z1105 or 6F4Z1107



6F5Z1105 1 6F4Z1107 or 6F4Z1108

Biotechnology 15

6F5Z1110 9 6F4Z1105 or Forensic DNA Profiling 15


6F4Z1107

6F5Z1113 9 6F4Z1107 or 6F4Z1108

Microbiology 15

6F5Z1114 1 6F4Z1104 or 6F4Z1105 or 6F4Z1108


Option Units Choose one unit from options listed below 6F5Z1111 1 6F4Z1104 or

6F4Z1105 Invertebrate Biology 15

6F5Z1116 1 6F4Z1102 or 6F4Z1105



Students will normally take 60 credits in term 1 and 60 credits in term 2. On successful completion of Levels 4 and 5 – interim exit award: DipHE Microbiology and Molecular Biology Level 6

Core Units


6F6Z1123 9 6F5Z1101 Project in Microbiology and Molecular Biology 30


6F6Z1105 1 6F5Z1113 or 6F5Z1114


6F6Z1106 1 6F5Z1103 or 6F5Z1110

Forensic Genetics 15

6F6Z1108 9 6F5Z1104 or 6F5Z1105


6F6Z1109 9 6F5Z1103 or Genetic Data and Analysis 15

Option Units Choose one unit from options listed below 6F6Z1103 9 6F5Z1103 or

6F5Z1113 or 6F5Z1114 or 6F5Z1116


6F6Z3118 9 6F5Z3117 or 6F5Z1101


Students will normally take 60 credits in term 1 and 60 credits in term 2 and subject to having studied the pre-requisite unit. On successful completion of Level 6 – Final award: BSc (Hons) Microbiology and Molecular Biology

BSc (Hons) Wildlife Biology


Level 4

Core Units









6F4Z3112 1 None GIS Essentials for Environmental Science and Ecology

15


Core Units







6F5Z1111 1 6F4Z1104 or 6F4Z1105

Invertebrate Biology 15

6F5Z1112 9 6F4Z1103 or 6F4Z1104 or 6F4Z3112

Landscape Ecology 15

Option Units Choose three units from options listed below 6F5Z1102 9 6F4Z1109 Animal Health and Welfare 15

6F5Z1103 1 6F4Z1105 Applied Molecular Biology 15

6F5Z1106 9 6F4Z1105 or 6F4Z1109


6F5Z1109 1 6F4Z1101 or 6F4Z1104 or 6F4Z1106

Field Course 15


6F5Z1116 1 6F4Z1102 or 6F4Z1105




Students will normally take 60 credits in term 1 and 60 credits in term 2. On successful completion of Levels 4 and 5 – interim exit award: DipHE Wildlife Biology Level 6

Core Units


6F6Z1124 9 6F5Z1101 Project in Wildlife Biology 30



6F6Z1116 1 6F5Z1107 or 6F5Z1108

Tropical Ecology and Conservation 15



Option Units Choose three units from options listed below 6F6Z1103 9 6F5Z1107 or

6F5Z1116 Coastal Ecology and Ecosystem Services 15


6F6Z1114 1 6F5Z1108 or 6F5Z1112

Temperate Conservation and Habitat Management

15

6F6Z1115 1 6F5Z1106 or 6F5Z1115 or 6F5Z1116





6F6Z3118 1 6F5Z3117 or 6F5Z1101


Students will normally take 60 credits in term 1 and 60 credits in term 2 and subject to having studied the pre-requisite unit. On successful completion of Level 6 – Final award: BSc (Hons) Wildlife Biology

BSc (Hons) Zoology Level 4


Core Units











Core Units




6F5Z1106 9 6F4Z1105 6F5Z1109


6F5Z1109 1 6F4Z1101 6F4Z1104 6F4Z1106

Field Course 15

6F5Z1111 1 6F4Z1104 6F4Z1105


6F5Z1116 1 6F5Z1102 6F4Z1105


Option Units Choose two units from options listed below 6F5Z1102 9 6F5Z1109 Animal Health and Welfare 15


6F5Z1107 9 6F4Z1103 6F4Z1104 6F4Z1105 6F4Z1106


6F5Z1110 9 6F4Z1105 6F4Z1107

Forensic DNA Profiling 15

6F5Z1115 9 6F5Z1102 6F5Z1109

Sex and Survival 15


Students will normally take 60 credits in term 1 and 60 credits in term 2.

On successful completion of Levels 4 and 5 – interim exit award: DipHE Zoology


Level 6

Core Units


6F6Z1125 9 6F5Z1101 Project in Zoology 30





Option Units Choose two units from options listed below 6F6Z1102 9 6F5Z1107

6F5Z1116 Biological Responses to Environmental Change 15

6F6Z1103 9 6F5Z1107 6F5Z1116


6F6Z1106 1 6F5Z1103 6F5Z1104 6F5Z1110


6F6Z1115 1 6F5Z1106 6F5Z1115 6F5Z1116


6F6Z1117 9 6F5Z1107 6F5Z1109 6F5Z1111


6F6Z1119 9 6F5Z1102 6F5Z1106 6F5Z1107 6F5Z1109 6F5Z1115 6F5Z1116


6F6Z3118 1 6F5Z1101 6F5Z3117


Students will normally take 60 credits in term 1 and 60 credits in term 2 and subject to having studied the pre-requisite unit. On successful completion of Level 6 – Final award: BSc (Hons) Zoology MBiol (Hons) Zoology Level 4

Core Units












Core Units




6F5Z1106 9 6F4Z1105 6F5Z1109


6F5Z1109 1 6F4Z1101 6F4Z1104 6F4Z1106

Field Course 15

6F5Z1111 1 6F4Z1104 6F4Z1105


6F5Z1116 1 6F5Z1102 6F4Z1105


Option Units Choose two units from options listed below 6F5Z1102 9 6F5Z1109 Animal Health and Welfare 15


6F5Z1107 9 6F4Z1103 6F4Z1104 6F4Z1105 6F4Z1106


6F5Z1110 9 6F4Z1105 6F4Z1107

Forensic DNA Profiling 15

6F5Z1115 9 6F5Z1102 6F5Z1109

Sex and Survival 15


Students will normally take 60 credits in term 1 and 60 credits in term 2.

On successful completion of Levels 4 and 5 – interim exit award: DipHE Zoology Level 6

Core Units



6F6Z1125 9 6F5Z1101 Project in Zoology 30





Option Units Choose two units from options listed below 6F6Z1102 9 6F5Z1107

6F5Z1116 Biological Responses to Environmental Change 15

6F6Z1103 9 6F5Z1107 6F5Z1116


6F6Z1106 1 6F5Z1103 6F5Z1104 6F5Z1110


6F6Z1115 1 6F5Z1106 6F5Z1115 6F5Z1116


6F6Z1117 9 6F5Z1107 6F5Z1109 6F5Z1111


6F6Z1119 9 6F5Z1102 6F5Z1106 6F5Z1107 6F5Z1109 6F5Z1115 6F5Z1116


6F6Z3118 1 6F5Z1101 6F5Z3117


Students will normally take 60 credits in term 1 and 60 credits in term 2 and subject to having studied the pre-requisite unit. On successful completion of Level 6 – interim award: BSc (Hons) Zoology Level 7

Core Units


6F7Z1102 9 6F6Z1101Z Integrated Masters Project 60

6F7Z1103Z 9 6F6Z1101Z Statistics and Research Design (Zoology) 30

Option Units Choose one unit from the options listed below 6F7Z1016 9 6F6Z1101Z Genetics of Populations 30

6F7Z1019 9 6F6Z1101Z Behavioural Biology 30

6F7Z1015 9 6F6Z1101Z Species Conservation 30

6F7Z1018 1 6F6Z1101Z Avian Biology and Conservation 30

6F7Z1101 9 6F6Z1104 or 6F6Z1106 or 6F6Z1109

Current Topics in Molecular Biology and Microbiology

30


On successful completion of Level 7 – final exit award: MBiol (Hons) Zoology European Union and International Students European and international students may replace the above units with:

Core Units


6F6Z2017 9, 1 None NEGOTIATED STUDY 1 (INBOUND STUDENT MOBILITY)

15


15


15


15

Curriculum Map For all levels: x = core, o = option. The table includes units shared with the BSc (Hons) Environmental Science Programme. Units offered by that programme and the geography programmes to biological sciences are in italics. B – Biology, MMB – Microbiology and Molecular Biology, AB – Animal Behaviour, WB – Wildlife Biology, Z - Zoology.


UNIT CODE UNIT TITLE B MMB AB WB Z ESC

6F4Z1101 Biodiversity Monitoring x x x x x

6F4Z1102 Comparative Anatomy and Physiology x x x x x

6F4Z1103 Diversity x x x x x

6F4Z1104 Ecology x x x x x

6F4Z1105 Introduction to Genetics and Evolution x x x x x

6F4Z1106 How Science Works x x x x x

6F4Z1107 Biomolecules and Cells x x x

6F4Z1108 Fundamental Microbiology x x

6F4Z1109 Principles of Animal Behaviour x x x

6F4Z1110 Applied Animal Behaviour x

6F4Z3112 GIS Essentials for Environmental Science and Ecology x x

6F5Z1101 Professional Skills for Biologists x x x x x

6F5Z1102 Animal Health and Welfare x o o

6F5Z1103 Applied Molecular Biology o x o x

6F5Z1104 Biochemistry o x o

6F5Z1105 Biotechnology o x

6F5Z1106 Brain and Behaviour o x o x

6F5Z1107 Conservation Biology o o x o

6F5Z1108 Conservation Science in Practice o o x

6F5Z1109 Field Course o o o x

6F5Z1110 Forensic DNA Profiling x o

6F5Z1111 Invertebrate Biology o x x

6F5Z1112 Landscape Ecology x o

6F5Z1113 Microbiology o x

6F5Z1114 Plant and Soil Ecology o x o

6F5Z1115 Sex and Survival o x o o

6F5Z1116 Species Interactions o o x o x

6F5Z1117 Wildlife Rehabilitation and Release o

6F5Z3117 Professional Practice o o o o o o


UNIT CODE UNIT TITLE B MMB AB WB Z ESC

6F6Z1122 Project in Biology x

6F6Z1123 Project in Microbiology and Molecular Biology x

6F6Z1121 Project in Animal Behaviour x

6F6Z1124 Project in Wildlife Biology x

6F6Z1125 Project in Zoology x

6F6Z1102 Biological Responses to Environmental Change o o x o

6F6Z1103 Coastal Ecology and Ecosystem Services o o o o o

6F6Z1104 Conservation and Genetics of Populations o x o x

6F6Z1105 Environmental Microbiology o x

6F6Z1106 Forensic Genetics x o

6F6Z1108 Frontiers in Biotechnology o x

6F6Z1109 Genetic Data and Analysis o x x

6F6Z1120 Animal Behaviour and Conservation

6F6Z1111 Impacts of Global Change on Ecosystems o o

6F6Z1112 Movement Physiology and Ecology o x x

6F6Z1114 Temperate Conservation and Habitat Management o o o

6F6Z1115 The Social Life of Animals o x o o

6F6Z1116 Tropical Ecology and Conservation o x

6F6Z1117 Tropical Field Course o o o o o

6F6Z1118 Vertebrate Evolution o o x

6F6Z1119 Wildlife Ecology and Behaviour o o x o

6F6Z3118 The Undergraduate Consultancy o o o o o o

Distinctiveness of Programmes in the Biological Sciences Provision: As specified by our Curriculum Framework for Undergraduate Programmes of Study, the following statements highlight the curriculum distinctiveness between all degrees as proposed in this programme specification. BSc (Hons) Animal Behaviour: At L5 the core 15 credit unit Animal Health and Welfare is not available to BSc (Hons) Biology. At Level 6 distinctiveness is provided by a 15 credit unit (Vertebrate Evolution) core for BSc (Hons) Animal Behaviour and not available to BSc (Hons) Biology. Therefore, there are a total of 30 credits at L5 and L6 plus the L6 30 credit Project in Animal Behaviour, overall giving 60 credits distinctiveness. Distinctiveness between BSc (Hons) Animal Behaviour and BSc (Hons) Wildlife Biology is provided by 30 credits at L5 (Landscape Ecology and Invertebrate Biology) core for BSc (Hons) Wildlife Biology but not available to BSc (Hons) Animal Behaviour. At L6 there are 30 credits (Animal Behaviour and Conservation and Movement Physiology and Ecology) core for BSc (Hons) Animal Behaviour and not available to BSc (Hons) Wildlife Biology plus the L6 30 credit project in Animal Behaviour, overall giving 90 credits distinctiveness. Distinctiveness between BSc (Hons) Animal Behaviour and BSc (Hons) Zoology is provided by 30 credits at L5 (Applied Molecular Biology and Invertebrate Biology) core for BSc (Hons) Zoology not available to BSc (Hons) Animal Behaviour. At L6 there are also 30 credits (Conservation and the Genetics of Populations and Genetic Data and Analysis) core for BSc (Hons) Zoology and not available to BSc (Hons) Animal Behaviour, plus project in Animal Behaviour overall giving 90 credits distinctiveness. BSc (Hons) Microbiology and Molecular Biology is very distinct from BSc (Hons) Animal Behaviour, BSc (Hons) Wildlife Biology and BSc (Hons) Zoology. For all these courses, there is a minimum of 45 credits difference at L5 and 30 credits difference at L6, giving an minimum of 75 credits distinctiveness. In


addition, the core 15 credit L5 unit Forensic DNA Profiling is not available to BSc (Hons) Biology neither is the L6 core 15 credit unit Forensic Genetics. Therefore, there is a total of 30 credits at L5 and L6 plus the L6 30 credit Project in Microbiology and Molecular Biology, giving 60 credits distinctiveness. BSc (Hons) Wildlife Biology: Distinctiveness between BSc (Wildlife Biology and BSc (Hons) Zoology is provided by 30 credits at L5 (Conservation Science in Practice and Landscape Ecology), these are core for BSc (Hons) Wildlife Biology and not available to BSc (Hons) Zoology. At L6 there are at least 15 credits (Tropical Ecology and Conservation) that are core for BSc (Hons) Wildlife Biology and not available to BSc (Hons) Zoology, conversely there are 15 credits (Movement Physiology and Ecology) that are core for BSc (Hons) Zoology and not available to BSc (Hons) Wildlife Biology, giving at least 60 credits distinctiveness. Distinctiveness between BSc (Hons) Wildlife Biology and BSc (Hons) Biology is provided by 30 credits of taught units at L5 (Landscape Ecology and Invertebrate Biology) core for BSc (Hons) Wildlife Biology and not available to BSc (Hons) Biology. At Level 6 the 30 credit project in Wildlife Biology overall gives 60 credits distinctiveness. BSc (Hons) Zoology: Distinctiveness between BSc (Hons) Zoology and BSc (Hons) Biology is provided by 15 credits at L5 (Invertebrate Biology) core for BSc (Hons) Zoology and not available to BSc (Hons) Biology. At L6 distinctiveness is provided by 15 credits (Vertebrate Evolution) core for BSc (Hons) Zoology and not available to BSc (Hons) Biology and the 30 credit project in Zoology, overall giving 60 credits of distinctiveness. Distinctiveness between BSc (Hons) Biology and specialist programmes: BSc (Hons) Biology is distinct from specialist programmes with at least 60 credits distinct to its curriculum across Levels 5 and 6, of which at least 30 are at Level 6 as follows: BSc (Hons) Biology is distinct from BSc (Hons) Animal Behaviour because core BSc (Hons) Animal Behaviour units Animal Health and Welfare, Vertebrate Evolution and Project in Animal Behaviour are not available to BSc (Hons) Biology. BSc (Hons) Biology is distinct from BSc (Hons) Microbiology and Molecular Biology because core BSc (Hons) Microbiology and Molecular Biology units Forensic DNA profiling, Forensic Genetics and Project in Microbiology and Molecular Biology are not available to BSc (Hons) Biology. BSc (Hons) Biology is distinct from BSc (Hons) Wildlife Biology because core BSc (Hons) Wildlife Biology units Landscape Ecology, Invertebrate Biology and Project in Wildlife Biology are not available to BSc (Hons) Biology. BSc (Hons) Biology is distinct from BSc (Hons) Zoology because core BSc (Hons) Zoology units Invertebrate Biology, Vertebrate Evolution and Project in Zoology are not available to BSc (Hons) Biology. Specialisms within units: In addition to the distinctions identified above, a number of units will require students to undertake case studies/projects/assessments directly linked to their specialism e.g. Professional Practice (6F5Z3117) and The Undergraduate Consultancy (6F6Z3118), and Tropical Field Course (6F6Z1117). Some units have more than one possible pre-requisite in order to allow students taking different routes to progress on to a unit relevant to their route. In all cases successful completion of any one of the pre-


requisites would enable the student to progress to the listed unit/s at the next level. The listing of pre-requisite links for each of the three geography titles is presented on the following tables: BSc (Hons) Biology

Level 4 Pre-requisite Level 5 Units Pre-requisite for the Level 6 Units

6F4Z1106 How Science Works 6F5Z1101 Professional Skills for Biologists

6F6Z1122 Project in Biology 6F6Z3118 The Undergraduate Consultancy

6F4Z1105 Introduction to Genetics and Evolution 6F4Z1107 Biomolecules and Cells

6F5Z1103 Applied Molecular Biology

6F6Z1104 Conservation and Genetics of Populations 6F6Z1109 Genetic Data and Analysis

6F4Z1107 Biomolecules and Cells 6F5Z1104 Biochemistry 6F6Z1108 Frontiers in Biotechnology

6F4Z1108 Fundamental Microbiology 6F4Z1107 Biomolecules and Cells

6F5Z1105 Biotechnology 6F6Z1108 Frontiers in Biotechnology


6F5Z1106 Brain and Behaviour 6F6Z1112 Movement Physiology and Ecology 6F6Z1115 The Social Life of Animals 6F6Z1120 Animal Behaviour and Conservation

6F4Z1104 Ecology 6F4Z1103 Diversity 6F4Z1105 Introduction to Genetics and Evolution 6F4Z1106 How Science Works

6F5Z1107 Conservation Biology 6F6Z1102 Biological Responses to Environmental Change 6F6Z1117 Tropical Field Course 6F6Z1119 Wildlife Ecology and Behaviour


6F5Z1108 Conservation Science in Practice

6F6Z1102 Biological Responses to Environmental Change 6F6Z1117 Tropical Field Course 6F6Z1114 Temperate Conservation and Habitat Management

6F4Z1101 Biodiversity Monitoring 6F4Z1106 How Science Works 6F4Z1104 Ecology

6F5Z1109 Field Course 6F6Z1117 Tropical Field Course 6F6Z1119 Wildlife Ecology and Behaviour


6F5Z1113 Microbiology 6F6Z1105 Environmental Microbiology

6F4Z1104 Ecology 6F4Z1105 Introduction to Genetics and Evolution 6F4Z1108 Fundamental Microbiology

6F5Z1114 Plant and Soil Ecology 6F6Z1105 Environmental Microbiology 6F6Z1102 Biological Responses to Environmental Change 6F6Z1111 Impacts of Global Change on Ecosystems 6F6Z1116 Tropical Ecology and Conservation 6F6Z1103 Coastal Ecology and Ecosystem Services

6F4Z1102 Comparative Anatomy and Physiology

6F5Z1115 Sex and Survival 6F6Z1115 The Social Life of Animals 6F6Z1119 Wildlife Ecology and Behaviour 6F6Z1120 Animal Behaviour and Conservation

6F4Z1102 Comparative Anatomy and Physiology 6F4Z1105 Introduction to Genetics and Evolution

6F5Z1116 Species Interactions 6F6Z1115 The Social Life of Animals 6F6Z1119 Wildlife Ecology and Behaviour 6F6Z1102 Biological Responses to Environmental Change 6F6Z1103 Coastal Ecology and Ecosystem Services

6F4Z1106 How Science Works 6F5Z3117 Professional Practice 6F6Z3118 The Undergraduate Consultancy


BSc (Hons) Microbiology and Molecular Biology



6F6Z1123 Project in Microbiology and Molecular Biology 6F6Z3118 The Undergraduate Consultancy



6F6Z1104 Conservation and Genetics of Populations 6F6Z1106 Forensic Genetics 6F6Z1109 Genetic Data and Analysis 6F6Z1103 Coastal Ecology and Ecosystem Services

6F4Z1107 Biomolecules and Cells 6F5Z1104 Biochemistry 6F6Z1108 Frontiers in Biotechnology


6F5Z1105 Biotechnology 6F6Z1108 Frontiers in Biotechnology


6F5Z1110 Forensic DNA Profiling 6F6Z1106 Forensic Genetics


6F5Z1113 Microbiology 6F6Z1105 Environmental Microbiology 6F6Z1103 Coastal Ecology and Ecosystem Services

6F4Z1104 Ecology 6F4Z1105 Introduction to Genetics and Evolution 6F4Z1108 Fundamental Microbiology

6F5Z1114 Plant and Soil Ecology 6F6Z1105 Environmental Microbiology 6F6Z1103 Coastal Ecology and Ecosystem Services

6F4Z1105 Introduction to Genetics and Evolution 6F4Z1104 Ecology

6F5Z1111 Invertebrate Biology


6F5Z1116 Species Interactions 6F6Z1103 Coastal Ecology and Ecosystem Services


BSc (Hons) Animal Behaviour



6F6Z1121 Project in Animal Behaviour 6F6Z3118 The Undergraduate Consultancy

6F4Z1109 Principles of Animal Behaviour

6F5Z1102 Animal Health and Welfare

6F6Z1119 Wildlife Ecology and Behaviour

6F4Z1105 Introduction to Genetics and Evolution 6F4Z1109 Principles of Animal Behaviour

6F5Z1106 Brain and Behaviour 6F6Z1112 Movement Physiology and Ecology 6F6Z1115 The Social Life of Animals 6F6Z1120 Animal Behaviour and Conservation

6F4Z1104 Ecology 6F4Z1103 Diversity 6F4Z1105 Introduction to Genetics and Evolution

6F5Z1107 Conservation Biology 6F6Z1102 Biological Responses to Environmental Change 6F6Z1117 Tropical Field Course 6F6Z1119 Wildlife Ecology and Behaviour 6F6Z1116 Tropical Ecology and Conservation

6F4Z1104 Ecology 6F4Z1103 Diversity


6F6Z1102 Biological Responses to Environmental Change 6F6Z1119 Wildlife Ecology and Behaviour


6F6Z1117 Tropical Field Course 6F6Z1116 Tropical Ecology and Conservation



6F4Z1102 Comparative Anatomy and Physiology 6F4Z1109 Principles of Animal Behaviour

6F5Z1115 Sex and Survival 6F6Z1115 The Social Life of Animals 6F6Z1120 Animal Behaviour and Conservation 6F6Z1112 Movement Physiology and Ecology


6F5Z1116 Species Interactions 6F6Z1115 The Social Life of Animals 6F6Z1102 Biological Responses to Environmental Change 6F6Z1112 Movement Physiology and Ecology 6F6Z1118 Vertebrate Evolution

6F4Z1109 Principles of Animal Behaviour 6F4Z1110 Applied Animal Behaviour

6F5Z1117 Wildlife Rehabilitation and Release



BSc (Hons) Wildlife Biology



6F6Z1124 Project in Wildlife Biology 6F6Z3118 The Undergraduate Consultancy




6F4Z1105 Introduction to Genetics and Evolution


6F6Z1104 Conservation and Genetics of Populations


6F5Z1106 Brain and Behaviour 6F6Z1115 The Social Life of Animals


6F5Z1107 Conservation Biology 6F6Z1102 Biological Responses to Environmental Change 6F6Z1116 Tropical Ecology and Conservation 6F6Z1117 Tropical Field Course 6F6Z1103 Coastal Ecology and Ecosystem Services 6F6Z1119 Wildlife Ecology and Behaviour



6F6Z1102 Biological Responses to Environmental Change 6F6Z1116 Tropical Ecology and Conservation 6F6Z1117 Tropical Field Course 6F6Z1114 Temperate Conservation and Habitat Management



6F4Z1104 Ecology 6F4Z1105 Introduction to Genetics and Evolution

6F5Z1111 Invertebrate Biology 6F6Z1117 Tropical Field Course

6F4Z1104 Ecology 6F4Z1103 Diversity 6F4Z31112 GIS Essentials for Environmental Science and Ecology

6F5Z1112 Landscape Ecology 6F6Z1102 Biological Responses to Environmental Change 6F6Z1114 Temperate Conservation and Habitat Management



6F5Z1115 Sex and Survival 6F6Z1115 The Social Life of Animals


6F5Z1116 Species Interactions 6F6Z1115 The Social Life of Animals 6F6Z1119 Wildlife Ecology and Behaviour 6F6Z1102 Biological Responses to Environmental Change 6F6Z1103 Coastal Ecology and Ecosystem Services 6F6Z1118 Vertebrate Evolution


BSc (Hons) Zoology



6F6Z1125 Project in Zoology 6F6Z3118 The Undergraduate Consultancy




6F4Z1105 Introduction to Genetics and Evolution


6F6Z1104 Conservation and Genetics of Populations 6F6Z1109 Genetic Data and Analysis 6F6Z1106 Forensic Genetics

6F4Z1107 Biomolecules and Cells 6F5Z1104 Biochemistry 6F6Z1106 Forensic Genetics


6F5Z1106 Brain and Behaviour 6F6Z1112 Movement Physiology and Ecology 6F6Z1115 The Social Life of Animals 6F6Z1119 Wildlife Ecology and Behaviour


6F5Z1107 Conservation Biology 6F6Z1102 Biological Responses to Environmental Change 6F6Z1117 Tropical Field Course 6F6Z1119 Wildlife Ecology and Behaviour 6F6Z1103 Coastal Ecology and Ecosystem Services




6F5Z1110 Forensic DNA Profiling 6F6Z1106 Forensic Genetics

6F4Z1104 Ecology 6F4Z1105 Introduction to Genetics and Evolution

6F5Z1111 Invertebrate Biology 6F6Z1117 Tropical Field Course


6F5Z1115 Sex and Survival 6F6Z1115 The Social Life of Animals 6F6Z1119 Wildlife Ecology and Behaviour


6F5Z1116 Species Interactions 6F6Z1115 The Social Life of Animals 6F6Z1119 Wildlife Ecology and Behaviour 6F6Z1102 Biological Responses to Environmental Change 6F6Z1103 Coastal Ecology and Ecosystem Services 6F6Z1118 Vertebrate Evolution



SECTION D - TEACHING, LEARNING AND ASSESSMENT

29 Articulation of Graduate Prospects

The academic team uses data from a range of sources to determine the current and possible future career prospects of our graduates. These sources include local information from graduates, alumni data, the Careers and Employability Service, Uniview and the Higher Education Statistics Agency’s (HESA) Destination of Leavers in Higher Education (DLHE) data. The information is used in the development of curriculum content and teaching, learning and assessment strategies. This has led, for example, to the development of a cross-School industrial placement provision and the broadened opportunity to study abroad. The programmes herein recognise that graduates require personal and intellectual skills that are required of non-specifically allied professions. Considerable weight is placed upon the development of transferable and employability skills in order to increase graduate employment prospects. These skills include analysis and problem solving, decision-making, critical interpretation, reasoning, numerical skills, team-working, project planning and management, presentation and information technology and communication skills that can be applied to non-subject-specific career pathways such as in local government, teaching, law, journalism, business and finance. 90%* of biological sciences graduates go straight into employment and/or further study. Biological sciences graduates may go on to a variety of subject-specific careers in the biological, pharmaceutical and agrochemical industries, in medical, public health and environmental services or in teaching or research. Recent graduates have found employment across a wide range of sectors including industrial research laboratories, medical communications, pharmaceutical companies, environmental consultancies and nature conservation organisations.

A growing number of Biology graduates are pursuing an MSc qualification. This reflects a national trend due to a measured increase in the employment rate for Masters graduates and the fact that 87% of MSc graduates obtain professional-level employment compared to 68% for their non-Masters counterparts (Times Higher Education, February 2016). All School students are provided with details of MSc courses at Manchester Met in their subject area via targeted careers fairs, online announcements and course leaflets. The University publishes alumni discounts annually.

*Source: DLHE survey 2014 for all respondents available for employment or further study and whose destinations are known.

30 Curriculum Design

Curriculum design is informed by staff research and enterprise activities in their subject specialism and by innovations in academic practice within established School and University staff development frameworks and aims to produce graduates competent in a range of knowledge, understanding, experience and skills appropriate to their subject discipline. The curriculum is designed to provide a cycle of preparation, learning, assessment and feedback. For example, in the week-by-week teaching timetable, classes are specifically highlighted and set aside for formal feedback on assessed work. Feedback on summative assessment is normally


provided within four working weeks. Formative assessment is a significant contributor to the learning process and is employed in every unit. Feedback on formative work is typically subject to a more rapid turn-around and may involve peer and self-assessment. Submission dates for summative work are staggered where possible to provide early and regular assessment and feedback. Assessment is set according to a schedule indicated in in Moodle™ unit areas to assist students in planning their work and managing their time.

All programmes meet the Manchester Metropolitan University Commitment and the University Strategy for Learning, Teaching and Assessment through an intensive induction programme. Much of this period is given over to activities that provide students with opportunities to make friends, settle in at Manchester Met, develop new skills, be motivated towards new learning and receive feedback on their first formative assessment. During the induction period, all students will meet their personal tutor. This member of staff will be their personal tutor for the duration of their course and the support they provide comprises regular meetings arranged throughout each year of study at which option choices and wider personal development planning (PDP) issues are discussed. One-to-one support at Level 6 is also provided through final year project supervision. All academic staff identify their availability to students via the Student Hub Student Hub (Faculty of Science and Engineering).

Assessment is used to:

Enable students to demonstrate that they have fulfilled the learning outcomes of their studies and have achieved the required standard.

Assess students' achievements as objectively and reliably as possible.

Aid learning by providing opportunities for practice and feedback on student performance. Assessment is integrated into the curriculum and is directly aligned with intended learning outcomes. All summative assessment will be marked in accordance with the University’s marking guidelines. Further details are provided in Section 32 (below). All honours degree students have the opportunity to gain experience of the approach to, practice and evaluation of scientific research (e.g. within a project). This will mainly be in the student’s final year and will draw on the experience gathered during the whole course. In project units, the possible problems associated with the diversity of student experiences are overcome by comprehensive written guidance to students, individual supervision by academics and double marking of summative assessed work. Students taking the 60-credit integrated masters project will be allocated to their supervisor in the previous academic session. In cases where seasonal data collection is required (e.g. during the summer prior to the start of the academic session), appropriate research design and statistics workshop sessions will be provided in the third term of Level 6. Student Mobility Students on the Student Mobility scheme will study the same curriculum as Manchester Met home students. All courses consist of a mixture of 30- and 15-credit units, with the majority delivered as 15 credit units over one term. This has been developed partly to accommodate students studying at Manchester Met for less than a full academic year. OPTION UNITS

http://www.elearning.mmu.ac.uk/

http://www2.mmu.ac.uk/commitment/

http://www.celt.mmu.ac.uk/ltastrategy/index.php


http://www.mmu.ac.uk/students/


Optional units listed in the curriculum structures are all approved for delivery, but may not all run/be available in any one academic session.

31 Learning and Teaching

Within the context of the Manchester Metropolitan University Commitment and the University Strategy for Learning, Teaching and Assessment , the teaching and learning methods employed in these programmes aim to:

Ensure a high quality of educational experience for all students through the provision of high quality learning opportunities.

To offer a structure that is progressive in terms of increasing academic depth and rigour, and enhancing students’ independent learning and personal research.

Provide a range of learning experiences to suit varying learning preferences and curriculum demands, including inter alia: o Lectures o Seminar classes o Small group tutorials o Fieldwork o Laboratory and workshop practicals o Computer classes o Group work o Student presentations o Student-directed discussion o Case studies o One-to-one tutorials o Final year project supervision o The use of external expertise through visiting lecturers and involvement of external

stakeholders in assessment tasks

Deliver a minimum threshold of learning resources on-line to facilitate flexible, independent learning.

Emphasise student-centred learning to develop confident, self-aware students with an enquiring, investigative approach to study.

Support students in the use of learning technologies.

Provide a curriculum that is research-informed and draws directly upon staff research expertise.

Capture and disseminate innovative learning.

Be vigorously proactive in obtaining feedback from students on the quality of their learning and teaching experience.

Ensure that graduates are well prepared for their futures and are in a position to add value to the communities in which they work.

Reflect the learning needs of an increasingly diverse student body. In addition to employability (section 35), the School of Science and the Environment curricula have been designed to embed content related to Education for Sustainable Development (ESD). The definition used for this review was: “Education for sustainable development is the process of equipping students with the knowledge and understanding, skills and attributes needed to work and live in a way that





safeguards environmental, social and economic wellbeing, both in the present and for future generations”. (QAA, 2014) Students are encouraged to develop and articulate an awareness of the environmental, social and community contexts within their discipline. This is achieved through the use of examples throughout the curriculum demonstrating these contexts. The aim is to develop graduates who can live and act sustainably and make informed decisions for the benefit of themselves and society, now and in the future, with an understanding of the limits of the natural resources to sustain life on Earth. ESD skills (such as critical thinking, systems thinking and perspectives of others) and knowledge keywords (such as society, environment, economy and sustainability) have been mapped across all provision in the School. The Biological Sciences programmes’ curricula begin from detailed knowledge and skills at levels four and five, progressing into soft/transferable skills (e.g. systems thinking) and core ESD knowledge towards level six. The curriculum for each programme highlights problem solving and systems thinking skills throughout. Student Mobility Students on the Student Mobility scheme will study the same curriculum as Manchester Met home students.

32 Assessment

Assessment is integrated into the curriculum and is directly aligned with intended learning outcomes. The assessment process complies with the Institutional Code of Practice on Assessment. All summative assessment will be marked in accordance with the University’s marking guidelines, which are set out in the University Assessment Regulations for Undergraduate Programmes of Study.

The assessment strategy is designed to:

Enable students to demonstrate their achievement of the programme learning outcomes in accordance with explicit and transparent assessment criteria.

Promote students’ learning by providing multiple and appropriate opportunities for constructive feedback.

Be capable of being used for diagnostic, formative and summative purposes.

Be valid, reliable and fairly administered. The methods of assessment are very varied across the diverse units that make up the programmes and include, inter alia:

Unseen examinations.

Computer-based assessments (e.g. using statistical software).

Assessment of laboratory skills.

Laboratory reports.

Essays, summaries and reports.

Data interpretation exercises.

Critical analysis of case studies.

Review of scientific papers.

Verbal, poster, audio-visual, or electronic presentations.

Project or dissertation reports.

http://www.mmu.ac.uk/academic/casqe/regulations/docs/assessment_icp.pdf

http://www.mmu.ac.uk/academic/casqe/regulations/docs/assessment_icp.pdf

http://www.mmu.ac.uk/academic/casqe/regulations/assessment/docs/ug-regs.pdf

http://www.mmu.ac.uk/academic/casqe/regulations/assessment/docs/ug-regs.pdf


Assessment may involve:

Group and/or individual work.

Verbal and/or written work.

Tutor-directed and student-directed tasks.

Work completed within time constraints and work completed in self-directed study time.

Paper-based and/or web-based products.

Tutor, self and peer-assessment.

As well as summative assessment, there will be formative components to progress learning towards the final goal and provide a mechanism for students to obtain feedback on interim stages of their work.

In each unit, individual elements of assessment will be introduced with explicit attention to the relevant learning outcomes, their relationship to the level of study and University graduate outcomes. Accompanying each assessment set are the relevant assessment criteria, grade descriptors and any marking scheme. While the criteria for assessment tasks vary with discipline and the nature of the task, common criteria include the ability to: evaluate and synthesise a range of sources; apply wide-ranging knowledge; demonstrate a grasp of concepts; structure logical answers; apply theories to cases; construct a reasoned argument, draw conclusions and communicate these effectively in speech and writing; self-organise work; collect, analyse and interpret data; use laboratory/field/workshop equipment; research independently. Details of the criteria for each assessment task are provided through the assessment cover sheets.

Across the programmes, each 15-credit unit has up to two summative assessments, each 30-credit unit has up to three summative assessments and the 60-credit units may have two or three summative assessments. Where appropriate, the assessments may have a number of linked components e.g. a series of laboratory or workshop exercises. Where there are several components, these will share one or more of: associated learning outcomes, curriculum content, or type of assessment. Multiple components will be submitted for grading and summative assessment at the same time. For each unit, approximately 25% of student effort is allocated to summative assessment. Typically, 25% is allocated to directed study and 50% to student-centred study – but the exact proportion of directed to student-centred effort varies with discipline and activity. Assessment Descriptors for Marking Summative Assessments For Levels 4, 5 and 6, all summative assessment will be marked in accordance with the University’s marking scheme, based on the following grade bands:

Mark Outcome Descriptor

<35 Fail Unit learning outcomes not achieved

35 to 39 Marginal Fail Most learning outcomes achieved at a threshold level

40 to 49 Pass All learning outcomes achieved at threshold level

50 to 59 Pass All learning outcomes achieved exceed threshold level

60 to 69 Pass All learning outcomes achieved at a very good level

70 to 85 Pass All learning outcomes achieved at an excellent level

>85 Pass All learning outcomes achieved at an outstanding level


Programme-Specific Assessment Criteria Integrated masters programmes (MBiol) Although the undergraduate assessment regulations apply to the integrated masters programmes, at Level 7 the unit pass mark is 50% (not 40%). At Level 7, all summative assessment will be marked based on the following grade bands:

Mark Outcome Descriptor

<45 Fail Unit Learning outcomes not achieved

45 to 49 Marginal Fail Most learning outcomes achieved at a threshold level

50 to 59 Pass All learning outcomes achieved at a threshold level

60 to 69 Pass All learning outcomes achieved exceed threshold level

70 to 85 Pass All learning outcomes achieved at an excellent level

>85 Pass All learning outcomes achieved at an outstanding level

In order to progress to the Levels 6 and 7 of the integrated masters awards, students must have achieved a Level 5 average of 60% or greater. Students not achieving this threshold will be transferred to the related BSc (Hons) course. Units bearing practice credit only for sandwich and overseas placement programmes These do not contribute to the year average for the awards that they serve, but must be assessed as satisfactorily complete before the unit can be awarded. The units are:

Sandwich Year (6F6Z3151).

Negotiated Learning Agreement at Overseas University (6F5Z3150). Student Mobility Students following the 15-credit units must be assessed via types of assessment other than formal written examinations. Where students complete their assessment outside the standard timescale for consideration by Board of Examiners, Chair’s Action will be taken to confirm the outcome of their assessment.

33 Inclusive Practice

The School has an inclusive approach to learning, so that all students, including those with a disability, can become part of an integrated learning community within the University. The School of Science and the Environment was one of the first pilot departments in 2013 to embed the ERAC (Embedding Reasonable Adjustments in the Curriculum) Scheme which aims to support the majority of students who have been identified with mild to moderate specific learning difficulties (e.g. dyslexia) without the need for a formal Personal Learning Plan (PLP). The School has a member of academic staff who acts as a Disability Officer and coordinates support to students with disabilities across the Faculty. The Manchester Met Disability Service provides support for students who have disabilities or a health condition. Where appropriate, the Disability Service will produce a PLP describing students’ particular support needs. The PLP is available to the teaching team via the virtual learning environment (VLE), Moodle™, so that the members of staff teaching a student will be aware of their learning and assessment related needs and can be prepared to accommodate them. All programmes comply with Faculty plans, the University Equal and Diversity Policies and Institutional Codes of Practice.

http://www.mmu.ac.uk/sas/studentservices/learner-development/

http://www2.mmu.ac.uk/humanresources/a-z/policies/equality-and-diversity-policy/

http://www.mmu.ac.uk/academic/casqe/regulations/icp.php

http://www.mmu.ac.uk/academic/casqe/regulations/icp.php


The Disability Service assists in making applications for funding for additional support through the Disabled Students’ Allowances and will liaise with other agencies in arranging support. A package of support will normally be arranged to suit each individual student. The Disability Service organises:

A full assessment of study/support needs.

Liaison with relevant funding agencies to secure support.

Support for study needs, for example, through the employment of a non-medical helper,

attendance at study support groups, access to specialist equipment such as a computer and

appropriate software.

The programme conforms to the Manchester Met framework that provides support for students encountering temporary illness or permanent disability through the University support unit and the impartial and fair procedure of Exceptional Factors Affecting Performance . The University Equal and Diversity Policy and anti-discrimination legislation are adhered to so no student is discriminated against in any way.

34 Technology Enhanced Learning

Learning technology is integrated into the curriculum at all levels. The use of subject-specific software and information retrieval systems aims to equip students for a variety of careers in their subject area. Also the extensive use of more generic learning technologies will equip students with a wide variety of transferable skills that can be applied to a number of non-subject-specific career paths.

Students will receive an introduction to various student support services (including the Faculty Student Support Officer), the library, IT provision and use of the University’s VLE, Moodle™. The Library provides information literacy (IL) training via face-to-face sessions, on-line tutorials within Moodle™, the provision of IL content within the University-wide InfoSkills resource and through help sheets and podcast content. Self-sufficiency and effectiveness in locating, evaluating and using good quality research information is an important life skill, therefore Library workshops and factsheets include use of EndNote Web, Manchester Met Harvard Referencing, online identity management and researching commercial companies for applications and interviews. The relevant subject librarian provides additional one-to-one support, on demand, helping students locate information for their research areas. This support is also available to students by phone or e-mail. Use of the University VLE for teaching, learning and assessment is widely used, including:

E-submission of assignments e.g. Turnitin™.

Electronic marking.

On-line multiple-choice quizzes, short-answer questions and data exercises (formative and

summative).

Videos for demonstrations and to convey complex information.

Links to useful journal articles and materials on the Internet.

Podcast/audiocasts to support taught sessions.

35 Placement and/or Work-based Learning Activities

http://www.mmu.ac.uk/academic/casqe/regulations/exfacs-students.php

http://www2.mmu.ac.uk/humanresources/a-z/policies/equality-and-diversity-policy/


A high value is placed on employability and each award cluster addresses the requirements of the Employability Curriculum Framework by embedding employability into the programmes across all levels. Each award cluster provides students with opportunities to apply skills of critical analysis to real-world situations through opportunities for placement learning (see below); engagement with external stakeholders; utilisation of real-world examples, data and scenarios in practical work and assessment tasks. Students are trained to demonstrate a high degree of professionalism by developing and testing initiative, creativity, motivation, professional practice and self-management. There are numerous opportunities for students to develop, practice and demonstrate effective communication using a variety of appropriate media e.g. through written work and verbal presentations. The programmes provide opportunities for students to develop team-working and leadership skills through participating in collaborative projects with peers and external partners. Across the programmes, students are encouraged to develop and articulate an awareness of the environmental, social and community contexts within their discipline. This is achieved through the use of examples throughout the curriculum demonstrating these contexts. The aim is to develop graduates who can live and act sustainably and make informed decisions for the benefit of themselves and society, now and in the future, with an understanding of the limits of the natural resources to sustain life on Earth. The academic team also articulate current, and possible future, graduate prospects through the curriculum content and the learning, teaching and assessment strategy. Assessment cover sheets given to students clearly articulate the specific graduate outcomes associated with the assessment activities. This makes it easy for students to link their learning with their personal development and employability. It also gives students greater confidence and assists them in formulating a high quality curriculum vitae. The learning outcomes for the programmes are each mapped against the Manchester Met Graduate Outcomes. Moreover, a wide range of activities that support the development of employability skills is available across the programmes. These include live projects, practical activities and case studies, applied research projects and collaborative enquiry. Employer engagement is a feature of the programmes and is delivered through:

Short-term projects at Level 5 via Professional Practice (6F5Z3117)

Year-long placement between Levels 5 and 6 via the Sandwich Year (6F6Z3151) 120-practice-credit unit.

Employer commissioned projects at Level 6 via the Undergraduate Consultancy unit (6F6Z3118).

Arrangements for placement learning are compliant with the Institutional Code of Practice for Work-Based and Placement Learning. Students will be asked to provide feedback on their placement experience in the form of a report. Placement learning is also available through the exchange programme of study abroad which is organised by the School Exchange Tutor in collaboration with Manchester Met International staff and students. Students are required to submit a course option form at the time of application to the host university (which is signed and approved by an academic) and they are also required to submit a learning agreement within a month of starting the exchange which is approved by the

http://www.mmu.ac.uk/academic/casqe/regulations/docs/placement_icp.pdf

http://www.mmu.ac.uk/academic/casqe/regulations/docs/placement_icp.pdf


student, overseas university and Manchester Met. While on exchange, supervision is provided by the overseas institution and monitoring by the University is undertaken by the exchange tutor and Manchester Met International staff. Other specific placement/work-based learning opportunities through partnership with local schools: Students wishing to work in education are able to replace 15 credits of their programme each year with an EdLab unit run by the Faculty of Education. This is a student enrichment employability project which aims to develop innovative educational provision, practice and possibilities through working on projects in local schools.

36 Engagement with Employers

There are a number of employer-engagement activities across the School of Science and the Environment beyond centrally organised Careers Fairs. The School Placement and Employability Tutors run “Meet the Employers” sessions where employers, such as Manchester City Council, interested in students studying courses in the School can discuss summer internships, work experience, placements, graduate jobs, general tips on applications and useful extra-curricular skills. Employers are also often invited to visit the School and talk to students for specific units, or join the students on fieldtrips organised to their place of work. Students are also encouraged to engage with the University’s Futures Xchange scheme where employers post positions of relevance to Science and Engineering students.

37 Personal Development Planning

A core unit at Levels 4 and 5 of each programme has PDP embedded i.e. How Science Works (6F4Z1106) and Professional Skills for Biologists (6F5Z1101). At Level 4, the focus is on how to become a professional scientist by the development of academic skills such as the scientific method, the analysis of biological information and how to search academic databases. This is achieved through the induction programme, workshops and small group tutorials that will develop skills in statistical analysis and scientific report writing. At Level 5 the students will submit a cv and cover letter in order to apply for their final year research project. Their cv must show professional development in Biology and students will be supported via PDP lectures, workshops and encouraged to attend external PDP activities and training opportunities and reflect on their progress. At Level 6, PDP will be linked with the independent research project (6F6Z1101B/M/A/W/Z) and guidance on and monitoring of PDP will be part of the Project Supervisor role. In addition, one-to-one meetings with personal tutors takes place regularly at each level to discuss student progress. Academic skills are embedded within discipline-specific learning materials including development of skills in: referencing and citation, plagiarism avoidance, scientific-writing skills, verbal presentations, information literacy, ICT skills, annotated bibliographies, collaborative enquiry, constructing a critical argument, time management, data presentation, and note-taking. All students will have access to PDP and employability opportunities through a wide range of projects and schemes involving both on-line and face-to-face activities. Manchester Met My Career Hub enables students to access careers and employability services online. Students and graduates can search hundreds of job and placement opportunities advertised by employers, as well as book onto careers events, make an appointment with a Careers Consultant or receive tailored advice via email. Extracurricular PDP opportunities such as workshops, seminars, teamwork and other activities, including volunteering and exchange programmes, are arranged through the University-wide provisions supported by the Library and Careers and Employability

http://www2.mmu.ac.uk/careers/my-career-hub/

http://www2.mmu.ac.uk/careers/my-career-hub/

http://www.library.mmu.ac.uk/

http://www2.mmu.ac.uk/careers/


Service, and through faculty-specific activities organised by Faculty Student Support Officers (FSSO). Programme Support Tutors (PSTs) are available throughout the year to provide support and guidance to students with their academic work. They can also listen to any concerns or problems students may experience whilst at university and provide details of relevant contact and services for help. In addition, students are encouraged to gain the Science and Engineering Extra-Curricular Award, an update on the dedicated employability and skills scheme MMU Futures. There are dozens of workshops and activities available including mobile apps programming, leadership and problem solving with the Army, foreign languages, advanced laboratory skills, a work experience ’bootcamp’, risk assessment, crime scene investigation etc. These activities are widely advertised to the students both in-class and via Moodle™. All the sessions have been designed to maximise employability potential and skills as well as being enjoyable to students. The scheme allows students to take part in extra-curricular activities, and formalise them into an employability award (equivalent to the University’s Futures Skills Award Bronze). Students can then progress through to Futures Skills Award Silver and Gold.

SECTION E - PROGRAMME MANAGEMENT

38 Programme Specific Admission Requirements

The following admissions requirements comply with University standard admission requirements. Direct Entry: Applications for direct entry beyond Level 4 of the Programmes will involve careful consideration of a student’s qualifications by the Admissions Team.

Admission with Exemption: At the discretion of the Admissions Team, a student with prior demonstration of the learning outcomes of a unit from another programme that equate to a complete unit, may be admitted with an exemption in that unit. Where appropriate, the recommendations will involve consultation with the External Examiner. Admission with Specific Credit: At the discretion of the Admissions Team, a student with prior demonstration of the learning outcomes of a particular unit of the programme, may be admitted with a credit in that unit and shall accordingly be considered to have passed the

unit. Where appropriate, the recommendations will involve consultation with the External Examiner.

Accreditation of Prior Learning - APL (Policy for Accreditation of Prior Learning; for Part-time routes only): The following apply to exemptions from one or more units in the Programmes and should be distinguished from accreditation within a unit where, for example, a learning outcome may involve making a case for accreditation as part of the learning process, e.g. constructing an evaluative portfolio of laboratory skills drawing from prior experience. Progression on integrated masters programmes: In order to progress on the integrated masters programmes or transfer to the integrated master’s programmes from the related BSc (Hons) routes, students must have achieved a Level 5 average of 60% or greater. Guidance to students

http://www2.mmu.ac.uk/careers/

http://www.mmu.ac.uk/sas/studentservices/student-support-officers.php

http://www.mmu.ac.uk/academic/casqe/regulations/docs/APL_policy.pdf


about progression through the integrated masters programmes will be provided by the Year Tutor/Programme Leader during induction at the beginning of each academic session. The guidance will also be available on the School of Science and the Environment Undergraduate Programmes Moodle™ area. Those students eligible for transfer to the integrated masters programmes from the related BSc (Hons) programmes will be sent a letter offering the transfer by the Programmes Office along with the Student Transcript. Guidance will be provided to students about progression through the integrated masters programmes by the Programme Leader during the induction at the beginning of the academic session Students eligible for transfer to MBiol programmes (see above) will be counselled to seek advice about access to funding for course fees from the Finance Office. Foundation Year: Admission to the Faculty of Science and Engineering Foundation Year complies with standard University admission requirements. NB Minimum admission points for entry to the University are reviewed on an annual basis. For entry requirements refer to the current University on-line prospectus

39 Programme-Specific Management Arrangements

The first delivery of the Biological Sciences Undergraduate Programmes is September 2018 (Level 4), September 2019 (Level 5) and September 2020 (Level 6). Students enrolled on the School of Science and Environment Undergraduate Programmes prior to September 2018 who are part-time or on Sandwich/SENAA routes will be advised about the new structures and units at option choice time and registered for the new units the following year/on return to Manchester Met. Students on the School of Science and Environment Undergraduate Programmes who are subsequently referred with attendance will be enrolled on units that align with their previous diet in discussion with the Programme Leader. There are no additional arrangements further to those outlined on the CASQE website. NB: see guidance on University’s Management of Programme Delivery

40 Staff Responsibilities

School of Science and the Environment Undergraduate Programmes Manager: Has the following key tasks and responsibility for: • Managing the annual student lifecycle, including: enrolment, induction, teaching schemes,

option choices, assessment and examination moderation, Boards of Examiners, timely and effective communication with students and reassessment.

• Ensuring, in collaboration with the Programmes Office and Student Life Office that all arrangements are in place for assessment of students and for the organisation and presentation of comprehensive assessment data to the Board of Examiners.

• Ensuring quality assurance and audit, including: the Continuous Monitoring and Improvement Process, Continuous Improvement Plans and formal student feedback in line with the University's quality control mechanisms.

• Ensuring coordination, smooth administration and effective day-to-day operation of the undergraduate programmes, including delivery of the Manchester Metropolitan University Commitment and management of the student experience and progression within the policies of Programme Committee and Academic Board.

• Convening and chairing programme management meetings and participation in Staff Student Liaison meetings.

• Strategic planning and management with reference to new curriculum developments in consultation with the Heads of School/Divisions.

http://www2.mmu.ac.uk/study/

http://www.mmu.ac.uk/academic/casqe/regulations/docs/programme-management.pdf

http://www.mmu.ac.uk/academic/casqe/experience/monitoring-improvement.php

http://www.mmu.ac.uk/academic/casqe/experience/monitoring-improvement.php




• Communicating with staff and students at School and University level on all issues related to the management, development and enhancement of the undergraduate programmes and the student experience.

• Leading and coordinating activities of Award Programme Leaders and Year Tutors. • Reporting to Head of Division and School Programmes Director. Biological Sciences Programme Leader: Has the following key tasks and responsibility for: • Coordinating, in collaboration with the Undergraduate Programmes Manager, management of

the annual student lifecycle, including: enrolment, induction, teaching schemes, option choices, assessment and examination moderation, exceptional factors, Boards of Examiners, timely and effective communication with students and reassessment.

• Maintaining academic standards of the programmes, enhancing student experience and preparing quality assurance and audit documentation, including: the Continuous Monitoring and Improvement Process, Continuous Improvement Plans and Programme Specifications.

• Coordinating, in collaboration with the Undergraduate Programme Manager, new course developments.

• Communicating with Unit Coordinators, students and External Examiners. • Organising and chairing the Programme Committee and course team meetings. • Organising and chairing Staff Student Liaison meetings. • Coordinating advice to students on option choices. • Coordinating student attendance and progress monitoring to identify students who are not

engaging with study and implementation of appropriate support. • Coordinating guidance to students with Learning Support needs. • Coordinating activities of Year Tutors, Foundation Tutor, and Programme Support Tutors. • Reporting to the Undergraduate Programme Manager. Foundation Year Tutor: Has the following key tasks and responsibility for: • Coordinating the Level 3 unit. • Providing academic support to students throughout the academic year. • Communicating with students and the School of Computing, Mathematics and Digital

Technology. • Coordinating student attendance and progress monitoring to identify students who are not

engaging with study and implementation of appropriate support. • Coordinating guidance to students with learning support needs. • Reporting to the Undergraduate Programmes Manager. Year Tutors: Have the following key tasks and be responsible for: • Coordinating, in collaboration with the Undergraduate Programmes Leader, management of

the annual student lifecycle for students in their year, including: enrolment, induction, teaching schemes, option choices, assessment and examination moderation, Boards of Examiners, timely and effective communication with students and reassessment.

• Maintaining academic standards and enhancing student experience. • Providing academic support to students throughout the academic year. • Communicating with Unit Coordinators and students for their year. • Attending and assisting with Staff Student Liaison meetings and Programme Committee

Meetings. • Coordinating advice to Level 4 and 5 students on option choices. • Monitoring student attendance and progress to identify students who are not engaging with

study and implementation of appropriate support.


• Providing guidance to students with learning support needs. • Assisting with quality assurance procedures, including the Continuous Monitoring and

Improvement Process, Continuous Improvement Plans etc. • Reporting to the Undergraduate Programmes Manager. Undergraduate Project Coordinator: Has the following key tasks and responsibility for: • Coordinating the project allocation process and ensuring, in collaboration with the Health and

Safety Coordinator and Ethics Coordinator, that all Level 6 and 7 students are assigned to an appropriate project and project tutor.

• Ensuring the smooth running and assessment of projects by communicating with students and staff.

• Producing and distributing project guidelines to students and staff. • Coordinating project quality assurance procedures including the marking and second marking of projects and the use of Turnitin®. • Ensuring copies of projects and all other assessed components are available for scrutiny by

External Examiners. • Presenting comprehensive project assessment data to the Board of Examiners. • Reporting to the Undergraduate Programmes Manager. Undergraduate Placement and Employability Tutors: Have the following key tasks and responsibility for: • Developing relations with appropriate external organisations to develop placement and employability opportunities for students on divisional networks. • Organising meetings with all potential sandwich/placement students. • Arranging individual meetings with students, as appropriate, to support their placement/

sandwich opportunities. • Contacting organisations and arranging visits and interviews for all sandwich/placement

students. • Coordinating a divisional supporting programme for placement/sandwich students including

ensuring that placement visits by tutors take place. • Ensuring that all assessment criteria are met during placements/the sandwich year. • Ensuring that placements/sandwich year adhere to the university's Institutional Code of

Practice on Placement and Work-Based learning, including health and safety criteria. • Reporting to the School’s Sandwich and Employability Coordinator. NB: see guidance on University’s Management of Programme Delivery

41 Programme Specific Academic Student Support

Generic academic student support is provided to all students in line with the guidance outlined in the University’s Student Handbook.

Programme Specific Support All new and returning students participate in an induction programme that includes a general introduction to their programme, its aims, overall structure and organisation. Students will meet with their Personal Tutor and have an opportunity to discuss the aims and operation of their programme. They will also receive an introduction to various student support services (including

http://www.mmu.ac.uk/academic/casqe/regulations/docs/programme-management.pdf

http://www.mmu.ac.uk/students/


the Faculty Student Support Officer and Programme Support Officer), the Library, IT provision and use of the University’s (VLE), Moodle™ and The Union, Manchester Met activities. All students will receive key information that will guide them through the organisation and assessment of their units. Programme Leaders, Year Tutors and Unit Coordinators also provide programme and unit-level support. In addition, School Programme Support Tutors (PST) provide targeted workshops and one-to-one support.

All students will be allocated a Personal Tutor in the first year of study. Students remain with their Personal Tutor throughout Level 4, 5 and 6 study. Students have regular meetings with their tutor, who will: monitor attendance/engagement data and performance throughout the year; identify specific weaknesses and study skills needs; and provide support and advice as appropriate. There will be increasing use of web-based materials to provide programme and unit information as well as to deliver ancillary learning support materials and personalised timetables. This will facilitate communication with students, rapid feedback on VLE-based assignments and allow flexible access to learning materials. This will also enable tutors to monitor engagement with each unit as well as performance levels.

A Faculty Exceptional Factors Panel convenes to oversee the fair, consistent and confidential consideration of individual circumstances and necessary adjustments. The School is committed to transparent and accessible courses. Where necessary, reasonable adjustments for individuals will be considered under the Equality Act 2010.

More general advice and support in areas including study skills is available at Faculty level from the Faculty Student Support Officer (FSSO). The FSSO runs sessions on topics such as time management, note-taking, report writing and revision strategies. A range of support services are available at University level and through The Union, Manchester Met. Students are introduced to these during their induction programme. These services include, but are not limited to:

Accommodation.

Careers.

Counselling.

Financial.

Health.

Information Systems.

Nursery.

Learner Development Service (LDS). The LDS provides a comprehensive advisory, assessment and support service to disabled students from the pre-application stage through to graduation. Coordinators at School level liaise with the LDS and provide advice to both students and staff. They also deal with issues such as the development of personal learning plans (PLPs). Placement learning through the exchange programme of study abroad is organised by the School Exchange Tutor in collaboration with Manchester Met International staff and students. While on exchange, supervision is provided by the overseas institution and monitoring by the University is undertaken by the Exchange Tutor and MMU International (MMUi) staff.

http://www2.mmu.ac.uk/international/


42 Programme Specific Student Evaluation

The Programme complies with institutional guidance on the evaluation of student opinion.

http://www.mmu.ac.uk/academic/casqe/experience/voice/docs/evaluation_of_opinion.pdf

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ CASQE Page 51 of 54 Programme Specification

Biological Sciences Undergraduate Programmes · Biological Sciences Award Cluster: The BSc (Hons) / MBiol (Hons) Biology route develops student skills and knowledge towards an understanding

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