Overview

The Biology for Medical Sciences module provides a comprehensive foundation in key biological principles essential for students progressing in medical sciences. It covers essential cellular and molecular biology topics, genetic principles, immunological responses, and an introduction to physiological systems, fostering an understanding of how these areas contribute to human health and disease. This module is tailored to equip students with the foundational biological knowledge required for subsequent specialised study within medical and biomedical sciences.

During the course of this module students will explore the following fundamental aspects of biology including:

1. Eukaryotic and prokaryotic cell biology.
2. Inheritance and evolution.
3. Cellular communication.
4. The immune response.
5. Overview of physiological systems.

Assessment Strategy

Examinations for this module will be conducted on campus in an invigilated environment. These exams will follow a closed-book format, meaning that no external materials, including notes, textbooks, or online resources, will be permitted during the examination. This approach is designed to assess your understanding and application of the module content under standardised and fair conditions.

Threshold (D- to D+) A threshold student demonstrates basic knowledge of the essential facts and key concepts presented in the module. The work covers the module material only partially, and there may be gaps or inaccuracies. Arguments are present but may be underdeveloped, lack depth, or contain limited support. Examples may be sparse or only loosely connected to the points being made. The work lacks detailed analysis, critical thinking, and supporting evidence. Overall, performance in this range shows minimal competence with the module content, reflecting a basic but incomplete understanding. Satisfactory (C- to C+) A student achieving a satisfactory grade demonstrates a reasonable understanding of the essential facts and key concepts introduced in the module. The work covers the core material but may lack depth and may exhibit occasional inaccuracies or gaps in knowledge. Arguments are generally present but may be underdeveloped or lack clarity and support. Examples, where included, are relevant but may not be comprehensive or fully aligned with the argument. There is limited evidence of critical thinking, but a basic grasp of the material is evident. Performance at this level indicates an acceptable engagement with module content, but there is room for improvement in analysis, argumentation, and support. Good (B- to B+) A good student demonstrates a thorough factual knowledge across all aspects of the module and can provide relevant examples where appropriate. The work shows a logical and well-structured argument supported by module materials. It reflects a solid understanding of the content, with evidence of engagement and some critical thinking. Examples and evidence are used effectively to support the argument. This performance level indicates a strong grasp of the material, with clear, coherent expression and detailed understanding of core concepts. Excellent (A- to A) An excellent student demonstrates a thorough factual knowledge across all aspects of the module and can provide detailed examples that enhance understanding, supported by additional reading and knowledge drawn from other modules or sources. The work is characterised by a logical, cohesive, and well-supported argument that reflects a high level of understanding. Critical thinking is evident throughout, and there is clear evidence of engagement with wider reading, particularly for A+ and A grades. Work at this level demonstrates comprehensive insight, originality, and an ability to synthesise and apply knowledge effectively across various contexts.

Learning Outcomes

• Compare eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells, identifying their distinct structures, functions, and roles in health and disease.

• Describe mechanisms of cellular communication, with an emphasis on signalling pathways, receptors, and the importance of cellular responses in maintaining homeostasis.

• Describe the fundamentals of inheritance, including the mechanisms of genetic transmission, variation, and the principles underpinning evolutionary biology.

• Identify and describe major physiological systems and their roles in maintaining body function and health.