Applied Biosciences BSc (Hons) 2021/22 entry

Apply for this course Download a prospectus Book an Open Day
Course code:

CF11 - BSc (Hons)
112C - HND
11FC - HNC

Study options:

3 year - Degree
2 year - HND
1 year - HNC

How to Apply

Full time
Part time

Location:

CU London (Dagenham)

Starting:

September 2021
November 2021
January 2022
February 2022
April 2022
June 2022

Fees:

£7,900

Find out more

Get in touch

+44 (0) 203 873 0700


Request information

Course code:

CF11 - BSc (Hons)
112C - HND
11FC - HNC

Study options:

3 year - Degree
2 year - HND
1 year - HNC

How to Apply

Full time
Part time

Location:

CU London (Dagenham)

Starting:

September 2021
November 2021
January 2022
February 2022
April 2022
June 2022

Fees:

TBC

Find out more

Get in touch

+44 (0) 203 873 0700


Request information

Course code:

CF11 - BSc (Hons)
112C - HND
11FC - HNC

Study options:

3 year - Degree
2 year - HND
1 year - HNC

Location:

CU London (Dagenham)

Starting:

September 2021
November 2021
January 2022
February 2022
April 2022
June 2022

Fees:

Find out more

Get in touch

+44 (0) 203 873 0700


Request information

Overview

The BSc (Hons) Applied Biosciences degree course explores life at all levels from chemicals, molecules and cells to organ systems. You will also explore human health and illness and how they are managed in the context of contemporary research, as well as how populations, communities and the environment influence health and illness.

Course content and assessments have been designed to help you develop both theoretical knowledge and understanding, as well as the practical skills to enhance your career and academic opportunities.

Each year, the course is reviewed to ensure it includes the major causes of illness and death globally, as researched by the World Health Organisation (WHO) as well as the major causes of sickness absence from the workplace, to give you a rounded understanding of the way disease affects human life.

Why CU London

We offer a style of education which is flexible and designed to fit around your life, allowing you to benefit from a modern, forward-thinking higher education institution, reinforced by the quality and reputation of Coventry University. We aim to provide career-focused courses, wherever possible, coupled with placement opportunities to help prepare you for the world of work. We are dedicated to making higher education accessible and enjoyable to everyone, so we keep our fees low and made it a policy to cover one module at a time, allowing you to become a specialist in each topic before moving onto the next.

COVID-19

The University may deliver certain contact hours and assessments via emerging online technologies and methods across all courses. In response to the Covid-19 pandemic, we are prepared for courses due to start in or after the 2020/2021 academic year to be delivered in a variety of forms. The form of delivery will be determined in accordance with Government and Public Health guidance. Whether on campus or online, our key priority is staff and student safety.

Due to the ongoing restrictions relating to Covid-19, some facilities (including some teaching and learning spaces) and some non-academic offerings (particularly in relation to international experiences), may vary from those advertised and may have reduced availability or restrictions on their use.

Employability

Dedicated Careers & Employability department who will assist you in finding employment

Top Quality Courses

Taught by industry professionals, awarded by Coventry University

No End of Year Exams

Our modern teaching techniques mean no last-minute cramming and less stress

Professional Recognition

Specific courses contain additional industry recognised qualifications from awarding bodies

Your course in pictures

Accreditation & Professional Recognition

This course has been mapped to the Royal Society of Biology (RSB) Accreditation Matrix. This means that when you graduate you may be eligible to apply for professional registration with the RSB and then as a Registered Scientist (RSci) with The Science Council to receive accreditation.

The Royal Society of Biology

The Royal Society of Biology

The RSB is a professional membership body. Holding an RSB qualification is a route to some of the most in-demand skills in the world and, subject to completing the correct amount of work experience, allows you to become a Registered Scientist.

What our students say...

I like that this course is so varied. You can find a topic that you’re really interested in and focus on it, honing in on aspects that I am passionate about. It also means I have lots of options when I graduate.

Pooja Rathid – CU Student

Course information

Biosciences are a varied, interesting and important area to study and we’ll explore technical theory from chemical and molecular level through to the human body as a whole.

Practical elements are another key focus of the course and you will be expected to perform advanced hands-on experiments which includes computer-based activities. Combining the two helps to solidify knowledge of the subject and prepares you for your career.

Course Specification
Download PDF (334kb)

Modules

Overview

The first year explores the essential concepts such as chemistry, cell and molecular biology, microbiology and anatomy and physiology. You will also learn to use scientific vocabulary. The practical aspect focuses on vital laboratory skills specific to the subject which includes the safe use of complex equipment, report writing and the development of accurate lab skills. If you choose to leave the course after completing year one you are eligible for a Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Applied Biosciences.

Modules

  • Chemistry for Biosciences

    This module teaches the fundamentals of chemistry and how it is used in society and connects with other areas in science, with emphasis on the application to biochemistry and the human body.

  • Introduction to Microbiology

    Here, we explore various microorganisms and parasites, including pathogens, with an aim to develop your understanding of personal and public health, from the simplest of microbes to the most complex.

  • Applied Cell Biology

    This module introduces knowledge of the cell to build an understanding of human health and disease. You’ll explore the cell, carbohydrates, lipids, water and proteins and these will all be discussed within the context of cellular function. Other key concepts covered include the various stages of the cell cycle, key structural components, and their associated function with regard to different types of cells and tissues throughout the body.

  • Introduction to Anatomy and Physiology

    This module focuses on the structure and function of systems in the human body. Topics include how the various types of cells and tissues make up the major organs within the body. You will develop core knowledge of how these structures function to understand the human body in greater detail, ready to apply this knowledge to health and disease.

Thought about a different campus?

CU London, CU Coventry and CU Scarborough come together to form CU, part of the Coventry University Group. Students who study at CU will graduate with a degree awarded and accredited by Coventry University.

All CU students have the opportunity to move between each campus after completing an academic year. This means you can study in the vibrant city of Coventry, the UK’s capital, or on the stunning Yorkshire coast. 

CU Coventry
CU Scarborough

Overview

In year two you will develop knowledge gained in your first year. Specifically, this includes more advanced practical skills and expanding on concepts such as thermodynamics, electrochemistry and chemical kinetics. You’ll also discover infectious diseases and how they affect people on a personal and public level. The year concludes by focusing on human physiological systems and the mechanisms of the major causes of morbidity, mortality and sickness absence, which will include exploring cutting-edge genetic screening procedures. By using scientific journals you’ll further develop the critical skills of academic writing and data presentation, and the principles of good scientific writing and data presentation will be examined. Throughout your second year, you will further develop and enhance your academic, practical and analytical skills in preparation for year three, and build skills that are attractive to employers. Students who choose to leave the course after completing year two are eligible for a Higher National Diploma (HND) in Applied Biosciences.

Modules

  • Advanced Cell and Molecular Biology

    You’ll explore, in more depth, the molecular regulation of the cell life cycle and division, the human genome, and the molecular process of gene expression. Covered within this module is how genes control the development of organs through tissues and cells and how the state of the gene affects the health of these human structures.

  • Principles of Biochemistry

    This module aims to develop your academic and practical skills. Emphasis is placed on the biochemistry of individual molecules, cells and organisms and the ways that they interact at a chemical level. You will develop an in-depth knowledge of key biochemical concepts in topics such as thermodynamics, electrochemistry and chemical kinetics in relation to biological systems.

  • Advanced Microbiology

    Here, you will explore microorganisms and parasites and their involvement in health and illness, as well as developing a greater understanding of how pathogens spread infectious diseases and affect personal and public health issues. You’ll also explore the biology, prevention and treatment of infections in greater depth.

  • Principles of Pathophysiology

    The aim of this module is to provide you with an understanding of human organ systems and the biological mechanisms of disease. The module expands on knowledge gained during year one and will introduce additional factors that affect the way the major systems operate. The module will also introduce the fundamental pharmacological principles involved in the management and treatment of the major causes of morbidity, mortality and sickness absence.

Thought about a different campus?

CU London, CU Coventry and CU Scarborough come together to form CU, part of the Coventry University Group. Students who study at CU will graduate with a degree awarded and accredited by Coventry University.

All CU students have the opportunity to move between each campus after completing an academic year. This means you can study in the vibrant city of Coventry, the UK’s capital, or on the stunning Yorkshire coast. 

CU Coventry
CU Scarborough

Overview

An optional placement or sandwich year gives you the chance to gain further insight into the industry or career you are seeking to follow, enabling you to apply your theoretical knowledge to the workplace. You can also choose to take an optional year abroad between years two and three. If you decide to take advantage of a placement year this version of the degree will help you acquire valuable work experience and gain an understanding of what employers seek in graduates. It is your responsibility to find a placement with an employer within your chosen sector. The careers and employability department, alongside the course team, will support you throughout your placement year.

Overview

In this year, you will become confident enough to understand, criticise and design complex research projects both inside and outside the laboratory and how to apply this to the workplace or in future study. To build on years two and three you will study the applications of biochemistry, cell and molecular biology, microbiology and pathophysiology, and disease management. These areas are studied in context with the use of relevant examples so that you can apply knowledge directly to the workplace. You will also undertake an independent research project, from ideation to performing practical experiments to gather data, to analysing, writing up and presenting your findings. Students who complete year three will receive a BSc (Hons) Applied Biosciences.

Modules

  • Applications of Biochemistry

    This module explores the application of complex principles of biochemistry through a combination of current scientific theory and lesser known cutting-edge scientific research. You’ll analyse the uses of organic materials, identification by spectroscopic methods and discover their relevance to the fields of pharmacology, toxicology and environmental sciences.

  • Analysis and Applications of Cell and Molecular Biology

    Here, we will expand upon the previous topics of applied cell biology and molecular biology. The module will include an in-depth study of the complex genetic involvement in major causes of sickness, mortality and disease; investigating genetic profiles, genotypes and phenotypic characteristics, as well as biotechnological applications, including bioengineering, nanotechnology, stem cell technology and regenerative medicine. The module also explores how lifestyle factors contribute to modified cellular function and the impact this has on human sickness and mortality.

  • Applications of Pathophysiology

    At this stage, you will take an in-depth look at the pathophysiological mechanisms of human disease. The module will expand on the knowledge gained during year two, and examines current research theories relevant to infectious and non-infectious causes of morbidity, mortality and sickness absence. This knowledge and understanding will be applied to the critical analysis of relevant preventative and management strategies. The module will also help you to develop universal academic skills. The flipped-classroom approach means you will be provided with a problem, required to research autonomously, critically analyse scientific papers and ultimately propose a solution.

  • Applied Biosciences Project

    In the final module you will undertake an independent research project. You will develop a research question, design an experimental method and collect data from either a laboratory experiment or a field-based project. As part of the project you should demonstrate an ability to work independently, a high level of organisational skills and awareness of health and safety, ethical considerations and good laboratory practice. You will have full access to industry standard equipment which includes a tissue culture suite, microbiology lab and chemistry lab. As a final year student, you will also have access to a separate project lab. You will be expected to present findings in a format that includes a dissertation, and to defend and justify the design and scientific approach of your experiment in a viva voce exam.

Thought about a different campus?

CU London, CU Coventry and CU Scarborough come together to form CU, part of the Coventry University Group. Students who study at CU will graduate with a degree awarded and accredited by Coventry University.

All CU students have the opportunity to move between each campus after completing an academic year. This means you can study in the vibrant city of Coventry, the UK’s capital, or on the stunning Yorkshire coast. 

CU Coventry
CU Scarborough
15th

Coventry University is ranked 15th in the UK in the Guardian University Guide 2020. CU London is part of the Coventry University Group.

In more detail...

  • Upon completion of this course, you will receive a qualification awarded by Coventry University.
  • You will receive support with applying for short and long-term placements, to gain the experience employers desire, via our Careers & Employability department.
  • You will have the opportunity for multi-campus learning in London, Coventry and Scarborough.
  • We keep our fees low to make higher education more accessible to everyone. This means you benefit from an amazing modern university experience, at a competitive price.
  • Small tutorial group sessions of up to five people ensure that you receive the mentoring help and support you need.
  • We deliver one module at a time during each block. This means you can dedicate your time to specialise in each subject without the distraction of numerous modules and multiple deadlines.
  • This course is packed with skills employers seek, such as innovation and laboratory competency.
Study themes
  • Independent and Autonomous Working: The ability to critically appraise a scenario with a view to apply new technologies to improve efficiency or effectiveness.
  • Cell and Molecular Biology: You will study eukaryotic and prokaryotic cell structure whilst beginning to explore bacterial diversity and emerging antibiotic strains. You will apply this knowledge to a number of emerging applications of molecular techniques within the area of gene technology.
  • Health and Disease Issues: You will be introduced to basic pharmacological principles and drugs used to treat a range of diseases and gain a developed understanding and critical analysis of the complex pathophysiology and aetiological causes of a variety of tropical diseases, whilst observing the clinical signs and symptoms used to diagnose these disorders.
  • The Fundamentals of Applied Biosciences: Including biology, chemistry and physiology. You will develop your core understanding within the sciences, with a focus on the application of fundamental scientific principles within analytical industries. You will also develop a critical appreciation of biological and chemical sciences to enable them to develop practical skills in a range of scenarios.
  • Project Management: You will gain an applied knowledge of small-scale investigations, integrating some principles of project management and the associated processes. 
  • Research Methods: Critical analysis, reflection, information searching and experimental design in the biological sciences. Data collection, analysis and presentation.
How you'll be taught

This course is available as a full-time three year or optional four-year sandwich course, the latter incorporating a work placement or study year in a related field. Alternatively, part-time study is also available and with our Saturday University programme, this course can be completed in as little as three years. Our teaching methods are varied, offering a number of teaching styles to suit the needs of all our students, so in addition to lectures, we also utilise a blended learning approach, including online aspects, workshops and group work.

We also operate an open-door policy, with additional availability via email and our online learning platform, Aula.

Progression through the modules develops knowledge and skills, including communication (written and oral), study skills, research methods, project management, presentation and career development. We will also encourage you to consider your employability and/or entrepreneurial development.

Unlike traditional institutions, there are no end of year exams. Instead, learning is assessed through coursework and phase tests, which is more reflective of our learning model.

Our teaching methods are varied with a number of teaching styles to suit different students, so in addition to lectures, we also teach via online mediums, workshops and group work.

How you'll be assessed

The learning outcomes of modules, assignments and projects will be clearly stated. Your work will be marked according to how well you achieve these learning outcomes and your final feedback will refer to each outcome, as well as providing an overall percentage grade.

Assessment methods vary and include, practical class and project performance, written practical reports, project thesis, laboratory experiments, tutorial tasks and assessments, which take place at the end of each six-week block.

Course Breakdown (approximate):

  • 80% Coursework
  • 10% Presentations
  • 10% Exams
On completion

On completion, you will be able to:

  • Understand the fundamentals of biological and chemical sciences, including cell biology, chemistry and physiology. You will develop a core understanding within the sciences, with applications to industry and the health sector.
  • Develop appropriate research and analysis techniques, alongside the ability to undertake reliable scientific research activities.
  • Operate, lead and collaborate in a team to solve problems of a practical (experimental) nature and to provide appropriate solutions.
  • Apply appropriate presentation and evaluation tools to establish the significance of research data produced. 
Teaching contact hours

Full-time

If you choose to study full-time you can expect up to 20 hours of learning activities per week, made up of face-to-face teaching, individual and group tutorials, online classes and independent learning.

Class groups are kept low. This way, students can take advantage of small numbers to increase contact time with lecturers.

What our students say...

I like that this course is so varied. You can find a topic that you’re really interested in and focus on it, honing in on aspects that I am passionate about. It also means I have lots of options when I graduate.

Pooja Rathid – CU Student

Entry Requirements

Applied Biosciences Higher National Certificate (HNC)

64 UCAS tariff points. All courses require 5 GCSEs at A-C including Maths and English.

Applied Biosciences Higher National Diploma (HND)

80 UCAS tariff points. All courses require 5 GCSEs at A-C including Maths and English.

Applied Biosciences BSc (Hons) Degree

104 UCAS tariff points. All courses require 5 GCSEs at A-C including Maths and English.

All HNC/HND/Degree courses require at least two A2 level or a BTEC equivalent qualification.

Applied Biosciences also requires a science based A level or equivalent.

What if I don’t meet the entry requirements?

If you don’t meet the entry requirements for this course, successful completion of the below programme guarantees you a place on a degree course with us, subject to meeting specified criteria.

Foundation Year

This degree programme has an integral stage 0 attached to it, so if you do not meet the entry requirements you may enter at the foundation level. Successful completion of our Applied Biosciences Foundation Year will guarantee you progression onto this degree programme.

Applied Biosciences Higher National Certificate (HNC)

64 UCAS tariff points. All courses require 5 GCSEs at A-C including Maths and English.

Applied Biosciences Higher National Diploma (HND)

80 UCAS tariff points. All courses require 5 GCSEs at A-C including Maths and English.

Applied Biosciences BSc (Hons) Degree

104 UCAS tariff points. All courses require 5 GCSEs at A-C including Maths and English.

All HNC/HND/Degree courses require at least two A2 level or a BTEC equivalent qualification.

Applied Biosciences also requires a science based A level or equivalent.

What if I don’t meet the entry requirements?

If you don’t meet the entry requirements for this course, successful completion of the below programme guarantees you a place on a degree course with us, subject to meeting specified criteria.

Foundation Year

This degree programme has an integral stage 0 attached to it, so if you do not meet the entry requirements you may enter at the foundation level. Successful completion of our Applied Biosciences Foundation Year will guarantee you progression onto this degree programme.

IELTS

EU students will require training in English language proficiency level IELTS 6.0 (HNC - year 1/HND - year 2) or IELTS 6.5 (Degree/Top Up - year 3).

Why do I have to choose you as 'firm' choice?

CU London has assessed that you can achieve the required grades and we have demonstrated this belief by making you an offer. This is our commitment to you so then we ask that you reciprocate this commitment by selecting us as your ‘firm’ choice and activating your offer.

What if I'm not taking A-levels?

We will consider other qualifications for a pre-result unconditional offer if you have an appropriate proven performance at GCSE (or equivalent) level and predicted grades in line with grades that we expect to see at A-level. Other qualifications that we may consider for a pre-result unconditional offer include: The International Baccalaureate Diploma, BTEC Level 3 qualifications, Cambridge Pre-U and combinations of qualifications (e.g. BTECS plus A-levels).

What if I don't get the predicted grades?

An unconditional offer is what it says it is. So, if you don’t meet your predictions then your place is still guaranteed. However, we would hope and expect that you continue to work hard to make the most of your potential and be best prepared to study at university level.

Am I able to defer my unconditional offer?

No, the unconditional offer is only available to those who will take up their place in the year for which they applied.

What if I don’t meet the entry requirements?

If you don’t meet the entry requirements for this course, we have a number of programmes which upon successful completion and meeting any additional entry criteria, qualifies you onto a place on this degree course, such as Foundation Years.

What our students say...

I like that this course is so varied. You can find a topic that you’re really interested in and focus on it, honing in on aspects that I am passionate about. It also means I have lots of options when I graduate.

Pooja Rathid – CU Student

Tuition Fees

We pride ourselves on offering competitive tuition fees which we review on an annual basis. Course fees are calculated on the basis of what it costs to teach each course and we aim for total financial transparency.

Starts

Fee

September 2021

£7,900 (per year)

November 2021

£7,900 (per year)

January 2022

£7,900 (per year)

February 2022

£7,900 (per year)

April 2022

£7,900 (per year)

June 2022

£7,900 (per year)

Starts

Fee

September 2021

TBC (per year)

November 2021

TBC (per year)

January 2022

TBC (per year)

February 2022

TBC (per year)

April 2022

TBC (per year)

June 2022

TBC (per year)

Fees & Funding

We price our courses competitively in an attempt to make higher education accessible for a wide range of people. Your tuition fees will cover all of your classes, online tutorials, some of the learning materials and access to our Library & Learning Services. 

Funding

As a full-time or part-time student resident in the UK or EU, you can apply for a loan to cover the cost of your tuition fees at CU London from Student Finance England.

What our students say...

I like that this course is so varied. You can find a topic that you’re really interested in and focus on it, honing in on aspects that I am passionate about. It also means I have lots of options when I graduate.

Pooja Rathid – CU Student

Career prospects

With a BSc behind you, your chances of employment are improved and the level at which you enter the job market could mean a higher salary.

On graduation, you will have a portfolio of employability skills across a range of science disciplines giving you an advantage over other candidates. You could go on to work in a number of different disciplines including studying towards postgraduate qualifications, working within laboratory based industries, technical posts within education or industry, research technician or even teaching in science. The BSc also provides you with a strong set of transferable skills valued by employers.

Where our graduates work

Graduates have progressed into further education, undertaking a master’s degree in related subjects, such as Biotechnology, Pharmacology and Drug Discovery, Molecular Biology, Polymer Chemistry and more.

What our students say...

I like that this course is so varied. You can find a topic that you’re really interested in and focus on it, honing in on aspects that I am passionate about. It also means I have lots of options when I graduate.

Pooja Rathid – CU Student
Disclaimer

The tuition fee for the course that is stated on the course webpage and in the prospectus for the first year of study will apply. We will review tuition fees each year. For UK and EU students, if Parliament permit an increase in tuition fees, we may increase fees for each subsequent year of study in line with any such changes. Note that any increase is expected to be in line with inflation. Following the UK’s planned exit from the European Union, EU students should be aware that there may be a change to UK laws following the UK’s exit, this may change their student status, their eligibility to study part time, and/or their eligibility for student finance. We will act in accordance with the UK’s laws in force in relation to student tuition fees and finance at that time.