Biomedical Science

ABOUT BIOMEDICAL SCIENCE
If you enjoy science and its practical application, particularly in health care or related research, a degree in Biomedical Sciences could be just what you want! Biomedical Science is the application of biology-based science to medical use, be it research, health monitoring or treatment.

You will study life processes to gain an understanding of health and the
methods for diagnosing, analysing and treating disease. Subjects covered are broadly similar to the pre-clinical components of a medical degree, with the addition of molecular biology, human genetics, the screening and evaluation of new drugs, and the relationship between the environment and health.

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
As 21st century medicine and healthcare becomes increasingly sophisticated, the demand grows for highly skilled Biomedical Scientists capable of performing and analysing a battery of technical procedures to screen, maintain and improve human health. Biomedical Science is a continually changing, dynamic profession with long-term career prospects including management, research, education and specialised laboratory work.

Employment opportunities exist in public health (water, foodstuffs), veterinary laboratories (disease monitoring), blood banks, forensics, pharmaceuticals development and basic medical research.

PROGRAMME AIM
This programme aims to produce high quality graduates possessing knowledge and skills to enable entry into selected areas of biomedicine, biomedical technology, veterinary, para-medical and other related sciences.

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Foundation in Biomedical Science

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

1. Completion of 10 years of basic education in home country; or
2. 3 GCE ‘N’ level passes; or
3. NITEC in relevant field of study; or
4. Matured students with at least 2 years of work experience

Module Synopsis

BMSF1000 General Biology
In this module students will learn the general concepts of biology from cells through ecosystems essential to developing a foundation for further study in the subsequent physiology, cell biology and molecular biology modules. The students will understand the characteristics of life and the major unifying principles of biology and also appreciate the scientific method as a logically ordered process for understanding the natural world.

BMSF1001 General Chemistry
This module will provide students with the essential knowledge and understanding of the fundamental principles of general and physical chemistry. The chemical properties and electrical characteristics of compounds will be explained in details. The chemical kinetics as well as energy barriers will be introduced.

BMSF1002 Introduction to Organic Chemistry
This module provides students a strong foundation in basic organic chemistry. Topics include the IUPAC nomenclature, structural formulas, preparations of the main classes of organic compounds namely alkanes, alkenes, alkynes, benzene, alcohols, thiols, ether, aldehydes, ketones, amines, carboxylic acids and derivatives. However, only appreciation on the reaction mechanisms, topics includes stereochemistry, substitution, addition and elimination reactions.

The second part provides students with an understanding of the structures of macromolecules like water, proteins, carbohydrates and lipids as well as their roles within a cell. The function of enzymes and enzyme kinetics will also be taught.

BMSF1003 Introduction to Biomedical Science
The students will learn the important milestones in the long history of biology, their significance to paradigms of the period and the current era. The different schools of thought will also be discussed as well as the events leading to their demise or acceptance.

The biomedical sciences and technologies are rapidly growing fields of knowledge, outpacing the evolution of social norms and values. As a future practitioner of this knowledge, the student will be equipped with the fundamentals of ethics governing biology and related technologies and their impact to the society. Thus, the ethical considerations of the biomedical sciences will be discussed.

BMSF1004 Research Method for Biomedical Sciences
In this module, students will be presented with an overview of research and how to conduct scientific studies. The students will understand a broad view on the various means of gathering data, and the different statistical tool suitable to prove a hypothesis and to answer a particular problem. However, the focus will be on how robust the method should be both statistically and ethically.

This module also covers the key statistical concepts behind statistical tests of significance and their application to biological variation will be introduced.

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Diploma in Biomedical Science

Awarded by Melior Business School

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

1. 3 GCE ‘O’ level passes; or
2. Matured students with at least 3 years of work experience; or
3. Completed Biomedical Science Foundation program from Melior Education Group; or any equivalent foundation program from a recognised institution

Note: Students who complete any 9 of the following modules in Advanced Diploma will achieve the Diploma in Biomedical Science awarded by Melior Business School.

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Advanced Diploma in Biomedical Science

Awarded by Melior Business School

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

1. Completion of 12 years of basic education in home country; or
2. 4 GCE ‘O’ level passes; or
3. Higher NITEC in relevant field of study

Module Synopsis

BMAH1000 Communication Skills In English
This module allows students to communicate effectively and will provide skills for writing letter, resume, essay and formal technical report. Furthermore, students will be taught on various verbal and non-verbal communications tools in order for them to operate effectively in the lab or workplace.

BMPS1000 Fundamentals of Chemistry
This basic module offer students with an understanding of basic chemical principles and concepts and to show how these are applied in many different life science applications. The objective is to provide an introduction to the fundamental topics and concepts of chemistry. This includes topics like Structure of Matter, Periodicity and the Periodic Table, Chemical Bonding, States of Matter, stoichiometry and Equilibrium, Reaction Types, Kinetics, Organic Chemistry, including such topics as functional groups and isomerism. Finally, biomolecules,
introduction to biochemistry and cell bioenergetics will be covered.

BMPS1001 Physics for Life Sciences
This module is to allow students to explore physical principles and underlying mechanisms of many phenomena and problems associated with life sciences. Thus, the key focus will be on the physical properties either possessed by living systems such as pressure and viscosity; or as stimuli to which they respond such as light or radiation. In addition, the aim is to deliver the general knowledge concerning the basic principles of physics and the importance of physics in the life sciences to establish the interconnectedness of knowledge between human life and activity and basic physics.

BMHB1000 Human Anatomy
This module provides a basic introduction to human structure and function, comprising gross anatomy integrated with microscopic anatomy. Histological organization of the primary tissues: epithelial, connective, muscular and nervous tissues will also be covered. Clinical relevance of the anatomical structures will be discussed.

BMHB1001 Human Physiology
This module aims to demonstrate all major human physiological systems using hormonal control of homeostasis as a basis for understanding normal function and health. The student will be able to appreciate the interactions occurring amongst the endocrine, digestive,
renal, and reproductive systems and be able to relate them to the body's biological rhythms, growth, responses to stress and reproductive processes. The key topics will be covered including endocrine system, central endocrine glands, peripheral endocrine glands, digestive system, digestive processes, energy balance, urinary system, fluid processing, fluid balance, reproductive system, male reproductive physiology, female reproductive physiology.

BMCB1000 Cell Biology
This module not only provides a classic overview of the structure, organization of the cell and functions of eukaryotic cells but also includes its membranes, organelles and cytoskeleton. In addition, the emphasis of this module will also be on the molecular basis of cellular functions, which includes cell movements, organelle biogenesis, protein trafficking, endocytosis, exocytosis, signal transduction & intracellular signalling, cell proliferation and cell death.

BMMS1000 Molecular Biology
This module comprises of major topics: the structure, organization and function of genes and genomes in both prokaryotes and eukaryotes (eg: DNA topology, hierarchy of packaging of DNA in chromosomes and relationship to gene activity and genome dynamics). The molecular events of transcription; post-transcriptional modifications and RNA processing; temporal and spatial gene expression, control and regulation, signals of gene expression and RNA interference (gene silencing) will be dealt with. The cause and/or effect of dysfunction of gene expression and diseases will be discussed as well.

BMMB1000 Fundamentals of Microbiology
This module covers the key principles of microbiology with emphasis on the properties, functions and classification of the major classes of microorganisms, especially bacteria, fungi and viruses. In addition, students will learn and understand the microbial activities and their influence on microbial diseases.

BMMS1002 Human Genetics
The course will cover topics on the patterns of inheritance, the molecular structure and replication of genetic material, the molecular properties of genes, and genetic analysis of individuals and populations. The emphasis will be on the understanding of the underlying molecular and biochemical basis of inheritance, for example, formation of leukaemia. Quantitative and population genetics will also be discussed with the emphasis of understanding the processes and forces in nature that promote genetic change.

BMCB1001 Cell Metabolism and Regulation
This module covers the major biochemical processes, i.e., biosynthesis and catabolism of carbohydrates, proteins, lipids and nucleic acids in the context of human health and disease. The focus will be on the integration and regulation of metabolic pathways in different tissues and organs. In addition, an introduction to the principles of bioenergetics and mitochondrial energy metabolism, free radicals, mitochondrial DNA damage in aging and neurodegenerative diseases.

BMMS1001 Molecular Basis of Human Diseases in modern society
This module aims to provide students with in-depth knowledge of the basic mechanisms of common human diseases such as cancer, diabetes, obesity, atherosclerosis, Alzheimer’s disease etc. and to equip them for future translational research. This module also focuses on the current molecular mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis of each disease. There will be brief discussion on the current cutting-edge research issues.

BMMB1001 Basis of Infectious Diseases
The study of the Infectious diseases is a critical element in our defence against newly emerging and re-emerging microbial threats, a point brought home most devastatingly by the avian influenza and SARS epidemics. This module mainly covers the various basic properties of microbes and its medical importance, which is how they cause disease, how infections are diagnosed and treated and how they may be prevented. Some examples of deadly viruses are Dengue, West Nile and HIV/AIDS. This ultimate goal of this module is to understand the host-pathogen interactions which provide insights into potential target sites that facilitate the design of feasible antimicrobial strategies against important pathogens.

BMCB1002 Neurobiology
This module aims firstly to introduce students to the term neurobiology and secondly to impart fundamental concepts and principles in neurophysiology, neuropharmacology, neurochemistry and cell biology of the central nervous system (CNS). Moreover, the molecular and cellular functions of neuronal and glial cells will be explained in details. In addition, the following topics will be briefly covered: mechanisms of neuronal growth, regeneration, degeneration, neurotransmission and neuronal signalling. BMMD1000 Introduction of Biomedical Engineering This module is designed to provide students with background and general knowledge in bioengineering to stir up their interests in this multidisciplinary field. This module will aim at providing the background and basic knowledge in bioengineering to the students. At the end of this module, the students will have great appreciation for the breadth of studies in bioengineering, can demonstrate a basic understanding of the fundamental aspects of bioengineering. Major topics to be covered are tissue engineering, biomaterials, biomechanics, bioinstrumentation and medical imaging.

BMPH1000 Drug Discovery and Clinical Trials
This module will encompass all the stages of drug development before it is marketed for clinical use: discovery/synthesis, preclinical studies, clinical drug trials, registration and post-market surveillance. The different phases of clinical drug trials and the guidelines for ethics and good clinical practice will be discussed. Students are also divided into groups to design clinical trials. At the end of the course the students will have an overview of the processes involved in bringing a drug from the laboratory to the market.

BMLS1000 Laboratory skills in Biomedical Science
This module will equip students with the laboratory skills necessary to perform routine scientific laboratory procedures/protocols and expose them to a number of advanced biomedical and biotechnological techniques. This module also deals with a range of laboratory skills, from immunodetection to microscopy. In addition, it will provide them in direct training in experimental competencies.

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Bachelor of Biomedical Science

Awarded by CQUniversity, Australia

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

1. Completion of Advanced Diploma in Biomedical Science awarded by Melior Education Group; or
2. Completion of an approved Diploma or Advanced Diploma in the Science discipline from polytechnics or recognized institutions in Singapore

Module Synopsis

BMED19010 Macromolecules and Cell Function
This course will enable students to develop their knowledge of the structure, function and biological roles of the major cellular macromolecules and their building blocks, and of the methods used in biochemical analysis. Students should also develop their understanding of the processes involved in cellular respiration and the breakdown of macromolecules, as well as the basis of the selective permeability of membranes. This will include the development of skills in the evaluation and application of primary source material within the context of biochemistry.

BMED19003 Clinical Biochemistry
This course provides students with an understanding of the role of the clinical pathology laboratory in the diagnosis and management of human diseases and disorders. The course focuses on quality control in the pathology laboratory, the biochemical rationale for the diagnosis, prognosis, and monitoring of red and white blood cells, blood electrolyte balance, blood gases, blood acid-base balance, hormones, diabetes mellitus, jaundice, cardiac and liver disease, gout, inherited metabolic disorders, renal dysfunction and malignant diseases. Students will be instructed on correct procedures for preparing blood and urine samples for analysis, and for interpreting results in a clinical biochemistry Awarded by CQUniversity, Australia

CHEM13080 Analytical Science
Topics studied in this course include: fundamental principles of analytical science; selected applications of chemical equilibria; quantitative molecular spectrophotometry; atomic spectrometry including atomic absorption and ICP- optical emission techniques; ELISA assays; modern chromatographic methods including high-performance liquid chromatography and gas chromatography; introductory mass spectrometry; ion-selective and gas-sensing electrodes; analysis of trace metals by stripping voltammetry; flow injection analysis; radioisotopes; automated chemical, pathology and environmental instrumentation; error analysis; data handling and manipulation; and quality assurance.

BMED19006 Clinical Dietetics
This course introduces the field of dietetics and nutritional assessment, and encourages the student to examine various disease states such as hypermetabolic conditions, inherited metabolic disorders, cardiovascular diseases, liver and kidney diseases, and certain paediatric disorders from an integrated dietary, biomechanical and medical perspective. The
topics to be studied build on prior learning in the program in the areas of metabolic and clinical biochemistry, physiology and pharmacology.

BIOT13001 Genome Biotechnology
The biotechnology industry, both in Australia and Worldwide has undergone significant growth and there are subsequent employment and career development opportunities for suitably trained and qualified individuals. The course develops theories and techniques aimed at understanding genome dynamics and the associated technologies that enable us to access and utilise the range of information stored within the genome.

BMED19012 Clinical Pathology
This course will provide students with an understanding of the diagnosis of disorders by the clinical pathology laboratory. The course is valuable for both Biomedical Science and Health Science (Nursing) students. Since both groups bring different prior skills and knowledge to the course, the content is tailored for each group. Both groups have individual text recommendations, separate study schedules and different assessment protocols.

Health Science (Nursing) students will gain an understanding of life processes, biochemistry and clinical chemistry as they relate to disease states and treatments. Nurses will gain an understanding of the role of the clinical pathology laboratory in modern nursing practice. The course focus is on the biomedical rationale for the diagnosis, prognosis and monitoring of red cells, white cells and platelets, blood electrolyte balance, blood gases, blood acid-base balance, vitamins and trace elements, diabetes mellitus, jaundice, cardiac and liver disease, gout and renal dysfunction. Nursing students will undertake a laboratory visit to a clinical chemistry laboratory and prepare a report.

Biomedical Science students usually already have a strong background in clinical biochemistry so the course focus for these students is in haematological diagnosis and techniques. The course focuses on red cell, white cell and platelet morphology and disorders, laboratory test procedures, automated instrumentation, quality assurance, haemostasis disorders, iron abnormalities, immunohaematology, cytochemistry and immunophenotyping. Biomedical students will gain experience in disease diagnosis using blood film morphology examination and an understanding of modern clinical laboratory instrumentation.

PHRM19001 Pharmacology and Toxicology
Students will study the fundamental principles of toxicology and selective toxicity, and examine the main processes by which toxins are absorbed, transported, metabolised and excreted. Selected examples of the mechanisms of action of plant, microbial and fish toxins on target tissues in humans and livestock will be examined in detail. Examples of heavy metal toxicity and toxic ecological events will be studied, as will chemotherapy as a selective toxicity strategy against tumours. In the pharmacology component, the mechanism of action of some major drug groups used in the treatment of disorders in the autonomic nervous system, the gastrointestinal tract, and the cardiovascular and pulmonary system will be examined at the drug-receptor level. Pharmacokinetics, receptor selectivity, efficacy and the optimum route of administration of drugs will be considered.

BMED19007 Forensic Chemistry
This course introduces students to the field of forensic chemistry. Topics to be studied include the principles of forensic investigation, detection of illicit and prescription substances and the pharmacology of these drugs, forensic toxicology associated with poisoning and invenomation, investigations of fires and explosions, examination of law cases involving complex forensic evidence, and emergent new analytical methodologies in forensic science including the new DNA profiling technologies.

BMED19005 Immunology
The study of Immunology introduces the student to pre-natal and post-natal development of the immune system; maternal acquired immunity; the lymphatic network; immune function in health and disease including autoimmune conditions; humoral and cellular immunity; the major histocompatability complex (MHC) or HLA; T-cell and B-cell function; T-cell epitopes; immune responses to proteins, bacteria, viruses, protozoa, and other multi-cellular organisms; polyclonal and monoclonal antibodies; anti-idiotypic antibodies; antibody detection methods; diagnostic uses of antibodies; vaccine design; active and passive immunity; preventive and therapeutic uses of vaccines; expression of recombinant antibodies by transgenic organisms; targeting of chemotherapeutic agents using tumour specific antibodies; immunological modulation of metabolism, growth and fertility; immunologically transgenic animals for organ use in humans; use of gene knockout models to study the MHC and immune response mechanisms.

BIOL12106 Molecular Biology & Cell Culture
Biotechnology is essentially the use of living organisms and their products for health, social or economic purposes and is widely considered to be the growth industry for the 21st Century. In turn, this is leading to a huge expansion of the current industry bringing many opportunities for suitably qualified graduates. This course focuses on developing an understanding of how genomes are organised, how they function within the cell, ways in which we can manipulate genomes and untilise their components for a range of purposes - agricultural, medical and commercial.

MBIO19003 Introductory Microbiology
This course provides an introduction to the biology of microorganisms. The course provides a survey of the major microbiological taxa with emphasis on the correlation between form and function. An understanding of microbial growth is an important component of this course. The laboratory component is geared to provide instruction and practice in the safe yet efficient handling of microorganisms with special reference to protocols used in microbial identification and growth studies.

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