BI2S211 - Forensic Biology and Microbiology 08 Jul 2022 - 31 Aug 2028 | Version 2

Associated Module Information

Module Code: BI2S211
Module Title: Forensic Biology and Microbiology
Faculty: Faculty of Computing, Engineering and Science
Faculty Group: Applied Sciences
Faculty Sub Group: Biological Sciences
Module Leader: Cerith Jones
Module Team: Sky Redhead, Talatu Usar, Hannah Seale, Peter Miedziak, Ella Mason-Buck
First Intended Intake: SEP 2022 Final Year of Intake: 2027
Date Closed:
Credit Value: 20 Credit Level: 5
Language: English
Percentage of Module Taught in Welsh: 0
Equivalent Module:
HECOS codes: 100259 - genetics 100343 - applied biology 100353 - microbiology
HECOS Code Weighting: 20 60 20

Document Version Information

Version 2
Valid From 08 Jul 2022
Valid To 31 Aug 2028

Module Aims

This module provides a core knowledge of cell biology, microbiology, and biochemistry, allowing learners to appreciate the diversity and complexity of cellular life. A diverse range of applications will illustrate the value of and theoretical basis of biological evidence in forensics. How microbes can contribute to human disease leading to death will be explored.

In engaging with the module appropriately, students will fully achieve the following level-appropriate Behaviour Domains of the USW Graduate Attributes:

Communication: Behaviour 1,2.

Innovation and enterprise: Behaviour 1, 2.

Project management: Behaviour 1, 2.

Digital literacy: Behaviour 1, 2.

Commercial awareness: Behaviour 1, 2.

The Capabilities associated with these behaviours are found in the Graduate Attributes table at the end of the descriptor.

Content Summary

  • Eukaryotic and Prokaryotic Cell Biology.
  • Diversity of cellular life.
  • Practical methods for the growth and characterisation of microbes.
  • Structure and function of biological macromolecules.
  • Microbes and biological materials as forensic indicators.
  • Microbial pathogenesis and disease.

Learning and Teaching Methods

Activity Type Hours
Lecture 30
Practical classes and workshops 18
Independent Study 76
Directed Study 76
Total Hours Selected 200

Learning Outcomes

# Learning Outcome
LO1 Compare the cellular organisation and diversity of eukaryotic and prokaryotic organisms using theoretical and practical based approaches. Compare the structure and function of biological macromolecules within the cell. Explain how microbes can cause disease and death in humans.
LO2 Evaluate the diverse applications of biological evidence in the forensic sciences.

Module Requisites

Code Title Requisite Type
MOD012896 Genetics and Evolution pre-requisite
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Assessment Criteria

Assessment Category Assessment Type Description Duration Word Count Weight (%) Best of? Pass Mark
Asynchronous Assessment Practical Written Work 1 A write up of a piece of practical work that has been undertake. To contain consideration of relevance for the forensics discipline. 0 2500 60 No 40
Synchronous Online Assessment Classroom Test - Time Constrained (Online) 1 Three online tests to include short answer questions and short essay questions. 60 N/A 40 No 40

Assessment Matrix

Assessment Type Learning Outcomes
LO1 LO2
Practical Written Work 1
Classroom Test - Time Constrained (Online) 1

Reading List

Essential Forensic Biology, Alan Gunn, 2019.

Brock biology of microorganisms (any edition). MADIGAN, M. T., MARTINKO, J. M., & PARKER, J. Boston: Pearson.