5B010B - Molecular Bioscience 01 Sep 2027 - 31 Aug 2033 | Version 0
Associated Module Information
| Module Code: | 5B010B | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Module Title: | Molecular Bioscience | ||
| Faculty: | Faculty of Computing, Engineering and Science | ||
| Faculty Group: | Applied Science | ||
| Faculty Sub Group: | Biology and Chemistry | ||
| Module Leader: | Cerith Jones | ||
| Module Team: | Martin Powell | ||
| First Intended Intake: | SEP 2027 | Final Year of Intake: | 2032 |
| Date Closed: | |||
| Credit Value: | 30 | Credit Level: | 5 |
| Language: | English | ||
| Percentage of Module Taught in Welsh: | 33 | ||
| Equivalent Module: | |||
| HECOS codes: | |||
| HECOS Code Weighting: | |||
Document Version Information
| Version | 0 |
|---|---|
| Valid From | 01 Sep 2027 |
| Valid To | 31 Aug 2033 |
Module Aims
The main aims of the module are:
Develop an understanding of the molecular basis of biological processes across levels of organisation, from genes and proteins to cells and whole organisms, including how changes in genetic information can lead to both beneficial adaptations and harmful consequences.
Examine the molecular and functional impacts of microorganisms within biological systems, including their roles in health, disease, and environmental processes.
Apply core molecular biology practical skills—such as laboratory techniques, data analysis, critical interpretation, and scientific communication—to investigate biological questions and real-world case studies.
Content Summary
This module explores biological life at the genetic and molecular level, investigating how the invisible world can influence human and ecosystem health. You will explore the tools used to study these processes, leaving students with experience and competency in the molecular biology laboratory, as well as the computational biology skills required to analyse biological sequence data. You will use a range of case studies to understand how function and dysfunction at the molecular level can impact human, animal and environmental health, and how an integrated understanding of these systems is vital to a sustainable biological future
Learning and Teaching Methods
| Activity Type | Hours |
|---|---|
| Practical classes and workshops | 56 |
| Formative Assessment | 20.5 |
| Summative Assessment | 60 |
| Independent/Self Directed Study | 130 |
| Guided Digital Learning | 10.5 |
| Directed Study | 23 |
| Total Hours Selected | 300 |
Learning Outcomes
| # | Learning Outcome |
|---|---|
| LO1 | Explain and evaluate the molecular mechanisms by which genetic information is vulnerable to change and how these processes result in beneficial adaptations or harmful biological consequences across different levels of biological organisation. |
| LO2 | Design appropriate experimental approaches, gather and interpret molecular data, and use these outputs to evaluate the roles of microorganisms and molecular processes in defined biological systems and health-related challenges |
Module Requisites
N/A
Assessment Criteria
| Assessment Category | Assessment Type | Description | Duration | Word Count | Weight (%) | Best of? | Pass Mark |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Synchronous Onsite Practical Assessment | Practical Coursework (Onsite) | The in-class test assesses students’ ability to interpret molecular data, apply experimental reasoning, and explain biological mechanisms under time-bound conditions. | 180 | N/A | 50 | No | 40 |
| Asynchronous Assessment | Practical Coursework (Asynchronous) | This assessment reflects authentic contemporary scientific practice, supporting the USW AIAS framework at Level 4 by requiring students to evaluate, refine, and justify AI outputs rather than generate final answers. It promotes reflective learning, ethical digital literacy, and methodological judgement | 0 | 2250 | 50 | No | 40 |
Assessment Matrix
| Assessment Type | Learning Outcomes | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| LO1 | LO2 | ||
| Practical Coursework (Onsite) | ✔ | ✔ | |
| Practical Coursework (Asynchronous) | ✔ | ✔ | |