4B010B - Principles of Clinical Sample Analysis 01 Sep 2027 - 31 Aug 2033 | Version 0

Associated Module Information

Module Code: 4B010B
Module Title: Principles of Clinical Sample Analysis
Faculty: Faculty of Computing, Engineering and Science
Faculty Group: Applied Science
Faculty Sub Group: Biology and Chemistry
Module Leader: Sioned Owen
Module Team: Aaron Wall, Martin Powell
First Intended Intake: SEP 2027 Final Year of Intake: 2032
Date Closed:
Credit Value: 30 Credit Level: 4
Language: English
Percentage of Module Taught in Welsh: 33
Equivalent Module:
HECOS codes: 100265 - biomedical sciences
HECOS Code Weighting: 100

Document Version Information

Version 0
Valid From 01 Sep 2027
Valid To 31 Aug 2033

Module Aims

The main aims of the module are: 

  • Demonstrate competency in the safe and effective collection, processing, storage, and disposal of biological samples in accordance with laboratory best practice and quality standards. 

  • Apply principles of quality assurance and good laboratory practice to maintain sample integrity, traceability, and contamination control throughout the analytical workflow. 

  • Identify, interpret, and discuss the ethical, governance, and regulatory frameworks that underpin professional standards in healthcare science, including issues of consent, confidentiality, health and safety, and data protection. 

Content Summary

This module introduces foundational competencies in biomedical and clinical science practice, focusing on the safe and effective handling of biological samples alongside the professional, ethical, and regulatory contexts that underpin laboratory work. Students will develop practical skills in the collection, processing, storage, and disposal of a range of biological specimens, with an emphasis on accuracy, traceability, contamination control, and adherence to standard operating procedures. Through laboratory-based learning and simulated scenarios, learners will gain experience in applying quality assurance principles and maintaining sample integrity across the pre-analytical and post-analytical stages. 

In parallel, the module explores the ethical, governance, and regulatory frameworks that shape contemporary healthcare science practice. Students will examine key professional standards, including codes of conduct, health and safety legislation, data protection requirements, and biohazard regulations. Critical discussion will encourage understanding of informed consent, confidentiality, and the responsibilities of healthcare scientists within multidisciplinary teams. 

By integrating practical laboratory competencies with an understanding of professional accountability, the module prepares students to operate safely, ethically, and effectively within clinical and research environments, forming a foundation for subsequent study in healthcare settings. It also builds confidence in safe laboratory conduct and professional decision making in practice settings and environments throughout training. 

Learning and Teaching Methods

Activity Type Hours
Practical classes and workshops 56
Guided Learning 21
Independent Study? 103
Formative Assessment 60
Summative Assessment 60
Total Hours Selected 300

Learning Outcomes

# Learning Outcome
LO1 Demonstrate competency of collecting, processing, storage, traceability and disposal of biological samples.
LO2 Identify and discuss the ethical, governance and regulatory frameworks that dictate healthcare science professional standards

Module Requisites

N/A

Assessment Criteria

Assessment Category Assessment Type Description Duration Word Count Weight (%) Best of? Pass Mark
Asynchronous Assessment Practical Coursework (Asynchronous) This coursework would take the form of a skills and reflection written portfolio designed to be a complementary assessment dimension to capture learner development over time 0 3000 50 No 40
Synchronous Onsite Practical Assessment Practical Test An observational practical examination directly assesses students’ ability to perform the core competencies required in biomedical science, rather than simply describe them 180 N/A 50 No 40

Assessment Matrix

Assessment Type Learning Outcomes
LO1 LO2
Practical Coursework (Asynchronous)
Practical Test

Reading List

Ahmed, N., et al. Biomedical Science Practice: Experimental and Professional Skills

Beauchamp, T. & Childress, J. Principles of Biomedical Ethics

Guder, W.G. et al. Samples: From the Patient to the Laboratory

UK Research and Innovation (UKRI). Ethics and Approvals Guidance

World Health Organization (WHO). Laboratory Biosafety Manual

Effective learning in the life sciences how students can achieve their full potential / edited by David J. Adams.