PHA-10022 - Module Specification
School of Pharmacy and Bioengineering
Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences

Programme/Approved Electives for 2020/21

Available as a Free Standing Elective

Co-requisites

None

Prerequisites

None

Barred Combinations

None

Description for 2020/21

This module provides an integrated and fully contextualised introduction to the BSc Pharmaceutical Science, Technology and Business programme. The module aims to develop knowledge and skills in a wide variety of disciplines by demonstrating the linkages between seemingly disparate topics in science.
The integrated approach taken throughout this module will enable students to develop a deeper understanding of the topics covered: for example, examination of the structure and function of DNA and mRNA is preceded by studies in the basic chemistry which governs chemical bonding and molecular structure, and is followed by an in-depth analysis of genetics. The importance of fundamental chemical and physical properties of molecules is contextualised by studying the molecular aspects of cell structure and function, and the structures of the important biomolecules that are ubiquitous in nature.
Linkages between the various integrated modules within the programme will be highlighted at every opportunity and students will begin to understand how advances in knowledge within science and technology drive drug discovery and business development within the global pharmaceutical industry.

To provide an integrated introduction to the essential scientific disciplines and numeracy which underpin further studies towards the BSc in Pharmaceutical Science, Technology and Business.

Intended Learning Outcomes

Recognise the opportunities to target specific cell structures and processes for the treatment of disease: 1,2
Recognise and describe the integration of metabolic processes in the maintenance of homeostasis and the consequences of errors in metabolism: 1,2
Recognise the pivotal role played by the gene in living organisms, including patterns of inheritance and human disease, and discuss the molecular aspects of chromosome and gene structure, replication, expression and regulation: 1,2
Describe the basic architecture and cellular diversity of prokaryotic and eukaryotic (plant and animal) cells, making comparisons and distinctions between them: 1,2
Recognise and describe the principles of structure and bonding which affect the 3- dimensional shape of molecules and assign appropriate stereochemical descriptions to organic and biological molecules: 1,2
Recognise how the structural features, stereochemistry and functional groups responsible for chemical and physical properties can influence the biological activity of molecules and, hence, the drug design process: 1,2
Identify common organic molecular structures and functional groups and write suitable reaction mechanisms for their interconversion: 1,2
Describe the cellular and molecular interactions involved in the formation of tissues: 1,2
Describe the structure, fundamental properties and transport across biological membranes, distinguishing the roles played by the lipid and protein components of the membrane: 1,2

Study hours

Large- and small-group formal teaching sessions: 80 hours
Skills-based practical work: 40 hours
Directed private study, revision and assessment: 178 hours
Exam: 1.75 hours

School Rules

None

Description of Module Assessment