The emphasis of the course is on inferential statistics, i.e. the methods that permit one to make estimates and decisions about populations of measurements based on sample data.

1. Conduct appropriate tests for normality of data and evaluate probabilities associated with a Normal distribution

2. Test hypotheses and construct confidence intervals for population parameters [mean(s), proportion(s), differences of means, differences of proportions, standard deviation]

3. Test hypotheses for non-parametric data – Mann Whitney test, Wilcoxon Signed Rank and Rank Sum tests, Fisher’s Exact Test

4. Use chi-squared distribution to test for independence in contingency tables.
5. Use MINITAB software to perform all tests, create confidence intervals andmeasure the power of a statistical test.

6. Describe the main probability and non-probability sampling methods.

This physiology module proffers a captivating comprehension of how the human body functions. Building from the first-year physiology module, this module will explore important physiological concepts of three body systems, the endocrine system, the renal system, and the reproductive system. Case studies will explore how all the physiological systems integrate in disease to give the student an in-depth appreciation of human physiology.

1. Explain how the hypothalamus and endocrine system function to maintain normal functioning of the endocrine glands of the body.

2. Explain how male and female reproductive anatomy is affected by hormones and contraception.

3. Explain how the kidney filters plasma, reabsorbs the filtrate, secretes molecules and controls the constituents of urine.

4. Illustrate how two or moreorgan system contributeto the malignance ofhomeostasis.

The Medical Microbiology 1 module builds on stage 1 Microbiology and develops the role of bacteria in human disease. The course will emphasise the mechanisms of microbial pathogenicity and current laboratory methods for the diagnosis of microbial disease.

1. Describe bacterial species of medical importance in relation to: physiology, pathogenicity, culture, biochemical and serological characteristics.

2. Describe testing techniques and methodologies used in the clinical laboratory to diagnose microbial disease and antimicrobial susceptibility.

3. Perform a range of routine microbiological tests appropriate to professional practice.

4. Analyse, interpret and communicate patient results as appropriate to professional practice.

5. Demonstrate a knowledge of and apply principles of safety and quality assurance in medical microbiology.

Transfusion Science involves the study of the immunology of blood and includes the principles and practices of blood banking. Students will learn about the major blood group systems and the testing that is required prior to the transfusion of blood. The clinical aspects of transfusion medicine will also be studied. Particular emphasis will be placed on basic concepts, practical competence, interpretation and communication of results, safety aspects and quality management.

1. Explain the major theoretical principles that form the foundations of immunohaematology.

2. Demonstrate knowledge of blood and blood product provision including procedures for donation, collection and processing of blood and blood components.

3. Competently perform routine serological tests and be able to identify and resolve anomalies and incompatibilities in transfusion practise.

4. Analyse, interpret and be able to communicate results as appropriate for a clinical setting.

5. Describe the aetiology and serological investigation of adverse outcomes of transfusion and HDFN.

6. Apply knowledge of quality, safety and regulation in the transfusion laboratory.

The module is practically-based with an emphasis on interactive discussion and group work. It explores student-centred learning techniques and activation strategies. This module introduces students to the skill of communication with an emphasis on professional communication. It will enable students to develop key communication skills, oral, non-verbal and written to assist them to communicate effectively and professionally in their scientific careers.

1. Plan, design and deliver professional effective oral and written communication ethically, using appropriate medium.
2. Produce professional written documentation following accepted conventions of design, structure and content which is grammatically and technically correct.
3. Reflect on participation with groups and identify ways on which to improve their individual performance.
4. Discriminate between information sources and reference all sources of information using the Harvard referencing style.
5. Create a professional digital presence

6. Develop good documentation practices

The aim of this module is to provide students with an overview of the analysis of cells and tissues in the investigation of alterations in disease in the diagnostic cell pathology laboratory. These investigations include tissue processing, histochemical staining, immunohistochemical and molecular analytical methods to demonstrate carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, nucleic acids, minerals and pigments. The module includes discussion on safe laboratory practice, quality and ethical issues in cell and tissue analysis, storage and disposal. All laboratory practicals will be delivered with a focus on sustainability topics.

1. Describe theproceduresof sample preparation and tissue processing in the routine histopathological laboratoryto stained microscope slide.

2. Recognise and be able to appropriatelyapply commonly used histochemical and immunohistochemical stains.

3. Microscopically recognise normal tissue structure and pathological changes

4. Discuss the application and uses of molecular methods and specialised stains in diagnosis and disease staging

5. Analyse, interpret and communicate patient results as appropriate for a clinical setting.

6. Apply knowledge of quality control, safety, regulation and ethical issues to professional practice in the cell pathology laboratory.

Introductory module on DNA isolation, manipulation, and analysis from the perspective of clinical molecular biology.

1. Describe the structure and regulation of prokaryotic and eukaryotic DNA & RNA

2. Recognise the various DNA & RNA sequences that are relevant to clinical diagnostics.

3. Explain the modus operandi of DNA manipulation protocols.
4. Select the most appropriate DNA protocols to use in the diagnosis of hereditary, infectious, and pathological conditions.
5. Describe current & near-future applications of DNA & RNA technology in medical research.

6. Use appropriate reagents and equipment for the fundamental isolation, manipulation, and analysis of DNA.

This theory only module covers major topics in cellular and molecular immunology, including antigen recognition, antigen processing and presentation to B and T cells, antibody structure and effector functions, the role of all major cells and cytokines in immune responses, the inflammatory response and the role of immunity in protection against pathogens, in hypersensitivity, autoimmunity, and transplantation. This module provides a foundation for Clinical Immunology in year 4 and for Applied Immunotechnology in year 3.

1. Give an account of the structures and functions of cells and organ involvement in the human immune system, and their integration

2. Compare and contrast host defence mechanisms distinguishing innate and adaptive immunity in resistance to microbial infection

3. Understand cytokine biology and how the cytokine network interferes with the immune system

4. Describe the cellular and molecular basis of the inflammatory response, and the role of the immune response in the pathophysiology of disease including type 1 hypersensitivity, autoimmunity and transplant rejection

5. Analyse and critique relevant primary literature and summarise materials for presentation

Haematology is the study of blood and the diseases associated with blood cells and the organs involved in forming blood. The areas that will be studied in detail in this module include the malignant and benign conditions that affect blood cells and the tests that are used in the diagnosis of disease states. This module will also include a study of the cellular and soluble factors that are present in the blood that help to maintain blood in the fluid state and that prevent excess blood loss following injury. Throughout the module emphasis will be placed on safety legislation and safe practices in the haematology laboratory.

1. Describe the role of the haematology laboratory in the context of patient care.

2. Explain the pathophysiology and clinical manifestations of a selection of disorders investigated in the haematology laboratory.

3. Perform a range of routine haematology tests appropriate to professional practice.

4. Analyse, interpret and communicate patient results as appropriate for a clinical setting.

5. Describe theinstrumentation and associated technologies used in the haematology laboratory.

6. Demonstrate a knowledge of and apply principles of safety and quality in the haematology laboratory.

In this module the learner is introduced to Clinical Chemistry; they are provided with the skills and knowledge required to perform routine clinical chemistry test procedures, to recognise the value of Clinical Chemistry results in both the diagnosis and the management of patient care. This module also introduces the learner to the mechanisms of selected metabolic disorders.

1. Describe the role of the clinical chemistry laboratory in the context of patient care

2. Explain the pathophysiology and clinical manifestations of a selection of disorders investigated in the clinical chemistry laboratory

3. Perform a range of routine clinical chemistry tests appropriate to professional practice

4. Analyse, interpret and communicate patient results as appropriate for a clinical setting

5. Describe the role of instrumentation in the Clinical Chemistry Laboratory and the underlying principles of the technologies in use.

6. Demonstrate a knowledge of and apply principles of safety and quality in the clinical chemistry laboratory

This module will study the structure and analysis of major biochemicals from living cells, training students in the basics of structure and analytical quantification methods commonly used with macromolecules such as proteins, polysaccharides, lipids, nucleic acids and vitamin chemistry. Also covered is the theoretical basis of enzyme action. It will describe the theoretical basis for chromatographic and electrophoretic techniques applicable in the biopharmaceutical/medical/nutritional health area and expose the student to their experimental and practical use for the first time. It will also introduce the student to basic metabolic processes.

1. Describe the basic structure and chemistry of the major constituents of the living cell, identify their presence and function (where relevant) and quantify them experimentally.

2. Operate a range of analytical instruments and equipment for analysis of biomolecules, in a safe and efficient manner. Prepare and use standards in qualitative and quantitative analysis. Determine the composition of unknown samples by reference to standards ( graphs and / or calibration curves).

3. Interpret the results of biomolecular analyses.Evaluate the accuracy and precision of the chosen method. Evaluate the limitations of the chosen procedure.

4. Demonstrate a critical understanding of biomolecules in the maintenance of normal bodily function.

5. Produce clear, concise, accurate and objective documentation relating to experiments carried out in the practical component of the course, using appropriate software.

6. Execute experiments/analyses in the laboratory in compliance with relevant and current health and safety legislation and guidelines, and understand the relevant biological, chemical and physical hazards associated with the practical component of this course, applying appropriate standards and procedures for risk containment.

7. Proceed to more advanced studies in biochemistry, biotechnology, molecular biology, genetics,immunology and other related subjects.

The Analytical Techniques and Instrumentation module combines theory with practice so that the student has a comprehensive knowledge of chromatography, electrochemistry, spectroscopy and microscopy and electrochemical methods for the qualitative and quantitative analysis of compounds and mixtures. From the theory the student learns the basic methods of chromatography which include Gas Chromatography (GC), High Performance Liquid Chromatography(HPLC), Mass Spectroscopy(MS), GC-MS, Thin layer, Ion Exchange HPLC, Column Chromatography and Size Exclusion Chromatography. The student also learns basic spectroscopy methods of analysis such as Atomic adsorption (AA), both flame and non flame (Graphite Furnace), Flame emission (FE) and advanced Microscopy covering the Scanning Electron Microscope, the Environmental Scanning Electron Microscope and its use in examination of biological samples. Basic electrochemical methods of analysis with the use of Auto Titrators and Ion Selective Electrodes are also covered in theory. Through practical work the student learns how to follow procedures, prepare samples for analysis for the above techniques. They learn how to process analytical data, interpret results correctly and report results obtained.

1. Display a knowledge of the basic theoretical principles and underlying methods of chromatographic , spectroscopic , electrochemical analysis and microscopy.
2. Follow procedures and prepare samples for analysis by chromatographic , spectroscopic , electrochemical analysis and microscopy.
3. Operate a wide range of analytical instrumentation under supervision.
4. Process analytical data and obtain quantitative results.
5. Complete reports using mathematical methods.
6. Interpret and assess the results obtained.

Advanced module on the uses of molecular biology from a clinical perspective, with appropriate practical training in current protocols and usage of associated laboratory equipment and reagents.

1. Describe the underlying molecular causes of inherited conditions and pathological manifestations.
2. Describe in detail the molecular techniques that are used to detect/confirm the presence of inherited conditions, infectious diseases, and pathological states.
3. Apply appropriate software and bioinformatics tools to analyse molecular results and sequence-generated data via Internet- and computer-assisted programmes.
4. Preparestock reagents and solutions
5. Operate, maintain,and trouble-shoot molecular biologyequipment.
6. Address problematic issuesassociated with protocolsand reagents.

This module will introduce students to the principles of Quality Management, Health and Safety and Statistics for the clinical laboratory.

1. Demonstrate an understanding of the legal, ethical and practice boundaries of the medical science profession.

2. Discuss the relevant national and international quality standards pertaining to the medical science profession.

3. Appraise how a quality management system applies to the clinical laboratory service.

4. Evaluate current Health and Safety regulations, and have knowledge of the relevant biological, chemical and physical hazard groups and associated risk containment.

5. Monitor, evaluate and/or audit the quality of practice against evidence-based standards including using appropriate statistical analysis

In this module the learner will review the immune system and its components, building on what was delivered in Immunology, stage 2 and preparing the student for Clinical Immunology in stage 4. The module will enhance the learners understanding of basic immunology and give the learner a solid foundation for understanding the immunological basis of diseases. An introduction to immunotherapies will be provided and the application of immunometric assays in a clinical laboratory will also be studied.

1. Review and analyse the components of innate and adaptive immunity.

2. Discuss how aspects of the immune system can be manipulated to provide various immunotherapies.

3. Discuss the principles and applications of various immunoassays.

4. Competently perform a range of immunoassays relevant to the diagnostic laboratory and with due regard to quality and safety.

The Practice Placement module is a 1000-hour placement in a clinical laboratory in which the learner will gain knowledge of the principles of ethical and professional behaviour for medical scientists together with practical experience under the supervision of qualified and CORU registered medical scientists. The placement will allow exposure to state of the art laboratory equipment and instrumentation while knowledge of the importance of laboratory tests and their clinical interpretation in the patient will be emphasised.

1. Practise safely and effectively within the practice boundaries of the profession.

2. Competently perform core laboratory techniques in the medical science disciplines under supervision and work effectively in a professional healthcare.

3. Apply previously acquired theory and practical knowledge to the day to day work in a clinical laboratory.

4. Demonstrate an understanding of the collaborative skills required to practise effectively as a medical scientist.

5. Be able to take responsibility for managing ones workload and setting priorities.

6. Analyse and interpret laboratory results to assist in diagnosis, screening and disease managementand be able to advice on further testing as appropriate.

7. Communicate effectively with other staff and service users through written and oral means.

8. Be able to comply with current Health and Safety regulations, and have knowledge of the relevant biological, chemical and physical hazard groups and associated risk containment in the clinical laboratory.

9. Demonstrate an understanding of and be able to apply the principles of quality assurance, quality improvement and quality management including risk management in the clinical laboratory.

10. Demonstrate an understanding of legal and ethical issues, including issues relating to consent, confidentiality and data protection that pertain to medical science.

11. Be able to assess and critically review scientific literature.

12. Participate in reflective practice and demonstrate an understanding of the need for ongoing and continuing professional development.

13. Recognise personal responsibility and professional accountability for ones actions and be able to justify professional decisions made.

This module will provide an extensive opportunity to investigate prominent human diseases and current seminal research on aetiologies of diseases. The module will promote critical thinking, ethics and professionalism. Students will be informed of the literature, current theories and research underpinning disease aetiologies and pathophysiology.

1. Critically discussanalytical and descriptive epidemiology.

2. Calculate and interpret epidemiological measures of diseasewithin the context of public health research.

3. Explain how to design an epidemiological study to ensure that it is ethical and accurate.

4. Critically evaluate the aetiology, risk factors and pathophysiology of prominent human diseases.

This module follows from the Immunology (stage 2)and Applied Immunotechnology (stage 3) modules. The module begins with advanced discussion of cells, molecules and mechanisms of immunity involved in infection. The module explores abnormalities in aspects in immunity in allergy, autoimmunity, and transplantation rejection. The mechanisms underlying immunodeficiency, the theoretical basis of tumour immunology and the role of the clinical immunology laboratory in diagnostic tests are also described. All laboratory practicals will be delivered with emphasis on sustainability topics.

1. Discuss the pathophysiology, diagnosis and treatment of hypersensitivity, autoimmunity, and immunodeficiency and critically evaluate the importance of immune reactions in the immune surveillance

2. Critically discuss the ways in which microorganism and the host immune response affects the pathology caused during infection and how this relates to clinical symptoms.

3. Discuss the ways in which the understanding of the immunology mechanisms has helped in the development of clinical applications of immunological procedures

4. Competently perform routine tests in clinical immunology laboratories, interpret and communicate results in diagnosis of disease with due regard to health and safety

5. Critically evaluate the role of the clinical immunology laboratory and quality assurance in the context of service users.

6. Analyse and critique relevant primary literature and communicate results as appropriate for a clinical setting and advise on further testing

A research project relevant to Medical Science will be completed by the student.

1. Design, plan and carry out a research project in an area relevant to medical science

2. Identify and critically appraise relevant literature specific to the project research area.

3. Collect data, analyse and discuss findings in relation to other research findings in the literature

4. Produce a written report of the research project and communicate findings in a manner appropriate for the scientific community.

5. Demonstrate a commitment to self-directed learning and personal achievement.

6. Conduct research in adherence with ethical, safety and professional codes.

This module is deisgned to build on the knowledge and skills attained by the student in Medical Microbiology to date. The module will enhance the student's ability to assimilate to an advanced level, the role of microorganisms in human disease. Current methods and trends in diagnostic procedures will be reviewed and applied.

1. Describe and critically evaluate the role of Medical Microbiology in the context of patient care.

2. Discuss the pathogenicity, disease diagnosis, treatment and control of medically important microorganisms.

3. Critically analyse, interpret and communicate patient results in a clinical setting.

4. Perform a range of microbiological laboratory testing techniques appropriate to professional practice.

5. Demonstrate a detailed knowledge of detection methods for antimicrobial susceptibility, infection control and surveillance.

6. Critically evaluate instrumentation and methodologies employed in the medical microbiology laboratory.

7. Demonstrate a detailed knowledge of and apply principles of safety and quality in the medical microbiology laboratory.

In this module the learner will build on the knowledge and skills attained in Clinical Chemistry to date. The learner will gain expertise in the interpretation of clinical chemistry test results in the diagnosis and management of a wide range of disease states. The learner will also develop a broad knowledge of the analytical systems used in the clinical chemistry laboratory and in the most recent developments in investigations of biochemical disorders.

1. Demonstrate a detailed knowledge of the operation and management of the Clinical Chemistry laboratory

2. Describe and critically evaluate the role of clinical chemistry in the context of patient care.

3. Discuss the pathophysiology and clinical manifestations of a variety of clinical disorders

4. Critically analyse, interpret and communicate patient results in a clinical setting

5. Critically evaluate instrumentation and technologies employed in the clinical chemistry laboratory

6. Perform a range of laboratory assays appropriate to professional practice

7. Demonstrate a detailed knowledge of and apply principles of safety and quality in the clinical chemistry laboratory

This module is intended to review and bring to a more advanced level, the study of haematology. The learner will demonstrate a thorough knowledge of a variety of haematological disorders and diagnostic techniques for the investigation and monitoring of same. The learner will critically analyse, interpret and communicate scientific information at a level required to practice as a medical scientist.

1. Describe and critically evaluate the role of the haematology laboratory in the context of patient care.

2. Demonstrate a detailed knowledge ofthe production and normal physiology of haematopoietic cells as well as normal haemostasis.

3. Discuss the pathophysiology and clinical manifestations of a variety of haematological disorders.

4. Demonstrate a detailed knowledge of the diagnostic tools used in the haematology laboratory.

5. Competently perform a range of laboratory procedures appropriate to professional practice with due regard for quality and safety.

6. Critically analyse, interpret and communicate results as appropriate for a clinical setting and advise on further testing as appropriate.

7. Demonstrate a detailed knowledge of the principles of quality assurance and regulation in the haematology laboratory.

This module is intended to review and bring to an advanced level, the study of the laboratory and scientific aspects of blood transfusion practice. It is designed to bring together the learners understanding of immunohaematology and genetics in a practical-based setting and will provide the learner with the knowledge and competencies to work in a modern blood transfusion laboratory.

1. Explain the genetics, biochemistry, and serological characteristics of clinically important blood group systems;

2. Discuss and evaluate procedures for blood donation, collection and processing.

3. Discuss and competently perform a range of tests appropriate to professional practice.

4. Critically analyse, interpret and communicate results as appropriate for a clinical setting and advise on further testing as appropriate.

5. Critically review the role of the transfusion laboratory in the provision of blood and blood components in a variety of clinical settings and in the investigation of adverse effects of transfusion.

6. Apply knowledge of quality, safety, regulatory and ethical aspects to current best practices in the transfusion laboratory.

This module is intended to review and bring to an advanced level, the study of cellular pathology. The learner will study this area in greater depth than heretofore with an emphasis on the evaluation, synthesis and analysis of information.

1. Discuss and critically evaluate the role of the Cellular Pathology laboratory in the context of patient care

2. Demonstrate a detailed knowledge of the structure and function of normal cells and tissues; growth and disorder and tumour pathogenesis.

3. Critically evaluate the detection and interpretation of biomarkers for diagnostic, prognostic and predictive assessment and their response to therapy.

4. Demonstrate a detailed knowledge of the diagnostic tools used in the practice of cellular pathology (histology, cytology & molecular pathology).

5. Competently perform a range of laboratory procedures appropriate to professional practice with due regard for quality and safety.

6. Critically analyse, interpret and communicate results as appropriate for a clinical setting and advise on further testing as appropriate.

7. Demonstrate a detailed knowledge of quality assurance and control in the cellular pathology laboratory.

8. Apply knowledge of quality and safety to current best practices in the cellular pathology laboratory.