Stage 1: University Foundation

Modules

Click below for more information on each module

• Interactive Learning Skills and Communication

  Throughout this module you will learn about:

  • Time management
  • Public speaking techniques
  • Listening skills
  • Appropriate language styles
  • Clear writing techniques (plain English, factual and persuasive writing)
  • The importance of writing style
  • How to create appropriate and effective document layouts
  • Professional communication and presentation
  • Examination techniques and skills
  • How to communicate effectively to a variety of audiences
  • How to work effectively as a team member and as an individual
  • How to apply basic research and referencing techniques to formulate reasoned academic opinion so as to avoid plagiarism

  You will be assessed via a variety of methods, including:

  • A research project – referencing a topic and using a variety of techniques and resources
  • An individual presentation
  • Two group presentations
  • A listening assessment
  • A 2-hour closed book exam

• Numerical Techniques 1

  This module will introduce you to basic mathematics and mathematical applications – including equations, algebraic problems and trigonometry.

  You will be assessed via two closed book exams: one 90-minute in class, and one 2-hour.

• Biology 1

  This module covers some of the fundamental aspects of biology, including:

  • The principles of homeostasis and how this is regulated
  • The significance of bioenergetics in relation to the importance of energy balance
  • The principles of nutrition, enzymatic digestion and absorption
  • The physiology of blood and the circulatory system

  You will be assessed via three methods:

  • A 1-hour multiple choice test
  • Coursework – including a 500-word essay, a poster, and data-handling and laboratory exercises
  • A 2-hour closed book exam

• Physics 1

  This module will introduce you to the core concepts and principles relevant to mass communications – including some of the major theories.

  There will be three pieces of coursework:

  • A close analysis of the film Fight Club
  • An analysis of an advertisement from a magazine or newspaper
  • A group presentation

• Design Concepts

  This module will introduce you to design, the importance of design and the fundamentals of technical drawing.

  You will be assessed via three methods:

  • A designated civil design project in the form of a written report (1,000 words), including sketches and annotated drawings
  • A class presentation based on the project and concept, supported with a poster
  • A 2-hour closed book exam

• Business Studies

  You will learn to define what a business is and its functions in relation to the different types of business costs. You will also be introduced to marketing, the marketing mix and product life cycle.

  You will be assessed via a variety of methods, including:

  • A written business plan, and group presentation of the business plan
  • A 1-hour test in class
  • A written marketing research report, and group presentation of the report
  • A 2-hour closed book exam

• ICT Skills

  This module will introduce you to the concepts of ICT skills – including applications and reporting mechanisms.

  You will be assessed via a variety of methods, including:

  • Four 20-minute multiple choice tests in class
  • An assignment on key Microsoft Word and Excel skills
  • A 2-hour closed book exam

• Biology 2

  This module explores further aspects of biology, including the rules of biological classification, evolution by natural selection and the concept of species.

  You will be assessed via three methods:

  • A 1-hour multiple choice test
  • Coursework – including a 500-word essay, a poster, and data-handling and laboratory exercises
  • A 2-hour closed book exam

     

    This module will define the core concepts and principles of effective academic writing – including how to argue a position coherently and appropriately, distinguishing between descriptive and analytic writing, and identifying academic systems of researching and referencing.

    You will be assessed via three methods:

    • First draft of essay (1,000 – 1,500 words)
    • Final draft of the essay
    • A 2-hour closed book exam

Stage 2: First Year Degree

You will study alongside Birmingham City University students on your chosen degree course. For information on the modules you will be studying, click on your chosen degree in the list below and the ‘Find out more’ link, then select the ‘Course in Depth’ tab.

In addition to your BCU modules, you will also study an additional support module with BCUIC called Interactive Learning Skills and Communication.

Stage 3: Second Year Degree

Stage 4: Final Year Degree

Birmingham City University Degree Pathways

Click below for more information on each pathway

• BEng (Hons) Biomedical Engineering

  • Throughout this programme, you will have the option to carry out exciting work placements in the UK and abroad.
  • Students benefit from the resources and facilities of two Faculties (Health, Education & Life Sciences (HELS), and Computing, Engineering & the Built Environment (CEBE)), plus a wealth of interdisciplinary knowledge from a range of professionals in both areas.
  • You will take part in industrial-led practical workshops and labs to enhance your technical skills.
    Find out more

• BSc (Hons) Biomedical Sciences

  • This course will be delivered at the University’s City South campus, using state-of-the-art life sciences laboratories.
  • You will develop practical and analytical skills throughout the course.
  • A core module in your second year will introduce you to the variety of careers that biosciences graduates can choose from.
    Find out more

Special entry requirements

• Students must have a Mathematics qualification at GCSE-level or equivalent with a Grade C/4.