Biomedical Engineering (with Integrated Foundation Year)

Introduction to Coding

This module introduces students to the fundamentals of computer programming, providing a solid foundation in key concepts supporting the use of data and operations to build the foundations of modern applications. Programming is at the core of modern computing, enabling the development of applications and innovations that shape our world. Through this module, students will develop problem-solving skills and logical thinking, essential for writing effective and efficient code.

The module begins by exploring structured approaches to problem-solving and algorithmic thinking, helping students understand how to break down complex tasks into manageable steps. These foundational skills will be reinforced through practical coding exercises, where students will learn to design, implement, and test simple programs. A primary programming language will be introduced to exemplify core programming principles, but the focus will be on transferable skills that will support the learning of other languages in the future.

By engaging with real-world coding challenges and structured programming techniques, students will gain confidence in writing code, debugging errors, and refining their solutions. This module serves as a crucial stepping stone for further study in computer science and related disciplines, equipping students with the essential skills to begin their journey as programmers.

Introduction to Computer Visualisation

Step into the exciting world of 2D and 3D computer visualisation. In this module, you’ll learn how to create, manipulate and visualise information using industry-standard software. You will also be introduced to developing techniques such as augmented and virtual reality. With hands-on workshops and project work, you’ll build a portfolio that demonstrates your abilities in computer visualisation.

Foundation Mathematics

1. Engineers are required to solve problems that affect all aspects of life, and to do this effectively a strong and fundamental knowledge of Mathematics is vital. This module provides students with an understanding of the techniques and ideas of the key contributing academic disciplines of engineering study in mathematics.

2. Facilitate students to become independent learners with the problem-solving and critical thinking skills needed for resolving integrated and multidimensional engineering problems.

Computer Skills and Applications

This module is designed to provide students with essential computer and technology skills, forming a foundation for understanding key areas such as operating systems concepts, computational logic and networking. It introduces practical applications of these concepts using examples from the real world. By engaging with both theoretical knowledge and hands-on practice, students will develop critical problem-solving skills and a strong understanding of how technology impacts real-world scenarios. This module is a stepping stone for students to build the core competencies necessary for further study or career development in the fields of computer science, networking, and technology applications.

Fundamentals of Materials

1. ​Materials are necessary for every engineering system; as such, engineers must develop knowledge and understanding of the influence of material structure (from atomic through to microstructural) on materials' chemical and physical properties. Materials science combines tools from chemistry, biology, technology, and mathematics to develop a solution critical to societal needs and covers all natural and synthetic materials.

​2. The module provides the theoretical knowledge of microstructures and materials properties for various materials, including metals and alloys; ceramics and glasses; polymers; electronic, magnetic, and optical materials; and composites. As well as metallurgical theories and concepts enable the understanding of the relationship between treatment and material properties for application in all branches of engineering.

3. ​In this module, students are supported to develop the analytical and practical skills necessary to understand and apply scientific engineering principles to create new sustainable products with the potential of reducing environmental impact and significantly improving our quality of life.

​​

Introduction to Computing

Computing is ubiquitous in modern society, so it is important to have an appreciation of the benefits it brings in areas such as electronic commerce, research and education, medicine, and sustainability.

This module aims to introduce foundational concepts fundamental to computing, particularly the mathematical foundations of the subject and their application to problem solving and programming, and to develop practical computing skills through laboratory exercises and case studies.

Professional and Independant Learning for Engineering and Computing

This module introduces you to the different branches of Engineering and Computing and helps you explore the range of academic pathways and professional careers available within these subject areas. By exploring different disciplines, approaches and real-world applications, you will be supported in making informed decisions about your future studies and career goals.

The module will also help you develop your research, communication and presentation skills so that you can explain and discuss engineering and computing ideas clearly and confidently. Alongside this, you will strengthen the personal, academic and transferable skills needed for successful study within Engineering and Computing programmes and for future professional practice.

Computer Aided Engineering

The module aims to provide a working understanding of computer aided design, analysis and simulation techniques applicable to Chemical, Civil, Mechanical and Biomedical Engineering through the use of industry standard Computer Aided Engineering software. The developed knowledge and understanding forms the foundation in computer aided engineering methods which will be utilised throughout all stages of study in all engineering disciplines. After successfully completing this module, students will be able to apply core computer aided engineering techniques to design and analysis tasks within their field of study.

Design, Build and Test (Biomedical and Clinical Technology)

(1) To develop problem-solving skills through applied project work.

(2) To develop team working - both discipline specific and interdisciplinary, time management and communication skills.

(3) To introduce experimental techniques in engineering and technology.

(4) To develop understanding of professionalism, engineering ethics and sustainability.

Electronics and Mechanics (Biomedical Engineering)

Electronics and mechanics are both crucial components in the field of engineering. There exists a significant correlation between technical challenges and our everyday existence.

- To learn the fundamentals of electrical and electronic circuits, energies, and dynamics, as well as the rules that control these areas.

- To furnish the student with a comprehensive understanding of the theory and practical implementations of engineering mechanics in the context of Biomedical Engineering and Clinical Technology.

- To strengthen their comprehension and abilities while solidifying the module's theoretical content through a series of laboratory exercises.

Mathematical Methods and Applications

This L4 module develops a comprehensive foundation in mathematics that is required for describing, modelling, and evaluating science and engineering systems. It reinforces elements of previous mathematical knowledge and develops new mathematical techniques and theory that have applicability to other science and engineering modules, reinforcing the interdisciplinary nature of mathematics underpinning engineering. Students will gain an understanding of a range of mathematical techniques and will develop confidence in applying these to solve various problems. After completing this module, students will be able to select, implement, and assess outcomes of using baseline mathematical tools to evaluate engineering contexts and have an insight into how these tools can support principles of sustainable engineering.

Engineering Materials

This module has been designed to give an introduction to the structure of different materials and how this can be influenced by manufacturing/processing and corresponding changes in properties across various engineering applications. The module also introduces the concepts of stress, strain, equilibrium and deformation, and apply them in the analysis and understanding of simple engineering frames and structures.

Thermofluids 1

This L4 module provides students with fundamental knowledge and understanding of the composite subject of Thermofluids, comprising two important branches of engineering, Thermodynamics and Fluid Mechanics. Thermodynamics is the study of energy and energy transformation and is widely applicable to all branches of engineering involving work being done, heat being transferred and material phase changes. Fluid mechanics is the study of fluid behaviour at rest and in motion, and has a wide range of applications in mechanical, chemical, civil and biomedical engineering systems.

The module is designed to allow students to apply the fundamental principles of physics and mathematics to real engineering processes by the applying thermodynamic principles and fluid mechanics. On successful completion of the module, students will be equipped with the ability implement core thermodynamics and fluids principles to engineering processes. This knowledge will feed into more advanced study in core L5 discipline-specific modules.

Engineering Mathematics and Machine Learning

Building on content from the level 4 module ENM4004-B, this level 5 module extends calculus-based analysis to systems depending upon several variables and discusses the development of several specialised approaches to analysing a selection of generic and more complex engineering contexts, further reinforcing the interdisciplinary nature of mathematics underpinning engineering. On a broader level, students will begin to understand the premise that analytical (deterministic) and machine learning and statistics methods are components of a larger integrated tool kit for complementing discipline-based knowledge towards developing good engineering outcomes. Students will develop confidence in applying the methodologies to solve various problems. After completing this module, students will be able to select, implement, and assess outcomes of using more advanced mathematical tools to evaluate engineering contexts and strengthen their insight from level 4 on how analytical tools can support principes of sustainable engineering.

Clinical Movement Analysis

To learn about how the human body experiences forces in static and dynamic situations and the consequences of those forces; To become conversant with how gait and posture is analysed and evaluated in a clinical context including developing an understanding of the need for professional and ethical conduct when undertaking such clinical evaluations; To develop an understanding of why falls occur and why risk of falling increases with age.

Embedded Electronics

This Module aims to equip students with fundamental understanding of modern embedded electronic systems, their working principles, and their biomedical and clinical applications.

This Module further aims to introduce and discuss various types of sensors, as well as the acquisition and processing of different signals.

Finally, this Module aims to give students practical, hands-on experience of working with embedded electronics for prototyping purposes.

Healthcare Technology Project

Using established Product Design methods, the learner will work in groups to:

(1) Identify a key need for a medical device technology.

(2) Develop concepts for a new device with functionality that will address the need.

(3) Refine the design to produce a proof of concept demonstrator.

(4) Demonstrate and evaluate functional solutions to these problems with a working prototype.

Functional Anatomy And Human Physiological Measurements

To assist the students to develop their knowledge and understanding of functional anatomy and physiology of the human body including cardiovascular and respiratory physiology; muscular-skeletal systems; and human fluid mechanics and their evaluation and standard testing methods.

Cell and Tissue Biology

This module aims to provide undergraduate students in Biomedical Engineering and Clinical Technology with a comprehensive foundation in cellular biology, progressing from atomic and molecular principles to cellular structure, function, and system-level organisation. The module introduces the structure and function of eukaryotic cells, including organelles and the cell cycle, and explores specialised cell types within major human physiological systems. It further aims to develop students' understanding of genetics, genetic engineering, and abnormal cellular processes including tumour biology and cancer.

The module also seeks to equip students with fundamental laboratory competencies, including basic cell culture techniques and blood analysis, enabling them to understand cellular behaviour in clinically relevant contexts and to interpret biological data within biomedical and healthcare applications.

On successful completion of this module, students will be able to describe the structure and function of eukaryotic cells, including organelles and the cell cycle, distinguish between specialised cell types across major physiological systems, including blood, integumentary, digestive, skeletal, muscular, urinary, cardiovascular, respiratory, and nervous systems, and demonstrate understanding of basic genetic principles and the foundations of genetic engineering.

Integrated Design

The module has 3 key aims:

1. Provide a student led group-based project to give relevant practical experience in the development of an industrially relevant product or system

2. Apply and further develop skills in the selection and application of appropriate computer aided engineering tools, design methodologies and manufacturing systems to achieve project objectives

3. Develop and apply personal and interpersonal skills in product, process or system design and communicate effectively your solution to an audience of your peers

Rehabilitation and Prosthetics

An important module for those wishing to specialise in this area for the NHS.

The module aims:

- To provide an overview of common bone disorders, as well as musculoskeletal / neural disorders (e.g. stroke, spinal lesion, musculoskeletal deformities, etc.) and how/why such disorders occur. along with current treatment including assistive devices and various diagnostics.

- To develop in students a critical understanding of how lower-limb prosthetic devices are designed in order to replicate/mimic the function of the physiological limb, and the various methodological approaches used to evaluate a device's function/efficacy.

Biomaterials with implant design and technology

For semester one, this module aims to develop the critical knowledge base biomaterials for tissue/joint replacement including metals, ceramics and biodegradable/bioresorbable polymers and fracture fixation devices, their properties, hip and knee design, testing, evaluation and manufacturing for orthopaedic applications meeting the MDA/FDA requirements. For semester two, the module aims to integrate and apply the existing knowledge from semester one to a wider implant design and technology and to apply general design procedures/methodology to medical devices such as joint replacements , stents, scaffolds and fixation devices. Also, the following codes of conduct will be covered in lectures and tutorials across two semester and will be assessed in the assignments: Professional and ethical conduct in engineering aspects such as the use of biomaterials as implants, commercial, economic and social context of the engineering processes, management techniques, legal requirements governing engineering activities including personnel, health & safety, contracts, intellectual property rights, product safety and liability issues as well as risk issues including health and safety, environmental and commercial risk, risk assessment and risk management techniques.

Individual Research Project

The module is designed to enable students in stage three of their studies the opportunity to gain and demonstrate their independent learning skills through an in-depth investigation of an engineering topic of their choice. The project is the culmination of their undergraduate studies and so integrates the knowledge and skills gained in the other parts of the engineering syllabus. A key aspect of the project is to prepare students for the challenges that await them in their professional engineering careers after graduation. Students will take on demanding tasks requiring considerable personal initiative. The module also enables students to appreciate the professional responsibilities of engineering in terms of health and safety, ethical and sustainability considerations.

Medical Ethics And Quality Management

To critically review medical ethics and quality systems as applied to medical engineering and clinical technology.

Introduction to Coding

This module introduces students to the fundamentals of computer programming, providing a solid foundation in key concepts supporting the use of data and operations to build the foundations of modern applications. Programming is at the core of modern computing, enabling the development of applications and innovations that shape our world. Through this module, students will develop problem-solving skills and logical thinking, essential for writing effective and efficient code.

The module begins by exploring structured approaches to problem-solving and algorithmic thinking, helping students understand how to break down complex tasks into manageable steps. These foundational skills will be reinforced through practical coding exercises, where students will learn to design, implement, and test simple programs. A primary programming language will be introduced to exemplify core programming principles, but the focus will be on transferable skills that will support the learning of other languages in the future.

By engaging with real-world coding challenges and structured programming techniques, students will gain confidence in writing code, debugging errors, and refining their solutions. This module serves as a crucial stepping stone for further study in computer science and related disciplines, equipping students with the essential skills to begin their journey as programmers.

Introduction to Computer Visualisation

Step into the exciting world of 2D and 3D computer visualisation. In this module, you’ll learn how to create, manipulate and visualise information using industry-standard software. You will also be introduced to developing techniques such as augmented and virtual reality. With hands-on workshops and project work, you’ll build a portfolio that demonstrates your abilities in computer visualisation.

Foundation Mathematics

1. Engineers are required to solve problems that affect all aspects of life, and to do this effectively a strong and fundamental knowledge of Mathematics is vital. This module provides students with an understanding of the techniques and ideas of the key contributing academic disciplines of engineering study in mathematics.

2. Facilitate students to become independent learners with the problem-solving and critical thinking skills needed for resolving integrated and multidimensional engineering problems.

Computer Skills and Applications

This module is designed to provide students with essential computer and technology skills, forming a foundation for understanding key areas such as operating systems concepts, computational logic and networking. It introduces practical applications of these concepts using examples from the real world. By engaging with both theoretical knowledge and hands-on practice, students will develop critical problem-solving skills and a strong understanding of how technology impacts real-world scenarios. This module is a stepping stone for students to build the core competencies necessary for further study or career development in the fields of computer science, networking, and technology applications.

Fundamentals of Materials

1. ​Materials are necessary for every engineering system; as such, engineers must develop knowledge and understanding of the influence of material structure (from atomic through to microstructural) on materials' chemical and physical properties. Materials science combines tools from chemistry, biology, technology, and mathematics to develop a solution critical to societal needs and covers all natural and synthetic materials.

​2. The module provides the theoretical knowledge of microstructures and materials properties for various materials, including metals and alloys; ceramics and glasses; polymers; electronic, magnetic, and optical materials; and composites. As well as metallurgical theories and concepts enable the understanding of the relationship between treatment and material properties for application in all branches of engineering.

3. ​In this module, students are supported to develop the analytical and practical skills necessary to understand and apply scientific engineering principles to create new sustainable products with the potential of reducing environmental impact and significantly improving our quality of life.

​​

Introduction to Computing

Computing is ubiquitous in modern society, so it is important to have an appreciation of the benefits it brings in areas such as electronic commerce, research and education, medicine, and sustainability.

This module aims to introduce foundational concepts fundamental to computing, particularly the mathematical foundations of the subject and their application to problem solving and programming, and to develop practical computing skills through laboratory exercises and case studies.

Professional and Independant Learning for Engineering and Computing

This module introduces you to the different branches of Engineering and Computing and helps you explore the range of academic pathways and professional careers available within these subject areas. By exploring different disciplines, approaches and real-world applications, you will be supported in making informed decisions about your future studies and career goals.

The module will also help you develop your research, communication and presentation skills so that you can explain and discuss engineering and computing ideas clearly and confidently. Alongside this, you will strengthen the personal, academic and transferable skills needed for successful study within Engineering and Computing programmes and for future professional practice.

Computer Aided Engineering

The module aims to provide a working understanding of computer aided design, analysis and simulation techniques applicable to Chemical, Civil, Mechanical and Biomedical Engineering through the use of industry standard Computer Aided Engineering software. The developed knowledge and understanding forms the foundation in computer aided engineering methods which will be utilised throughout all stages of study in all engineering disciplines. After successfully completing this module, students will be able to apply core computer aided engineering techniques to design and analysis tasks within their field of study.

Design, Build and Test (Biomedical and Clinical Technology)

(1) To develop problem-solving skills through applied project work.

(2) To develop team working - both discipline specific and interdisciplinary, time management and communication skills.

(3) To introduce experimental techniques in engineering and technology.

(4) To develop understanding of professionalism, engineering ethics and sustainability.

Electronics and Mechanics (Biomedical Engineering)

Electronics and mechanics are both crucial components in the field of engineering. There exists a significant correlation between technical challenges and our everyday existence.

- To learn the fundamentals of electrical and electronic circuits, energies, and dynamics, as well as the rules that control these areas.

- To furnish the student with a comprehensive understanding of the theory and practical implementations of engineering mechanics in the context of Biomedical Engineering and Clinical Technology.

- To strengthen their comprehension and abilities while solidifying the module's theoretical content through a series of laboratory exercises.

Mathematical Methods and Applications

This L4 module develops a comprehensive foundation in mathematics that is required for describing, modelling, and evaluating science and engineering systems. It reinforces elements of previous mathematical knowledge and develops new mathematical techniques and theory that have applicability to other science and engineering modules, reinforcing the interdisciplinary nature of mathematics underpinning engineering. Students will gain an understanding of a range of mathematical techniques and will develop confidence in applying these to solve various problems. After completing this module, students will be able to select, implement, and assess outcomes of using baseline mathematical tools to evaluate engineering contexts and have an insight into how these tools can support principles of sustainable engineering.

Engineering Materials

This module has been designed to give an introduction to the structure of different materials and how this can be influenced by manufacturing/processing and corresponding changes in properties across various engineering applications. The module also introduces the concepts of stress, strain, equilibrium and deformation, and apply them in the analysis and understanding of simple engineering frames and structures.

Thermofluids 1

This L4 module provides students with fundamental knowledge and understanding of the composite subject of Thermofluids, comprising two important branches of engineering, Thermodynamics and Fluid Mechanics. Thermodynamics is the study of energy and energy transformation and is widely applicable to all branches of engineering involving work being done, heat being transferred and material phase changes. Fluid mechanics is the study of fluid behaviour at rest and in motion, and has a wide range of applications in mechanical, chemical, civil and biomedical engineering systems.

The module is designed to allow students to apply the fundamental principles of physics and mathematics to real engineering processes by the applying thermodynamic principles and fluid mechanics. On successful completion of the module, students will be equipped with the ability implement core thermodynamics and fluids principles to engineering processes. This knowledge will feed into more advanced study in core L5 discipline-specific modules.

Engineering Mathematics and Machine Learning

Building on content from the level 4 module ENM4004-B, this level 5 module extends calculus-based analysis to systems depending upon several variables and discusses the development of several specialised approaches to analysing a selection of generic and more complex engineering contexts, further reinforcing the interdisciplinary nature of mathematics underpinning engineering. On a broader level, students will begin to understand the premise that analytical (deterministic) and machine learning and statistics methods are components of a larger integrated tool kit for complementing discipline-based knowledge towards developing good engineering outcomes. Students will develop confidence in applying the methodologies to solve various problems. After completing this module, students will be able to select, implement, and assess outcomes of using more advanced mathematical tools to evaluate engineering contexts and strengthen their insight from level 4 on how analytical tools can support principes of sustainable engineering.

Clinical Movement Analysis

To learn about how the human body experiences forces in static and dynamic situations and the consequences of those forces; To become conversant with how gait and posture is analysed and evaluated in a clinical context including developing an understanding of the need for professional and ethical conduct when undertaking such clinical evaluations; To develop an understanding of why falls occur and why risk of falling increases with age.

Embedded Electronics

This Module aims to equip students with fundamental understanding of modern embedded electronic systems, their working principles, and their biomedical and clinical applications.

This Module further aims to introduce and discuss various types of sensors, as well as the acquisition and processing of different signals.

Finally, this Module aims to give students practical, hands-on experience of working with embedded electronics for prototyping purposes.

Healthcare Technology Project

Using established Product Design methods, the learner will work in groups to:

(1) Identify a key need for a medical device technology.

(2) Develop concepts for a new device with functionality that will address the need.

(3) Refine the design to produce a proof of concept demonstrator.

(4) Demonstrate and evaluate functional solutions to these problems with a working prototype.

Functional Anatomy And Human Physiological Measurements

To assist the students to develop their knowledge and understanding of functional anatomy and physiology of the human body including cardiovascular and respiratory physiology; muscular-skeletal systems; and human fluid mechanics and their evaluation and standard testing methods.

Cell and Tissue Biology

This module aims to provide undergraduate students in Biomedical Engineering and Clinical Technology with a comprehensive foundation in cellular biology, progressing from atomic and molecular principles to cellular structure, function, and system-level organisation. The module introduces the structure and function of eukaryotic cells, including organelles and the cell cycle, and explores specialised cell types within major human physiological systems. It further aims to develop students' understanding of genetics, genetic engineering, and abnormal cellular processes including tumour biology and cancer.

The module also seeks to equip students with fundamental laboratory competencies, including basic cell culture techniques and blood analysis, enabling them to understand cellular behaviour in clinically relevant contexts and to interpret biological data within biomedical and healthcare applications.

On successful completion of this module, students will be able to describe the structure and function of eukaryotic cells, including organelles and the cell cycle, distinguish between specialised cell types across major physiological systems, including blood, integumentary, digestive, skeletal, muscular, urinary, cardiovascular, respiratory, and nervous systems, and demonstrate understanding of basic genetic principles and the foundations of genetic engineering.

Integrated Design

The module has 3 key aims:

1. Provide a student led group-based project to give relevant practical experience in the development of an industrially relevant product or system

2. Apply and further develop skills in the selection and application of appropriate computer aided engineering tools, design methodologies and manufacturing systems to achieve project objectives

3. Develop and apply personal and interpersonal skills in product, process or system design and communicate effectively your solution to an audience of your peers

Rehabilitation and Prosthetics

An important module for those wishing to specialise in this area for the NHS.

The module aims:

- To provide an overview of common bone disorders, as well as musculoskeletal / neural disorders (e.g. stroke, spinal lesion, musculoskeletal deformities, etc.) and how/why such disorders occur. along with current treatment including assistive devices and various diagnostics.

- To develop in students a critical understanding of how lower-limb prosthetic devices are designed in order to replicate/mimic the function of the physiological limb, and the various methodological approaches used to evaluate a device's function/efficacy.

Biomaterials with implant design and technology

For semester one, this module aims to develop the critical knowledge base biomaterials for tissue/joint replacement including metals, ceramics and biodegradable/bioresorbable polymers and fracture fixation devices, their properties, hip and knee design, testing, evaluation and manufacturing for orthopaedic applications meeting the MDA/FDA requirements. For semester two, the module aims to integrate and apply the existing knowledge from semester one to a wider implant design and technology and to apply general design procedures/methodology to medical devices such as joint replacements , stents, scaffolds and fixation devices. Also, the following codes of conduct will be covered in lectures and tutorials across two semester and will be assessed in the assignments: Professional and ethical conduct in engineering aspects such as the use of biomaterials as implants, commercial, economic and social context of the engineering processes, management techniques, legal requirements governing engineering activities including personnel, health & safety, contracts, intellectual property rights, product safety and liability issues as well as risk issues including health and safety, environmental and commercial risk, risk assessment and risk management techniques.

Individual Research Project

The module is designed to enable students in stage three of their studies the opportunity to gain and demonstrate their independent learning skills through an in-depth investigation of an engineering topic of their choice. The project is the culmination of their undergraduate studies and so integrates the knowledge and skills gained in the other parts of the engineering syllabus. A key aspect of the project is to prepare students for the challenges that await them in their professional engineering careers after graduation. Students will take on demanding tasks requiring considerable personal initiative. The module also enables students to appreciate the professional responsibilities of engineering in terms of health and safety, ethical and sustainability considerations.

Medical Ethics And Quality Management

To critically review medical ethics and quality systems as applied to medical engineering and clinical technology.