Pharmacy MPharm Year Zero modules

Year Zero

  • Human Biology - this module aims to introduce human body systems, how they are organised and integrated into physiological processes. It is intended to serve as a foundation for the study of anatomy, physiology and histology on the Pharmacy MPharm (Hons) undergraduate degree programme.

  • Basic Microbiology for Biomedical Science - introduces you to aspects of fundamental microbiology required for the Pharmacy MPharm (Hons) programme. The classes provide a knowledge base on the range, characteristics and properties of micro-organisms. Topics covered include the structural, metabolic, and genetic characteristics of micro-organisms. Where appropriate those features will be used to begin to discuss the importance of micro-organisms to man, particularly in relation to infection, disease and the control of micro-organisms.

  • Introduction to Psychology - introduces the main theoretical approaches and perspectives in Psychology. You will also be introduced to psychological and physiological explanations of cognition and human behaviour. Historical developments, treatments and therapies of related case studies such as depression, stress, mental illness and schizophrenia will be considered in context of contemporary issues.

  • Study Skills 1: Introduction to DMU - provides pathway students on the Year Zero (YZ) programme the opportunity to participate in a range of on- and off-campus activities for a thorough introduction into the life and culture at DMU and the City of Leicester, to enable you to integrate more fully into both. Ten activities are offered and you will be required to engage in at least of four of these during the term. The list of activities is made up of the following (or similar):
        • Campus tour
        • Talk on and tour of the city
        • LRC introduction and workshop
        • Introduction to the Square Mile Project
        • Freshers’ Fair
        • Involvement in a University club or society
        • DMU social event/gathering
        • DMU/City sporting activity
        • Seminar on cultural awareness
        • A visit to the Faculty which offers the student’s chosen degree programme. 

 

  • Study Skills 2: Information Technology & Numeracy - aims to give you the appropriate foundation in computing and numeracy skills for success at undergraduate level. Your prior learning in computing and mathematics is consolidated and then enhanced with the introduction of new topics and approaches relevant to study in the UK Higher Education environment. Teaching and study time are divided equally between IT skills and basic mathematics required for undergraduate study with an overlap between the two in classes on statistics and study of spreadsheet construction. The IT element includes tuition in the use of three key programmes in Microsoft Office – Word, Excel and PowerPoint, retrieving and assessing material through the use of internet search engines and the using e-mail. Mathematics includes the performance of a range of algebraic calculations, fractions, decimals, ratios, percentages, powers, roots and the solving of equations, the gathering and presentation of statistical information and the fundamentals of probability.

  • Study Skills 3: Communication Skills - will support and enhance the key learning elements in the final term of English for Academic Purposes, to improve learner self-awareness and give students insight into the use and effectiveness of learner platforms and academic forums. You will study referencing in academic writing and how to avoid plagiarism, experience note-taking in a lecture hall environment and develop your speaking capabilities and confidence by undertaking exercises in public speaking and debating. The module will have a focus on ‘learning to learn’ to help you improve your self-study abilities and develop as an independent learner. You will also experience group work to improve your ability to work in a team to produce a piece of academic work.

  • Functions of Cells & Tissues - introduces basic concepts of anatomy, histology and physiology as an integrated experience of theory and laboratory observation. It is intended to serve as a preparation and foundation for histopathology/physiology studies delivered in the Pharmacy MPharm (Hons) programme. Topics covered include: cellular anatomy, cellular function, how cells form tissues, physiological function of tissues, and form and function of tissues.

  • Chemistry 1 - introduces post-GCSE topics in chemistry and builds the subject knowledge and practical skills required for further study. You will begin to develop your understanding of basic theoretical principles and associate these with appropriate laboratory practice. You will consider: formulae, equations and moles; atomic structure; an introduction to redox; thermodynamics; and bonding. This module prepares students for Chemistry 2 and together these two modules form the basis for study of Pharmacy at degree level.

  • Chemistry 2 - aims to introduce further topics in chemistry and to build on the subject knowledge and practical skills acquired and developed in Chemistry 1. You will further develop your understanding of basic theoretical principles and associated laboratory practice, and appreciate the social, environmental, economic and technological impact of chemistry on the wider community.

  • Introductory Biochemistry - provides the fundamental aspects of introductory biochemistry necessary for an understanding of the specialised subjects dealt with later in the Pharmacy MPharm (Hons) degree programme. The practical classes will place emphasis on lab safety and will introduce the basic principles in biochemistry. The material in this module also underpins the biochemistry required. Basic biochemical processes and concepts relevant to human health and disease will be explored.

 

For further information about the modules available on the Pharmacy MPharm (Hons) undergraduate degree programme, please visit the Pharmacy MPharm module page.