MSc Clinical Biochemistry / Course details

This unit will provide students with an in depth understanding of how disorders of the major organs (lungs, kidneys, liver, brain and muscle) impact biochemical parameters such as acid base balance, blood gasses, blood and urine proteins, water and electrolyte balance. In addition, students will gain an in depth insight into the role biochemical investigations play in the diagnosis and management of common cancers. This unit will also equip students with a critical appreciation and understanding of how information obtained through the biochemical investigation of major organ function can be applied to diagnose disease.

This unit employs a range of teaching and learning approaches including: lectures, tutorials, case studies/presentations, problem based learning and data analysis and interpretation exercises. Mobile Learning (M-learning) is also used to provide interactive tutorials and formative assessment.

•    Evaluate the clinical investigation of fluid, electrolytes and acid base disorders with interpretation of biochemistry results to aid diagnosis/management of patients.
•    Explain the pathophysiology of major organs and critically assess how changes in biochemistry aid diagnosis/management of different conditions.
•    Apply integrative knowledge of how the analysis of less common analytical bodily fluids can be used as a diagnostic tool in pathological conditions.
•    Explain the properties, function and clinical significance of a range of specific proteins in health and disease.
•    Demonstrate extended understanding of iron metabolism/homeostasis and discuss how clinical biochemistry can aid diagnosis and management of iron related disorders.
•    Evaluate the role clinical biochemistry plays in the screening, diagnosis and treatment of common cancers.
•    Critically evaluate the design, operation and performance of the main biochemical techniques used in the assessment and management of major organ diseases.
 

•    To synthesise, analyse and interpret data obtained from the biochemical investigation of major organ function. 
•    To synthesise, analyse and interpret data relating to the biochemical investigation of common cancers.
•    To critically compare, contrast and evaluate the performance of new and established analytical technologies for the assessment of major organ function.
•    Employ critical thinking and reflection to formulate appropriate strategies to identify disease through the biochemical investigation of major organ function.
•    Appraise and synthesise information from different sources in order to develop a coherent critical analysis of issues relating to the practice and delivery of clinical biochemistry services.
•    Formulate appropriate research questions, objectives and hypotheses relevant to healthcare sciences, and critically and objectively select appropriate designs and methods to answer research questions.
 

•    Retrieve, manage and collate information from primary and secondary sources.
•    Present information clearly in the form of verbal and written reports.
•    Communicate complex ideas and arguments in a clear and concise and effective manner.
•    Work effectively as an individual or part of a team.

•    Effectively utilise a range of information sources including information technology / health informatics.
•    Demonstrate capacity for self-learning and independent thinking and to utilise problem solving skills. 
•    Demonstrate effective communication skills (verbal and written). 
•    Be able to set priorities and link these with effective time management. 
•    Critically evaluate their personal performance both as an individual and within a team.
•    Demonstrate skills in working collegiately and effectively with others as a member of a team.
 

MCQs/short answer exam: 80%

Assignment: 20%

Formative case presentations, data interpretation exercises, interactive tutorial using mobile technology and practice exam questions.