Programme Specification for the 2025/6 academic year
BEng (Hons) Biomedical Engineering with Foundation Year
1. Programme Details
| Programme name | BEng (Hons) Biomedical Engineering with Foundation Year | Programme code | UFN4ENSENS03 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Study mode(s) | Academic year | 2025/6 | |
| Campus(es) | Streatham (Exeter) |
NQF Level of the Final Award | 6 (Honours) |
2. Description of the Programme
This is a 4-year undergraduate degree programme with a fully embedded Foundation year. During the Foundation year, you will develop your academic skills and subject knowledge. In the following year, you will join the first year of a BEng Biomedical Engineering degree programme, subject to successful completion of the Foundation year.
At stage zero 0 (the foundation year) of the programme, you can progress to stage 1 of the BEng Biomedical Engineering programme once the 120 credits have been passed, and provided that an average of at least 55% has been achieved over the 120 credits of assessments for this stage.
Biomedical Engineering is a multi-disciplinary subject. The undergraduate degree in Biomedical Engineering at the University of Exeter will prepare you to work in this diverse field through core learning in mechanical and electronic engineering, biology, and physics. You will learn to apply this knowledge in the field of healthcare technologies, and will develop the skills to solve biological and medical problems. This will provide you will the ability to take novel ideas, and understand how to translate them to the clinical and every day settings to improve health and wellbeing.
3. Educational Aims of the Programme
The Foundation year of the ‘BEng in Biomedical Engineering with Foundation Year’ programme aims to help you meet the academic requirements for progression to the first, and subsequent, stages of your degree programme. It is also designed to help you to develop the necessary study skills and approaches to learning required for successful undergraduate study as well as to introduce you to the culture of academic study in a UK Higher Education institution.
Biomedical Engineering is a highly multi-disciplinary field, and the Biomedical Engineering BEng will provide the broad knowledge necessary to succeed in the Biomedical Engineering and related fields, or to undertake further education, for example in the form of a master’s or PhD programme.
The BEng is a research-led programme, led by the Department of Engineering, but taught across multiple departments including Physics & Astronomy, Mathematics, Computer Science, Natural Sciences, and Sport and Health Sciences. The modules will provide the core knowledge and skills of each subject area, whilst also integrating the latest research from experts at Exeter, and across the Biomedical Engineering field. Additionally, the programme will align with other engineering programmes at Exeter, with the same source structure and content in the first year to provide a comprehensive foundation in the core engineering disciplines, before gradually specialising in Biomedical Engineering in the following years. And, like other Engineering programmes at Exeter, the Biomedical Engineering BEng also integrates of problem-based learning throughout the degree programme, to provide students with the essential critical thinking and problem-solving skills required of a professional engineer.
4. Programme Structure
The BEng Biomedical Engineering with Foundation Year is a 4-year full-time programme of study at Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF) level 6 (as confirmed against the FHEQ). This programme is divided into four stages. Each stage is normally equivalent to an academic year.
Interim / Exit Awards
If you do not complete the programme you may be able to exit with a lower qualification. At stage zero of the programme, if you have achieved 120 credits with an overall average of at least 40% and less than 55% at Level 3, you may be awarded a Foundation year Certificate as an exit award, and if you achieve 120 credits with an overall average of 55% or above, you will progress to stage 1 of the BEng Biomedical Engineering programme
If you have achieved 120 credits, where at least 90 credits are at Stage 1 (NQF Level 4) or above you may be awarded a Certificate of Higher Education, and if you achieve 240 credits, where at least 90 credits are at Stage 2 (NQF Level 5) or above, you may be awarded a Diploma.
Note: Guidance on Interim and Exit awards (and the difference between than can be viewed here: http://as.exeter.ac.uk/academic-policy-standards/tqa-manual/pma/introduction/#exit-interim
5. Programme Modules
The following tables describe the programme and constituent modules. Constituent modules may be updated, deleted or replaced as a consequence of the annual programme review of this programme.
Details of the modules currently offered may be obtained from the Faculty website.
You may take optional modules as long as any necessary prerequisites have been satisfied, where the timetable allows and if you have not already taken the module in question or an equivalent module.
Stage 1
Stage 0 (foundation): 120 credits of compulsory modules, 0 credits of optional modules.
Compulsory Modules
| Code | Module | Credits | Non-condonable? |
|---|---|---|---|
| MTH0001 | Principles of Pure Mathematics | 30 | Yes |
| MTH0003 | Exploring Mathematics | 15 | No |
| MTH0004 | Foundation Statistics | 15 | Yes |
| MTH0005 | Science: Skills and Culture | 30 | No |
| MTH0006 | Applied Mathematics | 15 | No |
| MTH0007 | Programming Skills | 15 | No |
Stage 2
Stage 1: 120 credits of compulsory modules, 0 credits of optional modules.
Compulsory Modules
| Code | Module | Credits | Non-condonable? |
|---|---|---|---|
| ENG1002 | Engineering Mathematics and Scientific Computing | 30 | Yes |
| ENG1005 | Multi-Disciplinary Group Challenge Project | 30 | Yes |
| ENS1000 | Fundamentals of Engineering | 15 | Yes |
| ENG1007 | Fundamentals of Mechanics | 15 | Yes |
| ENG1008 | Fundamentals of Materials | 15 | Yes |
| ENG1009 | Fundamentals of Electronics | 15 | Yes |
Stage 3
Stage 2: 120 credits of compulsory modules, 0 credits of optional modules.
Compulsory Modules
| Code | Module | Credits | Non-condonable? |
|---|---|---|---|
| ENG2009 | Modelling of Engineering Systems | 15 | Yes |
| ENG2007 | Introduction to Fluid Dynamics | 15 | Yes |
| ENG2011 | Solid Mechanics | 15 | Yes |
| ENG2006 | Industry 4.0 | 15 | No |
| ENG2004 | Entrepreneurship 2 | 15 | No |
| ENG2008 | Microcontroller Engineering | 15 | No |
| ENS2004 | Biomedical Engineering Challenge Project | 30 | No |
Stage 4
Compulsory Modules
Stage 3: 105 credits of compulsory modules, 15 credits of optional modules.
| Code | Module | Credits | Non-condonable? |
|---|---|---|---|
| PHY3061 | The Biophysics of Cells and Tissues | 15 | Yes |
| ENG3022 | Finite Element Analysis for High Value Manufacturing | 15 | Yes |
| ENG3012 | Mechatronics | 15 | Yes |
| ENS3010 | Biomaterials and Tissue Engineering | 15 | No |
| ECM3165 | Digital Signal Processing | 15 | No |
| ECM3175 | Individual Project | 30 | No |
Optional Modules
| Code | Module | Credits | Non-condonable? |
|---|---|---|---|
| ENG3011 | Management and Leadership | 15 | No |
| ENG3002 | Decision Making Systems and Decision Theory | 15 | No |
| ENG3017 | Quality Control and Improvement | 15 | No |
| ENG3004 | Engineering Electromagnetics | 15 | No |
| ENG3005 | Fluid Dynamics and CFD | 15 | No |
| ECM3160 | Materials | 15 | No |
6. Programme Outcomes Linked to Teaching, Learning and Assessment Methods
Intended Learning Outcomes
A: Specialised Subject Skills and Knowledge
| Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs) On successfully completing this programme you will be able to: | Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs) will be... | |
|---|---|---|
| ...accommodated and facilitated by the following learning and teaching activities (in/out of class): | ...and evidenced by the following assessment methods: | |
1. Stage 0 of this programme aims to?lay foundations of skills in mathematics, engineering, and sciences for more advanced studies, by bringing students to a level of knowledge and competence equivalent to pre-requisites for Stage 1 of their chosen degree. It provides students with skills bridging the gap between the material covered prior to a university level and that of a first-year degree programme.? By the end of Stage 0 of the programme, students will be able to demonstrate an understanding of: (a) a selection of topics in?pure and applied mathematics, mathematical logic, probability and statistics,?and the connections between them. (b) fundamental concepts and techniques in mathematics that can be used in a range of applicable areas. (c)how to perform research-based studies in sciences, engineering and mathematics. (d) how to implement theoretical concepts to describe and predict real-world problems.? ? (e) the current research and pedagogical activities presented in sciences, mathematics and engineering disciplines at the university and beyond.????? On successfully completing the subsequent stages of the programme, you will / will have: | At Stage 0 of the programme, knowledge and skills are primarily provided through formal lectures supported by regular problem sheets for students to tackle on their own.?Students will be encouraged to develop solutions for the formative exercises in the class while working in small groups.?Lectures are reinforced by regular tutorial groups in which assistance with, and feedback on, problem sheets is given.?Students will be provided with learning materials, worked examples, exercise sheet and solutions via the Virtual Learning Environment.? At subsequent stages: The modules will be delivered by a mixture of formal lectures, tutorial classes, practical classes, computer practical sessions, and group and individual projects. Example sheets and other assignments will be set and marked by the module leader. Students will be expected to read the assigned texts and to find appropriate information from wider source such as academic and commercial web pages and from research journals. Assistance will be given during tutorials and practicals for this and office hours will be available for individual students to bring along specific technical or other difficulties. The Investigative Report module will be directed by a named Academic and will involve an initial kick-off meeting plus subsequent weekly individual progress meetings with an assigned supervisor. | At Stage 0 of the programme, most Knowledge is tested through examinations in addition to other forms of summative assessments including?class-tests, online quizzes, project reports/essays, group projects or presentations. Skills will be assessed directly and indirectly at various stages of each module through coursework, tests, presentations, and written projects, as well as final examinations. At subsequent stages: Modules will be assessed through an appropriate blend of coursework and examination as specified in the individual module descriptors. The Investigative Project module will be assessed by both the supervisor and a second independent marker. |
Intended Learning Outcomes
B: Academic Discipline Core Skills and Knowledge
| Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs) On successfully completing this programme you will be able to: | Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs) will be... | |
|---|---|---|
| ...accommodated and facilitated by the following learning and teaching activities (in/out of class): | ...and evidenced by the following assessment methods: | |
1. By the end of Stage 0 of the programme the students will be able to: (a) demonstrate a basic knowledge and understanding of fundamental concepts necessary for progression to further studies in mathematics or in other quantitative degree pathways. (b) Develop skills to reason and solve problems using abstract ideas. (c) Organise tasks into a structured plan (d) Critically assess and summarise research studies in mathematics, engineering, and sciences. (e) Demonstrate an ability to evaluate arguments, provide a sound justification, interpret, and communicate outcomes.? In subsequent stages you will: | Skills (a-e) are developed through most of the modules at Stage 0 of the programme, and those skills are reinforced through individual and group project work and presentations as well as through guided reading and seminar sessions. In subsequent stages: The ability to formulate problems, apply suitable theoretical and or experimental approaches, manage this process, summarise and analyse data will be developed in all compulsory and the optional modules, via the mixture of approaches described in (A). Techniques required to solve problems, develop models and produce publication/presentation quality output will be developed throughout the degree programme through the use of research and design projects, which will be assessed through a range of in-person and video presentations, slide decks, and reports. | Skills (a-e) are developed through most of the modules at Stage 0 of the programme, and those skills are reinforced through individual and group project work and presentations as well as through formative and summative coursework, online quizzes and class-tests. In subsequent stages: These skills will be assessed in examinations and coursework associated with the modules. |
Intended Learning Outcomes
C: Personal/Transferable/Employment Skills and Knowledge
| Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs) On successfully completing this programme you will be able to: | Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs) will be... | |
|---|---|---|
| ...accommodated and facilitated by the following learning and teaching activities (in/out of class): | ...and evidenced by the following assessment methods: | |
1. By the end of Stage 0 of the programme the students will be able to: (a) formulate and solve problems and communicate reasoning and solutions effectively in writing. (b) communicate ideas and plans concisely, both orally, through presentations and in writing. (c) use the library and a range of online resources to research topics taught/a topic of interest. (d) Operate effectively within a team.? (e) Exhibit self-management and time management skills.? ?At subsequent stages you will be able to: | Skills (a-e) are developed through most of the modules at Stage 0 of the programme. In subsequent stages: 15 and 16 will be required for design project modules and the Investigative Report module 17 will be developed in modules ENG1002, ENG1005, ENG2009, ENG2007, ENS2004, ENG3022, ENG3012, ECM3165, ENG3022. | Skills (a-e) are developed through most of the modules at Stage 0 of the programme. In subsequent stages: Assessed through the coursework of the modules. |
7. Programme Regulations
Classification
Full details of assessment regulations for all taught programmes can be found in the TQA Manual, specifically in the Credit and Qualifications Framework, and the Assessment, Progression and Awarding: Taught Programmes Handbook. Additional information, including Generic Marking Criteria, can be found in the Learning and Teaching Support Handbook.
8. College Support for Students and Students' Learning
Academic and personal tutors:
In accordance with University policy, a system of Academic Tutors and a Pastoral Mentor is in place for all students on this programme. A University-wide statement on such provision is included in the University's TQA Manual. As a student enrolled on this programme, you will receive the personal and academic support of the Programme Coordinator and will have regular scheduled meetings with your Academic Tutor. You may request additional meetings as and when required. The role of personal tutors is to provide you with advice and support for the duration of the programme and extends to providing you with details of how to obtain support and guidance on personal difficulties such as accommodation, financial difficulties and sickness. The departmental Pastoral Mentor is also there to help you and refer you to specialist support. You can also make an appointment to see individual teaching staff.
ELE and other resources provided:
Online Module study resources provide materials for modules that you are registered for on the Exeter Learning Environment (ELE). Coursework is also submitted through ELE, with marks and feedback available through the system as well. Each module page is linked to the Library, with easy access to reading lists. Our Library is a digital-first library, with most items accessible online, and an Engineering-specific subject guide and liaison librarian.
Computers and printers:
Information Technology (IT) Services provide a wide range of services throughout the Exeter campuses including open access computer rooms, some of which are available 24 hours, 7 days a week. Help may be obtained through the Helpdesk, and most study rooms in halls and flats are linked to the University's campus network. Additionally, the University has its own dedicated IT support staff, helpdesk and computer facilities which are linked to the wider network, but which also provide access to some specialised software packages. Email is an important channel of communication between staff and students in the Faculty and an extensive range of web-based information is available.
9. University Support for Students and Students' Learning
Please refer to the University Academic Policy and Standards guidelines regarding support for students and students' learning.
10. Admissions Criteria
Undergraduate applicants must satisfy the Undergraduate Admissions Policy of the University of Exeter.
Postgraduate applicants must satisfy the Postgraduate Admissions Policy of the University of Exeter.
Specific requirements required to enrol on this programme are available at the respective Undergraduate or Postgraduate Study Site webpages.
11. Regulation of Assessment and Academic Standards
Each academic programme in the University is subject to an agreed College assessment and marking strategy, underpinned by institution-wide assessment procedures.
The security of assessment and academic standards is further supported through the appointment of External Examiners for each programme. External Examiners have access to draft papers, course work and examination scripts. They are required to attend the Board of Examiners and to provide an annual report. Annual External Examiner reports are monitored at both College and University level. Their responsibilities are described in the University's code of practice. See the University's TQA Manual for details.
14. Awarding Institution
ICAS (Institute of Chartered Accountants in Scotland)
15. Lead College / Teaching Institution
Faculty of Environment, Science and Economy (ESE)
16. Partner College / Institution
Partner College(s)
Not applicable to this programme
Partner Institution
Not applicable to this programme.
17. Programme Accredited / Validated by
Not applicable to this programme.
18. Final Award
BEng (Hons) Biomedical Engineering with Foundation Year
19. UCAS Code
Not applicable to this programme.
20. NQF Level of Final Award
6 (Honours)
21. Credit
| CATS credits | 480 |
ECTS credits | 240 |
|---|
22. QAA Subject Benchmarking Group
[Honours] Engineering
23. Dates
| Origin Date | Date of last revision |
|---|
