Loughborough University
Leicestershire, UK
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Loughborough University

Programme Specifications

Programme Specification

MEng(Hons) Biomaterials Engineering

Academic Year: 2019/20

This specification provides a concise summary of the main features of the programme and the learning outcomes that a typical student might reasonably be expected to achieve and demonstrate if full advantage is taken of the learning opportunities that are provided.

This specification applies to delivery of the programme in the Academic Year indicated above. Prospective students reviewing this information for a later year of study should be aware that these details are subject to change as outlined in our Terms and Conditions of Study.

This specification should be read in conjunction with:

  • Summary
  • Aims
  • Learning outcomes
  • Structure
  • Progression & weighting

Programme summary

Awarding body/institution Loughborough University
Teaching institution (if different)
Owning school/department Department of Materials
Details of accreditation by a professional/statutory body
Final award MEng/ MEng + DIS / MEng + DIntS / MEng + DPS
Programme title Biomaterials Engineering
Programme code MPUM05
Length of programme The duration of the programme is either 8 semesters, or 10 semesters if students undertake industrial training leading to the additional award of the Diploma in Industrial Studies, Diploma in Professional Studies, or study at a University abroad leading to the award of the Diploma in International Studies. These occur between Parts B and C, or Parts C and D
UCAS code J5BW, J5BX
Admissions criteria

MEng - http://www.lboro.ac.uk/j5bw

MEng + DIS / DIntS / DPS - http://www.lboro.ac.uk/j5bx

Date at which the programme specification was published Mon, 06 Jan 2020 11:19:20 GMT

1. Programme Aims

  • To provide a degree programme in the interdisciplinary field of biomaterials which satisfies the needs of industry.
  • To produce graduates of outstanding ability who have a very strong academic background with especially outstanding business and interactive skills.
  • To produce graduates with a  greater in-depth knowledge of biomaterials who are  equipped with skills required to play a leading, technical role at an executive level.
  • To produce graduates who manage their own learning, communicate effectively and make use of primary source materials.

2. Relevant subject benchmark statements and other external reference points used to inform programme outcomes:

•  QAA Framework for Higher Education Qualifications

•  QAA Benchmark Statements for Materials

•  Institute of Materials Guidelines for Accreditation

3. Programme Learning Outcomes

3.1 Knowledge and Understanding

On successful completion of the programme, graduates should be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:

  • Relevant principles of materials science, biology and physiology as applied to biomaterials engineering;
  • A number of specialist materials topics connected with metals, ceramics, polymers, and composites;
  • The role of information technology and library resources in providing support for biomaterials engineers;
  • Engineering and biological/chemical principles relevant to materials selection;
  • The materials and engineering aspects of design;
  • The professional and engineering responsibilities of biomaterials engineers;
  • A systematic understanding of knowledge, and a critical awareness of current problems and/or new insights, much of which is at the forefront of biomaterials engineering practice.

3.2 Skills and other attributes

a. Subject-specific cognitive skills:

On successful completion of this programme students should be able to:

  • Select and identify an appropriate material and manufacturing route for the design of a biomedical component;
  • Utilise materials engineering and biological principles to develop new materials/processing routes for improved performance of biomedical systems;
  • Solve materials engineering problems, and, where appropriate, propose new hypotheses;
  • Select and apply appropriate IT tools to a variety of materials problems;
  • Select materials from an environmentally appreciative viewpoint;
  • Analyse materials aspects of components;
  • Interpret numerical data and apply sophisticated mathematical methods to the analysis of materials engineering problems.
b. Subject-specific practical skills:

On successful completion of the programme, students should be able to:

  • Use, and have a comprehensive understanding of, appropriate mechanical testing, biological testing, degradation/corrosion testing, optical and electron metallographic, and chemical analysis methods for the study of materials;
  • Manipulate systems for the processing of polymers, ceramics and metals;
  • Use appropriate computer software for design and modelling exercises;
  • Evaluate and present practical data in a format that shows originality in the application of knowledge, together with a practical understanding of how established techniques are used to create and interpret materials engineering knowledge;
  • Explain experimental results in terms of theoretical mechanisms and concepts;
  • Compile clear and well-structured technical reports;
  • Acquire and use sources of information appropriately;
  • Demonstrate project management skills.
c. Key transferable skills:

On successful completion of the programme, students should be able to:

  • Organise and manage time and resources effectively;
  • Apply constructive, creative, and structured approaches to complex problem solving;
  • Exercise the independent learning ability required for continuing professional development;
  • Make decisions in complex and unpredictable situations;
  • Work effectively, both as part of a team and/or independently;
  • Organise and manage time and resources effectively; for short-term and longer-term commitments;
  • Possess skills needed to communicate effectively through written, graphical, inter-personal, and presentation media;
  • Demonstrate a high level of numeracy; appropriate to the cognitive skills required;
  • Compile clear and well-structured technical reports;
  • Acquire and use sources of information appropriately;
  • Demonstrate project management skills;
  • To plan, monitor and record personal, educational and career development issues using the fast track route towards chartered status.

 

4. Programme structure

4.1         Part A – Introductory Modules 

4.1.1 Students entering Part A from September 2018

Compulsory modules (total module weight 120)

 

Code

 

Semester

 

Title

 

Modular Weight

MPA201

1

Introductory Materials Science

10

MPA202

1 and 2

Experimentation and Practical Skills

20

MPA203

CAD and Engineering Drawing

10

MPA204

2

Engineering Analysis and Modelling

10

MPA205

1

Thermodynamics and Phase Equilibria

10

MPA206

2

Introduction to Materials Processing

10

MPA207

2

Mechanics for Materials 1

10

MPA210

1

Introduction to Product Design

10

MAA101

1

Mathematics for Materials 1

10

MAA201

2

Mathematics for Materials 2

10

MPA322

2

Materials Applications

10

For Students entering before September 2018

Compulsory modules (total module weight 120) 

Code

 

Semester

 

Title

 

Modular Weight

MPA231

2

Introduction to Materials Processing

10

MPA202

1 and 2

Experimentation and Practical Skills

20

MPA203

1 and 2

CAD and Engineering Drawing

10

MPA204

1 and 2

Engineering Analysis adn Modelling

10

MPA205

1

Thermodynamics and Phase Equilibria

10

MPA207

2

Mechanics for Materials 1

10

MPA210

1

Introduction to Product Design

10

MAA101

1

Mathematics for Materials 1

10

MAA201

2

Mathematics for Materials 2

10

MPA201

1

Introduuctory Materials Science

10

 

4.2      Part B – Degree Modules

4.2.1     For students entering Part B from 2018 Compulsory modules (total module weight 110) 

Code

 Semester

 Title

 Modular Weight

Core or Optional

CGB018

2

Plant Engineering

10

 C

MPB208

 2

Fracture Mechanics of Materials

10

 C

MPB312

1 and 2

Materials Processing

30

 C

MPB313

1 and 2 

Materials in Service

10

 C

PSA201

1

Anatomy and Physiology 1

10

 C

MPB231

2

Biomaterials 1 (Biomaterials for Tissue Engineering)

10

 C

CGA005

1

Chemical and Biochemical Processes

10

 C

MAB101

1

Mathematics for Materials 3

10

 C

MAB205

2

Statistics

10

C

Additional optional modules. Choose 10 credits from:

 

 

Code

 

Semester

 

Title

 

Modular Weight

MPB209  2 Materials Characterisation 10
LAN---  1 or 2 Language - with approval  of the Programme Director in semseter 1 or 2 10

 

Students entering Part A before September 2018

4.2         Part B – Degree Modules 

4.2.1    Compulsory modules (total module weight 120)

Code

 

Semester

 

Title

 

Modular Weight

MPB201

1

Structure and Properties of Polymers

10

MPB203

2

Polymers: Processing

10

MPB204

1

Ceramics: Processing and Properties

10

MPB205

1 and 2

Experimental skills

10

MPB206

1

Engineering Alloys

10

MPB208

2

Fracture Mechanics of Materials

10

MPB231

2

Biomaterials 1(Biomaterials for Tissue Engineering)

10

BSB560

1

Principles of Marketing

10

CGA005

1

Chemical and Biochemical Processes

10

CGB018

2

Plant Engineering

10

MAB101

1

Mathematics for Materials 3

10

MAB206

2

Statistics

10

 

4.3     Part I –   Diploma in Industrial Studies and Diploma in International Studies Modules

 

Code

 

Semester

 

Title

 

Modular Weight

 MPI001

 1 and 2

Industrial Training Placement (DIS, non-credit bearing)

 120

 MPI002

 1 and 2

Overseas University Placement (DIntS, non-credit bearing

 120

 MPI003

 1 and 2

Diploma in Professional Studies (DPS, non-credit bearing)

 120

 

4.3.1    Ten Semester Programme

In accordance with Regulation XI, students can undertake a placement, leading to the additional award of the Diploma in Industrial Studies or Diploma in Professional Studies, or if taken at a University overseas the Diploma in International Studies. 

Participation in a placement, or study abroad, is subject to Departmental approval and satisfactory academic performance in Parts A and B (and depending upon the route of study Part C).

 4.4      Part C – Degree Modules 

For Students entering Part C from September 2018

Code

 

Semester

 

Title

 

Modular

Weight

MPC108

1

Surface Engineering

10

MPC114

2

Composite Materials

10

MPC131

2

Biomedical Component Design

10

MPC231

2

Biomaterials 2 (Biomaterials for Drug Delivery)

10

MPD130

1 and 2

Biomaterials Project

40

CGC024

1

Biochemical Engineering

10

DSC114

1

Inclusive Design, Ageing, Disability and Vulnerability

10

4.4.2      Additional optional modules. Choose 10 credits from:

 

Code

 

Semester

 

Title

 

Modular Weight

BSC144

2

Project Management

 10

LAN---

1 or 2

Language

 10

BSC522

Entrepreneurship and Innovation 

10

- - - - - -

1 or 2

Other level 6 module from the University module catalogue

10

 

For Students entering Part C before September 2018

4.4.1    Compulsory modules (total module weight 110)

Code

 

Semester

 

Title

 

Modular

Weight

MPC101

1

Sustainability, Recycling and Environmental Issues

10

MPC108

1

Surface Engineering

10

MPC114

2

Composite Materials

10

MPC131

1 and 2

Biomedical Component Design

10

MPC231

2

Biomaterials 2(Biomaterials for Drug Delivery)

10

MPD130

1 and 2

Biomaterials Project

40

CGC024

1

Biochemical Engineering

10

DSC114

1

Inclusive Design, Ageing, Disability and Vulnerability

10

Additional optional modules. Choose 10 credits from:

 

Code

 

Semester

 

Title

 

Modular Weight

BSC144

2

Project Management

 10

LAN---

1 or 2

Language

 10

MPC106

2

Electrochemical Technology

10

- - - - - -

1 or 2

Other level 6 module from the University module catalogue

10

 

4.5       Part D – Degree Modules

4.5.1 For students entering from  September 2018 - compulsory modules (total module weight 110)

Code

 

Semester

 

Title

 

Modular Weight

MPD101

1 and 2

Group Design Project

50

MPP509

2

Advanced Biomaterials

15

MPP551

1

Advanced Characterisation Techniques

15

MPP556

2

Materials Modelling

15

CGD069

1

Advanced Biochemical Engineering

15

Additional optional modules. Choose 10 credits from:

Code

 

Semester

 

Title

 

Modular Weight

MPD105

1

Advanced Materials Dissertation

10

BSC522

1

Entrepreneurship and Innovation

10

LAN---

1 or 2

Language

10

WSC206

2

Product Innovation Management

10

 

1 or 2

One level 7 module from University module catalogue

10

 

For students entering before September 2018 - compulsory modules (total module weight 110)

 

Code

 

Semester

 

Title

 

Modular Weight

MPD101

1 and 2

Group Design Project

50

MPP509

2

Advanced Biomaterials

15

MPP551

1

Advanced Characterisation Techniques

15

MPP556

2

Materials Modelling

15

CGD069

1

Advanced Biochemical Engineering

15

 

Additional optional modules. Choose 10 credits from:

Code

 

Semester

 

Title

 

Modular Weight

MPD014

1

Polymer Engineering - Properties and Design

10

MPD102

2

Industrial Case Studies

10

MPD105

1

Advanced Materials Dissertation

10

BSC522

1

Entrepreneurship and Innovation

10

LAN---

1 or 2

Language

10

MMC206

2

Product Innovation Management

10

 

1 or 2

One level 7 module from University module catalogue

10

                        

5. Criteria for Progression and Degree Award

5. Criteria for Progression and Degree Award

5.1 Criteria  for Progression and Degree Award

In order to progress from Part A to Part B,  from Part B to C and from C to D and to be eligible for the award of an extended Honours degree, candidates must not only satisfy the minimum credit requirements set out in Regulation XX but also: 

  • For students commencing their studies from October 2015: In order to progress in each Part students must accumulate 120 credits together with an overall average of 55% for the Part.   

 5.2 Re-assessment

•  Provision will be made in accordance with Regulation XX for candidates, who have the right of re-assessment in all parts of the programme, to undergo re-assessment in the University's Special Assessment Period (except where SAP-exempt modules are involved).

•  Where a candidate has accumulated fewer than 60 credits in a part of the programme, reassessment in the relevant part is not available to that candidate in the Special Assessment Period.

 

5.3  Criteria  for candidates who do not receive permission to Progress  or gain the award of a Degree

5.3.1 Any candidate who fails to achieve the criteria for progression from Part A to Part B shall have the opportunity to repeat Module Assessments in accordance with the provisions of Regulation XX in order to qualify to progress to Part B.  Alternatively, the candidate registered on the MEng degree programme may elect to enter part B of the BEng degree programme in Biomaterials provided that the candidate has achieved the criteria for progression required for that programme. Failure at re-assessment will not prejudice this permission to enter the BEng degree programme subsequently.

5.3.2 Any candidate who fails to achieve the criteria for progression from Part B to Part C shall have the opportunity to repeat Module Assessments in accordance with the provisions of Regulation XX in order to qualify to progress to Part C.  Alternatively, the candidate registered on the MEng degree programme may elect to enter Part C of the BEng degree programme in Biomaterials provided that the candidate has achieved the criteria for progression required for that programme. Failure at re-assessment will not prejudice this permission to enter the BEng degree programme subsequently.

5.3.3 Any candidate who fails to achieve the criteria for progression from Part C to Part D shall have the opportunity to repeat Module Assessments in accordance with the provisions of Regulation XX in order to qualify to progress to Part D.  Any candidate who

(i)  fails to meet the progression requirement to Part D after reassessment, or

(ii)  having successfully completed Part C is unable to commence or complete Part D, or

(iii)  having studied Part D fails to meet the requirements for the award of an MEng degree,

may be permitted, at the discretion of the Programme Board to register for those additional modules necessary to satisfy the regulations for the award of the degree of BEng in Biomaterials.  In such instances, the degree classification will correspond to the candidate’s achievements in Part B and C assessments and be determined on the basis of the weighting given for the BEng programme.

6. Relative Weighting of Parts of the Programme for the Purposes of Final Degree Classification

6. Relative Weighting of Parts of the Programme for the purposes of Final Degree Classification

Candidate’s final degree classification will be determined on the basis of their performance in degree level Module Assessments in Parts B, C, and D in accordance with the scheme set out in Regulation XX.  The average percentages for each Part will be combined in the ratio Part B 20 : Part C 40 : Part D 40 to determine the overall average percentage mark for the programme (the programme mark).

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