AP0509 - Cellular and Transfusion Science

What will I learn on this module?

You will develop a knowledge and understanding of cellular and haematological pathology as specialised aspects of diagnostic pathology. You will learn about normal and pathological aspects of organ and blood histology and the application of routine diagnostic techniques such as processing, microtomy and staining. In addition you will also develop a sound understanding of the theory and practice of cytology, immunocytochemistry/cytology/electron and light microscopy including its application to blood film examination. You will learn about theoretical aspects of blood transfusion as well as develop practical competencies in associated techniques. Interpretation of the results from these practical will help you develop an appreciation of their significance. This module will build upon the knowledge and practical experience from Introductory Pathology Science. The roles of the haematology, transfusion and histopathology laboratory in the diagnosis, monitoring and treatment of disease will be explored. You will integrate aspects of all 3 disciplines through the use of a patient history and case study, applying the theoretical and practical aspects of the material covered in lectures.

How will I learn on this module?

You will learn through a combination of lectures, practical sessions, directed reading and independent learning. The lectures, supplemented by directed reading, will provide you with an overview of the theoretical and practical aspects of cellular and tissue structure and function and how these characteristics are used in the diagnosis and monitoring of disease. In practical classes, carried out in the Faculty’s state of the art teaching laboratories, equipped with large screen monitors and PA systems to facilitate in-class tutorials, you will further develop your practical competencies including the preparation and examination of material for microscopic analysis and comparison, carry out blood grouping and antibody identification as well as generating data related to these techniques understanding how it aids in diagnosis and should be appropriately presented and interpreted in a professional Healthcare situation.

How will I be supported academically on this module?

Support for your learning in this module will include feedback during practical sessions by tutors on your data presentation and interpretation skills. Formative practical sessions and other exercises will help prepare you for the practical exam, approximately half-way through module delivery. This material will assist you in consolidating your understanding and knowledge in the relevant area. Access to e-books in the subject will allow specific directed reading (and preparing answers to set questions) to be completed by the whole class, in advance of some lectures to support the lecture process, “flipping the classroom”. You will also be guided through the lecture material to understand and prepare for the seen case part of the final exam, where you will be supported in integrating concepts from both strands of the module in a real-world, problem-based scenario. The ELP will be used both as a repository for information and advice, as well as communicating other aspects of support that generate during delivery.

What will I be expected to read on this module?

All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. Online reading lists (provided after enrolment) give you access to your reading material for your modules. The Library works in partnership with your module tutors to ensure you have access to the material that you need.

What will I be expected to achieve?

Knowledge & Understanding:
1. You will be able to describe the haematological and histological features of all blood cell types in health and disease and the pathogenic mechanisms underpinning this.
2. You will understand the significance of red cell antigens in the selection and safe transfusion of a a variety of stored blood components.
3. You will understand the theoretical principles underpinning the preparation of tissues for a variety of microscopic and examinations

Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:
4. You will understand and apply the principles of quality assurance and the development of reference ranges and their significance in disease diagnosis. treatment and monitoring.

Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):
5. You will appreciate the role played by the haematology, blood transfusion and histology laboratories in the screening, diagnosis and monitoring of disease in a safe, professional, ethical and confidential service

How will I be assessed?

You will be assessed by a mid-point practical-based examination (40%) including practical competencies, and a combination of MCQ and SAQ’s. (MLO’s 1, 2 4)

The terminal assessment will be a 2 part examination (60%) including (I) a SEEN case study that will integrate all 3 pathology disciplines and (ii) a synoptic MCQ section.
(MLO’s 1, 2, 3, 5)

Practical classes will provide competency rehearsal with in-sessional assessment and feedback. Turning point sessions will be built in throughout the lecture series to develop a familiarity with MCQ style and technique. These will be formatively assessed in-session with immediate class feedback.

Full written or recorded personal feedback on the practical exam will inform and prepare for the theoretical aspects of the final exam.

Pre-requisite(s)

level 4 Introductory Pathology Science

Co-requisite(s)

N/A

Module abstract

Cellular and transfusion sciences will truly expose you to the real world of multi-disciplinary pathology both in the Biomedical Sciences sector and beyond. Taking a rich, theoretical understanding of the structures and functions of haemopoeitic and other cells and tissues in health and disease and the diagnostic techniques that allow their qualitative and quantitative analysis, you will integrate this knowledge and practical competency to ultimately explore a real world case through a problem based approach. You will learn with subject specialists from within the University as well as Biomedical Scientists from local hospitals and from NHS Blood and Transplantation, giving you a real and very current picture of the contributions made by the haematology, blood transfusion and histopathology in the diagnosis, monitoring and treatment of patients.

Course info

UCAS Code B940

Credits 20

Level of Study Undergraduate

Mode of Study 3 years Full Time or 4 years with a placement (sandwich)/study abroad
1 other options available

Department Applied Sciences

Location City Campus, Northumbria University

City Newcastle

Start September 2025

Fee Information

Module Information

All information is accurate at the time of sharing. 

Full time Courses are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but could include elements of online learning. Most courses run as planned and as promoted on our website and via our marketing materials, but if there are any substantial changes (as determined by the Competition and Markets Authority) to a course or there is the potential that course may be withdrawn, we will notify all affected applicants as soon as possible with advice and guidance regarding their options. It is also important to be aware that optional modules listed on course pages may be subject to change depending on uptake numbers each year.  

Contact time is subject to increase or decrease in line with possible restrictions imposed by the government or the University in the interest of maintaining the health and safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors if this is deemed necessary in future.

 

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