Capstone Scientific Project
Module Description
This module offers students the opportunity to plan, execute, and present a small-scale scientific investigation in a biomedical science field. Under supervision, learners will demonstrate the integration of knowledge, technical skills, and scientific communication developed throughout the foundation programme.
The project fosters autonomy, critical thinking, and reflective practice
Entry Requirements
- Candidates who apply must be in possession of at least one of the following:
- Successful completion of secondary education (equivalent to MQF Level 3), including passing grades in Biology, Chemistry, and Mathematics or a science-related subject.
- Proof of English language proficiency at IELTS 5.5 (with no individual band lower than 5.0), or an equivalent internationally recognised qualification.
- Basic digital literacy (e.g., familiarity with using email, online research, and word processing).
Applicants not meeting standard entry criteria may be considered through Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) in accordance with MFHEA guidelines, where applicable.
This programme is suitable for both recent secondary school graduates and adult learners seeking access to undergraduate education in biomedical or health sciences.
Target Audience
The programme targets the following groups:
- This programme is intended for international and local learners aged 18 and above who are seeking entry into undergraduate programmes in biomedical science, medicine, dentistry, or health sciences. It is especially suited to students who:
- Have completed secondary education but do not yet meet direct entry requirements for a science degree;
- Require additional academic preparation in biology, chemistry, and scientific English;
- Need to improve their academic skills and test-readiness for university admission (e.g., UCAT/BMAT);
- Plan to study in higher education systems that require a foundation year.
Career Paths
This programme is designed to serve as a preparatory pathway for further study rather than a direct route to a regulated or warranted profession. It supports access to MQF Level 6 programmes such as B.Sc. in Biomedical Science, Medicine, Dentistry, and Health Sciences.
The programme builds foundational competences relevant to the following occupational areas as referenced in the Malta Qualifications Database (MQD):
- Entry-level healthcare support roles
- Pre-clinical academic preparation for health professions
Although it does not lead directly to a regulated profession, it equips learners with transferable scientific, academic, and digital skills necessary for further progression into regulated careers in the health and life sciences sectors.
Assessment
Assessment is carried out via two mandatory components:
- Modular Assessment
- Project Assessment
The programme includes different forms of assessment which allow for and promote students’ critical engagement. The formative and summative assessment tasks may include an in-class assignment and/or a home-based written assignment using diverse assessment tools which may take the form of online and in-class discussions, examinations, case studies, reports, proposals, essays, and presentations, etc., as applicable to the diverse modules.
Learning Outcomes
Competences:
At the end of the module/unit, the learner will have acquired the responsibility and autonomy to:
- Work independently to manage a complete scientific project from proposal to presentation.
- Take responsibility for planning, data handling, and time management.
- Demonstrate initiative in solving problems and addressing feedback from supervision.
- Communicate scientific findings clearly and accurately using appropriate formats for both specialist and non-specialist audiences.
Knowledge:
At the end of the module/unit, the learner will have been exposed to the following:
- Understand the principles of scientific investigation, including hypothesis formation, method design, and ethical considerations.
- Recognise appropriate formats for reporting scientific work.
- Identify relevant sources and data collection methods to support inquiry.
Skills:
At the end of the module/unit, the learner will have acquired the following skills:
- Plan and conduct a small research study using appropriate methodology.
- Analyse results using basic statistical and interpretative tools.
- Present findings in both written (scientific report) and oral (presentation) formats.
- Reflect on the research process and learning experience.