Tissues, Systems, and Regulation (Biology II)
Module Description
This module builds on foundational biology by exploring the structure and function of major tissue types and physiological systems. Emphasis is placed on homeostasis, internal regulation, and how the body responds to changes and disease states. Case studies and lab-based learning will assist students in connecting theoretical knowledge with biomedical applications.
Entry Requirement
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:
- Demonstrate autonomy in analysing physiological data and making interpretations.
- Respond to case-based scenarios with appropriate biological reasoning.
- Apply knowledge of human tissues and body systems to explain physiological functions and homeostatic regulation.
- Collaborate with peers in interpreting symptoms and clinical examples.
Knowledge
At the end of the module/unit, the learner will have been exposed to the following:
- Identify the characteristics and functions of key tissue types (epithelial, connective, muscle, nervous).
- Describe the structure and regulation of major body systems (e.g., circulatory, respiratory, renal, nervous).
- Understand principles of internal regulation including feedback loops and homeostasis.
- Recognise physiological responses to stress, infection, and dysfunction.
Skills
At the end of the module/unit, the learner will have acquired the following skills:
- Interpret physiological case studies using biological principles.
- Relate changes in physiological parameters to underlying processes.
- Analyse symptoms and signs using a systems-based approach.
- Apply biological knowledge to explain regulatory mechanisms and disease states.