THE UNIVERSITY OF THE WEST INDIES CAVE HILL CAMPUS

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1 THE UNIVERSITY OF THE WEST INDIES CAVE HILL CAMPUS Undergraduate Studies in the Department of Biological and Chemical Sciences EARTH SCIENCES BIOLOGY ECOLOGY MICROBIOLOGY CHEMISTRY BIOCHEMISTRY

2 Earth Sciences Earth Sciences is the study of the physical world around us, and considers the interactions between the Hydrosphere, Cryosphere, Biosphere, Lithosphere and Atmosphere (i.e. the land, air and water). Our programme includes courses on: the solid Earth, explaining the formation of the Earth through geological time; ocean formation, circulation and processes; climate and its variability; and renewable energy, highlighting green alternative energy sources. These lead to an understanding of the world around us, the processes that govern it and man s associated impact. You will learn through a combination of lectures, case studies and applied laboratory sessions and have the opportunity to work on research projects. Through this hands-on experience, you will learn how to observe and investigate the environment, carry out sample and data collection, interpret data, draw conclusions and effectively communicate results. Earth Sciences graduates may move on to further study in fields such as: Environmental Studies, Coastal Management, Climate change or Sustainable Development. They may establish careers in/as scientists (e.g. geologist, oceanographer, climatologist), laboratory technicians and data analysts in consultancies, academia, and government organisations. Passes in at least two 2-unit CAPE/GCE A-Level science subjects or the equivalent

3 Biochemistry Biochemistry is the study of the chemistry of living things. Our programme covers basic biochemical pathways, including those of microorganisms, animals, and plants and the regulation of these pathways. Enzyme kinetics, molecular biology, genetics, biochemical techniques, toxicology, bioinformatics, microbial biochemistry, the biochemistry of human disease and biochemical plant pathology are some of the topics covered at years 2 and 3. A final year project in a research area of interest is an option. While at the UWI Cave Hill Campus, you will learn through a combination of lectures, tutorials and laboratory sessions. You will also have an opportunity to pursue an independent research project. Biochemistry graduates may move on to careers including forensics, quality assurance, product development and teaching or further study in fields such as medicine, veterinary science, forensic science, food science, biochemistry, pharmacology and microbiology. Passes in Biology and Chemistry at CAPE/GCE A-Level or the equivalent

4 Biology Our Biology programme aims to produce versatile, work-ready graduates who can apply their passion for learning and Biology to their own personal development and that of the Caribbean. In this broad programme, you will acquire an appreciation and understanding of the living world, from molecules to ecosystems. Building on core subject areas, in years 2 and 3 you will choose from a wide range of courses to acquire specialised knowledge and practical skills at the forefront of the Biological Sciences. You will learn through scheduled lectures, tutorials, laboratory classes and field work. All courses use an e-learning environment to facilitate self-study. Assessment often involves presentations, group work and individual research projects. Careers include scientific research, teaching, quality assurance, ecotourism, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, horticulture, fisheries, agriculture, environmental monitoring - often requiring further study. Students have also found that transferable skills acquired provide a good launch pad for non-biology related careers. Passes in Biology Units 1 & 2 and Chemistry Units 1 & 2 at CAPE/GCE A-Level or the equivalent

5 Chemistry Chemistry involves the study of the air you breathe, the food you eat, the clothes you wear and all the materials that surround you in your everyday life. You will cover topics in analytical, environmental, inorganic, organic and physical chemistry with emphasis on atomic structure and properties, kinetics and thermodynamics, organic reaction mechanisms, transition metal chemistry and analytical research methods. You will learn in an environment that is nurturing and supportive through interactions in lectures, tutorials and practical sessions. Chemistry graduates work in a variety of places not just in research laboratories. They may move on to careers in areas such as forensic science, crime prevention, food, health, development of drugs, art restoration, water quality and air pollution. Passes in Chemistry and at least one other subject at CAPE/GCE A-Level or the equivalent

6 Ecology Ecology is the study of the interactions between living organisms and their environments. If you choose the Ecology major, you will take core ecology subjects at Level II (e.g. Population Ecology and Community Ecology, Marine Biology, Caribbean Island Biogeography), then choose from marine (e.g. Coral Reef Ecology) and terrestrial options (e.g. Crop Ecology) at Level III. The Ecology offerings are completed by a compulsory Level III course during which you will study the impacts of humankind on the Earth s biodiversity (Human Ecology and Conservation). You will develop skills in field data collection and observation of living organisms and systems and learn to apply your theoretical knowledge to managing natural resources and addressing ecological problems that will face the region in the coming decades. Careers include natural resource management and conservation, protected areas management, wildlife conservation, teaching, and environmental consulting. With further training, ecologists may go on to become environmental lawyers and resource economists. Passes in Biology Units 1 & 2 and Chemistry Units 1 & 2 at CAPE/GCE A-Level or the equivalent

7 Microbiology Microbiology is the study of microscopic living organisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi and protists. It is an integral part of several disciplines and has numerous practical applications in areas such as medicine, food production and other commercial activities. Topics covered include: microbial diversity, microbial growth, roles of microorganisms in nature and their interactions with other organisms, their roles in industry and biotechnology, human health, agriculture, ecology and the environment.there is a strong emphasis on practical skills. The programme is delivered through a combination of lectures, tutorials and laboratory sessions. Some advanced courses feature field visits to laboratories and industries and involve small projects, which give students an idea of what postgraduate research has to offer. Knowledge and practical skills gained prepare students for employment opportunities in research, clinical and public health, industries concerning food and water quality, biotechnology and environmentally-related fields. subjects (compulsory: English Language and Mathematics and two (2) approved laboratory science subjects) Passes in Biology and Chemistry Units 1 & 2 at CAPE/GCE A-Level or the equivalent

8 AND TECHNOLOGY *Faculty of science and technology T-shirt design,