Bachelor’s Degree in Pharmacy + Expert in Pharmacy Strategic Direction and Management

Objectives

To provide an understanding of the effect of drugs on cellular function.

To assess the potential effects of drugs on gene function.

To assess the toxic effects of medicines and other substances at the cellular level.

To promote the rational use of medicines and healthcare products.

To be able to provide information on medicines.

Contribute to public health education.

To provide the cytogenetic basis for carrying out clinical analyses and issuing the corresponding laboratory diagnostic reports.

Contribute to basic research, technological development and innovation in medicines.

Prerequisites

 Students must have a basic knowledge of General Biology and Biochemistry.

 Have a sufficient command of English to read a review article or access a website written in that language

 Basic IT skills to use word processors, databases, create PowerPoint presentations and access data on the Internet.

Competencies

1. Understand the structures of biomolecules and their transformations within the cell.

2. Understand the structure and properties of cells, the different types of cells and cellular organelles.

3. Understand the organisation of the eukaryotic genome.

4. Understand the cell cycle, the different types of cell division and cell death.

5. Understand the main plant structures and physiological processes.

6. To acquire, develop and practise the skills required for laboratory work.

7. To assess the risks associated with the use of biological substances and laboratory processes.

8. To apply the scientific method – including the collection, evaluation and classification of data, drawing conclusions and formulating hypotheses – to resolve experimental questions.

9. To learn how to use bibliographic sources, both traditional ones and those related to new technologies.

Learning outcomes

1. Be able to use appropriate scientific terminology.

2. Be able to describe, analyse and relate the structure and function of the cell.

3. Understand the specific role of the different cell organelles in the functional activity of the cell as a unit of life.

4. Explain the processes of mitosis and meiosis.

5. Explain the organisation of the human genome.

6. Understand the structure of plants and be able to explain the main physiological processes in plants.

7. Understand the fundamentals of the main experimental techniques used to study the cell.

8. Recognise cellular structures using different methods, such as optical and electron microscopy.

Course content

Cell organisation. Cell types. Chemical composition of the cell. Localisation and functions of the main macromolecules.

Biological membranes: structure and basic functions. Types of cell membranes. Structure and chemical composition of the plasma membrane.

Transport mechanisms across the plasma membrane.

Intercellular connections. Extracellular matrix. Cell adhesion. Cell junctions.

Cytoskeleton. Microfilaments. Intermediate filaments. Microtubules.

Cell organelles: The nucleus. Packaging of genetic material. General structure of chromosomes.

Cell organelles: Ribosomes. Role of ribosomes in protein synthesis.

Cell organelles involved in vesicular transport: Endoplasmic reticulum. Golgi apparatus.

Cell organelles involved in the breakdown of substances: Lysosomes

Cell organelles involved in energy production: Mitochondria. Chloroplasts. Peroxisomes.

Cell cycle. Overview and control.

Cell division. Mitosis and meiosis.

Characteristics of the plant cell. Plant tissues.

Water in plants. Photosynthesis and respiration. Mineral nutrition.

Plant development. Hormonal control of development.

Training activities

TRAINING ACTIVITY HOURS ATTENDANCE

Lecture 30 100

Laboratory practicals 25 100

Seminars 5 100

E-learning 2 0

Individual and group tutorials 10 100

Independent study 73 0

Exam 5 100

TOTALS 150 50

Assessment system and criteria

Without prejudice to any other requirements that may be set out in the relevant course syllabus, as a general rule, failure to attend more than 70 per cent of the course’s teaching activities—which require the student’s physical or virtual presence—will result in the loss of the right to continuous assessment during the standard examination period. In this case, the examination to be held during the official period set by the University will be the sole assessment criterion, with the weighting specified in the course syllabus.

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The module is divided into three parts: lectures, laboratory sessions and assignments.

To pass this module, students must:

Have completed all laboratory practicals. Failure to attend two or more days of laboratory practicals will result in a mark of ‘NP’ in both the ordinary and supplementary examination sessions and, consequently, a fail for the module.

Achieve a mark of at least 4.5 in the subject matter covered in the lectures.

Achieve a final mark of 5 or above by adding together the percentages set out below:

• Assessment of lecture sessions (relating to competences C1–C5)

Two eliminatory tests on the material covered in the lecture sessions (topics 1–11): 60% of the final mark for the module (the first test will account for 30% of the mark for the lecture sessions and the second for 70%)

• Assignments – 10% of the final mark for the module

• Laboratory practicals (related to competences C6–C8) – 30% of the final mark for the module. Late arrival, unauthorised absences or inappropriate behaviour in the laboratory will result in the loss of up to 30% of the final mark for the practicals.

The following will always be viewed positively in the final mark (related to competences C5 and C9): literature review assignments and oral presentations, completion of exercises, and engagement and collaboration during sessions.

Assessments count towards the final mark provided a mark of 5 or above is achieved. A mark of 4 or above in one assessment may be used to compensate for a mark in the other.

If a mark below 4 is obtained in either test or if the marks are not offset, the student must sit the examination for the outstanding parts during the ordinary or supplementary examination period.

A minimum attendance rate of 70 per cent is required to pass the module through continuous assessment (eliminatory assessments). Students who do not meet this requirement by the time of the second mid-term test will sit the official examination (ordinary or supplementary) for the outstanding parts (the second mid-term test if they scored more than 5 in the first, or the entire course if they failed the first mid-term test).

Timetable

Click on this link to view the detailed timetable in Excel

Bibliography

Core:

1. Alberts et al.

Introduction to Cell Biology

5th ed. Panamericana. 2021.

ISBN: 9786078546442

2. Cooper GM

The Cell

Marbán. 2021.

ISBN: 9788418068584

3. Karp G.

Molecular and Cellular Biology

8th ed. McGraw-Hill. 2019.

ISBN: 9781456269227

4. Lehninger AL, Nelson DL, Cox MM and Cuchillo Foix CM.

Lehninger. Principles of Biochemistry

7th ed. Omega. 2018.

ISBN: 9788428216678

5. Lodish et al.

Cell and Molecular Biology

Panamericana. 2021.

ISBN: 9789500606264

Supplementary:

6. Calvo, A.

Biomedical Cell Biology

Elsevier. 2023.

ISBN: 9788491139591

7.- Feduchi Canosa E, Romero Magdalena C, Yáñez Conde E, García-Hoz Jiménez C.

Biochemistry: Essential Concepts.

3rd ed. Médica Panamericana. 2025.

ISBN: 9788491106807

8. Joaquín de Juan Herrero et al.

Cell Biology

Panamericana. 2022.

ISBN: 9788498357714

Others:

9. Ángel Herráez

Molecular Biology and Genetic Engineering

2nd ed. ELSEVIER. 2012.

ISBN: 9788480866477

10. Helmut Plattner / Joachim Hentschel

Cell Biology

4th ed. Panamericana. 2014.

ISBN: 9788498355215

11. Meisenberg, Simmons

Principles of Medical Biochemistry

4th ed. Elsevier. 2018.

ISBN: 9788491132974

Links

http://www.brooklyn.cuny.edu/bc/ahp/SDPS/SD.PS.LG.html – Website featuring animations of chemical structures

Official Scientific Journal of the American Academy of Sciences -.

American Biomedical Library website -.

Website for the book *The Cell* by Cooper – Website for a book recommended in the bibliography

Molecular Biology of the Cell, 4th edition – Website for a book recommended in the bibliography

Website of the Spanish Society for Cell Biology -.

Website of the Spanish Society of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology -.

Molecular Cell Biology (Lodish) – Website for a book recommended in the bibliography

http://www.whfreeman.com/lodish – This page contains animations and diagrams from one of the books recommended in the bibliography

Objectives

To demonstrate the potential and possibilities of physics as a basis for interpreting and predicting the nature and scope of the processes involved in the evolution of chemical, biological and technological systems.

To identify and analyse physical processes that form part of systems of pharmaceutical interest.

Prerequisites

Knowledge of general physics and mathematics (numerical calculus and statistics).

Competencies

1. Apply knowledge of physics to the pharmaceutical sciences.

2. Understand the basic principles of the electric field and their applications to the health sciences.

3. Understand the basic principles of waves and their applications to the health sciences.

4. Understand the principles of fluid statics and dynamics and their importance in biological systems.

5. Design experiments based on statistical criteria.

6. To evaluate scientific data.

7. Apply computational and data-processing techniques to physical, chemical and biological data.

8. Understand the scientific method.

9. Understand oral and written communication techniques. Communication of results.

Learning outcomes

1. Application of basic knowledge of physics. Measurement.

2. Solving problems relating to electric fields and understanding their relationship with biological systems and measurement systems.

3. Basic applications of waves in the health sciences.

4. Practical applications of fluid statics and dynamics. Rheology.

5. Demonstrating proficiency in problem-solving, information management and decision-making.

6. Demonstrate the ability to work in a team.

7. Demonstrate the ability to analyse and synthesise information.

8. Understanding of the scientific method.

9. Work effectively in a laboratory environment.

10. Preparation and delivery of oral presentations.

Course description

The Physics module in the first year of the Bachelor’s Degree in Pharmacy is a four-month module worth 6 credits. It begins with a review of scalar and vector physical quantities and systems of measurement. This is followed by a study of the main properties of electric and magnetic fields, leading on to the analysis and application of waves, in particular electromagnetic waves, sound waves and light. The module concludes with a description of the behaviour of fluids under ideal and real-world conditions. This content demonstrates the potential and possibilities of physics as a basis for interpreting and predicting the nature and extent of the processes involved in the evolution of chemical, biological and technological systems. Furthermore, in this module, students learn to identify and analyse physical processes in systems of pharmaceutical interest.

Teaching activities

LEARNING ACTIVITY HOURS ATTENDANCE

Lecture 45 100

Laboratory practicals 15 100

Seminars 5 100

E-learning 5 0

Individual and group tutorials 5 100

Independent study 70 0

Exam 5 100

TOTALS 150 50

Assessment system and criteria

Without prejudice to any other requirements that may be set out in the relevant course syllabus, as a general rule, failure to attend more than 70 per cent of the course’s teaching activities—which require the student’s physical or virtual presence—will result in the loss of the right to continuous assessment during the standard examination period. In this case, the examination to be held during the official period set by the University will be the sole assessment criterion, with the weighting specified in the course syllabus.

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To pass this module, students must:

1. Have completed the laboratory practicals

2. Achieve a mark of five points or higher by adding together the percentages set out below:

- Laboratory practicals: 20% of the final mark (no minimum mark required) – 15% for the practical notebook assessment and 5% for laboratory problem-solving. (Competencies C5 to C9, Learning Outcomes LO1, LO6, LO8, LO9 and LO10)

- Continuous assessment tests: 60 per cent of the final mark (Competencies C1 to C4, Learning Outcomes LO1, LO2, LO3, LO4, LO5 and LO7). Only students with an attendance rate of 70 per cent or higher will be eligible to sit the continuous assessment tests, with the exception of those with a valid exemption and repeat students with overlapping classes. Two tests will be held throughout the course; these will count towards the final mark provided a mark of 5 or higher is achieved. One test may be offset by another if a mark of 4 or above is obtained in either of them. The first test will assess the section on electric and magnetic fields (30 per cent) and the second the section on waves, optics and fluids (30 per cent); the assessment will cover theoretical knowledge and problem-solving. If a mark below 4 is obtained in either test, or if the marks from the two tests do not balance each other out, students must sit the ordinary and/or supplementary examination for the section(s) in which they have failed.

- Assignments: 20% of the final mark (no minimum mark required) (Competencies C1 to C4, C9; Learning Outcomes LO1 to LO8, LO10). Completion and submission of set problems

REGULAR EXAMINATION PERIOD:

Students will be examined on the previous components (tests, practicals) which they have not passed (mark below 5 points) in the continuous assessment. The weightings will be the same as in the continuous assessment.

SUPPLEMENTARY EXAMINATION SESSION:

Students will be examined on the aforementioned components (tests, practicals) which they have not passed (mark below 5 points) in the continuous assessment. These will carry the same weightings as in the continuous assessment.

Timetable

Click on this link to view the detailed timetable in Excel

Bibliography

Basic:

1. Hans C. Ohanian

Physics for Engineering and Science. Volumes 1 and 2. 3rd edition.

McGraw Hill. 2009.

ISBN: 0393974227

2. Mirabent D. J.

Physics for Life Sciences

McGraw Hill, 2008. 2008.

ISBN: 9788448168032

3. Tipler, Paul A.

Physics for Science and Technology

Barcelona: Reverté, 2014. 2014.

ISBN: 9788429144307

Supplementary:

4.- Chang, Raymond

Physical Chemistry

McGraw-Hill. 2008.

ISBN: 9789701066522

5.- Magro, R., Abad, L., et al.

Physical Fundamentals of Engineering II

1st ed. Garcia Maroto Editores. 2008.

ISBN: 9788493601867

Objectives

This module is designed to establish and consolidate some of the mathematical foundations required by Pharmacy students. The aim is for students to master the techniques of mathematical calculation and statistics as applied to the pharmaceutical sciences. Theoretical content will be limited to what is necessary to understand and assimilate the most important concepts of the discipline, emphasising the practical nature and applications of the material covered.

Prerequisites

1. Basic knowledge of mathematics and statistics covered at secondary school level.

2. Ability to make connections between concepts and draw conclusions

Competencies

1. Apply mathematical principles to the pharmaceutical sciences.

2. Use data processing tools in relation to the chemical, physical and biological information obtained.

3. Design experiments in accordance with mathematical criteria.

4. Evaluate scientific data relating to medicines and medical devices.

5. Apply basic statistical calculations to problems specific to the pharmaceutical field.

6. Ability to carry out mathematical operations.

7. Work as part of a small team.

8. Know how to find and use bibliographic sources.

Learning outcomes

1. Understand the concepts of limits, derivatives and integrals.

2. To be familiar with and able to apply methods for solving limits and integrating functions, as well as the basic rules of differentiation and integration.

3. Solve problems and carry out calculations.

4. Understand basic statistical methods applied to the pharmaceutical sciences.

Course content

Topic 1: Real functions of a real variable.

Topic 2: Real functions of several variables.

Topic 3. Applications of derivatives

Topic 4. Methods for calculating antiderivatives.

Topic 5: Applications of the Riemann integral.

Topic 6. Descriptive statistics

Topic 7. Regression and statistical inference

Teaching activities

Lecture Explanation of theoretical principles, using computer-based tools. Learning outcomes: 1–8

Learning outcomes: 1–4

Seminars Presentation and discussion of case studies. Presentations. Competencies: 1–6

Learning outcomes 1–4

E-learning Interactive distance learning via the virtual campus. Competencies: 1–7

Learning outcomes: 1–4

Individual and group tutorials Guidance and clarification of queries. Competencies: 1–6, 8

Learning outcomes: 1–4

Independent work Study. Literature review. Competencies: 1–6, 8

Learning outcomes: 1–4

Exam Oral and written assessments Competencies: 1–7

Learning outcomes: 1–4

Assessment system and criteria

Without prejudice to any other requirements that may be set out in the relevant course syllabus, as a general rule, failure to attend more than 70 per cent of the course’s teaching activities—which require the student’s physical or virtual presence—will result in the loss of the right to continuous assessment during the standard examination period. In this case, the examination to be held during the official period set by the University will be the sole assessment criterion, with the weighting specified in the course syllabus.

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CONTINUOUS ASSESSMENT

For the continuous assessment of the Mathematics module, short tests or in-class activities will be set based on the sets of practical exercises and/or assignments for each of the topics in the module syllabus; these sets of exercises for all topics must be submitted by the specified date and in the prescribed manner, a minimum attendance rate of 70% will be required, and mid-term exams (for which a minimum mark of 4 is required) will be held for each of the following modules:

- Real functions of one or more variables, Derivatives and differentials, Unconstrained and constrained optimisation, Indefinite integrals: 50% (10% activities, exercises and assignments, and 40% mid-term exam 1). Relates to competences 1, 2, 4, 6, 7 and 8, and to learning outcomes 1, 2 and 3.

- Definite integrals and the calculation of areas of plane figures, Descriptive statistics, Regression, and Hypothesis testing: 50% (10% coursework and 40% mid-term exam 2). Relates to competences 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6, and to learning outcomes 1, 2, 3 and 4.

Students who meet the continuous assessment requirements (attendance and minimum mark) will have the percentages indicated for each component applied to their marks, and their final course mark will be calculated accordingly. Students who ultimately achieve a mark of 5 or above in continuous assessment will have passed the course and will not be required to sit the final exam in the ordinary examination session.

Ordinary Examination

Students who have not passed the course will be required to sit the final exam in the ordinary examination session. This exam will cover both parts of the module, requiring a minimum mark of 4 in each, with the final mark being calculated as the average of the two (which must be 5 or above).

Students who have met the continuous assessment requirements (attendance, assignments and minimum mark) during the academic year may sit an exam only on the part they have failed.

Supplementary Examination

The supplementary exam will cover both parts of the module, requiring a minimum mark of 4 in each part, with the final mark being calculated as the average of the two (which must be 5 or above).

Students who have met the continuous assessment requirements (attendance, exercises and minimum mark) during the course may sit the exam only for the part they have failed.

Timetable

Click on this link to view the detailed timetable in Excel

Bibliography

Core:

1. Guervós, García and González

Applied Mathematics

García-Moroto Editores. 2008.

ISBN: 4788493629991

2. Jon Rogawski

Calculus

Reverte. 2012.

ISBN: 9788429151664

Supplementary:

3.- Canavos, George C.

Probability and Statistics: Applications and Methods

Mexico: McGraw-Hill, 1988. 1988.

ISBN: 9684518560

4.- Candel Ato, J.; Martin Perez, A. and Ruiz Cómez, J. N.

Problems in Applied Statistics and Descriptive Statistics

DM-PPU, Barcelona. 1991.

5. Cuadras, C. M. et al.

Exercises in Biostatistics

PPU, Barcelona. 1989.

ISBN-13: 978-84-76

6. Demidovich, B.

Problems and Exercises in Mathematical Analysis.

Paraninfo, Madrid. 1982.

ISBN: 13: 978-84-28

7. Gómez Rubio, V and López Cano, E

Theory and Problems in Applied Mathematics and Statistics for Pharmacy

Paraninfo. 2017.

ISBN: 9788428327787

8. Harshbarger, R.; Reynolds, J.

Applied Mathematics for Management, Economics and the Social Sciences

McGraw-Hill. 2005.

ISBN: 970-10-4830-X

9. Stewart, James

Calculus: Concepts and Contexts

Thomson. 1999.

ISBN: 9687529601

Links

Graphical representation of functions – Graphical representation of functions and university entrance exam exercises

Trigonometric functions – Trigonometric functions

Trigonometric formulas – Trigonometric formulas

What is a derivative and what is it used for ? - What is a derivative and what is it used for?

What integrals are and what they are used for - What integrals are and what they are used for

What integrals are used for - What integrals are used for

Limits in mathematics - Limits in mathematics

Exercises – A variety of integration exercises.

Exercises – Integral exercises

Objectives

Chemistry is a field with diverse approaches, all based on the same fundamental concepts. In the field of Health Sciences, it plays an important role, given that life itself unfolds through chemical and biochemical reactions.

This module introduces students to the world of chemistry, and the objectives to be achieved are as follows:

To make students aware of the importance of chemistry in the Health Sciences.

To develop students’ critical thinking skills when faced with complex problems in chemistry.

To understand the basic principles of chemistry.

To understand the adverse effects on health and the environment of the most relevant chemical compounds.

To understand the nomenclature and formulae of inorganic chemical compounds.

To work as a team and achieve a common goal by putting theoretical concepts into practice.

Prerequisites

1. Basic knowledge of mathematical calculations acquired at A-level

2. Knowledge of chemistry acquired at A-level.

Competencies

1. To know and understand the characteristics of reactions in solution, the different states of matter, and the principles of thermodynamics and their application to the pharmaceutical sciences.

2. To know and understand the characteristic properties of elements and their compounds, as well as their application in the pharmaceutical field.

3. To be familiar with the various atomic models and the drawbacks and limitations of each.

4. To be familiar with the Periodic Table and the relationship between the electronic configurations of the elements and certain properties.

5. To be familiar with the various models of chemical bonding and to relate the chemical properties of compounds to the type of bond formed between ions, atoms or molecules.

6. Understand the acid-base and redox processes that take place in solution in order to predict the stability of inorganic species.

7. Understand the general properties of metallic and non-metallic elements, particularly those of relevance to healthcare.

8. Understand the characteristics and properties of coordination compounds, particularly their functions and applications in biological processes.

9. Be able to use the basic instruments and techniques of a chemistry laboratory

Learning outcomes

1. Training in the chemical fundamentals necessary to understand other subjects within the field of Chemistry.

2. Ability to assess the risks associated with the use of chemical substances and laboratory processes.

3. Skills in carrying out standard laboratory procedures, including the use of scientific equipment for synthesis and analysis, and the appropriate instrumentation.

4. Ability to understand the characteristics of reactions in solution, the different states of matter, and the principles of thermodynamics and their application to the pharmaceutical sciences.

5. Ability to understand the characteristic properties of elements and their compounds, as well as their application in the pharmaceutical field.

6. Handling, analysis and quality control of chemical substances

7. Ability to apply knowledge in practice: problem-solving

8. Teamwork: critical and self-critical thinking

Description of the content

Topic 1 – The composition of matter.

1.1 Classification of matter: Pure substances and mixtures. Methods of separation.

1.2 Chemical elements. Atomic theory. Atomic number. Mass number. Atomic mass.

1.3 Chemical compounds. Atoms, molecules and ions.

1.4 Moles and molar mass. Empirical and molecular formulae.

Topic 2: Nomenclature in Inorganic and Organic Chemistry.

Topic 3.- Atomic structure and the Periodic Table.

3.1 Elements.

3.2 Structure of atoms. Quantum mechanics. Quantum numbers.

3.3 Orbital energy. Electron configuration. Building principle. Effective nuclear charge.

3.4 Organisation of the elements. Periodic Table. Periodic properties of the elements: atomic and

, ionisation potential, electron affinity, electronegativity.

Topic 4 – Chemical bonding

4.1 Ionic bonding. Crystal structures of ionic compounds. Crystal defects. Modification of properties.

4.2 Covalent Bond. Lewis structures. Dipole moment. Molecular geometry. Molecular orbital theory. Hybridisation.

4.3 Metallic bonding. Theories of metallic bonding. Properties of metals.

Topic 5.- Chemical reactions. Stoichiometry.

5.1 Chemical equations.

5.2 Types of chemical reactions:

5.2.1 Acid-base reactions.

5.2.2 Precipitation reactions.

5.2.3 Redox reactions. Balancing redox reactions.

5.3 Stoichiometric calculations based on chemical equations.

5.4 Limiting reactant. Reaction yield.

Topic 6. – Liquid and solid states. Changes of state.

6.1 Intermolecular forces.

6.2 Molecular-kinetic description of the liquid and solid states.

6.3 Properties of liquids: surface tension, capillarity and viscosity.

6.4 Amorphous and crystalline solids. Types of crystals.

6.5 Liquid–vapour equilibrium:

6.5.1 Vapour pressure. Boiling point.

6.5.2 Liquefaction of gases. Critical point.

6.6 Solid–liquid equilibrium: melting point.

6.7 Solid–vapour equilibrium: sublimation.

6.8 Phase diagrams. Triple point.

Topic 7. Solutions.

7.1 Types of solutions. Measures of concentration.

7.2 Stoichiometry of chemical reactions in solution.

7.3 Saturation and solubility.

7.4 Factors affecting solubility:

7.5 Colligative properties of solutions. Ideal solutions. Van’t Hoff factor.

Topic 8. – Chemical Kinetics.

8.1 Reaction rate.

8.2 Rate equation and order of reaction.

8.3 Control of reaction rates:

8.3.1 Collision theory. Activated complex theory.

8.3.2 Effect of temperature. Arrhenius equation.

8.4 Reaction mechanism.

Topic 9. – Chemical equilibrium.

9.1 Reactions at equilibrium.

9.2 Equilibrium constant. Homogeneous equilibrium. Heterogeneous equilibrium.

9.3 Equilibrium calculations.

9.4 Factors affecting chemical equilibrium. Le Chatelier’s principle.

9.5 Free energy and chemical equilibrium.

9.6 Reaction rate and chemical equilibrium.

Topic 10. Acid-base equilibria.

10.1 Definitions of acids and bases.

10.2 Ionisation constant. Strength of acids and bases.

10.3 Autoionisation of water. pH scale.

10.4 Calculating the pH of acid and base solutions. Polyprotic acids.

10.5 Calculating the pH of salt solutions. Acidic and basic ions.

10.6 Mixed solutions: the common-ion effect. Buffers.

10.7 Volumetric titrations. Indicators.

Topic 11. Solubility equilibria.

11.1 Solubility product.

11.2 Ionic product and precipitation. Fractional precipitation.

11.3 Effect of the common ion.

11.4 Effect of pH on solubility.

11.5 Dissolution of precipitates through complex formation.

Topic 12. Electrochemistry.

12.1 Electrochemical cells. Types of cells.

12.2 Cell potential. Standard electrode potential. Spontaneity of redox reactions.

12.3 Concentration dependence of cell potential. Nernst equation. Concentration cells.

12.4 Batteries. Corrosion.

12.5 Electrolytic cells. Faraday’s law.

Topic 13. – Metals of the main groups.

13.1 Abundance of metals. Metallurgical processes.

13.2 Periodic trends in metallic properties.

13.3 Metals of the s-block:

13.3.1 Alkali metals. Production. Properties. Reactivity. Compounds

13.3.2 Alkaline earth metals. Production. Properties. Reactivity. Compounds

13.4 Metals of the p-block: aluminium, tin and lead.

Topic 14. – Chemistry of the transition metals. Coordination compounds.

14.1 Properties of transition metals. Relevant compounds.

14.2 Werner’s Coordination Theory. Current understanding of coordination compounds.

14.3 Introduction to the nomenclature and structure of coordination compounds.

14.4 Equilibria involving complex ions. Applications of coordination compounds.

Topic 15. Non-metals

15.1 Hydrogen. Production. Properties. Reactivity. Compounds

15.2 Noble gases. Production. Properties. Reactivity. Compounds

15.3 Halogens. Production. Properties. Reactivity. Compounds

15.4 Oxygen and sulphur. Production. Properties. Reactivity. Compounds

15.5 Nitrogen and phosphorus. Production. Properties. Reactivity. Compounds

15.6 Carbon and silicon. Production. Properties. Reactivity. Compounds

15.7 Boron. Production. Properties. Reactivity. Compounds

Learning activities

Teaching activities

Lecture Explanation of theoretical principles, using computer-based tools. Competencies: 1–8 Learning outcomes: 1, 4, 5, 7

Laboratory practicals Experimental application of the knowledge acquired. Competencies: 6–9 Learning outcomes: 2–4, 6, 8

Seminars Presentation and discussion of case studies. Presentations. Competencies: 1–8 Learning outcomes: 1–7

E-learning Interactive distance learning via the virtual campus. Competencies: 1–8 Learning outcomes: 1–6

Individual and group tutorials Guidance and clarification of queries. Competencies: 1–9 Learning outcomes: 1–8

Independent study Study. Literature review. Competencies: 1–9 Learning outcomes: 1–8

Exam Oral and written assessments Competencies: 1–9 Learning outcomes: 1–8

Assessment system and criteria

Without prejudice to any other requirements that may be specified in the relevant course syllabus, as a general rule, failure to attend more than 70 per cent of the course’s teaching activities—which require the student’s physical or virtual presence—will result in the loss of the right to continuous assessment during the standard examination period. In this case, the examination to be held during the official period set by the University will be the sole assessment criterion, with the weighting specified in the course syllabus.

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To pass this module, students must achieve a mark of five points or higher by adding together the percentages set out below:

1. Material covered in interactive classes: 50% of the final mark. (Relates to competences C1–C8; relates to learning outcomes 1, 4, 5 and 7).

Mid-term exam 1: Topics 1 to 6 (25% of the final mark) ​

Mid-term exam 2: Topics 7 onwards (25% of the final mark)

These will be pass/fail examinations with a mark of 5 or above. The two mid-term examinations may be offset if a mark of 4 or above is obtained. Should a student obtain a mark below 4 in either examination, or fail to offset the marks, they must sit the examination during the ordinary or extraordinary examination period.

2. An examination on Inorganic Formulation and Nomenclature (10% of the final mark). A MARK OF 5 OR HIGHER IS REQUIRED TO PASS.

3. Laboratory practicals: 20% of the final mark (Relates to competences C6–C9), (Relates to learning outcomes 2–4, 6, 8).

The minimum mark for practical work to be included in the average with the other continuous assessment marks must be 4. ATTENDANCE AT PRACTICAL SESSIONS IS COMPULSORY.

4.- Student work: 20% of the final mark (Relates to competences C1–C8), (Relates to learning outcomes 1–2, 4–5, 7–8).

15% Class activities (tests, seminars, board work)​

5% Submission of course assignments.

To pass the module FOR THE ACADEMIC YEAR, a mark of 5/10 is required.

REGULAR EXAM SESSION: STUDENTS WHO DO NOT ACHIEVE 5/10 POINTS FOR THE COURSE MUST TAKE THE MISSED MID-TERM EXAM(S) OR PRACTICAL ASSESSMENTS DURING THE REGULAR EXAM PERIOD IN FEBRUARY.

EXTRAORDINARY EXAMINATION PERIOD: STUDENTS WHO DO NOT PASS THE COURSE IN THE FEBRUARY SESSION MUST TAKE THE EXAM(S) FOR THE MID-TERM EXAM(S) OR PRACTICAL ASSESSMENTS THEY FAILED DURING THE EXTRAORDINARY SESSION IN JULY.

Timetable

Click on this link to view the detailed timetable in Excel

Reading list

Core:

1. Atkins, P. W.

General Chemistry

Barcelona: Omega, 1991. 1991.

ISBN: 8428208921

2. Chang, Raymond

Chemistry

10th ed. Mexico: McGraw-Hill, 2020. 2020.

ISBN: 9780073511092

3. López Cancio, José Antonio

Chemistry Problems

Madrid [etc.]: Prentice-Hall, 2000. 2000.

ISBN: 9788420529950

4. Mahan, Bruce M.

Chemistry: A University Course

Argentina [etc.]: Addison Wesley, 1990. 1990.

ISBN: 0201644193

5. Petrucci, Ralph H.

General Chemistry

8th ed. Madrid: Pearson Educación, 2003. 2003.

ISBN: 8420535338

6. Sienko, M. J.

Chemistry Problems

Barcelona: Reverté, 1990. 1990.

ISBN: 8429174907

Links

Oxford Online Resources: Inorganic Chemistry – A variety of online resources, including quizzes, videos, tables and links relating to inorganic chemistry.

The Killer Lake: Applied Chemistry Case Study – Description of one of the chemistry case studies mentioned in the syllabus.

General Chemistry Online – A very comprehensive general chemistry website.

Objectives

To provide effective training aimed at equipping students with the generic skills required in the field of business administration and management, enabling them to pursue careers in which they perform management, leadership and advisory roles within companies or other organisations.

Prerequisites

None

Competencies

1. To analyse how organisations relate to their political, legal, social and technological environments.

2. Analyse specific business environments, including the company’s relationship with competitors, customers and suppliers.

3. Understand the company’s actual operations: procurement, production and marketing.

4. Understand the company’s financing and investment system.

5. Understand the company’s management system: organisation, information, control and human resources.

6. Forms of business development: expansion and diversification, internationalisation.

Learning outcomes

1. Training on the importance of the pharmaceutical company in society.

2. Ability to identify potential threats or opportunities arising in both general and specific contexts.

3. Ability to identify the strengths and weaknesses of a pharmaceutical company.

4. Ability to understand each of the departments within a national and multinational pharmaceutical company.

5. Ability to analyse the advantages and disadvantages of business growth.

Course content

TOPIC 1: Introduction and general concepts.

TOPIC 2: Economic, legal and systemic concepts of the company.

TOPIC 3: The company and the entrepreneur: the overall corporate system.

TOPIC 4: The objectives of the business.

TOPIC 5: Ways in which a business can develop.

TOPIC 6: Management, administration and organisation of the business.

TOPIC 7: Functional areas of the business: production.

TOPIC 8: Functional areas of a business: sales.

TOPIC 9: Functional areas of a company: finance.

Training activities

Lectures (theoretical) and practical seminars, with case studies for students to solve. Weekly assignments to consolidate understanding of the topics. Discussion of case studies. Preparation for and sitting of examinations and assessment tests.

Lecture Explanation of theoretical principles, using IT tools. 0.8 Competencies: 1–6

Learning outcomes: 1–5

Online learning Interactive distance learning via the virtual campus 0.1 Competencies: 1–6

Learning outcomes: 1–5

Independent study Study. Literature review. 1 Competencies: 1–6

Learning outcomes: 1–5

Exam Oral and written assessments 0.1 Competencies: 1–6

Learning outcomes: 1–5

Assessment system and criteria

Without prejudice to any other requirements that may be set out in the relevant course syllabus, as a general rule, failure to attend more than 70 per cent of the course’s teaching activities—which require the student’s physical or virtual presence—will result in the loss of the right to continuous assessment during the standard examination period. In this case, the examination to be held during the official period set by the University will be the sole assessment criterion, with the weighting specified in the course syllabus.

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Two eliminatory exams throughout the academic year; students will be required to retake the subject if they achieve a mark of 5 (60% final mark)

Regular assessments of the subject matter during lessons: Assignments and presentations during lessons, handed in to the lecturer at the start of the following lesson.

Regular attendance checks during lessons.

Timetable

Click on this link to view the detailed timetable in Excel

Bibliography

Essential:

1.

Business Administration Handbook

Madrid: Civitas, 1998. 1998.

ISBN: 8447011194

2.- Díez de Castro, José

Business Administration: Workbook, Case Studies, Exercises

Madrid: Pirámide, 1996. 1996.

ISBN: 8436809238

3. Donnelly, James H.

Fundamentals of Business Management and Administration

Santafé de Bogotá: McGraw Hill; Irwin, 1994. 1994.

ISBN: 9586007499

4. Pérez Gorostegui, Eduardo

Business Management Practices

Madrid: Pirámide, 1998. 1998.

ISBN: 8436812395

Links

Gapminder – Video about this new business market research software.

Pharmaceutical Industry Magazine – Pharmaceutical Industry. I hope you find this interesting, Kind regards, Silvia

Sector - Sector

Neuromarketing – Winning over the consumer

Fed vs ECB – A comparison of the Fed’s and the ECB’s policy strategies.

Convergence 200 Years On – Analysis of the general economic environment across countries.

Labour Market and Corporate Reform – Labour Market and Corporate Reform

Buy, Throw Away, Buy – A documentary analysing the planned obsolescence of goods to boost consumption.

Gapminder – Video on the Gapminder market research software. It analyses the socio-economic variables of countries. General contexts.

Ninja Crisis. Leopoldo Abadía – Video on the causes of the current economic crisis.

Economic crisis. English. – Economic crisis. English.

Spanish Entrepreneurs – Examples

The power of social media – Social media

Objectives

To understand the processes of chemical equilibrium in analytical procedures

Description of current analytical systems (volumetric, gravimetric and instrumental)

Introduction to sampling systems and the preparation of samples for analysis

Representativeness and practical determination of analytical results, and their expression

Prerequisites

Basic knowledge of the nomenclature and chemical structure of atoms, molecules and ions.

Basic knowledge of chemical thermodynamics and chemical kinetics

Basic knowledge of chemical equilibrium and the calculation of concentrations in chemical reactions.

Ability to relate concepts and draw conclusions in order to solve problems.

Knowledge of, and ability to carry out, the basic laboratory techniques used in a chemistry laboratory.

Competencies

1. To know and understand the characteristics of reactions in solution and their application to the pharmaceutical sciences.

2. To be familiar with and understand the main qualitative analytical characteristics that enable the analysis and detection of anions, inorganic cations and organic substances.

3. Be familiar with the main classical and instrumental quantitative analytical methods applied to the analysis of food, water and the environment.

4. Carry out standard laboratory procedures, including the use of scientific analytical equipment and appropriate instrumentation.

5. To identify, analyse and control drugs and medicines, as well as other products and raw materials of health-related interest for human or veterinary use.

6. Select the appropriate techniques and procedures for the design, application and evaluation of reagents, methods and analytical techniques

7. Understand the main techniques of structural analysis, including spectroscopy.

8. Understand the principles and procedures for the analytical determination of compounds:

9. Assess the risks associated with the use of chemical substances and laboratory processes.

10. Be able to apply the scientific method and acquire skills in dealing with legislation, information sources, bibliographies and the drafting of protocols, as well as in locating and using bibliographic sources, in order to remain aware of the ongoing evolution of chemical analysis

Learning outcomes

1. Be able to correctly perform concentration calculations for equilibrium systems in aqueous solution.

2. Acquire the knowledge and criteria required for the statistical analysis of large quantities of numerical data derived from experimental work in chemical analysis

3. Be able to quantitatively assess the concentrations of chemical species using classical analytical methods such as volumetric or gravimetric analysis

4. Understand instrumental analytical techniques, including electrochemical methods, those derived from gravimetric analysis, spectroscopic methods and chromatographic separation techniques

5. To be familiar with standardised analytical methods commonly used in pharmaceutical, chemical or environmental science.

6. Understand the principles and concepts that help to analyse, distinguish and predict the main physico-chemical properties of a drug.

7. Acquire laboratory skills enabling the performance of chemical analyses and the handling of laboratory equipment, including the use of instrumental analytical techniques

Develop communication and information skills, both oral and written.

Course content

PART ONE: INTRODUCTION

- Terminology of chemical analysis

- Errors in chemical analysis.

PART TWO CHEMICAL EQUILIBRIUM IN SOLUTION

- Ionic equilibria in solution.

PART THREE: PREPARATION OF THE SAMPLE FOR ANALYSIS

- Sample collection and preparation.

- Analytical separation methods.

PART FOUR: QUANTITATIVE ANALYSIS

- Volumetric methods. Volumetric analysis

- Gravimetric analysis.

- Potentiometric methods. - Voltammetric techniques

Training activities

Lecture Explanation of theoretical principles, using computer-based tools. Competencies: 1–7

Learning outcomes: 1–7

Laboratory practicals Experimental application of the knowledge acquired. Competencies: 1–8

Learning outcomes: 1, 7–8

Seminars Presentation and discussion of case studies. Presentations. Competencies: 1, 4, 5, 6, 7.

Learning outcomes: 1, 2, 5–7, 8

E-learning Interactive distance learning via the virtual campus. Competencies: 1–9

Learning outcomes: 1–8

Individual and group tutorials Guidance and clarification of queries. Competencies: 1–8

Learning outcomes: 1–8

Independent study Study. Literature review. Competencies: 1–9

Learning outcomes: 1–8

Exam Oral and written assessments. Competencies: 1–9

Learning outcomes: 1–8

Assessment system and criteria

Without prejudice to any other requirements that may be set out in the relevant course syllabus, as a general rule, failure to attend more than 70 per cent of the course’s teaching activities—which require the student’s physical or virtual presence—will result in the loss of the right to continuous assessment during the standard examination period. In this case, the examination to be held during the official period set by the University will be the sole assessment criterion, with the weighting specified in the course syllabus.

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To pass this module, students must:

1. Have completed the laboratory practicals.

2. Achieve a mark of five points or higher by adding together the percentages set out below:

- Laboratory practicals: 20% of the final mark (Relates to competences C1 to C9). (Relates to learning outcomes 1, 7 and 8). The practicals will be assessed via a final examination consisting of one problem for each practical and a multiple-choice test. The minimum mark required to be taken into account alongside the other marks for the module is 3.5

- Course activities: 20% of the final mark. (Relates to competences C1–C3, C5–C8 and C10). (Relates to learning outcomes 1–3, 5–6 and 8) Tests, submission of solved problems and presentation of these solutions.

- Continuous assessment (Relates to competences C1–C3 and C5–C8). (Relates to learning outcomes 1 to 6 and 8) Two mid-term exams will be held during the course; these will count towards the final mark provided a mark of 5 or above is achieved. One mid-term exam may be offset by another if a mark of 4 or above is achieved. Should a mark below 5 be obtained in either exam and this is not offset, the student must sit the exam during the ordinary or extraordinary examination period.

First Mid-Term Exam: 30% of the final mark

Second Mid-term Exam: 30% of the final mark

To pass the module FOR THE ACADEMIC YEAR, you must achieve 5/10 marks.

STUDENTS WHO DO NOT ACHIEVE 5/10 POINTS FOR THE YEAR MUST TAKE THE EXAM FOR THE FAILED MID-TERM EXAM OR EXAMS DURING THE REGULAR JUNE EXAM SESSION.

STUDENTS WHO DO NOT PASS THE COURSE IN THE JUNE EXAM SESSION MUST TAKE THE MID-TERM EXAM OR EXAMS THEY FAILED, OR THE PRACTICAL ASSESSMENTS, IN THE EXTRAORDINARY JULY EXAM SESSION.

Timetable

Click on this link to view the detailed timetable in Excel

Bibliography

Core:

1. D. A. Skoog et al

"Analytical Chemistry" Vol. 2

Reverté. 2000.

ISBN: 8429175555

2. Harris, Daniel C.

Quantitative Chemical Analysis

2nd ed. Barcelona [etc.]: Reverté, 2001. 2001.

ISBN: 842917222X

3. Harris, Daniel C.

Quantitative Chemical Analysis

Barcelona [etc.]: Reverté. 2007.

ISBN: 8429172246

4. J. A. López Cancio

Solved Problems in Analytical Chemistry

Thomson. 2005.

ISBN: 9788497323482

5. Mueller-Harvey, I.

Chemical Analysis in the Laboratory: A Basic Guide

Zaragoza: Acribia, 2002. 2002.

ISBN: 8420010480

6. Silva, Manuel

Ionic Equilibria and Their Analytical Applications

Madrid: Síntesis, 2002. 2002.

ISBN: 8497560256

7. Walton, Harold F.

Modern Chemical and Instrumental Analysis

Barcelona: Reverté, 1983. 1983.

ISBN: 8429175199

8. Yáñez-Sedeño Orive, Paloma

Solved Problems in Analytical Chemistry

Madrid: Síntesis, 2003. 2003.

ISBN: 849756071X

Links

Introduction to Analytical Chemistry – Introductory extract from a book on analytical chemistry.

JOURNAL OF CHEMISTRY RESOURCES – JOURNAL OF THE ACS. AVAILABLE AT THE UAX LIBRARY

Objectives

To provide knowledge enabling students to understand how the various organs, systems and apparatus of the human body function, both individually and as a whole.

To impart the knowledge required to understand and use medical terminology.

To contribute to public health education.

To contribute to basic research, technological development and innovation in medicines.

Prerequisites

1. Students must have a basic knowledge of General Biology.

2. Students must have sufficient knowledge of English to read a review article or access a website written in that language.

3. Basic IT skills to use word processors, databases, create PowerPoint presentations and access data on the Internet.

Competencies

1. To know and understand the structure of the human body.

2. Understand the factors that influence human growth and development throughout the lifespan.

3. Be able to distinguish between the normal functioning of each organ and system

4. Understand the general principles and theories of biology, physics and chemistry as they apply to human biology.

5. Understand the general theoretical foundations of human morphology and its implications for other subjects within the degree programme.

Learning outcomes

1. To distinguish between the various components of the human body, from the most basic (biochemical) level to the most complex (organic) level, and their role in disease.

2. To distinguish between the normal functioning of each organ and system and their possible dysfunctional states.

3. Carry out basic physiological tests such as: ECG, spirometry, audiometry and sphygmomanometry.

4. To incorporate scientific research and evidence-based practice as part of professional culture.

5. Keep the fundamentals of knowledge, skills and attitudes relating to professional competences up to date through a process of continuous (lifelong) professional development; critically analyse methods and protocols in human morphology and ensure that these are in line with developments in scientific knowledge.

Description of the content

1. INTRODUCTION TO THE HUMAN BODY

- Definition of Anatomy and Physiology

- Levels of structural organisation

- Basic anatomical terminology

- Homeostasis

2. TISSUE LEVEL OF ORGANISATION

- General concepts and classification of tissues

- Epithelial tissue

- Connective tissue

- Muscle tissue

- Nervous tissue

3. INTEGERATORY SYSTEM

- Anatomy of the integumentary system:

- Structure of the skin

- Adnexal structures of the skin

- Types of skin

- Functions of the skin

4. SKELETAL SYSTEM

- Histology of bone tissue

- Bone structure

- Functions of the bones

- Axial skeleton

- Appendicular skeleton

- Joints

5. MUSCULAR SYSTEM

- Histology of muscle tissue

- Muscles of the head

- Muscles of the trunk

- Muscles of the upper limbs

- Muscles of the lower limbs

6. NERVOUS SYSTEM

- Overview of the nervous system

- Spinal cord and spinal nerves

- Brain and cranial nerves

- Autonomic nervous system

- Sensory, motor and integrative systems

7. THE ENDOCRINE SYSTEM

- Hormonal activity

- Mechanisms of hormonal action

- Hypothalamus and pituitary gland

- Thyroid and parathyroid glands

- Adrenal glands

- Pancreatic islets

- Ovaries and testicles

- Other endocrine tissues and organs

8. CARDIOVASCULAR SYSTEM

- Structure of the heart

- Blood circulation

- The heart’s electrical system

- Cardiac cycle

- Cardiac output and its regulation

- Different types of blood vessels

- Functions of the different blood vessels

- Haemodynamics. Blood pressure

- Regulation of blood pressure

- Components of blood: blood cells and plasma

- Functions of each of the blood components

- Haemostasis and blood clotting

9. RESPIRATORY SYSTEM

- Overview of the respiratory system

- Upper respiratory system

- Lower respiratory system

- Exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide

- Control of breathing

10. THE DIGESTIVE SYSTEM

- General principles of gastrointestinal function: motility, nervous control and blood circulation

- Propulsion and mixing of food in the digestive tract

- Secretory functions of the digestive tract

- Digestion and absorption in the digestive tract

- Regulation of digestive function

11. URINARY SYSTEM

- Macroscopic structure of the urinary system

- The anatomical and functional unit of the kidney: the nephron

- Formation of urine

- Regulation of urine formation

- Assessment of urinary system function

12. REPRODUCTIVE SYSTEMS

- Male reproductive system

- Female reproductive system

- Female reproductive cycle

Training activities

TRAINING ACTIVITY HOURS FACE-TO-FACE

Lecture 30 100

Practical laboratory sessions 15 100

Seminars 5 100

E-learning 2 0

Individual and group tutorials 5 100

Independent study 88 0

Exam 5 100

TOTALS 150 40

Assessment system and criteria

Without prejudice to any other requirements that may be set out in the relevant course syllabus, as a general rule, failure to attend more than 70 per cent of the course’s teaching activities—which require the student’s physical or virtual presence—will result in the loss of the right to continuous assessment during the standard examination period. In this case, the examination to be held during the official period set by the University will be the sole assessment criterion, with the weighting specified in the course syllabus.

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There are various assessments that students must undertake, all of which will be marked; the weightings for each assessment are as follows:

- Face-to-face test on theoretical knowledge: 60%

- In-person practical assessment: 15%

- Practical workbook: 10%

- Written assignment: 15%

To pass the module, students may choose from the following options:

- CONTINUOUS ASSESSMENT: this will consist of two tests, which are mutually eliminatory or compensatory: multiple-choice

- if a mark of 5 or above is achieved, the tests are eliminatory

- if a mark between 4.0 and 4.9 is obtained, the test will count as a make-up test against the other test

- if the mark obtained is below 4.0, the material covered in that test must be retaken in the ordinary and/or supplementary examination sessions

- REGULAR ASSESSMENT

- EXTRAORDINARY ASSESSMENT

Once a mark of 5.0 or higher has been achieved, this will account for 60% of the final mark for the module. The remaining 40% will be derived from the percentages indicated above.

Timetable

Click on this link to view the detailed timetable in Excel

Bibliography

Core:

1. NETTER, FH.

Atlas of Human Anatomy

Elsevier Masson. 2023.

ISBN: 9788445820650

2. Patton K,

Anatomy and Physiology

11th ed. Elsevier. 2023.

ISBN: 9788413825427

3. Tórtora and Derrickson

Principles of Anatomy and Physiology

Panamericana. 2021.

ISBN: 978-84-1106-0

Supplementary:

4.- Junqueira, L. C.

Basic Histology: [textbook and atlas]

12th ed. Panamericana. 2022.

ISBN: 9786079356675

Others:

5.- Dykes

Essentials of Anatomy

Elsevier Mosby. 2010.

ISBN: 9788480866866

Objectives

To provide an introduction to the specialist English used in the Health Sciences and Pharmacy. To develop comprehension and expression skills (primarily oral and written), with an emphasis, on the one hand, on reading and understanding texts or extracts from research articles and, on the other hand, on oral communication and writing texts related to pharmacy.

Prerequisites

At the start of the course, students will sit an English language placement test.

Learning Outcomes

1. To achieve level B1 in the chosen language (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages).

2. Ability to communicate orally in the foreign language, in accordance with the language level studied.

3. The ability to communicate in writing in the foreign language, in accordance with the language level studied.

4. The ability to understand clear, non-specialised spoken language, in accordance with the language level being studied.

5. Ability to understand texts written in everyday, common language, in accordance with the language level studied.

Learning outcomes

1. To understand clear, non-specialised spoken language, in accordance with the language level studied.

2. Understand texts written in a language used in everyday situations, in accordance with the language level studied.

3. Produce coherent written texts, in accordance with the language level being studied, on a range of topics that are familiar to the learner or in which they have a personal interest.

4. Participate orally and spontaneously in conversations on a variety of topics, in accordance with the language level being studied.

5. Understand the grammar and use the vocabulary appropriate to the required language level correctly.

Description of the course content

The module is divided into three thematic blocks:

Block 1: Terminology specific to the Health Sciences.

Block 2: Oral communication and patient care.

Block 3: Other scientific texts.

To cover the various modules, the following resources will be used:

*Videos of common conversations in the health sciences context (Listening comprehension).

*Specialist texts on various medical conditions to develop reading comprehension in the health sciences context (Reading comprehension).

*Linguistic structures most frequently used in the health sciences, including grammar and expressions (collocations and medical terminology).

*Oral expression and skills designed to help pharmacists better understand patients, thereby ensuring more effective treatment (Patient Care).

*Specific terminology covering different categories:

-Types of medicines.

-The human skeleton.

- Organs.

-Key vocabulary used in the Health Sciences.

-Key suffixes, prefixes and roots used in the health sciences.

-Key abbreviations in the field of Health Sciences.

-Writing specialised texts.

- The integumentary system.

- The musculoskeletal system.

- Muscles.

- The cardiovascular system.

- The Lymphatic System.

- The Nervous System.

- The endocrine system.

- The respiratory system.

- The Digestive System.

- The Urinary System.

- The Reproductive System.

Training activities

TRAINING ACTIVITY HOURS FACE-TO-FACE

Lecture 60 100

Individual and group tutorials 5 100

Independent study 80 0

Exam 5 100

TOTALS 150 46.67

Assessment system and criteria

Without prejudice to any other requirements that may be set out in the relevant course syllabus, as a general rule, failure to attend more than 70 per cent of the course’s teaching activities—which require the student’s physical or virtual presence—will result in the loss of the right to continuous assessment during the standard examination period. In this case, the examination to be held during the official period set by the University will be the sole assessment criterion, with the weighting specified in the course syllabus.

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The assessment process will be carried out with the aim of achieving the learning outcomes set out in the course description.

The assessments carried out will evaluate the four language skills (reading comprehension, listening comprehension, written expression and oral expression).

These assessments will be:

• Writing tests.

• Written tests comprising multiple-choice, true or false, fill-in-the-blank and question-and-answer questions.

• Reading and reading comprehension exercises.

• Specific vocabulary exercises.

• Completing and presenting assignments.

• Listening comprehension tests.

• Oral expression tests.

CONTINUOUS ASSESSMENT

Students will be assessed through continuous assessment, as follows:

Mid-term exam 1: 40%

Mid-term exam 2: 40%

Individual oral presentation: 20%

The dates of these assessments will be announced by the lecturer in advance. They will take place in the usual lecture theatre, unless the lecturer specifies otherwise at the time.

Note 1: AT THE DISCRETION OF EACH LECTURER, the results of the individual oral presentation may be carried over to either of the two final examinations (ordinary or supplementary) within the academic term in question. The results of the written tests MAY NOT BE CARRIED OVER UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES TO ANY OTHER EXAMINATION SESSION. Therefore, both continuous assessment and the ordinary and extraordinary examination sessions will have UNIQUE AND SPECIFIC written examination results for each session.

Note 2: To pass this module through continuous assessment, students must have completed all three required assessments during the term. If any one is missing, it will not be possible to pass the module through continuous assessment and the student must sit the exam during the ordinary or extraordinary examination period.

FINAL EXAM: REGULAR EXAM SESSION WITHOUT CONTINUOUS ASSESSMENT AND EXTRAORDINARY EXAM SESSION.

If a student has not sat any of the mid-term tests or has failed them, the ordinary examination will account for 100% of the mark. In this case, students will be assessed as follows:

Written section: 80%

Individual oral presentation: 20%

Note 1: AT THE DISCRETION OF EACH LECTURER, the results of the individual oral presentation may be carried over to either the ordinary or extraordinary final examination within the current academic term. The results of the written tests MAY NOT BE CARRIED OVER UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES TO ANY OTHER EXAMINATION SESSION. Therefore, both continuous assessment and the ordinary and extraordinary examination sessions will have UNIQUE AND SPECIFIC written examination results for each session.

Note 2: If a student does not sit both the written part and the individual oral presentation, they will not be able to pass the module.

Timetable

Click on this link to view the detailed timetable in Excel

Bibliography

Core:

1. Chabner, Davi-Ellen

Medical Terminology: A Short Course, 9th edition

9th ed. Saunders. 2022.

ISBN: 9780323479912

Supplementary:

2.- Fareh, Shehdeh & Hamadi, Inaam

English for Medicine and Health Sciences

Elsevier. 2017.

ISBN: 9780702075506

3.- Johannsen, K., et al.

English for Health Sciences

Cengage Learning. 2006.

ISBN: 9781413020519

Objectives

To introduce students to the world of plants, given their importance as sources of medicinal and therapeutic products.

Knowledge acquisition will be assessed through written and oral examinations. Students’ attendance and participation will be taken into account in their marks.

Prerequisites

There are no prerequisites.

Competencies

1. Knowledge of plant morphology and systematics, particularly those of relevance to pharmacy.

2. Knowledge of plants that provide drugs containing active ingredients.

3. Knowledge of plants that may be used to substitute, adulterate or counterfeit the aforementioned plants.

4. Knowledge of toxic plants.

5. Knowledge of plants as the basis for a wide range of research in pharmacology or the chemistry of natural products.

6. To work with specialist information and have the ability to resolve problems relating to pharmaceutical care concerning the use and consumption of medicinal plants.

7. Knowledge of basic botanical laboratory methods, and the description and identification of specimens.

Learning outcomes

1. Explain the morphological characteristics of a plant.

2. Identify plants containing active ingredients.

3. Identify toxic plants and those likely to be used to adulterate medicinal plants.

4. Identify plants used industrially in pharmacy.

5. Provide advice on the use and consumption of medicinal plants.

6. Be able to apply the main techniques used in a botany laboratory.

Course content

• Introduction to Botany. Pharmaceutical Botany.

• Description, nomenclature, organisation and classification in botany.

• Organisation and reproduction of plants.

• Fungi and cryptogams. Relevance to pharmacy.

• Gymnosperms. Biology and significance in pharmacy.

• Angiosperms. Biology and significance in pharmacy.

Training activities

TRAINING ACTIVITY HOURS ATTENDANCE

Lecture 30 100

Laboratory practicals 15 100

Seminars 5 100

E-learning 2 0

Individual and group tutorials 5 100

Independent study 63 0

Exam 5 100

TOTALS 125 48

Assessment system and criteria

Without prejudice to any other requirements that may be set out in the relevant course syllabus, as a general rule, failure to attend more than 70 per cent of the course’s teaching activities—which require the student’s physical or virtual presence—will result in the loss of the right to continuous assessment during the standard examination period. In this case, the examination to be held during the official period set by the University will be the sole assessment criterion, with the weighting specified in the course syllabus.

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To pass the module, students must pass the set examinations (theory and practicals) and complete the compulsory laboratory practicals.

The final mark for the module will be calculated as follows:

- Theory: 60%

- Practical work: 30%

- Continuous assessment (attendance at lectures and tutorials, completion of assignments, etc.): 10%

If an academic exemption is granted, the 10% for continuous assessment is removed and each mid-term exam counts for 35%.

The theory component may be passed through continuous assessment by passing two qualifying mid-term exams (one halfway through the course and one at the end), provided that the practicals have been passed. To be eligible to sit the qualifying mid-term exams as part of the continuous assessment, students must have attended 60% of the sessions, except in the case of justified absences and work-related exemptions.

All parts of the module (theory mid-term exams and practical exam) are carried over from one examination session to the next within the same academic year. The course is passed with a mark of 5 or above, and marks of 4 or above may be taken into account if the average of all marks exceeds 5.0. The practical work mark is carried over for one academic year in the event of failing the course.

Timetable

Click on this link to view the detailed timetable in Excel

Reading list

Essential:

1. Bonnier, Gaston

Keys to the Identification of Vascular Plants

Barcelona: Omega, 1999. 1999–2006.

ISBN: 9788428207966

2. Díaz González, Tomás E.

A Course in Botany

Gijón: Trea, 2004. 2004.

ISBN: 8497041135

3. Gabriel y Galán Moris, José María

Plant Biology

Madrid: Bellisco, 2002. 2002.

ISBN: 8495279592

Objectives

To briefly present and develop the concepts of physical chemistry that are essential for understanding chemical phenomena of pharmaceutical interest.

To promote an understanding of the fundamental principles, derived largely from physics, as they apply to the study of the structure of matter in its various forms, and to the explanation of phenomena of interest to chemistry and related disciplines.

To enable students, by applying these laws, to solve problems of various kinds and interpret experimental data obtained in the laboratory.

To help students develop a positive attitude towards the rational interpretation of natural phenomena.

To develop students’ skills in formulating and solving different types of problems.

To train students in the design and execution of laboratory experiments, and in the handling and interpretation of the experimental data obtained

To help raise awareness of the risks associated with the use of chemical substances and laboratory processes, and to train students to carry out experimental work under appropriate safety conditions.

Prerequisites

Knowledge of general physics and mathematics (numerical calculus and statistics).

Competencies

1. To be familiar with the physico-chemical properties of the substances used in the manufacture of medicines.

2. To be familiar with and understand the characteristics of reactions in solution, the different states of matter, and the principles of thermodynamics and their application to the pharmaceutical sciences.

3. Understand the kinetics of chemical reactions and their mechanisms.

4. Carry out standard laboratory procedures, including the use of scientific equipment for synthesis and analysis, and the appropriate instrumentation.

5. Assess the risks associated with the use of chemicals and laboratory processes.

6. Apply computational and data-processing techniques in relation to physical, chemical and biological data.

7. Understand the scientific method.

8. Understand oral and written communication techniques. Communication of results.

Learning outcomes

1. Recognise the physico-chemical characteristics of the substances used in the manufacture of medicines.

2. Apply the principles of thermodynamics to physical and chemical transformations.

3. Be able to distinguish between and work with different types of solutions: ideal, real and electrolyte solutions.

4. Be able to apply the basic principles of formal kinetics to chemical and biochemical reactions. Develop simple reaction mechanisms.

5. Demonstrate proficiency in problem-solving, information management and decision-making.

6. Demonstrate the ability to work as part of a team.

7. Demonstrate the ability to analyse and synthesise information.

8. Understand the scientific method.

9. Work safely in a laboratory environment and be aware of the risks associated with it and with chemical substances.

10. Preparation and delivery of oral presentations.

Course content

1. Fundamentals of Thermodynamics

• Basic concepts

• The zeroth law of thermodynamics

• First law of thermodynamics

• Thermo-chemistry

• Second and third laws of thermodynamics

• Gibbs’ and Helmholtz’s free energy

2. Thermodynamics of solutions

• General properties of solutions

• Non-electrolyte solutions

• Solubility of solids in liquids

• Partition equilibrium

• Phase diagram in two-component systems

• Solutions of electrolytes

3. Chemical reaction kinetics. Complex reactions. Catalysis

4. Chemical equilibrium.

. Acid-base equilibrium

. Solubility equilibrium

4. Surface phenomena

• Adsorption

• Surface tension

• Colloidal systems

Teaching activities

Lecture Explanation of theoretical principles, using computer-based tools. Competencies: 1, 2, 3, 5

Learning outcomes: 1, 2, 3, 8

Laboratory practicals Experimental application of the knowledge acquired. Competencies: 2, 3, 4, 5

Learning outcomes: 2, 3, 4, 8, 9.

Seminars Presentation and discussion of case studies. Presentations. Competencies: 6, 7, 8.

Learning outcomes: 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 10.

E-learning Interactive distance learning via the virtual campus 0.2 Competencies: 1–3, 6, 7.

Learning outcomes: 1–8

Individual and group tutorials Guidance and clarification of queries. Competencies: 1–8

Learning outcomes: 6, 7.

Independent study Study. Literature review. Competencies: 1–8

Learning outcomes: 1–10

Exam Oral and written assessments. Competencies: 1–8.

Learning outcomes: 1–10.

Assessment system and criteria

Without prejudice to any other requirements that may be set out in the relevant course syllabus, as a general rule, failure to attend more than 70 per cent of the course’s teaching activities—which require the student’s physical or virtual presence—will result in the loss of the right to continuous assessment during the standard examination period. In this case, the examination to be held during the official period set by the University will be the sole assessment criterion, with the weighting specified in the course syllabus.

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To pass this module, students must:

1. Have completed all laboratory practicals.

2. Have achieved a minimum mark of four in the examinations

3. Achieve a mark of five or above when the percentages set out below are added together:

- In-person knowledge tests: (60%). Two tests will be held during the course; these will count towards the final mark provided a mark of 5 or above is achieved. One test may be offset by another if a mark of 4 or above is achieved. The first test will assess topics 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 (to be confirmed; subject to change depending on progress) (30 per cent), whilst the second test will assess the remaining topics (30 per cent). If a mark below 4 is obtained in either of the two tests, or if the marks cannot be offset, the student must sit an exam for the failed section during the ordinary or supplementary examination period.

- Practical skills examination (30 per cent). This will consist of an examination of the laboratory practical booklet (15 per cent) and on-site assessment throughout the practical sessions (15 per cent). (Competencies: 2, 3, 4, 5), (Learning outcomes: 2, 3, 4, 8, 9). It is not necessary to pass this

- Course activities: 10% of the mark (Competencies 1–8). (Learning outcomes: 1–10). The problems set and solved in class, the assignments and tests available on the online portal, and your participation and collaboration in class will form the basis for the assessment of your knowledge of theory, seminars and practical work

REGULAR EXAM SESSION,

Students will sit exams for any mid-term assessments they have not passed under the continuous assessment scheme. These will carry the same weightings as in the continuous assessment. To pass the module, students must achieve a mark of five points or higher, calculated by adding together the same weightings as in the continuous assessment. No average will be calculated unless a minimum mark of 4 has previously been achieved in both mid-term exams

SUPPLEMENTARY EXAMINATION SESSION,

Students will sit the mid-term exams for which they have not been exempted through continuous assessment or in the ordinary examination session. No average will be calculated unless a minimum mark of 4 has previously been achieved in both mid-term exams

EXAMINATION FORMAT

- Mid-term exams: These will consist of a multiple-choice section (70%) and a section comprising 2 or 3 problems (30%). A mark of 4/10 must be achieved in the multiple-choice section to pass the mid-term exam

Practical Examination: Assessment of the practicals will be based on daily evaluation in the laboratory by the lecturer and an examination on the final day of the practicals, based on the practicals logbook. Attendance at practicals is compulsory. Students who do not undertake the practicals will not be permitted to sit the theory exam. - Official exams: these follow the same format as the mid-term exams

Timetable

Click on this link to view the detailed timetable in Excel

Bibliography

Essential:

1. Atkins, Peter

Elements of Physical Chemistry

Oxford: Oxford University Press, 2006. 2006.

ISBN: 0199271836

2. Atkins, Peter

Physical Chemistry

Barcelona: Omega, 1999. 1999.

ISBN: 9788428211819

3. Castellan, Gilbert W.

Physical Chemistry

Wilmington: Addison-Wesley Iberoamericana, 1987. 1987.

ISBN: 0201640295

4. Chang, Raymond

Physical Chemistry

McGraw-Hill. 2008.

ISBN: 9789701066522

5. Ira N Levine

Problems in Physical Chemistry

McGraw-Hill. 2005.

ISBN: 8448198336

6. Labowitz, Leonard C.

Physical Chemistry: Problems and Solutions / Leonard C. Labowitz, John S. Arents

Madrid: AC, 1986.

ISBN: 8472880087

7. Levine, Ira N.

Physical Chemistry

4th ed. Madrid [etc.]: McGraw-Hill, 1996. 1996.

ISBN: 8448106180

8. Levine, Ira N.

Physical Chemistry

Madrid: McGraw-Hill, 2003. 2003.

ISBN: 8448140052

9. P. Sanz Pedrero

Physical Chemistry for Pharmacy and Biology

Barcelona [etc.]: Ediciones Científicas y Técnica. 1992.

ISBN: 8445800868

Objectives

GENERAL OBJECTIVES.

1. To identify, design, obtain, analyse, control and produce drugs and medicines, as well as other products and raw materials of health-related interest for human or veterinary use.

2. To evaluate the therapeutic and toxic effects of substances with pharmacological activity.

3. To be able to apply the scientific method and acquire skills in dealing with legislation, information sources, literature, protocol development and other aspects considered necessary for the design and critical evaluation of pre-clinical and clinical trials.

4. To design, prepare, supply and dispense medicines and other products of healthcare relevance.

5. To provide therapeutic advice on pharmacotherapy and diet therapy, as well as in the field of nutrition and dietetics, within the establishments where they provide services.

6. To promote the rational use of medicines and healthcare products, and to acquire basic knowledge of clinical management, health economics and the efficient use of healthcare resources.

7. Identify, assess and evaluate issues relating to drugs and medicines, and participate in pharmacovigilance activities.

8. Carry out clinical and social pharmacy activities, following the pharmaceutical care cycle.

9. To participate in health promotion and disease prevention activities at individual, family and community levels, adopting a holistic and multi-professional approach to the health-disease process.

10. Design, apply and evaluate clinical analytical reagents, methods and techniques, with a sound understanding of the basic principles of clinical analysis and the characteristics and content of laboratory diagnostic reports.

11. Assess the toxicological effects of substances and design and carry out the corresponding tests and analyses.

12. Carry out hygiene and health analyses, particularly those relating to food and the environment.

13. Develop communication and information skills, both oral and written, to deal with patients and service users at the centre where they carry out their professional activities. Foster the ability to work and collaborate within multidisciplinary teams and with other healthcare professionals.

14. To be familiar with the ethical and deontological principles set out in the legislative, regulatory and administrative provisions governing professional practice, and to understand the ethical implications of healthcare within a

changing social context.

15. Recognise one’s own limitations and the need to maintain and

update their professional competence, placing particular emphasis on self-directed learning of new knowledge based on available scientific evidence.

SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES

1. To understand the structures of biomolecules and their transformations within the cell.

2. To acquire a basic understanding of molecular biology.

3. To understand the relationship between the main metabolic pathways and their pharmaceutical applications

4. To understand the structure and properties of cell membranes.

5. To be able to carry out basic laboratory procedures used in biochemistry and molecular biology, including the use of scientific equipment.

6. To assess the biological risks associated with the use of substances and the relevant laboratory processes.

7. Apply the scientific method – including the collection, evaluation and classification of data, the drawing of conclusions, and the formulation of hypotheses – to resolve experimental questions.

8. Be able to locate and use bibliographic sources in order to keep abreast of developments in biochemistry and molecular biology.

9. Understand the main metabolic pathways involved in the degradation of drugs

Prerequisites

• Basic knowledge of chemistry and biology.

• Knowledge of, and ability to carry out, the basic experimental techniques used in chemistry and biology laboratories.

Competencies

1. Understand the structures of biomolecules and their transformations within the cell.

2. Acquire a basic understanding of molecular biology.

3. To understand the relationship between the main metabolic pathways and the properties of active ingredients.

4. Understand the structure and properties of cell membranes.

5. To develop skills in identifying therapeutic targets, as well as knowledge of gene therapy.

6. Carry out basic laboratory procedures used in biochemistry and molecular biology, including the use of scientific equipment.

7. Assess the biological risks associated with the use of substances and the relevant laboratory processes.

8. Apply the scientific method – including the collection, evaluation and classification of data, drawing conclusions and formulating hypotheses – to resolve experimental questions.

9. Be able to locate and use bibliographic sources in order to keep abreast of developments in biochemistry and molecular biology.

Learning outcomes

1. Understand and explain the main structural characteristics of biomolecules and their relationship to the functions they perform in metabolism.

2. Understand the metabolic pathways involved in the synthesis and breakdown of carbohydrates and the regulatory mechanisms involved, as well as the diseases associated with them.

3. To understand the metabolic pathways involved in the synthesis and breakdown of lipids and the regulatory mechanisms, as well as the diseases associated with them.

4. To understand the metabolic pathways involved in the synthesis and breakdown of the main nitrogen-containing compounds and the regulatory mechanisms involved, as well as the diseases associated with them.

5. Be able to explain the mechanisms of interrelation between the main anabolic and catabolic pathways of metabolism.

6. Be able to integrate metabolic pathways across the body’s different tissues

7. To know and understand the mechanisms of enzyme action.

8. To understand the properties of cell membranes.

9. Be familiar with and be able to carry out the basic experimental techniques used in a biochemistry and molecular biology laboratory.

Course content

BLOCK 1: STRUCTURAL BIOCHEMISTRY

- Topic 1: Molecular foundations of biochemistry

- Topic 2: Carbohydrates

- Topic 3: Lipids

- Topic 4: Nucleic acids

- Topic 5: Proteins.

BLOCK 2: METABOLIC BIOCHEMISTRY

- Topic 6A: Enzyme kinetics

- Topic 6B: Thermodynamics

- Topic 7: Carbohydrate metabolism

- Topic 8: Intermediate metabolism.

- Topic 9: Lipid Metabolism

- Topic 10: Metabolism of nitrogenous compounds

In detail:

BLOCK 1: STRUCTURAL BIOCHEMISTRY (September to December 2025, comprising lectures and practical sessions)

- Topic 1: Molecular foundations of biochemistry

o Session 1.1: Introduction to biochemistry, the atom, bioelements and the periodic table, chemical bonding

o Session 1.2: Functional groups and weak interactions

o Assignment 1.1: Exercises on the content covered in sessions 1.1 and 1.2

o Session 1.3: Water: properties, characteristics, ionisation and pH

o Session 1.4: Acid-base equilibrium

o Assignment 1.2: Exercises on the content covered in sessions 1.3 and 1.4

o Session 1.5: Chemical reactions in the cell and biomolecules

o Assignment 1.3: Exercises on the content covered in all sessions of Topic 1

- Topic 2: Carbohydrates

o Session 2.1: The concept of saccharides and their classification

o Session 2.2: Monosaccharides

o Session 2.3: Oligosaccharides and disaccharides of biological interest

o Assignment 2.1: Exercises on the content covered in sessions 2.1, 2.2 and 2.3

o Session 2.4: Polysaccharides and glucoconjugates

o Assignment 2.2: Exercises on the content covered in all sessions of Topic 2

FIRST BIOCHEMISTRY MID-TERM EXAM: October 2025 (Topics 1 and 2)

- Topic 3: Lipids

o Session 3.1: Definition, biological importance, classification and functions

o Session 3.2: Saponifiable lipids

o Assignment 3.1: Exercises on the content covered in sessions 3.1 and 3.2

o Session 3.3: Unsaponifiable lipids

o Session 3.4: Membrane lipids

o Assignment 3.2: Exercises on the content covered in all sessions of Topic 3

- Topic 4: Nucleic acids

o Session 4.1: Introduction and nitrogenous bases

o Session 4.2: Nucleic acids (DNA)

o Assignment 4.1: Exercises on the content covered in sessions 4.1 and 4.2

o Session 4.3: Nucleic acids (RNA)

o Session 4.4: Genes and genomes

o Assignment 4.3: Exercises on the content covered in all sessions of Topic 4

- Topic 5: Proteins.

o Session 5.1: Amino acids (structure, classification and properties)

o Session 5.2: Peptide bonds and peptides of interest

o Assignment 5.1: Exercises on the content covered in sessions 5.1 and 5.2

o Session 5.3: Proteins (structures, properties, classification, functions, denaturation and purification)

o Session 5.4: Proteins (extracellular matrix proteins, oxygen-carrying proteins and plasma proteins)

o Assignment 5.2: Exercises on the content covered in all sessions of Topic 5

SECOND BIOCHEMISTRY MID-TERM EXAM: January 2026 (Topics 3, 4 and 5)

FIRST TERM LABORATORY PRACTICALS (throughout October)

- Laboratory session 1: Practical 1 – Isolation of caseins from milk

- Laboratory session 2: Experiment 2 – Quantitative analysis and polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis – SDS

- Laboratory session 3: Experiment 3 – Identification of carbohydrates

- Laboratory session 4: Practical 4 – Effect of enzyme concentration and temperature on amylase activity

- Laboratory session 5: Practical examination (covering the practicals carried out in the first term’s laboratory sessions)

BLOCK 2: METABOLIC BIOCHEMISTRY (January to May 2026, during lecture and practical sessions)

- Topic 6A: Enzyme kinetics

o Session 6A.1: Introduction, enzymes (classification, nomenclature and functions)

o Session 6A.2: Mechanism of action of enzymes

o Assignment 6A.1: Exercises relating to the content covered in sessions 6A.1 and 6A.2

o Session 6A.3: Enzyme kinetics

o Session 6A.4: Enzyme inhibition and regulation

o Assignment 6A.2: Exercises relating to the content covered in all sessions of Topic 6A

- Topic 6B: Thermodynamics

o Session 6B.1: Introduction to metabolism, Bioenergetics (state functions and thermodynamic principles)

o Session 6B.2: Bioenergetics (spontaneity, transport molecules and stages of metabolism)

o Assignment 6B: Exercises relating to the content covered in all sessions of Topic 6B.

- Topic 7: Carbohydrate Metabolism

o Session 7.1: Introduction, digestion and absorption of carbohydrates

o Session 7.2: Glycolysis and gluconeogenesis

o Assignment 7.1: Exercises relating to the content covered in sessions 7.1 and 7.2

o Session 7.3: Metabolic pathways of pyruvate

o Session 7.4: The pentose phosphate pathway and glycogen metabolism

o Assignment 7.2: Exercises relating to the content covered in all sessions of Topic 7

THIRD BIochemistry MID-TERM EXAM: March 2026 (Topics 6A, 6B and 7)

- Topic 8: Intermediate metabolism.

o Session 8.1: Introduction and the Krebs cycle

o Session 8.2: Electron transport chain and oxidative phosphorylation

o Assignment 8.1: Exercises relating to the content covered in sessions 8.1 and 8.2

o Session 8.3: The NADH+H+ shuttles and the energy yield from glucose

o Session 8.4: Integration of metabolism

o Assignment 8.2: Exercises relating to the content covered in all sessions of Topic 8

- Topic 9: Lipid metabolism

o Session 9.1: Introduction, digestion and absorption of lipids. Plasma lipoproteins

o Session 9.2: Lipolysis, beta-oxidation and fatty acid synthesis

o Assignment 9.1: Exercises relating to the content covered in sessions 9.1 and 9.2

o Session 9.3: Ketone bodies and the metabolism of acylglycerides, phosphoglycerides and sphingolipids

o Session 9.4: Cholesterol (biosynthesis and role as a precursor)

o Assignment 9.2: Exercises relating to the content covered in all sessions of Topic 9

- Topic 10: Metabolism of nitrogen-containing compounds

o Session 10.1: Degradative metabolism of proteins. Amino acids (degradation, biosynthesis and precursor function)

o Session 10.2: Metabolism of nitrogenous bases

o Assignment 10: Exercises relating to the content covered in all sessions of Topic 10

FOURTH BIOCEMISTRY MID-TERM EXAM: May 2026 (Topics 8, 9 and 10)

LABORATORY PRACTICALS, 2nd QUARTER (To be confirmed)

- Laboratory session 1: Practical 1 – Isolation of genomic DNA

- Laboratory session 2: Experiment 2 – Isolation of glycogen from mammalian liver

- Laboratory session 3: Experiment 3 – Acid digestion of a polysaccharide. Determination of glucose

- Laboratory session 4: Practical 4 – Enzyme kinetics. Alkaline phosphatase assay

- Laboratory session 5: Practical 5 – ABO system + Practical examination (covering the practicals carried out during the second term’s laboratory sessions)

REGULAR EXAMINATION PERIOD: late May–early June 2026 (Students will sit the mid-term examination(s) they did not pass during the regular mid-term examination period)

SUPPLEMENTARY EXAMINATION PERIOD: July 2026 (Students will sit any mid-term exams they did not pass during the ordinary examination period)

Teaching activities

Lecture Explanation of theoretical principles, using audiovisual aids. Competencies: 1–5

Learning outcomes: 1–8

Laboratory practicals Experimental application of the knowledge acquired. Competencies: 1–7

Learning outcomes: 1 and 7–9

Seminars Presentation and discussion of case studies. Presentations. Competencies: 1–5 and 8–9.

Learning outcomes: 1–8

E-learning Interactive distance learning via the virtual campus. Competencies: 1–9

Learning outcomes: 1–9

Individual and group tutorials Guidance and clarification of queries. Competencies: 1–5 and 8–9

Learning outcomes: 1–8

Independent study Study. Literature review. Competencies: 1–9

Learning outcomes: 1–9

Exam Oral and written assessments. Competencies: 1–9

Learning outcomes: 1–9

Assessment system and criteria

Without prejudice to any other requirements that may be set out in the relevant course syllabus, as a general rule, failure to attend more than 70 per cent of the course’s teaching activities—which require the student’s physical or virtual presence—will result in the loss of the right to continuous assessment during the standard examination period. In this case, the examination to be held during the official period set by the University will be the sole assessment criterion, with the weighting specified in the course syllabus.

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GENERAL ASSESSMENT CRITERIA:

GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF ASSESSMENT CRITERIA

1. The module is divided into two parts: THEORY and LABORATORY.

2. To pass the course, students must, without exception, pass the theory component (the arithmetic mean of the theory tests must be 5 or above); this may compensate for the laboratory component should the latter not be passed. However, it is strictly compulsory to achieve marks of 3.5 or above in the laboratory component; if students do not undertake the practical sessions or do not sit the laboratory examinations, they will not be able to pass the module.

3. The theory component may be passed through Continuous Assessment Tests (CEC) or via the Official Examination Sessions – ORDINARY (May/June) and EXTRAORDINARY (July).

4. The laboratory component will be taken into account provided that the theory component has been passed, with the weightings detailed in the course syllabus’s assessment criteria being applied.

5. The final mark corresponds to the weighted average of the following: 70% theory, 20% laboratory work and 10% exercises/assignments (provided that the mark for the theory component is 5 or above).

How is the final mark for the module (D) calculated?

Where:

A. Attendance and practical examination (10 per cent per week of practicals, totalling 20 per cent)

B. – 4 theory mid-term exams spread throughout the course (70% in total)

C. Exercises and assignments (these may account for up to 10% of the final mark for the module)

Initially, the arithmetic mean for the theory component will be calculated:

B = (B1 + B2 + B3 + B4) / 4

If B ≥ 5

Then the course mark (D) = A + B + C, that is:

D = (A1 × 0.1) + (A2 × 0.1) + (B1 × 0.1) + (B2 × 0.2) + (B3 × 0.2) + (B4 × 0.2) + (C × 0.1)

If B < 5

The mark published will correspond to the part of B in which the student has obtained the lowest mark and will result in a fail for the examination in the relevant sitting (REGULAR or SUPPLEMENTARY).

THEORY ASSESSMENT

1. The theory syllabus will be covered in the sessions and tutorials, and students may pass this component through Continuous Assessment Tests (CEC) or during the Official Examination Sessions – REGULAR (May/June) and EXTRAORDINARY (July).

2. CONTINUOUS ASSESSMENT TESTS (CEC):

a. Four assessment tests will be held throughout the academic year (two in each QUARTER/BLOCK).

b. If the mark is 5 POINTS or higher, the student will be exempt from the corresponding part of the theory assessed in each test, and this result will be retained until the EXTRAORDINARY examination session.

c. The theory mark will be the arithmetic mean of the four CECs, and students who achieve a mark of 5 POINTS or more will have passed the theory section. As this is a year-long module, the four CECs may be made up at the end of the academic year (i.e. after the extraordinary examination session); however, to do so, students must have sat ALL the sections and obtained a minimum of 4.5 POINTS in the examinations.

d. Students who fail (or do not sit) these CECs may sit the failed part(s) in the REGULAR examination session (May/June) and/or the EXTRAORDINARY examination session (June/July).

e. The dates of these assessments will be published on the NOTICEBOARD of the VIRTUAL CLASSROOM at least TWO WEEKS in advance, and there will be no second sitting.

3. OFFICIAL EXAM SESSIONS:

a. Students who have not passed (or have not sat) the CECs may retake the outstanding section(s) during the REGULAR examination period (May/June).

b. If they fail to pass the failed part(s) in this sitting, they will have another opportunity during the EXTRAORDINARY sitting (July).

4. Any mark published that is below 5 POINTS will correspond to the part in which the student obtained the lowest mark and will result in a fail for the examination in the sitting in question (REGULAR or EXTRAORDINARY).

5. Whether through CEC or the Official Examination Sessions, the theory mark will correspond to the arithmetic mean of these four parts; in order to calculate the weighted average with the laboratory mark, it is necessary to obtain 5 POINTS or more in the theory section.

LABORATORY ASSESSMENT:

1. The laboratory practicals comprise FIVE SESSIONS (3 hours each) PER TERM. Over the course of the five sessions, students will receive a theoretical explanation and practise various laboratory techniques; during the fifth session, any queries will be addressed and an exam will be held on the techniques and concepts covered.

2. Attendance at and sitting of the laboratory examinations IS COMPULSORY FOR ALL ENROLLED STUDENTS.

3. Attendance at and completion of the laboratory practicals is COMPULSORY FOR STUDENTS ENROLLED FOR THE FIRST TIME OR WHO HAVE NEVER COMPLETED THE LABORATORY PRACTICALS.

4. Any unjustified absence during the practical sessions will result in a deduction of 25 per cent from the laboratory mark.

5. If, during the practical sessions, a student commits a disciplinary offence, they may lose up to 20 per cent of their laboratory mark. If the offence is serious, they may be expelled from the session and it will be recorded as an unjustified absence.

6. Excused absences allow students to make up the missed practical session with another group where possible and to sit the laboratory examination once the session has been made up.

7. Justified absences must be notified and documented as soon as possible, preferably before the absence occurs, and in any case before the end of the assigned practical sessions; otherwise, the absence will be considered unjustified.

8. The laboratory mark will be the average of the two terms and will account for 20 per cent of the total course mark; this mark may be offset against the theory mark, provided that the arithmetic mean of the latter is 5 or above.

10. FAILURE TO ATTEND TWO OR MORE DAYS OF LABORATORY PRACTICALS WILL RESULT IN A GRADE OF ‘NP’ IN BOTH THE REGULAR AND SUPPLEMENTARY EXAMINATION SESSIONS AND, THEREFORE, FAILURE OF THE MODULE.

EXAMINATION FORMAT:

1. The THEORETICAL part of the examinations will consist of:

a. Multiple-choice questions, short-answer questions, essay questions and exercises similar to those covered in class.

b. Incorrect short-answer or essay questions will not result in a negative mark. For multiple-choice questions, 33% of the mark will be deducted for each incorrect answer.

c. Only the content specified in the questions will be assessed.

d. The duration of each test will be between 30 and 60 minutes, depending on the number and type of questions (+10% extra time, as indicated by the Educational Psychology Office for students with special needs).

2. LABORATORY examinations will consist of:

a. Short-answer questions and exercises relating to the work carried out during laboratory practicals.

b. Incorrect answers will not result in a negative mark

c. Only the content covered in the exam questions will be assessed.

d. The duration of each test will be between 15 and 25 minutes, depending on the number and type of questions (plus an extra 10 per cent, as indicated by the Educational Psychology Office for students with special needs).

3. The pass mark for ALL examinations is set at 5 POINTS.

STUDENTS WITH AN OFFICIAL ACADEMIC EXEMPTION:

Students with an OFFICIAL ACADEMIC EXEMPTION must undertake the compulsory practical sessions in the same way as other students, in accordance with the schedule allocated to their respective laboratory groups, and are exempt from all other teaching activities. Furthermore, if they wish to undertake the CECs, they must do so on the dates set for this purpose, just like the rest of the students