MODULE SYNOPSES

CSHS 111 Communication Skills for Health Professions 1

The module provides students with skills and knowledge for effective writing, reading, speaking and listening in the health sector. The module also enables students to acquire information and literacy skills which are important in research.

BMS 111 Introduction to Heritage based Medicine and Medical Sciences 1

This module examines the practical implications of applying international, regional and national policy frameworks promoting the use of indigenous knowledge systems and heritage-based medicine. The module examines the implications of the 2003 UNESCO Convention for the Safeguarding of Intangible Heritage to heritage-based medicine, alongside the relationship of traditional medicine to the fields of human rights, public health and development. It considers the cultural significance of heritage-based medicine combined with the fundamental principles of the Convention render the Convention significant in safeguarding heritage based medicine for the future.

BMS 112 Biophysics and Biomedical Engineering

Students are expected to have a holistic appreciation of the human being through application of properties of living matter and energy as well as the effects of the forces upon matter. The module also explores making of equipment and assistive devices for routine testing and preventative medicine.  In this module students are introduced to medical equipment and how they work.  

BMS 113 Biochemistry 1

This module introduces students to Medical Biochemistry which is the subspecialty of Biomedical Sciences that deals with biochemical analysis of body fluids and thereby helps in the screening, diagnosis, monitoring and management of most, if not all, human diseases.  Medical Biochemistry includes the chemical basis of life, organ function test, biomarkers, Basic principles of nutrition, functions and chemistry of hormones and biocatalyst, metabolism of basic biomolecules with mineral, vitamins and xenobiotics.   Medical Biochemistry helps medical and dental students understand the key biochemical processes of the human body such as metabolism and nutrition, cellular transport and signalling, enzyme activity, water, electrolyte and acid-base balance, blood coagulation, neuronal function, cellular homeostasis, growth, differentiation, cancer and gene expression.  Medical Biochemistry also provides for the diagnosis of diseases and includes specialized investigations for the measurement of hormones, cancer markers, vitamins, trace elements, drugs and specific proteins.

BMS 114 Anatomy 1

On completion of the module, the learner is expected to be competent in recognising anatomical structures/organs, exhibit knowledge of their location and relations, blood, nerve, and lymphatic supply and/or drainage, and show evidence of applying this knowledge to novel scenarios. A successful learner is thus one who effectively communicates this knowledge using correct and appropriate anatomical terminology orally (in various fora with instructors and peers alike) and through written work (assignments and examinations) at all times during the module. The module contains the following

Human Gross Anatomy: The morphological anatomy of the human body and consists of lectures, practical dissections and tutorials of the following regions: upper limb, thorax, abdomen, pelvis and perineum, lower limb, head and neck. The clinical relevance of the gross anatomy is emphasized. The first semester covers the following: Upper limb anatomy, Thorax.

Histology: This consists of lectures, practical sessions and tutorials dealing with the microscopic anatomy and, where relevant, the ultrastructure of the primary tissues and organs systems. The first semester covers the following: Basic Histology; Introduction. ⁠cell, ⁠epithelial tissue, ⁠connective tissue, adipose tissue and cartilage, ⁠muscle, ⁠nervous tissue, ⁠glandular tissue, bone, blood and lymphatics, lymph nodes and thymus.

Embryology: This consists of a series of lectures in which the development of the embryo and foetus, and the development of all major systems of the human body are covered. The clinical relevance of congenital malformations and their examples in the clinic are emphasized. The first semester covers the following: Fertilization and Embryogenesis.

BMS 115   Physiology 1

The Physiology module introduces Biomedical Sciences students to the foundation upon which knowledge of what “life” is, is built upon. Physiology being the study of the function of the body forms a vital part of the curriculum for most of the undergraduate and postgraduate courses in the health and allied health professions. The focus of the physiology module is on how organisms, organ systems, organs, cells, and biomolecules carry out the chemical and physical functions that exist in a living system. Physiology is the fundamental module to medicine and biomedical sciences, focuses on the body functions in health, but also cover a few pathological states in the form of clinical correlates. The homeostatic nature and the critical physiological ranges of values are taught with respect to how the body copes with stresses imposed upon human bodies by different environments. Medical Physiology helps the biomedical, pharmaceutical, nursing and clinical students to understand how the body systems work in health and how they respond and adapts to the challenges of everyday life. The systems are studied in detail in order to enable the appropriate correctional measures to be applied in the different health professions. Physiology helps us to correctly determine what goes wrong in disease, facilitating the development of new treatments and guidelines for maintaining human and animal health. The emphasis on integrating molecular, cellular, systems and whole-body function distinguishes the physiology module. The first semester covers the following: introduction to physiology, cell physiology, homeostasis, blood, body fluids and immunity as well as excitable cell physiology.

BMS 116 Behavioural Sciences (Sociology and Psychology for Health Sciences) 1

This module is an introductory to the Sociology and Psychology of Health Sciences. Students will be exposed to the socio-behavioural-cultural perspectives to Health. Topics to be covered include Introduction to Behavioural Sciences, Genetics and Behaviour (Western perspectives on genetics -Galton, twin studies) and behaviour, African perspectives on genetics, constitution of the “seed” and behaviour) & Interviewing Skills. Students will also get an introduction to the key behavioural sciences theory including Psycho-social approach- Eric Erickson, Psychoanalytic approach &, Theories of Learning (Operant conditioning & Classical Conditioning & social learning theory. The following ethical topics will be covered (Respect for patients, Informed consent, Non-judgmental & Confidentiality) and Children, Law and Ethics in Zimbabwe. Topics to prepare students to interact with clients will include qualities of a good doctor & doctor patient relationship. Eight hours will be spent in the community for the family health study.

 

BMS 117 Infections and Diseases 1

This module will link concepts covered in medical microbiology and with communicable disease epidemiology.

 

LAIC 111 Language Acquisition and Intercultural Communication

This module enables students to learn national/ regional languages; operate as local and global citizens capable of communicating inter-culturally and appreciate cultural, historical and linguistic diversity; acquire communicative competencies in the languages chosen both in terms of writing and speaking in social, academic and professional contexts

 

BMS 118 Medicinal and Indigenous Fruits and Herbs 1  

These modules enable students to learn and appreciate the diversity of fruits and herbs that are culturally important and have the potential for the production of nutraceuticals. The first module emphasises on the indigenous knowledge systems on indigenous fruits and herbs as well as the nutritional aspects of these fruits and herbs. Subsequent modules enable students to appreciate the potential therapeutic properties of the fruits and herbs. Students assess the pharmacological and toxicological profiles of the indigenous fruits and herbs that are available in Zimbabwe. Students also develop potential products from the fruits and herbs.

 

CSHS121 Communication Skills in Professions 2

This module imparts professional communication skills that will help medical students to develop a sense of confidence and rapport to engage in their healthcare work. It will also help to build a healthy doctor – patient relationship within the students thereby resulting in better health care practices, good patient treatment, better health outcomes, fewer misunderstandings and a reduced risk of medical errors. In other words, the module equips the students with health professional skills that will enable them to work effectively with all members of medical care.

BMS 121 Introduction to Heritage Studies and Medical Sciences 2

This module explores the complexities of keeping healthy based on traditional and cultural practices. Traditional medicines are part of the cultural heritage of many people. This module also empowers students with knowledge about traditional health practices, approaches, knowledge and beliefs incorporating plant, animal and mineral based medicines, spiritual therapies, manual techniques and exercises, applied singularly or in combination to treat, diagnose and prevent illnesses or maintain well-being.

BMS 123 Biochemistry 2

This module focuses on the application of biochemistry principles in the health care industry. It unravels the principles and mechanisms behind some products and techniques used in the health such as immunology, hormone therapy, genomics, microbiology, pharmacogenomics, biotechnology and bioinformatics. This part of biochemistry is meant to give the student basic appreciation of the above subjects. This will lay an adequate baseline in the event the student chooses to specialize in any of these applied disciplines in the future. The practicals will include field visits to spaces where the topics learnt in the classroom will be applied.

BMS 124 Anatomy 2

Gross Anatomy: Abdomen and Pelvis

Histology: Systems Histology: Skin, ⁠respiratory systems, ⁠general structures of GIT, ⁠pancreas and spleen, ⁠liver and biliary system, ⁠small intestines, ⁠large intestines, appendix and entero endocrine, ⁠kidneys and adrenal glands, ⁠urinary bladder, ureters and urethra, ⁠prostate, seminal vesicles and epididymis.

Embryology: Foetal Life.

BMS 125 Physiology 2

The second module of Physiology builds up on the first module and includes the study of body systems that include the Endocrine Physiology, the Gastro-intestinal tract (GIT) Physiology, Metabolism and Liver. This module expands on the systems that are responsible for the uptake, digestion and absorption of nutrients. It also expands on the possible derangements of the systems.

BMS 126 Behavioural Sciences (Sociology and Psychology for Health Sciences) 2

In this module students will be exposed to Psychosocial factors in Health and illness as well as advanced theories in health. Topics to be covered include psycho-social factors in Health and illness in African cultures, Health Belief Model, Traditional Medical Models, The Bio-psychosocial Model, Systems theory, Moral Development (Kohlberg); Humanistic Approach to Personality Development; Cognitive Development (Piaget), Challenges in Professionalism & Attachment. In Sociology the following will be covered Sociology of the Sick and the sick role as well as the following theories: symbolic interactionism; functionalism; Marxism; feminism & postmodernism as they relate to health. Eight hours will be spent in the community for the family health study.

BMS 127 Infectious Diseases 2

This module will link concepts covered in medical microbiology and with communicable disease epidemiology but with an emphasis on specific diseases affecting various systems such as infectious diseases of the respiratory tract, gastrointestinal tract, urinary tract, genital tract, skin, central nervous system and zoonotic diseases.

BMS 128 Medicinal and Indigenous Fruits and Herbs 2

These modules enable students to learn and appreciate the diversity of fruits and herbs that are culturally important and have the potential for the production of nutraceuticals. The first module emphasises on the indigenous knowledge systems on indigenous fruits and herbs as well as the nutritional aspects of these fruits and herbs. Subsequent modules enable students to appreciate the potential therapeutic properties of the fruits and herbs. Students assess the pharmacological and toxicological profiles of the indigenous fruits and herbs that are available in Zimbabwe. Students also develop potential products from the fruits and herbs.

BMS 214 Anatomy 3

Gross Anatomy: Lower Limb; Head and Neck Anatomy.

Histology:

Continuing with Systems Histology: Corpus luteum, ⁠penis and male genital system, ⁠uterus, placenta, ⁠salivary glands, ⁠tongue and taste buds, ⁠buccal mucosa and tonsils, ⁠thyroid and parathyroids, ⁠eye, ⁠tooth and gums, ⁠nose and ear.

Embryology: Systems Embryology: 1. Corpus luteum, ⁠penis and male genital system, ⁠uterus, placenta, ⁠salivary glands, ⁠tongue and taste buds, ⁠buccal mucosa and tonsils, ⁠thyroid and parathyroids, ⁠eye, ⁠tooth and gums, ⁠nose and ear

 

BMS 215 Physiology 3  

The third module of Physiology includes the study of Reproductive Physiology, Renal Physiology and Respiratory Physiology. This module focuses on systems that are responsible for reproductive processes, excretion of waste products in urine and the gaseous exchange processes that maintain the normal functions of the body. It also expands on the possible derangements of the specific systems in the module.

 

BMS216 Advanced Behaviours Sciences (Sociology and Psychology for Health  Sciences and Filed Attachment 1

The module exposes students to applied sociology and psychology topics. In addition, the module focuses on contemporary issues in health.  Topics include, Introduction to Common Mental Disorders, Cognitive Behaviour Approach, Inter-professional Education and collaborative practice (IEP/CP), Group dynamics, Leadership,   Health Risk Behaviours; Self-care among health professionals; MH gap in LMICS, Dentistry; Principles of Social and  Behaviour Change in health, class and health inequalities, Ethnicity, race and health, Gender and health and  the determinants of health, substance use and abuse and the sociology of climate change and health.

BMS 217 Pharmacology 1

The basic pharmacology module introduces drugs to biomedical students. This module is the theoretical basis of drug application to different disease conditions, on which clinical departments then build up on practically in ward rounds and clinical rotations. In this module, students learn about drug classification by indication and mechanism of action of drugs, adverse effects, contraindications, and drug interactions.

BMS 218 Entrepreneurship, Professional Ethics Communication and Philosophy

This module introduces students to both theoretical and operational aspects of ethical standards; theories of communication and communication for development; participatory research methodologies and scenario planning or anticipation; production of certain goods and services; process of identifying business opportunities, evaluating business opportunities for their viability, selecting the most suitable business opportunity to pursue and most effective route of pursuing it

BMS 219 Research Innovation and Development Skills

This module capacitates students to develop skills in the research and innovation cycle with a particular focus on problem identification, subjecting the problem to rigorous intellectual scrutiny and diagnosis, critically appraising published literature, data collection and analysis, intellectual property processes, as well as producing patentable research outputs, in line with the Government’s Education 5.0.

 

BMS 220 Student Development and Life Skills

This module informs students on development theories and how they inform teaching and learning at tertiary education institutions and soft skills that include effective communication, leadership, interpersonal, problem-solving, negotiation, networking and presentation skills, empathy and compassion, community consciousness, voluntarism, integrity, self-efficacy, self-confidence, self-actualisation, self-esteem, critical awareness, responsible citizenship, motivation and self-driven, healthy lifestyles.

 

BMS 224 Anatomy 4

Gross Anatomy: Neuroanatomy: The gross and functional anatomy of the nervous system and consists of lectures, practical dissections and tutorials of the following: the brain, spinal cord, spinal nerves, cranial nerves and the autonomic nervous system. The clinical relevance of neuroanatomy is emphasized.

Histology: Central nervous system

Embryology: Development of the brain.

 

BMS 225 Physiology 4

The Fourth module of Physiology includes the study of Cardiovascular Physiology, Medical Genetics and Neurophysiology. This module covers the complicated body functions that include the cardiovascular system set up and processes, the genetic processes that determine the integrity of an individual as well as the central nervous system and its functions. It also expands on the possible derangements of the specific systems in the module.

 

BMS 226 Advanced Behavioural Sciences (Sociology and Psychology of Health

                        Sciences) and Field Attachment 2

This module consists of the following sections taught during two semesters:

1. Socio-cultural perspectives to Health: Students learn how culture affects different aspects of health, health seeking behaviour and health choices.
2. Health and Human behaviour 1: This introduces the commonest mental disorders such as addiction, anxiety and depression. The behaviours that contribute to vulnerability to and resilience and recovery from these disorders are interrogated.
3. Health social Science: During this course, students learn about key psychological concepts such as human development, motivation, education, emotion and how they contribute to wellness or disease.
4. Information gathering skills: In level 2, learners will acquire the skills to conduct medical enquiry into clients’ beliefs and history in a culturally consonant manner to enable effective communication.
5. Community focused education: In level 2, learners will learn about and interact the primary health care facilities, informal and formal health services and their importance as the most widely utilized services in Zimbabwe. Learners will also be expected to learn how to develop public service information packets educating lay people about disease in the community.
6. Health and Human behaviour 2: In level 2, students are introduced to the socio-cultural and behavioural issues affecting the health of special populations specifically women, children and geriatric people. This module also covers health models in detail.

 

BMS 227 Pharmacology 2

The second semester will explore the interaction of various pharmacological agents on the various systems of the human body, such as the cardiac system, the respiratory system, the gastrointestinal system, the nervous system, the endocrine system and the skin.  At the end of the course students will be able to apply and analyse basic knowledge of pharmacology in treatment interventions.

 

BMS 228 Heritage Studies

This module equips students with knowledge and understanding of the relationship that exists between people and tangible as well as intangible heritage. Heritage studies are an interdisciplinary field that focuses on the exploration, analysis, and preservation of tangible and intangible cultural heritage. The module empowers students with knowledge about the socio-cultural systems that heritage has towards society. The module also interrogates indigenous health systems in Zimbabwe and their preservation and promotes the building of Zimbabwe’s national health systems from the foundation of national heritage.

 

BMS 229 Gender Studies

The module will explore the following topics:

Understanding Gender: Gender as a development concept, gender related concepts, social construction of gender,

Theories of gender: Liberal Feminist Theory, Marxist Feminist Theory, Socialist Feminist Theory, Radical Feminist Theory, Third world Political Economy, Eco – feminism.

Historical Development of Gender: Women in development Approach (WID), Women and Development Approach (WAD), Gender and Development Approach (GAD) (Moser), G.E.D

Gender Analysis: What is gender analysis? Gender analysis matrix, The rationale for Gender analysis, Gender Analysis Framework, The Harvard Analytical Model, The Women Empowerment Framework.

Gender issues and sustainable development: What is a gender issue? Gender and sustainable development related issues: HIV/AIDS; Poverty; Stereotypes; Relationships; Lack of empowerment; Cultural attitudes, beliefs and practices; Religious beliefs and practices; Sexual harassment; Patriarchy; Domestic violence; Human rights; OVC; Child abuse; Climate change.

Strategies for redressing Gender issues: Legislation, Policies, Empowerment, Use of leadership roles, Changing people’s attitudes, Gender responsive environment, Community gender related aid projects, Gender responsive budgeting, Gender based research.

 

BMS 311 Histopathology and Tumour Science 1

This module bridges the gap between the theoretical knowledge acquired in the basic sciences and the application of it in clinical medicine thereby acting as the foundation of clinical medicine. At the end of the module students will have a clear understanding of the development of disease processes from their inception to their termination including: aetiology; pathogenesis; micro and macroscopic appearances of the lesion produced; the clinical manifestations of those lesions; an appreciation of the causes of death, both natural and unnatural

 

BMS 312 Chemical Pathology and Biochemical Diagnostic Methods 1

Chemical Pathology is the study of biochemical and molecular markers in the diagnosis and treatment of disease. It provides a bridge between concepts taught in the basic sciences and their application in clinical practice. In this biomedical science module, students receive instruction on the following aspects of biochemical disorders: aetiology; pathogenesis; biochemical and molecular markers used in the diagnosis and monitoring of disease; risk factors and complications of biochemical disorders.

The first semester introduces chemical pathology including specimen management and training on quality assurance activities to ensure the accuracy and reliability of results generated in chemical pathology. In the first semester, students are also trained on the general interpretation of chemical pathology laboratory data/ results to enable appropriate management of patients.

BMS 313 Haematology and Blood Transfusion 1

The first semester introduces students to basic haematology, how blood is formed and aspects of blood transfusion.

BMS 314 Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases 1

The module introduces basic medical microbiology to students, describing the classification, structure and physiology of microorganisms that cause infectious diseases in humans. Emphasis is first placed on the importance of pathogenic microbes in human disease with respect to infections and their pathogenesis resulting in disease presentation. It covers both theoretical and practical aspects of virology, bacteriology, parasitology, mycology, molecular microbiology, antimicrobial resistance and infection prevention and control. In this module and the module on immunology, students learn aspects of infectious diseases.

(Semester 1 we covered the basics of microbiology i e. classification, morphology, general principles of diagnosis

BMS 315 Immunology and Diagnostic Methods 1

This module introduces students to clinical immunological concepts.  Students are introduced to and are expected to understand current advances in immunology of infectious diseases techniques and the application of immunological techniques in disease diagnosis and treatment.  The diseases of main focus are HIV, TB, malaria, schistosomiasis, endocrine diseases, eye diseases, skin diseases, cardiovascular diseases, tumour immunology, gastrointestinal diseases, immunity to viruses, bacteria, fungi.  Students develop a deeper understanding of basic immunology concepts focusing on humoral and cellular immunity.

The aim of the module is to provide advanced theoretical knowledge and practical training in the immunology of infectious diseases through a comprehensive range of teaching methods. It equips students with the range of specialised knowledge and skills in applying scientific concepts, evaluating scientific data and carrying out modern top of the range immunological techniques.  Students to demonstrate specialist knowledge and understanding of the basic principles of host immunity to infection against the diverse range of pathogens which confront human populations. Students to apply this specialist knowledge to a range of practical skills and techniques, in particular modern molecular and cellular techniques for diagnosis and assessment of immune responses to pathogens.  Students to critically assess, select and apply appropriate research methods to investigate basic immunological mechanisms and applied issues in the immunology of infection. Students to be able to critically evaluate primary scientific data and the published relevant scientific literature.

The first semester module focusses on basic immunology concepts of innate, humoral and cellular immunity Students are introduced to the role of the different immunological responses to infection against the diverse range of pathogens which confront human populations. Immunity to infection is categorised into 4 main areas as immunity to bacteria, immunity to viruses, immunity to fungi and immunity to parasites. Diseases of epidemiological importance are used as key examples and these include HIV, TB, malaria, schistosomiasis, Covid-19, Influenza, Cryptococcus, among others. Students are also introduced to immunological techniques that are applied in clinical investigations.)

BMS 316 Data Sciences, Robotics and Artificial Intelligence

The course introduces data science as an intercept of programming, statistics, and machine learning. Students will be introduced to data manipulation tools such as using spreadsheets and R/Python tools. Data Extraction, Transformation and Loading techniques will be explored. Statistics foundations using R or Python will be introduced. Robotics and Artificial Intelligence Modules introduces use of computers in modelling and or replicating intelligent behaviour useful in medical diagnosis and treatment.

BMS 321 Histopathology and Tumour Sciences 2

In the second semester there will be emphasis on abnormal presentations and tumours found in various organs and systems, such oral pathology, the respiratory tract, the gastro-intestinal tract, the uro-genital tract, the endocrine system, the central nervous system, the musculo-skeletal system and the skin.

BMS 322 Chemical Pathology and Biochemical Diagnostic Methods 2

The second semester focuses on the use of biochemical tests to diagnose system pathologies such as the renal, gastrointestinal, cardiovascular and endocrine systems. Learners are also taught on the utilisation of cutting-edge technology used in diagnosis such as molecular techniques.

BMS 323 Haematology and Blood Transfusion 2

Students learn therapeutics of patients with haematological diseases which include haematology, oncology, bleeding disorders, thrombophilia and non-haematological disease. They also recognise laboratory abnormalities and to some limited extent perform some of the bedside tests.

BMS 324 Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases 2

The second semester examines various communicable diseases, epidemiology, pathogenesis, laboratory diagnosis, infection prevention and control, antimicrobial treatment and resistance.

BMS 325 Immunology and Diagnostic Methods 2

The second semester module leverages on immunological concepts learnt in the first semester and introduces students to clinical immunology, that is the use of immunological techniques for diagnosis and assessment of immune responses in the management of diseases of the immune system. Diseases are discussed by organ involvement, and illustrative case histories are used to show the usefulness (or otherwise) of immunological investigations in the management of these patients. Organ systems include gastrointestinal, genitourinary, respiratory, skin, ocular, reproductive, endocrine, cardiovascular and neurological systems. Clinical immunology relating to non-specific organ involvement is taught as transplantation and tumour immunology. Students also learn disorders of the immune system under autoimmune, immune-deficiencies, hypersensitivities.

BMS 327 District Health Services Management, School Health Services and Health Care Financing

Students gain a broad understanding of how health systems are managed at district level using the primary health care approach including procurement systems, school health programmes and basic health care financing

BMS 328 Medicinal Indigenous Fruits and Herbs 3

Innovative Project that will produce a medical product

The students conduct a project which they can start early during their Biomedical training so that they develop medical products that can be exploited commercially and to improve health care of Zimbabweans

Field Attachment and Community Health Care

Students are given an option to choose any one of the following focus areas for the attachment. These are suggestions and recommendations to guide students’ choice.  

1. Rural Attachment. (Recommended for those who will pursue the MB ChB and Dentistry Degree programmes on completion).
2. Industrial Attachment to Pharmaceutical Industry. (Recommended for those who will pursue Pharmacy or Clinical Pharmacology Degree programmes on completion).
3. Industrial Attachment to a Medical Technology Innovation or Production Centre.  (Recommended for those who will pursue Biomedical Engineering Degree programmes).
4. Private Laboratory. (Recommended for those who will pursue Laboratory Sciences or Radiography or Optometry Degree programmes).
5. Epidemiology Departments in various health related institutions. (Recommended for those who will pursue Public Health or Medical Bio-Analytics or Bio-Informatics Degree programmes).  

Project / Optional Module

This project / optional module defines the field in which the Bachelor of Science Biomedical Sciences Honours Degree is being awarded. (Human Anatomy, Human Physiology, Clinical Pharmacology, Biochemistry, Medical Laboratory Sciences, Neuropsychology and others.)