Lesson Structure: Module Guide – Advanced Diploma in Pre-Medical Science  VSC008

The ADL online Advanced Diploma in Pre-Medical Science consists of the following 9 modules plus Academic Writing  and Critical Thinking (both these two short courses are non credit):

1  Anatomy and Physiology (Human Biology 1A) BSC101

1. Cells & Tissues
2. The Muscular System
3. The Nervous System
4. Digestion & Excretion
5. Physiological Systems

2  Biochemistry I (Animals) BSC103

1. Introduction to biochemistry
2. Lipids and proteins
3. Enzymes and hormones
4. Nucleic acids
5. Thermo-regulation
6. Carbohydrate metabolism
7. Absorption
8. Acidity and alkalinity
9. Chemical analysis
10. Biochemical applications

3  Biochemistry II (Molecules) BSC203

1. Introduction to Biochemical Molecules
2. Amino Acids
3. Structure of Proteins
4. Protein Dynamics
5. Sugars and Polysaccharides
6. Lipids (Fats) and Membranes
7. Enzymes, Vitamins and Hormones
8. DNA and RNA
9. Laboratory Techniques

4  Biochemistry III (Animal Biochemical Processes) BSC303

1. Introduction
2. Glycolysis and Glycogen Metabolism
3. Movement through Membranes
4. Electron Transport and Oxidative Phosphorylation
5. Sugar and Polysaccharide Metabolism
6. Lipid Metabolism
7. Amino Acid Metabolism
8. Nucleotide Metabolism
9. Enzyme Activity
10. Other Processes

5  Human Anatomy II BSC112

1. Cytology
2. Surface Anatomy
3. Systemic Anatomy I
4. Systemic Anatomy II
5. Regional Anatomy I
6. Regional Anatomy II
7. Radiographic and Diagnostic Anatomy

6  Cell Biology BSC110

1. Introduction to Cells and Their Structure
2. Cell Chemistry
3. DNA, Chromosomes and Genes
4. Cell Division: Meiosis and Mitosis
5. Cell Membranes
6. Protein Structure and Function
7. Protein Synthesis
8. Food, Energy, Catalysis and Biosynthesis
9. Intracellular Compartments, Transport and Cell Communication
10. The Cell Cycle and Tissue Formation

7  Human Physiology II BSC111

1. Cellular Physiology
2. Histophysiology
3. Systems Physiology
4. Neurophysiology
5. Endocrinology
6. Cardiovascular Physiology
7. Immunology
8. Respiratory Physiology
9. Renal Physiology

8  Medical Terminology BSC109

1. Scope and Nature of Medical Terminology
2. Anatomical Structure
3. Medical Equipment and Processes
4. Pharmacological Terminology
5. Musculoskeletal System
6. Cardiovascular, Lymphatic and Immune Systems
7. Respiratory and Reproductive Systems
8. Digestive and Excretory Systems
9. Integumentary System (Skin)
10. Nervous and Sensory Systems

9  Physics

1. Review of Basic Algebra
2. Introduction: Scope and Nature of Physics
3. Forces and Mechanics
4. Waves
5. Electricity and Magnetism
6. Energy and Work
7. Fundamentals of Thermodynamics
8. Light and Optics
9. Nuclear Physics and Radioactivity
10. Astronomy, Cosmology and Astrophysics

10 Academic Writing BWR110 (non-credit)
Academic Writing BWR110 (non-credit) is a short ten (10) hour module,
requiring the completion of two assignments.

Each of the above 9 modules is approximately 100 study hours duration (excluding Academic Writing). Self-tests, assignments and a final examination at the end of each module are compulsory. Unlimited one to one tutor and admin access is provided throughout the program.

Modules may be studied in any sequence. Course Credit hours for the  UK are  90 Credits (each module is 10 credits).

Alternatively, for those who are considering entering a USA Medical School (we strongly recommend that you seek approval of our pre-medical science programme by the American University of your choice, before enrolling with ADL). For American Universities, the credit hours would equate to 3 credit hours per module – a total of 27 credits hours.

Completion of the appropriate credit hours with a grade B+ or more are needed in order to satisfy the academic requirements of this Advanced Diploma. Opportunities do exist for graduates, without further training; but this course by itself does not, nor should be seen as constituting full medical training.

Please see lesson titles for your learning goals.

Does the Program Cover Practical work?

Most ADL courses contain Practical Tasks – something quite unique in distance education. Practical tasks may include:  Field Research, Networking and Analysis, Conducting Surveys, Growing and Dissecting Things, Collecting and Photographing Things and Processes.

Candidates are considered on a case-by-case basis. The basic entry requirement is a High School Diploma or equivalent, with good passes in science subjects (Chemistry, Biology, Physics, and Mathematics).

University graduates, transfer students and mature students with or without any science background are also eligible to apply. Those without any science background may be required to undertake basic science courses first.

English Language Proficiency:

Students whose first language is not English must show proof of English proficiency (IELTS 6.0 +, TOEFL 600+, or equivalent) in order to start the program.

Students may begin the program without these scores, however, they will not be allowed to graduate until the required score has been obtained, if required. For graduation purposes, IELTS of 7.5 or TOEFL of 650 or equivalent would be required.

Medical/Health School Entry Requirements:

Entry requirements for Medical Universities, Health Schools vary from Institution to Institution. Each University will have its own unique admission requirements and we strongly recommend that you check with the Medical University/School, College, or Health Institution of your choice, to determine if ADL’s Medical Science program meets their entry requirements, before enrolling with ADL.

Medical universities consider each application on a case-by-case basis. In addition to a Pre-Medical qualification, most Medical Schools/Health Institutions will take into consideration a number of other factors, besides academic qualifications, and this may include: previous academic work, test scores, personal qualities, and intent.

While all these components may be considered for admissions entry, the final decision for acceptance is at the discretion of the Medical University/School/College/Health Institution of your choice.

What Our Students Say About This Program:

“Sir, I would like to take this time to thank you and all my tutors for all the help, encouragement and support given to me, while I was studying the Pre-Medical programme.” – Sivagenesh Pearlaman, Pre-Medical Diploma, Singapore

“Yes – The course, the tuition, and the whole experience exceeded my expectations. I found I was very comfortable being re-educated after 20 years+ of being in the business world.”  Dave Gillies- Morgan, Psychology, China

“I want to thank Daryl and Juliette, and others, for all the help and support whilst I’ve been completing the Pre-Med Diploma. I really appreciate the way you all helped me get through all the topics smoothly and get the required number of credit hours at the end.
It’s been a brilliant course, and was a good refresher for the knowledge I need to learn for the USMLE”.   Aleem, Pre-Med Diploma, UK

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Here is a list of the most often asked FAQ’s.

General

Q. Why should I enrol with the Academy for Distance Learning?
A. Here at ADL, our students are our priority – we treat everyone as a unique individual.

Q. Do I need to buy text books?
A. No, as each module has been written by highly qualified industry professionals. The content of the material is presented in such a way that text books are not required. However, if you require additional reading your tutor will be able to supply a list.

Q. What happens if I have to stop studying for a while? (eg. become sick, go on holidays, have a baby, move house, etc)
A. It’s OK to take a break and start up your study at a later point in time. Just let us know.

Q. Is there an age limit?
A. There is no maximum age limit. We do however, have a minimum age limit of 18 years. Below that age parental consent would be required.

Q. Are your courses up-to date?
A. Our courses are revised and updated on a rotation system.

Q. Do you have a Cancellation policy?
A. Yes. We have a cancellation policy that is fair and equitable. For further details please click here.

Q. Will I have any opportunity to engage with other students?
A. We have a Student Community group based on facebook! If you don’t have a facebook account already, you could make one just for talking with fellow students on the group.

Enrolment

Q. When can I enrol/start?
A. You may enrol and start at any time of the year – it’s all self- paced.

Q. Can I study from anywhere in the world?
A. Our courses are available to anyone, anywhere in the world from the comfort of your own home. The course content is relevant to any country, culture or economy.

Q. How long do I have to complete the course?
A. You complete the course at any time that is convenient for you.

Q. Completing a 100 hour module – how long will it take?
A. For some students a 100 hour module will take approximately to 3- 6 months to complete. Others take less time and some even longer.

Assessment

Q. Assessment – how does it work?
A. For each 100 hour module you are assessed by assignments (at the end of each lesson) and a final one and a half hour exam (or you may elect to complete a Project, instead of sitting the exam) – the choice is yours – you sit for the exam in your own location.

Q. I don’t cope well with exams – what can I do?
A. You may elect to undertake a Project (set by your tutor) instead of sitting the exam. Projects are completed from your home and can usually take a couple of weeks to complete.

Q. If my assignment is not up to standard is there an opportunity to resubmit my work?
A. Yes –

Q. How many assignments do I need to complete for each module?
A. At the end of each lesson, there is an assignment – so if a course has say, 10 lessons, there would be 10 assignments.

Q. I am having difficulty attending workshops/industry meetings, what can be done?
A. If your course requires attendance at workshops, conferences, or industry meetings; alternative arrangements can be made in your country.

Qualifications

Q. Can I customize my diploma/higher qualification?

A. Not all educational institution’s certificates /diplomas meet everyone’s needs. The opportunity to Design Your Own Diploma at the Academy (subject to our approval) is an added bonus, not found at other colleges. You choose modules that you think will help you in achieving your goal.

Q. What do I get when I complete the course? Will I receive a transcript?
A. At the completion of all courses and providing all assignments and exam requirements have been met, you will receive your Award and a Transcript.

Tutors

Q. Our tutors – who are they?
A. We appoint Tutors and require that they must be currently active in their industry, with at least 5 years’ experience in their chosen profession.

Q. Can I contact my tutor at any time?
A. Yes – you have unlimited access to your tutor via email through our Online Classroom. You can always leave a message with ADL requesting your tutor to contact you. You decide on how much or how little contact you wish to have.

Q. Practical work – How is this done?
A. To find out more about this part of the course please visit the section on How Our Courses Work here.

Career Outcomes:

MEDICINE: – Anaesthesiologist, Midwife, Physician, Nurse, Dentist, Surgeon , Radiologist, Pharmacist, Biomedical Scientist, General Practitioner etc.

COMPLIMENTARY MEDICINE: – Neuropathology, Herbalist, Nutritionist, Wellness, Consultant , Sports Therapist, Remedial Therapist, Homoeopath etc.

ALLIED HEALTH & PARA MEDICAL: – Physiotherapist, Occupational Therapist, Exercise Physiologist, Chiropractor, Paramedic, Osteopath, Pathologist, Optometrist, Medical Illustrator, Health Promotion Officer, Physicians Assistant, Extracorporeal Technician, Podiatrist, Veterinarian.

What’s Included and How Does it Work?:

All course material, mentor support, exams, certificate and transcript are included.  Upon completion of each module, you will sit for an exam, taken at a time and place of your choosing. You will need to nominate an appropriate Adjudicator to administer the examination,  Exams  are usually one and a half hours long.  On satisfactory completion of all module assignments, exams, and practicals, you will receive your Advanced Diploma plus transcript.

How Long Will the Program Take To Complete?

The course is self-paced and enables you to fit your studies in with your lifestyle, motivation, and commitment. Each module has a duration of approximately 100 hours (the equivalent of 100 hours in a classroom setting). For example:

• 10 hours a week means you will complete a module in approx. 90 weeks
• 20 hours a week means you will complete a module in approx. 45 weeks
• 40 hours a week means you will complete a module in approx. 22.5 weeks

Please Note:  These guidelines do not include completing the non-credit academic writing program.

You may undertake more than one module at a time. Before deciding on the number of modules you might wish to study concurrently, careful consideration should be given to work, home, and any other commitments you might have. Overtaxing your time will result in poor grades.

There are no hidden extras

Tuition fees:

Tuition fees for each 100 hour module is £340. Students may pay their tuition fee module by module and may commence their studies with one module only or a combination of modules.

Total fees for the 9 modules is £3,060.00 (if paying one module at a time).  A  reduction in tuition fees of 25% is available where a student pays for the full program up front when enrolling, a discounted total fee of £2,295.00. A number of interest-free payment options are also available on the full fee of the course.

When Can I Start?

You may start at any time from anywhere in the world and complete the program at your own pace.  ADL has made the program as flexible as possible to help students study round their personal commitments at home and at work. However, since each Medical University sets its own deadline for admissions, it is advisable to work towards their entrance requirements.

Does the Program Cover Practical work?

Most ADL courses contain Practical Tasks – something quite unique in distance education. Practical tasks include:  Field Research, Networking and Analysis, Conducting Surveys, Growing and Dissecting things, Collecting and Photographing things and Processes.

Exam Requirements:

The Advanced Diploma in Medical Science (Pre-Medical) is awarded by ADL, on successful completion of all assignments, course work and examinations.  You will need to maintain a grade of B+ 80% 90% or above (distinction level) in each of the 9 modules including Academic Writing. Exams may be re-taken (for the published fee) in order to obtain a better grade for Medical School entry consideration.