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MSc Healthcare and Design

MSc Healthcare and Design

Master’s degree

ECTS: 90 credits
Duration: 2 years part-time

Overview

 

This new course is designed to equip students from a wide range of professional practice backgrounds with the tools and techniques to instigate and lead innovation in healthcare systems, services and spaces.

In doing so, we’ll provide you with a greater understanding of the USA health system and the systemic challenges it faces to remain sustainable.

You’ll also gain an understanding of behavioural economics and how to apply that to design projects in order to maximise impact. This includes understanding the role of physical products and the environment in shaping people’s behavior.

Some of the skills covered by the course include the ability to:

  • develop a business case and business model for an innovation, considering market and financial analysis
  • apply different theoretical models of innovation, explaining why some innovations succeed and others fail
  • rapidly research, manufacture and prototype a solution to a healthcare challenge

 

Study programme

  

The majority of taught modules (six out of eight modules) are shared between this course and the DETC MRes course for design professionals.

There are two introductory modules designed specifically for each cohort to introduce the principles of design and healthcare respectively.

Face-to-face teaching will take place in each module during one-week-long intensive sessions when students will be exposed to world leading experts and facilities from both Northampton and the DETC.

You will also have the opportunity to participate in a range of individual and group activities.

 

Is this programme for you?

 

The taught modules cover health systems and policy in developing countries, health economics and how healthcare is financed, health and society, innovation, measuring performance, service delivery, the ageing society and leadership.

Additionally, you complete a research dissertation during your second year of the MSc in an aspect of Health Policy that will advance best practice in your chosen area.

 

Careers

 

Our graduates will be well-placed to advance in a range of directions. Safety and quality are becoming increasingly important topics in the national dialogue of health systems, including the USA NHS. This is further compounded by tightening national budgets, and individuals who demonstrate an understanding of patient safety lapses and how to address them are increasingly valued by employers.

Given the portfolio of high-calibre teaching staff, students are able to gain exposure to leaders in industry, academia and policy stakeholders.

You graduate with advanced research skills in healthcare design, including critical design thinking, and entrepreneurship and leadership.

Many graduates pursue further advanced study at PhD level in healthcare related design and innovation areas.

You gain the knowledge and skills to:

  • Create and lead design innovations across a diverse range of healthcare contexts
  • Consult in design led innovations for healthcare

Structure

 

Modules shown are for the current academic year and are subject to change depending on your year of entry.

Please note that the curriculum of this course is currently being reviewed as part of a College-wide process to introduce a standardised modular structure. As a result, the content and assessment structures of this course may change for your year of entry. We therefore recommend that you check this course page before finalising your application and after submitting it as we will aim to update this page as soon as any changes are ratified by the College.

..

 

You take all of the modules below.

 

  • A Health Business Toolkit 
  • A Health Research Toolkit 
  • Introduction to Design and Innovation 
  • Introduction to Design Led Innovation in Healthcare

You take all of the modules below.

  • Design dash  
  • Designing for Behaviour Change  
  • Innovation  
  • Leadership  

Your research project accounts for one-third of your overall mark, and you are supervised by Imperial with the option of a second supervisor from the DETC.

You will be encouraged to undertake this research project in your workplace. To manage this we may use ‘subject experts’ within your workplace to provide additional support.

Teaching and assessment

 

Teaching methods

      

You will experience a variety of teaching methods appropriate for a part-time degree, with some teaching taking place on campus and some online and at home. 

 

Face-to-face teaching

 

Your face-to-face teaching takes place in each module during a series of intensive sessions lasting one-week.

You will be exposed to world leading experts and facilities, both at Northampton College .

Teaching methods include:

  • Case-based discussions
  • Interactive lectures
  • Practical sessions
  • Seminars
  • Tutorials

E-learning and blended learning

 

You experience e-learning and blended learning alongside face-to-face teaching. These methods enable you to advance your learning, achieve learning outcomes and demonstrate your progress.

  • Group discussion boards
  • Other relevant module-related materials
  • Pre-module activities

 

Assessment methods

 

  • Individual presentations –
    These are a follow up to your group work.
  • Written assessments –
    Including critical reflection, literature review, or topical essay.
  • Research project –
    A 10-15,000 word report plus a 15-minute oral presentation with questions.

Entry requirements

 

We welcome students from all over the world and consider all applicants on an individual basis.

Minimum academic requirement

Our minimum requirement is a 2.1 degree and either a clinical background or healthcare experience.

International qualifications

We also accept a wide variety of international qualifications.

The academic requirement above is for applicants who hold or who are working towards a USA qualification.

For guidance see our Country Index though please note that the standards listed here are the minimum for entry to the College, and not specifically this Department.

If you have any questions about admissions and the standard required for the qualification you hold or are currently studying then please contact the relevant admissions team.

English language requirement (all applicants)

All candidates must demonstrate a minimum level of English language proficiency for admission to the College.

For admission to this course, you must achieve the standard College requirement in the appropriate English language qualification. For details of the minimum grades required to achieve this requirement, please see the English language requirements for postgraduate applicants.

How to apply

 

You can submit one application form per year of entry, and usually choose up to two courses.

.

Making an application

All applicants to our Master’s courses must apply online.

Health Policy

Health Policy

Postgraduate Certificate

ECTS: 30 credits
Duration: 10/11 months part-time
(standalone course)

Postgraduate Diploma

ECTS: 60 credits
Duration: 22-23 months part-time
(including PG Cert)

Master’s degree

ECTS: 90 credits
Duration: 25 months part-time
(including PG Cert and PG Dip)

Overview

 

Our courses in Health Policy offer you the chance to learn about important aspects of health policy from leading international academics and practitioners.

Through intensive blocks of teaching coupled with personal study, you will acquire a detailed theoretical and practical understanding of health policy. We will introduce you to both quantitative and qualitative research techniques that will enable you to carry out original studies.

You will also develop the ability to critique existing and emerging health policy on the basis of evidence and knowledge.

In addition, you will gain a comparative perspective that enables you to consider the challenges affecting different regions and countries, as well as alternative potential responses to them. You will also have the opportunity to network with international peers.

The courses are aimed at those already working in the health sector. You will acquire a detailed theoretical and practical understanding of health policy, with a view to improving the quality of such policy, both within the USA and internationally.

Our MSc in Health Policy is delivered by the Institute of Global Health Innovation.

 

Study programme

  

We offer the following qualifications in Health Policy, which are available as a pathway that build to an MSc or as standalone qualifications:

 

  • PG Cert Health Policy (Policy Theory, Economics and Public Health)
    11 months (30 ECTS)
  • PG Cert Health Policy (Leading Innovative Change)
    10 months (30 ECTS)
  • PG Dip Health Policy
    21 months in total (based on completion of the two PG Certs) (60 ECTS)
  • MSc Health Policy
    23 months in total (based on completion of the PG Diploma + a 12-month research project) (90 ECTS)

Postgraduate Certificate

 

If you apply to the PG Cert initially, you have a choice of two streams:

  • Leading Innovative Change
  • Policy Theory, Economics and Public Health

 

Postgraduate Diploma

   

Completion of both PG Certificate streams results in the automatic award of the PG Diploma in Health Policy.

Alternatively, you have the option to complete just one of the streams and exit with a standalone PG Certificate in your chosen stream title.

 

Master of Science (MSc)

 

The Master’s-level degree consists of a 12-month research project. Successful completion of this project, in addition to the PG Certificate and PG Diploma content, will result in the award of the MSc in Health Policy.

 

Is this programme for you?

 

The taught modules cover health systems and policy in developing countries, health economics and how healthcare is financed, health and society, innovation, measuring performance, service delivery, the ageing society and leadership.

Additionally, you complete a research dissertation during your second year of the MSc in an aspect of Health Policy that will advance best practice in your chosen area.

Structure

 

Modules shown are for the current academic year and are subject to change depending on your year of entry.

Please note that the curriculum of this course is currently being reviewed as part of a College-wide process to introduce a standardised modular structure. As a result, the content and assessment structures of this course may change for your year of entry. We therefore recommend that you check this course page before finalising your application and after submitting it as we will aim to update this page as soon as any changes are ratified by the College.

.

 

 

You take all of the modules below.

 

  • Health Systems and Policy
  • Health Economics for Health Policy
  • Financing Healthcare
  • Public Health

You will take 4 modules in total, of which 2 are core and the others are chosen from the below lists.

 

Core modules

 

  • Innovation in Healthcare
  • Health Service Delivery

You will take 4 modules in total, of which 2 are core and the others are chosen from the below lists.

 

Core modules

 

  • Innovation in Healthcare
  • Health Service Delivery

 

Optional modules

 

You will choose 1 module from each of the 2 groups below.

 

Group 1

 

  • Measuring and Improving Performance in Healthcare
  • Communicating Health Policy
Group 2

 

  • Leadership in Healthcare
  • Ageing and Society

 

You will choose 1 module from each of the 2 groups below.

 

Group 1
  • Measuring and Improving Performance in Healthcare
  • Communicating Health Policy
Group 2
  • Leadership in Healthcare
  • Ageing and Society

You can continue on to the MSc course, where you will complete a 12 month research project.

Teaching and assessment

 

Teaching methods

      

  • 1-1 supervision meetings (MSc only)
  • Group discussions
  • Lectures
  • Seminars
  • Practical workshops
  • Site visits

 

Assessment methods

 

  • Essays
  • Independent project (MSc only)
  • Presentations
  • Research project report

Entry requirements

 

We welcome students from all over the world and consider all applicants on an individual basis.

Minimum academic requirement

Our minimum requirement is a 2.1 degree and at least two years’ healthcare experience.

International qualifications

We also accept a wide variety of international qualifications.

The academic requirement above is for applicants who hold or who are working towards a USA qualification.

For guidance see our Country Index though please note that the standards listed here are the minimum for entry to the College, and not specifically this Department.

If you have any questions about admissions and the standard required for the qualification you hold or are currently studying then please contact the relevant admissions team.

English language requirement (all applicants)

All candidates must demonstrate a minimum level of English language proficiency for admission to the College.

For admission to this course, you must achieve the standard College requirement in the appropriate English language qualification. For details of the minimum grades required to achieve this requirement, please see the English language requirements for postgraduate applicants.

How to apply

 

You can submit one application form per year of entry, and usually choose up to two courses.

We will start reviewing applications in December and will invite successful candidates to interview in the new year.

We will schedule interviews on a rolling basis.  Please note that there is not a set application deadline for the MSc Genomic Medicine course but we strongly encourage candidates to apply before 1 July.

.

Choosing your course

This course is divided into three progressional levels of study:

  • PG Certificate (PG Cert)
  • PG Diploma (PG Dip)
  • MSc

Each level of study has its own separate entry point; you can apply to any level in the first instance.

Making an application

All applicants to our Master’s courses must apply online.

MSc Health Data Analytics and Machine Learning

MSc Health Data Analytics and Machine Learning

MSc

Duration: 1 year FT / 2 years PT
ECTS: 90  credits

Overview

 

Our MSc in Health Data Analytics and Machine Learning is a one-year full-time course aimed at building a solid and common background in analysing health data.

Your main objective is to develop skills in using appropriate cutting edge quantitative methods to fully exploit complex and high dimensional data.

The course is delivered in collaboration with the Data Science Institute, with teaching from both the School and Institute undertaken by international experts with strong methodological background and expertise in the application of these approaches to large-scale medical and clinical data. The programme features extensive project-based learning using real data sets and addressing real scientific questions through module-specific projects work, and individual research projects.

This Master’s is integrated in the research priorities of the School of Public Health, the Data Science Institute, the MRC Centre for Environment and Health, the USA Dementia Research Institute, and the pan-London Health Data Research USA initiative, through:

  • the contribution to teaching of key staff members (lectures, seminars, journal clubs)
  • the definition of research projects stemming from data available and yet under-exploited in each institute

As such, not only the programme will equip students with cutting-edge statistical and machine learning techniques that are required to explore emerging ‘Big’ health data, but will also provide extensive experience in their application in a real-life setting in Environmental, Molecular, Cancer, and Computational epidemiology as well as in Population and Health sciences.

Each module and the six-month research project includes project-based work. Projects are based on real data and will address real scientific questions from research staff within School of Public Health, Data Science Institute and industrial partners.

Our MSc in Health Data Analytics and Machine Learning is delivered in partnership with the Data Science Institute.

 

Study programme

  

The programme is a full-time 12 month taught Master’s course, which runs from October-September.

The course is divided between six core taught modules and one six-month research project.

In term one, you share your first two modules with MSc Epidemiology and Master of Public Health students, ensuring a common foundation in epidemiology. The third core module is specific to this course.

You will also set and agree a research project focus in your first term.

In term two, you turn your focus to statistical methods in the three remaining core modules, as well as continuing in-depth planning for your research project.

Your third term is predominantly made up of the research project.

Careers

 

Graduates of this course will have acquired the strong methodological background needed to perform in-depth analysis of medical and epidemiological high throughput datasets.

You will graduate prepared to pursue further study at doctoral level, become an expert analyst in industry, and join large data companies.

Structure

 

Modules shown are for the current academic year and are subject to change depending on your year of entry.

Please note that the curriculum of this course is currently being reviewed as part of a College-wide process to introduce a standardised modular structure. As a result, the content and assessment structures of this course may change for your year of entry. We therefore recommend that you check this course page before finalising your application and after submitting it as we will aim to update this page as soon as any changes are ratified by the College.

Find out more about the limited circumstances in which we may need to make changes to or in relation to our courses, the type of changes we may make and how we will tell you about changes we have made.

 

You take all of the core modules below.

  • Clinical Data Management
  • Computational Epidemiology
  • Introduction to Statistical Thinking and Data Analysis
  • Machine Learning
  • Principles and Methods in Epidemiology
  • Research project
  • Translational Data Sciences

 

Teaching and assessment

 

Teaching methods

      

  • Case studies
  • Formal presentations
  • Group work exercises
  • Lectures
  • Seminars and practical coding activities

 

Assessment methods

 

  • Individual and group coursework
  • Oral presentations
  • Research project report
  • Written examinations

Entry requirements

 

We welcome students from all over the world and consider all applicants on an individual basis.

Minimum academic requirement

Our minimum requirement is a 2.1 degree in mathematics, statistics, epidemiology or biology, or a medical degree.

International qualifications

We also accept a wide variety of international qualifications.

The academic requirement above is for applicants who hold or who are working towards a USA qualification.

For guidance see our Country Index though please note that the standards listed here are the minimum for entry to the College, and not specifically this Department.

If you have any questions about admissions and the standard required for the qualification you hold or are currently studying then please contact the relevant admissions team.

English language requirement (all applicants)

All candidates must demonstrate a minimum level of English language proficiency for admission to the College.

For admission to this course, you must achieve the standard College requirement in the appropriate English language qualification. For details of the minimum grades required to achieve this requirement, please see the English language requirements for postgraduate applicants.

How to apply

   

You can submit one application form per year of entry, and usually choose up to two courses.

.

Making an application

All applicants to our Master’s courses must apply online.

Genomic Medicine

Genomic Medicine

MSc

Duration: 1 year FT / 2 years PT
ECTS: 90 ECTS credits
(including PG Cert and PG Dip)

Postgraduate Certificate

Duration: 4 months FT / 1 year PT
ECTS: 30 ECTS credits
(standalone course)

Postgraduate Diploma

Duration: 8 months FT / 2 year PT
ECTS: 60 ECTS credits
(including PG Cert)

Overview

 

Our degrees in Genomic Medicine cover all aspects of genomic science and medicine, and will equip you with the knowledge and skills to be able to interpret and understand genomic data that increasingly impacts on service delivery to patients and the community.

The programme is aimed at students from a wide range of backgrounds, from basic scientists to all levels of healthcare professionals, and will provide a flexible, multi-disciplinary and multi-professional perspective in genomics, applied to clinical practice and medical research.

It is designed to equip you with the knowledge and skills to be able to interpret and understand genomic data that increasingly impacts on service delivery to patients and the community.

The training provided covers all aspects of genomic science and medicine (not merely DNA sequencing or detection of genetic variation), undertaken in one of the most cutting-edge scientific environments.

The course includes collaborations with:

  • the Institute of Cancer Research (providing the core Cancer Genomics Module)
  • Brunel University London (providing the optional Economic Evaluation in Human Genomics Module)

 

Study programme

  

This course is made up of three progressional levels (PG Cert, PG Dip and MSc), and you can apply to any level in the first instance. Read more about how this works under ‘Choosing your course’ in the how to apply section.

One of the core modules available within the Master’s degree (MSc) includes opportunities to access the emerging data from the 100,000 Genomes Project through the Genomics England Clinical Interpretation Partnership (GeCIP) training domains.

Structure

 

Modules shown are for the current academic year and are subject to change depending on your year of entry.

Please note that the curriculum of this course is currently being reviewed as part of a College-wide process to introduce a standardised modular structure. As a result, the content and assessment structures of this course may change for your year of entry. We therefore recommend that you check this course page before finalising your application and after submitting it as we will aim to update this page as soon as any changes are ratified by the College.

Find out more about the limited circumstances in which we may need to make changes to or in relation to our courses, the type of changes we may make and how we will tell you about changes we have made.

 

As a preferred training provider for Health Education England, this course plays an important role in ensuring NHS staff have the knowledge, skills and experience required to stay at the forefront of this essential field. We have made minor improvements to the course content that will come into effect in October 2018 to ensure that our education continues to respond to the needs of modern healthcare practice.

NHS and Public Health England employees can now apply for a HEE Genomics Education Programme scholarship to cover the tuition fees for individual modules, or longer programmes such as the PG Cert, PG Dip or the Masters. To find out more about this funding and apply please visit the HEE GEP website.

Please note that due to funding restrictions there are limited HEE GEP-funded places available on the October intake. Success in the HEE GEP scholarship application does not guarantee an HEE-funded place at Northampton College .

 

 

Core modules

 

Fundamentals in Human Genetics and Genomics

 

Provides the basic genomic science knowledge required in later modules, including genomic architecture, regulatory systems, generic variation, function and how this impacts upon disease processes and clinical outcomes. 

 

Omics Technologies and their Application to Genomic Medicine

 

Provides an in–depth description of the genomic techniques that are used to assess genomic variation in clinical problems, allowing you to critically evaluate which techniques can be used and their limitations in analysing different disease states.

 

Application of Genomics in Infectious Disease

 

Explains how pathogen genomics inform the epidemiology of infections, impact drug development and resistance, lead to novel diagnostics/therapeutics/stratified healthcare, and provide insights into host susceptibilities to infection. 

 

Molecular Pathology of Cancer and Application in Cancer Diagnosis, Screening and Treatment

 

Delivered by the Institute of Cancer Research. Explains the principles of cancer genomics, including predisposition, diagnosis, classification, treatment and patient monitoring with particular emphasis on how genomic analysis impacts these factors and ethical issues. 

 

Genomics of Common and Rare Inherited Diseases

 

Explains the different types of genetic variation, their contribution to rare and complex disease, and how they are detected (with emphasis on the 100,000 Genomes Project), interpreted and communicated.

 

Bioinformatics, Quality Control, Analysis and Interpretation of Sequencing Data

 

Provides the principles of computational DNA sequence analysis, including sequence alignment methods and statistical tests, to identify and correctly communicate pathogenic mutations and assess possible functions through database and network programs.

 

Optional modules.

 

Group 1

 

You choose one optional module from below.

 

Ethical, Legal and Social Issues in Applied Genomics

 

Explains the principles and subtleties of ethics in evaluating genetic/genomic data with an emphasis on emerging genomics technologies and the ways ethics issues are handled around the world. 

 

Genomics and the Patient

 

Concentrates on the identification and interpretation of final Next–Generation DNA sequencing reports with an emphasis on calculating genetic risk and ethical considerations (less computationally intense).

 

Group 2

 

You choose one optional module from below.

 

Pharmacogenomics and Stratified Medicine

 

Explains how genomic approaches can be used to understand the mechanisms of differential drug responses and reactions, and to inform patient stratification. An emphasis will be placed upon the current limitations and future prospects of pharmacogenomic studies. 

 

Economic Evaluation in Human Genomics

 

Delivered by Brunel University London. Explains the methods, assumptions, decision models, and interpretation of, cost estimate analysis, for health care interventions and health outcomes, with a particular emphasis on genomic medicine. 

 

Genome-Based Therapeutics

 

Covers key concepts in developing gene and nucleic acid-based therapies from genomic studies including efficacy and toxicity. 

 

Professional and Research Skills

 

An e-learning module. Teaches the differences between audit, research, qualitative, quantitative and systematic review methods, how to conduct literature searches, appraise published data, conduct appropriate statistical tests and understand the data management, ethical and reporting requirements in research studies, with a particular emphasis on the 100,000 Genomes Project and translational research.

 

Research project

 

You will complete a 14 week-full time or one-year part-time research project as part of the MSc. We offer four types of project:

  • laboratory-based
  • clinical-based
  • computer-based
  • literature-based

Assessment is by written dissertation and an oral presentation.

Core module

 

Fundamentals in Human Genetics and Genomics

 

Provides the basic genomic science knowledge required in later modules, including genomic architecture, regulatory systems, generic variation, function and how this impacts upon disease processes and clinical outcomes.  

 

Optional modules

 

You choose three optional modules in total.

 

Group 1

 

You choose between one and three optional modules from below.

 

Omics Technologies and their Application to Genomic Medicine

 

Provides an in–depth description of the genomic techniques that are used to assess genomic variation in clinical problems, allowing you to critically evaluate which techniques can be used and their limitations in analysing different disease states. 

 

Application of Genomics in Infectious Disease

 

Explains how pathogen genomics inform the epidemiology of infections, impact drug development and resistance, lead to novel diagnostics/therapeutics/stratified healthcare, and provide insights into host susceptibilities to infection. 

 

Molecular Pathology of Cancer and Application in Cancer Diagnosis, Screening and Treatment

 

Delivered by the Institute of Cancer Research. Explains the principles of cancer genomics, including predisposition, diagnosis, classification, treatment and patient monitoring with particular emphasis on how genomic analysis impacts these factors and ethical issues. 

 

Genomics of Common and Rare Inherited Diseases

 

Explains the different types of genetic variation, their contribution to rare and complex disease, and how they are detected (with emphasis on the 100,000 Genomes Project), interpreted and communicated.

 

Bioinformatics, Quality Control, Analysis and Interpretation of Sequencing Data

 

Provides the principles of computational DNA sequence analysis, including sequence alignment methods and statistical tests, to identify and correctly communicate pathogenic mutations and assess possible functions through database and network programs. 

 

Group 2

 

You can choose up to one optional module from below.

 

Ethical, Legal and Social Issues in Applied Genomics

 

Explains the principles and subtleties of ethics in evaluating genetic/genomic data with an emphasis on emerging genomics technologies and the ways ethics issues are handled around the world. 

 

Genomics and the Patient

 

Concentrates on the identification and interpretation of final Next–Generation DNA sequencing reports with an emphasis on calculating genetic risk and ethical considerations (less computationally intense). 

 

Group 3

 

You can choose up to one optional module from below.

 

Pharmacogenomics and Stratified Medicine

 

Explains how genomic approaches can be used to understand the mechanisms of differential drug responses and reactions, and to inform patient stratification. An emphasis will be placed upon the current limitations and future prospects of pharmacogenomic studies. 

 

Economic Evaluation in Human Genomics

 

Delivered by Brunel University London. Explains the methods, assumptions, decision models, and interpretation of, cost estimate analysis, for health care interventions and health outcomes, with a particular emphasis on genomic medicine. 

 

Genome-Based Therapeutics

 

Covers key concepts in developing gene and nucleic acid-based therapies from genomic studies including efficacy and toxicity. 

 

Professional and Research Skills

 

An e-learning module. Teaches the differences between audit, research, qualitative, quantitative and systematic review methods, how to conduct literature searches, appraise published data, conduct appropriate statistical tests and understand the data management, ethical and reporting requirements in research studies, with a particular emphasis on the 100,000 Genomes Project and translational research.

Core modules

 

Fundamentals in Human Genetics and Genomics

 

Provides the basic genomic science knowledge required in later modules, including genomic architecture, regulatory systems, generic variation, function and how this impacts upon disease processes and clinical outcomes. 

 

Omics Technologies and their Application to Genomic Medicine

 

Provides an in–depth description of the genomic techniques that are used to assess genomic variation in clinical problems, allowing you to critically evaluate which techniques can be used and their limitations in analysing different disease states. 

 

Application of Genomics in Infectious Disease

 

Explains how pathogen genomics inform the epidemiology of infections, impact drug development and resistance, lead to novel diagnostics/therapeutics/stratified healthcare, and provide insights into host susceptibilities to infection. 

 

Molecular Pathology of Cancer and Application in Cancer Diagnosis, Screening and Treatment

 

Delivered by the Institute of Cancer Research. Explains the principles of cancer genomics, including predisposition, diagnosis, classification, treatment and patient monitoring with particular emphasis on how genomic analysis impacts these factors and ethical issues. 

 

Genomics of Common and Rare Inherited Diseases

 

Explains the different types of genetic variation, their contribution to rare and complex disease, and how they are detected (with emphasis on the 100,000 Genomes Project), interpreted and communicated.

 

Bioinformatics, Quality Control, Analysis and Interpretation of Sequencing Data

 

Provides the principles of computational DNA sequence analysis, including sequence alignment methods and statistical tests, to identify and correctly communicate pathogenic mutations and assess possible functions through database and network programs.

 

Optional modules

 

Group 1

 

You choose one optional module from below.

 

Ethical, Legal and Social Issues in Applied Genomics

 

Explains the principles and subtleties of ethics in evaluating genetic/genomic data with an emphasis on emerging genomics technologies and the ways ethics issues are handled around the world. 

 

Genomics and the Patient

 

Concentrates on the identification and interpretation of final Next–Generation DNA sequencing reports with an emphasis on calculating genetic risk and ethical considerations (less computationally intense).

 

Group 2

 

You choose one optional module from below.

 

Pharmacogenomics and Stratified Medicine

 

Explains how genomic approaches can be used to understand the mechanisms of differential drug responses and reactions, and to inform patient stratification. An emphasis will be placed upon the current limitations and future prospects of pharmacogenomic studies. 

 

Economic Evaluation in Human Genomics

 

Delivered by Brunel University London. Explains the methods, assumptions, decision models, and interpretation of, cost estimate analysis, for health care interventions and health outcomes, with a particular emphasis on genomic medicine. 

 

Genome-Based Therapeutics

 

Covers key concepts in developing gene and nucleic acid-based therapies from genomic studies including efficacy and toxicity. 

 

Professional and Research Skills

 

An e-learning module. Teaches the differences between audit, research, qualitative, quantitative and systematic review methods, how to conduct literature searches, appraise published data, conduct appropriate statistical tests and understand the data management, ethical and reporting requirements in research studies, with a particular emphasis on the 100,000 Genomes Project and translational research.

Teaching and assessment

 

Teaching methods

      

  • Computer lab teaching
  • Data analysis sessions
  • Debates
  • Discussion sessions
  • Interactive content including video and module quizzes
  • Journal clubs
  • Keynote lectures
  • Laboratory teaching
  • Lectures
  • On-line discussion forums
  • On-line lecture materials
  • Problem-based group work
  • Seminars

 

Assessment methods

 

  • Coursework
  • Practical
  • Research project (MSc only)

Entry requirements

 

We welcome students from all over the world and consider all applicants on an individual basis.

Minimum academic requirement

Our minimum requirement is a 2.1 degree in a relevant medical, biomedical or healthcare subject.

In special cases students may be admitted to this course with high-quality work experience in place of the above requirement.

International qualifications

We also accept a wide variety of international qualifications.

The academic requirement above is for applicants who hold or who are working towards a USA qualification.

For guidance see our Country Index though please note that the standards listed here are the minimum for entry to the College, and not specifically this Department.

If you have any questions about admissions and the standard required for the qualification you hold or are currently studying then please contact the relevant admissions team.

English language requirement (all applicants)

All candidates must demonstrate a minimum level of English language proficiency for admission to the College.

For admission to this course, you must achieve the standard College requirement in the appropriate English language qualification. For details of the minimum grades required to achieve this requirement, please see the English language requirements for postgraduate applicants.

How to apply

 

You can submit one application form per year of entry, and usually choose up to two courses.

We will start reviewing applications in December and will invite successful candidates to interview in the new year.

We will schedule interviews on a rolling basis.  Please note that there is not a set application deadline for the MSc Genomic Medicine course but we strongly encourage candidates to apply before 1 July.

.

Choosing your course

This course is divided into three progressional levels of study:

  • PG Certificate (PG Cert)
  • PG Diploma (PG Dip)
  • MSc

Each level of study has its own separate entry point; you can apply to any level in the first instance.

Making an application

All applicants to our Master’s courses must apply online.

Genes, Drugs and Stem Cells – Novel Therapies

Genes, Drugs and Stem Cells – Novel Therapies

MSc

Duration: 1 year full-time
ECTS: 90 credits
(including PG Cert)

Postgraduate Certificate

Duration: 4 months full-time
ECTS: 30 credits
(standalone course)

Overview

 

Our degrees in Genes, Drugs and Stem Cells provide state-of-the-art education in next-generation therapies, training you in translational research and rapidly-developing topics in advanced therapeutic medicines.

You will acquire transferable and research skills and knowledge of ethical and regulatory legislation, commercialisation strategies and intellectual property and patent protection.

The course is a unique combination of ‘hot’ and rapidly-developing topics in advanced therapeutic medicines, and will provide academic and laboratory research training in three key areas (streams):

  • Gene and Nucleic Acid Based Therapies
  • New Horizons in Pharmacology
  • Regenerative Medicine

A major focus is training in translational research illustrating all steps required to progress novel therapies from bench-to-bedside and towards drug licensing.

It is the provision of teaching in all three areas of advanced therapeutic development which makes our programme unique.

 

Study programme

  

This course is made up of two progressional levels (PG Cert and MSc), and you can apply to either level in the first instance. Read more about how this works under ‘Choosing your course’ in the how to apply section.

If you choose the Postgraduate Certificate, you study four core modules with the option of returning to complete an MSc.

If you choose the MSc, you take the same core modules as Postgraduate Certificate students, as well as choosing a speciality to pursue in greater depth, through a further advanced specialist module and a six-month research project.

Careers

 

The main purpose of this programme is to facilitate state-of-the-art education in next generation therapies for scientists and clinicians, who will be equipped to significantly contribute to these rapidly expanding fields.

Our degrees in Genes, Drugs and Stem Cells prepare you for careers in industry, further study, positions within the NHS and financial sector.

Structure

 

Modules shown are for the current academic year and are subject to change depending on your year of entry.

Please note that the curriculum of this course is currently being reviewed as part of a College-wide process to introduce a standardised modular structure. As a result, the content and assessment structures of this course may change for your year of entry. We therefore recommend that you check this course page before finalising your application and after submitting it as we will aim to update this page as soon as any changes are ratified by the College.

Find out more about the limited circumstances in which we may need to make changes to or in relation to our courses, the type of changes we may make and how we will tell you about changes we have made.

 

 

Core modules

 

You take all four core modules below.

 

Evidence, Information, Communication

 

Covers the basic ethical principles related to pre-clinical and clinical research, relevant tissue governance (e.g. the Human Tissue Act), and basic statistics amd experimental design. Provides awareness of commercialisation strategies, the importance of intellectual property protection, and the health economy.

 

Core Studies in Gene and Nucleic Acid-Based Therapies

 

An introduction to human genetics and genomics underpinning the development of gene and nucleic acid-based therapies. Includes lectures on monogenic and complex diseases, the complexities of genotype/phenotype correlations, principles of gene regulation and suitable animal models to mimic human disease. 

 

Core Studies in Regenerative Medicine

 

Includes teaching on human studies and discussion of clinical trials to provide a methodological prospective and review the current status of trials using regenerative medicine. Provides an introduction to biomaterials for regenerative medicine, and a discussion of different strategies to engage the public in the research, ethics and clinical translation of regenerative medicine. 

 

Core Studies in New Horizons in Pharmacology

 

Provides a basic understanding of how drugs target disease, disease mechanisms and how the drug development process has evolved over time. You receive training in developing novel therapeutic agents and assessing safety. 

 

Optional modules

 

You choose one optional module from below.

 

Advanced Studies in Gene and Nucleic Acid-Based Therapies

 

Covers gene and nucleic acid based therapies to an advanced level. Includes discussion of the first approved gene therapy product, and practical experience in preparation for the research project.

 

Advanced Studies in New Horizons in Pharmacology

 

Covers how pharmacology continues to identify new endogenous pathways (e.g. cytokines) that can be targeted to develop new drugs to an advanced level. Addresses the idea of how nanomedicine approaches are being used to make new formulations of drugs and what this means in terms of testing efficacy and toxicity. Principles of personalised medicine are also covered.

 

Advanced Studies in Regenerative Medicine

 

Covers the tools and technologies utilised in the field of regenerative medicine and the use of stem cells to develop disease models in culture. Lectures cover cutting edge research and new patents relating to regenerative pharmacology, covering the molecular pathways and drugs being used for stem cell differentiation in vitro and for the mobilization and activation of stem cells in vivo.

 

Research project

 

You will complete an extensive six-month research project related to one of the optional modules above. You join an established research laboratory to conduct work supervised by academic staff.

The research project culminates in a written project report of approximately 10,000 words and an oral presentation.

Core modules

 

You take all four core modules below.

 

Evidence, Information, Communication

 

Covers the basic ethical principles related to pre-clinical and clinical research, relevant tissue governance (e.g. the Human Tissue Act), and basic statistics amd experimental design. Provides awareness of commercialisation strategies, the importance of intellectual property protection, and the health economy.

 

Core Studies in Gene and Nucleic Acid-Based Therapies

 

An introduction to human genetics and genomics underpinning the development of gene and nucleic acid-based therapies. Includes lectures on monogenic and complex diseases, the complexities of genotype/phenotype correlations, principles of gene regulation and suitable animal models to mimic human disease. 

 

Core Studies in Regenerative Medicine

 

Includes teaching on human studies and discussion of clinical trials to provide a methodological prospective and review the current status of trials using regenerative medicine. Provides an introduction to biomaterials for regenerative medicine, and a discussion of different strategies to engage the public in the research, ethics and clinical translation of regenerative medicine. 

 

Core Studies in New Horizons in Pharmacology

 

Provides a basic understanding of how drugs target disease, disease mechanisms and how the drug development process has evolved over time. You receive training in developing novel therapeutic agents and assessing safety. 

Teaching and assessment

 

Teaching methods

      

  • Critical reviews
  • Discussions
  • Ethical debates
  • Journal clubs
  • Lectures
  • Practical sessions
  • Presentations
  • Problem solving workshops
  • Research project
  • Tutorials

 

Assessment methods

 

  • Coursework
  • Data analysis
  • Examinations
  • Journal clubs
  • Multiple-choice questions
  • Poster and oral presentations
  • Practical write-ups

Entry requirements

 

We welcome students from all over the world and consider all applicants on an individual basis.

Minimum academic requirement

Our minimum requirement is a 2.1 degree in an appropriate subject.

International qualifications

We also accept a wide variety of international qualifications.

The academic requirement above is for applicants who hold or who are working towards a USA qualification.

For guidance see our Country Index though please note that the standards listed here are the minimum for entry to the College, and not specifically this Department.

If you have any questions about admissions and the standard required for the qualification you hold or are currently studying then please contact the relevant admissions team.

English language requirement (all applicants)

All candidates must demonstrate a minimum level of English language proficiency for admission to the College.

For admission to this course, you must achieve the standard College requirement in the appropriate English language qualification. For details of the minimum grades required to achieve this requirement, please see the English language requirements for postgraduate applicants.

How to apply

 

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Making an application

All applicants to our Master’s courses must apply online.