Cancer & Molecular Pathology and Genomics

This programme will provide you with theoretical and practical knowledge of modern molecular technologies as applied to human disease, with an emphasis on cancer. It will also train you in the application and interpretation of advanced molecular technologies and their use in pathology.

At the heart of the course is a focus on developing your skills in the laboratory, as well as a variety of other scientific and transferable skills. By studying Cancer & Molecular Pathology and Genomics you will be equipping yourself with the tools to pursue a career in academic research, either in the clinical, pharmaceutical or diagnostic setting.

Full Time

Semester 1: September - December (60 credits taught modules)
Semester 2: January - March (60 credits taught modules)
Semester 3: May - August (60 credit Lab Project, MSc only)

Part Time

Year 1

Semester 1: September - December (30 credits taight modules)
Semester 2: January - March (30 credits taught modules)

Year 2

Semester 1: September - December (30 credits taught modules)
Semester 2: January - March (30 credits taight modules)
Semester 3: May - August (60 credit Lab Project, MSc only)

Exams

Semester 1: January      Semester 2: March/April       Semester 3: August resits

Each 15 credit module involves approximately 30 hours contact time and 120 hours of self-study.

Each 7.5 credit module involves approximately 15 hours contact time and 60 hours of self-study.

The Lab Project involves 10.5 weeks full time in one of the Institute’s research centres. There may be some flexibility to arrange part time projects for part time students who are unable to commit to a full time project. These are arranged on a case by case basis in consultation with the Programme Director.

Award and structure

MSc: 120 taught credits + 60 credit lab project
PG Diploma: 120 taught credits

A variety of study options are available, these include Full Time (1 year) and Part Time (2 years), on-site or by Distance Learning.

Distance learning is delivered via the University’s online learning platform - QMplus. Onsite lectures are recorded and made available to Distance Learning students, together with copies of the slides and other supporting teaching materials.
Lab-based elements of the programme are taught through video tutorials.

Distance Learners usually carry out their Lab Project at an External organisation (whether this be their place of work or a place they have other links with). All External projects will be approved by the Programme Director. In some circumstances Distance Learners may be able to carry out their lab project in one of our research centres, but priority for places is given to onsite students.

Assessment

Posters and oral presentations will be delivered via Skype.
Examinations can be at Queen Mary University of London or at an approved local venue (usually a British Council or a local Academic Institution).

Compulsory modules

Cancer Biology
Basic Pathology
Molecular Diagnostics and Therapeutics
Research Methods
Cancer Prevention and Screening
Molecular Pathology of Solid Tumours
Research Lab Skllls
Genomic Approaches to Cancer

Optional modules 

Biological Therapies
Molecular Targeted Therapies and Immunotherapy for Blood Cancers

Students will choose 15 credits of optional modules - this is likely to be either one 15 credit module or two 7.5 credit modules, depending on the programme structure. For more detailed module information, visit the module details page.

Academic Entry Requirements

• A medical degree; or
• a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant subject from a recognised institution with 2:1 or better. Applicants with a 2:2 and strong supporting evidence will also be considered; or
• an appropriate professional qualification; or
• Successful completion of at least 3 years of MBBS studies (including the equivalent of one year of patient based teaching)*

*Intercalating students must pass exams taken prior to commencing the MSc at first attempt and confirm that the beginning of their following year of MBBS studies start after all assessment for the MSc has been completed.

For more information on intercalated degrees please see here.

For international equivalencies please see the QMUL International Office.

English Language Requirements

Applicants for whom English is not a first language will also require a minimum IELTS score of 7.0 (with 6.5 in writing) or equivalent, unless your undergraduate degree was studied in English. For more information on English language requirements, and acceptable qualifications, please click here.

How to apply

All applications must be completed online.

As part of your application you will be required to provide the following documents:

• Personal Statement
• CV
• 2 references (at least one of these must be an academic reference)
• Copies of degree transcripts
• English language results and certificate (if applicable)

Intercalating Applicants

Intercalating students must also apply via the Intercalated Degrees Admissions team. Please see here for more detailed information about the application process.

Full-time study

September 2020 | 1 year

Funding and scholarships

Numerous funding options are available to Postgraduate students. For more information click here.

Deposit

Due to receiving large volumes of successful applications, it is our department policy to request a deposit of £2000 from overseas students and £1000 from home/EU students in order to secure your place on the course. This will be payable on acceptance of an offer.

This programme will provide you with the skills and experience necessary to pursue further academic research at PhD/MD level. It will also provide a strong foundation for those working in clinical, pharmaceutical or diagnostic settings.

Each year we retain a proportion of our graduates within the Institute as PhD students, research assistants or clinical trials co-ordinators.