MSc-Postgraduate Diploma in Molecular Pathology-Molecular Toxicology-Molecular Pathology and Toxicology
ObjectivesTo provide detailed training in the theory and practical techniques of molecular pathology and toxicology with emphasis on understanding of molecular mechanisms in cancer and chemoprevention. A 6 month laboratory project placement in industry or a research laboratory in the University is an integral part of the course. The course is designed to give relevant knowledge and skills to students and the close involvement of the Department with industry and the NHS ensures the continued suitability of this course for future employment in the pharmaceutical, biotechnology, health care and environmental control industry, as well as in academic research.
Entry requirementsEntry requirements Academic Qualifications: A good honours degree in a bioscience subject, including biology, molecular biology, biochemistry, biotechnology, microbiology, medicine or veterinary science. For those whose first language is not English: Minimum ILETS score of 6.5 or TOEFL 250 (computer score; 600 written paper); OR documentary evidence that the medium of instruction for previous degree(s) was in English.
Academic titleMSc/Postgraduate Diploma in Molecular Pathology/Molecular Toxicology/Molecular Pathology and Toxicology
Course descriptionCourse modules
The course comprises lectures, tutorials, seminars, 8 weeks of practical projects and a 6 month research project placement. Full-time students complete all core modules, choose one topic from the advanced module for assessment and complete the research laboratory placement. The title of the degree awarded depends on the assessed topics completed and the project placement. Part-time students complete appropriate parts of the course as defined by their learning contract including a research laboratory placement. Industrially sponsored students can participate on the course on a module scheme over a 2-3 year period.
Science skills:
-Introduction to Molecular Pathology, Lectures & Tutorials
-Introduction to Molecular Toxicology, Lectures & Tutorials
Introductory Laboratory Projects:
-Molecular Pathology
-Molecular Toxicology
Advanced Topics in Molecular Pathology and Toxicology:
-Carcinogenesis & Cancer Biology
-Molecular Toxicology
-Reproductive Toxicology
-Inflammation
Research Laboratory Placement
Teaching and assessment methods
Lectures and seminars are held, with some speakers from industry. There are formally structured practical sessions, and small group problem solving sessions using defined methodologies. The collaborating industrial company or research institution will provide facilities and co-supervision on an academically suitable specified project.
There are five main elements of assessment:
-Continuous in the form of essays, tutorial work, short and long laboratory practical reports
-All candidates must submit a project placement report.
-There are two examinations:
o one 90 minute multiple-choice exam covering the main lecture program.
o one three hour paper which tests the ability to analyse data and design a research project in pathology and toxicology.
-Accreditations of prior learning (APL) - part time students only. Up to 25% of the requirements of the course may be satisfied by APL.
-Viva Voce - given at the end of the course by the external examiners.