MSc Biomedical Science

Teaching & Learning

Independent study is a crucial part of learning at university and you will be required to undertake many hours of self-directed research and reading, and preparation and writing of assessments. Your course is delivered through several modules, which will help you to plan your time and establish a study routine. Outside of your lectures, workshops and tutorials, a range of support is available to assist with your independent study. Our subject-specific librarians will be on hand to direct you to specialist learning and study-skill resources. You’ll also be assigned an academic advisor to give you tailored feedback and support.

Core Modules

What you'll learn

Diagnostic Biochemistry

As next-generation sequencing methods and genome-wide association studies advance, clearer links between genetic variations and diseases are being discovered. In this module, you'll focus on the existing approaches used to investigate these links and identify their limitations. With advances in technology, previously undiagnosable or untreatable conditions are now being revealed. You'll learn about a wide range of diagnostic methods used to detect illnesses, and evaluate their strengths and weaknesses. Additionally, you'll explore the connection between genomics, proteomics and metabolomics, and how they can affect larger biochemical networks, including the endocrine system.

Diagnostic Microbiology

Using a case study approach, you'll explore the diagnosis of key microbial pathogens. Covering microbial drug resistance, new disease epidemics, pathogen mutation and evolution, you'll address issues that impact diagnosis using a global perspective. You'll develop a grounding in the key diagnostic methods, such as advanced molecular diagnostics and the interaction of microbial pathogens with the human host. In practical sessions, you'll apply relevant diagnostics to solve case study problems as you learn to diagnose bacterial infections using a range of lab results.

Advanced Research Methods

Develop your applied laboratory and research skills to master's level and beyond. You'll discover methods widely used in biomedical sciences, preparing you for your future career. Combining theory and practice, you'll delve into modern experimental techniques used in biological, medical and chemical analysis. We'll introduce you to COSHH and risk assessments to help you conduct lab research safely and productively. You'll also explore approaches to research, including quantitative data, data collection methods and research ethics. These skills will enable you to effectively plan your research, evaluate research literature and analyse data.

MSc Research Project - Preparation

Explore the different approaches to safely and ethically carry out a lab-based research project. The skills you will develop will allow you to work effectively in the lab and analyse research data using appropriate statistical tests.

Pathology of Immune & Blood Diseases

Gain a thorough grounding in pathology, the study and diagnosis of disease through the analysis of patient samples, including tissues and cells. You'll explore and evaluate a variety of current laboratory techniques used in research and diagnostics to detect illnesses, monitor treatments, and manipulate disease mechanisms. You'll focus your knowledge on immune and blood systems, covering methodologies and expected diagnostic results, and learn about the defects in these systems associated with clinical conditions.

Professional Development

Develop your awareness of project management and leadership and enhance your skills as a reflective practitioner/researcher. This module will also aid you in the identification of needs for the development of a career plan.

MSc Research Project - Data Collection

Explore the different approaches to safely and ethically carry out a lab-based research project. The skills you'll develop will enable you to work effectively in the lab and analyse research data using appropriate statistical tests.

1. Develop a systemic understanding of the sub-disciplines associated with Biomedical Sciences and identify and evaluate relevant literature to gain an understanding of the context of their research and practice in the wider field.
2. Demonstrate expertise in specialized and advanced research through the independent design and execution of a substantial research project, and prepare critical written and oral reports to effectively communicate their findings.
3. Develop transferable skills such as problem-solving, decision-making, time management, organization, communication, and teamwork to effectively manage independent study and research projects.
4. Identify suitable practical and analytical methodologies and demonstrate the ability to apply them to produce and analyze data, and to compare and contrast such data with published literature.
5. Evaluate the potential impact of current research from different disciplines relevant to Biomedical Sciences, and integrate information from a range of sources to further the knowledge base.
6. Be able to evaluate and apply theoretical and methodological knowledge from a range of disciplines to formulate innovative solutions to problems and construct research questions.

This course will open up skilled laboratory-based roles, such as research scientist or biomedical scientist, and you will be in a strong position should you want to apply to the NHS Scientist Training Programme. Alternatively, you could use your expertise as a science writer and researcher to write and edit scientific news, articles and features. You will also be thoroughly prepared for doctoral-level study.

• Researcher
• PhD student
• Clinical microbiologist
• Research technician