University of Birmingham - College of Medicine and Health

MSc in Respiratory Medicine

Course Structure

As a full-time student, you'll typically take three modules in each term, followed by a dissertation. Whilst content of the course may change, here's what you can expect to study in each term.

Term 1

This term begins with introductory sessions on respiratory anatomy, physiology and other basic sciences. The first core module you study this semester is Respiratory Medicine in the Community, which covers common conditions including asthma. You'll study at least one optional module, then end the term with a presentation to your peers where you can share what you learnt in your optional module and how it applies to respiratory medicine. Finally, during this term you'll pick your dissertation topic from a list we provide.

Term 2

Within term two, you'll study the core module Respiratory Medicine in Secondary Care, which looks at topic areas including cystic fibrosis, lung cancer and respiratory failure. You'll also study optional modules and deliver a presentation to your peers. In term two, you'll also write the protocol for your dissertation.

Term 3

In the third term, you'll learn about clinical presentations, clinical approach and management of common allergic diseases, with a focus on those that can affect either upper or lower airways. This is alongside a list of optional modules, earning you the relevant credits. The majority of your dissertation is completed during term three. You'll be supported by the academics in the team to plan and conduct your own research project, culminating in a research dissertation. This module runs parallel to the rest of the taught components of the course which also includes a research protocol and oral presentation as part of the assessment.

Module information

With a wide selection of optional modules available, you'll have the flexibility to customize your learning experience and degree to suit your individual goals and interests. For the masters course, you'll have to complete the three core modules (20 credits each), a dissertation and a variety of optional modules to provide the total of 120 credits.

The modules listed below are an indication only and may be subject to change. Occasionally, it may be necessary to make changes to modules, for example, to ensure they remain current and relevant.

The following must be taken:

• Respiratory Medicine in Secondary Care
• Respiratory Medicine in the Community
• Allergy
• Dissertation MSc Respiratory Medicine

Students are required to choose 60 credits from the below; other modules in the College which are offered openly by their module leads may be considered after discussion with the programme lead. Students should be aware that timetabling considerations may impact on the modules they can choose. Students are required to choose at least one methodological module which will train them in relevant research methods they plan to use in their dissertation module.

Optional Modules

• Health Information and Health Informatics
• Adult Learning Theory and its Application to Multidisciplinary Healthcare Simulation.
• Clinical Trials
• Epidemiology, Statistics and Research Methods
• Health Economics
• Introduction to Leadership and Management for Health
• Healthcare Public Health
• Human Factors in Healthcare
• Palliative Care of Cancer Patients
• Radiation Biology
• Legal Aspects
• Occupational Exposure and Risk Assessment
• Principles and Practices of Occupational Health
• Systematic Reviews and Evidence Synthesis

By completing this programme, you'll be well-prepared to work at an advanced level in respiratory medicine, whether as a clinical nurse specialist or allied healthcare professional. If you're medically qualified, you'll gain a competitive edge over those who have completed Deanery-based training and assessment, giving you a strong advantage when applying for consultant roles.

Careers Network

Get ready for tomorrow, with advice, guidance and opportunities at every step of your studies. From developing new skills to preparing for a PhD, our Careers Network can help you gain an advantage in the job market or advance in your field.

Whatever you plan to do after your degree, the Careers Network offers a range of events and support services including networking opportunities, career coaching, one-to-one guidance, careers fairs and links with leading graduate recruiters. We also offer subject-specific careers consultants and a dedicated careers website for international students.

Course delivery

Our blended learning approach gives you exposure to a range of experiences, on campus, online and on specialist placements.

• Adaptable learning styles - Lectures, seminars, small group work.
• Workplace-based placement - work alongside our prestigious NHS partner, University Hospitals Birmingham to facilitate clinically relevant learning.
• Assessment - Multiple choice questions, short answer questions and written assignments are used for summative assessments, with shorter written work being possible to gain formative feedback on prior to the summative elements.