Compulsory modules

Advanced Molecular Techniques (20 credits)

Our understanding of basic concepts in molecular biology has given rise to the different ‘omics’ areas of modern research and application (genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, metabolomics etc.). This module will begin by refreshing your understanding of topics such as DNA structure, replication, mutation and repair, and gene expression. We will also explore how the biological concepts have been exploited by scientists to derive and apply the wide array of methodologies that have come to be known collectively by the term “molecular biology”, such as DNA cloning, PCR, quantitative PCR, microarrays and RNA interference. This expanding collection of technologies provides scientists with a fundamental basis for studying biological processes and various aspects of human disease. Several of these techniques will be used, through laboratory-based practical work, to deepen your understanding and illustrate potential applications.

Advances in Medical Genetics (20 credits)

This module aims to consider the cutting-edge genomic technologies now being used in clinical settings and we hope to include a hospital genetics lab hospital tour. Topics explored will include methods in medical genetics and the application of molecular and genetic tools to the use of information banks such as Personal Genomes and Big Data, and we will look at the role of collaborations such as Genomics England in the expansion of genomic information. The module will also introduce the application of genomic data to the development of biomarker diagnosis, personalised medicine, patient surrogate treatment models, self-monitoring and infectious disease evolution.

Clinical Genetics and Diagnostics (20 credits)

This module offers the opportunity to study how genetic and genomic technologies can be used to identify, characterise and diagnose diseases in three subject areas: molecular oncology, chronic and congenital diseases and infectious disease. Clinical case studies and research seminars will introduce current topics in the field allowing students to identify topics that particularly interest them, for further independent reading. Students will be taught to critically explore concepts and subject areas through journal clubs and discussion sessions leading to a final essay assessment. The skills learnt in this module include the integration of information from various sources across subject areas, the application of understanding in an analytical setting, the individual exploration of a chosen subject area and the critical analysis of research material.

Functional Genomics and Research Skills Analytical Techniques (20 credits)

The module introduces basic genetic and population genetic concepts that form the basis of genome analysis. There is an emphasis on hands-on approaches and students will learn skills during weekly computer-based workshops, structured to offer the opportunity to practice new skills independently with tutor support. Workshops will focus around database command-line interrogations and genomic analysis, and use a structured workbook to guide the student through all the computational components.

Genome Science (20 credits)

The module examines the current trends in high-throughput genome sequencing methods, strategies for sequence assembly and the use of such data for phylogeny analysis and gene taxonomy. The relationship between genome structure and protein function will be studied in detail through the use of a wide range of bioinformatics tools, with a focus genome analysis in health and disease. The practical element of this module consists of weekly bioinformatics workshops that introduce key tools in genome science and that will be important in other modules and in your research project.

Molecular basis of Human Genetic Disease (20 credits)

This module will look at the molecular pathology of a selection of monogenic and polygenic diseases using experimental evidence, with the aim of understanding how changes at a genetic level result in the disease phenotype. Examples of monogenic diseases include blood diseases such as sickle cell disease, thalassaemias and haemophilia, and cystic fibrosis. Examples of polygenic diseases include diabetes, cardiovascular disease and cancers.

Final Project

Compulsory modules

Research Project (triple) (60 credits)

Students will undertake a tutor-supported, individual computational based or laboratory research project, either within the university or through an alternative research laboratory. The research project is an essential requirement for an MSc award and must show originality in the application of knowledge, together with a practical understanding of how established techniques of research and enquiry are used to create and interpret knowledge in a specialism of healthcare science. The project provides an opportunity for students to show individual research skills and creativity: it also gives them an opportunity to apply the knowledge acquired throughout the course to a particular research problem.

Research

The latest Research Excellence Framework (REF 2021) found that 97% of research at Oxford Brookes was internationally recognised or higher. It also found that 70% was judged to be of ‘world leading’ or ‘internationally excellent’ quality.

The REF 2021 had an increased focus on 'impact' - research that demonstrates wider benefits beyond academia, including how it brings tangible changes to aspects of society and life, and the public value it delivers. Research carried out by 416 academics across Oxford Brookes was reviewed, nearly 40% up on the number of academics who submitted research to the Research Excellence Framework 2014.