Cardiovascular Science MSc

Students will develop a detailed knowledge of molecular and cellular cardiovascular science, animal models of cardiovascular disease, microvascular biology and mechanisms by which the heart and vasculature function in health and disease, as well as laboratory and statistical methods. They will gain valuable research skills and an awareness of the ethical, legal and social aspects of developments in cardiovascular disease.

Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits.

The programme consists of five core modules (90 credits), two optional modules (30 credits) and the research project (60 credits).

• Cardiovascular Science and Disease
• Animal Models of Cardiovascular Disease
• Congenital Heart Disease - Fundamentals
• Heart and Circulation (30 credits)
• Basic Statistics for Medical Science

30 credits of optional modules drawn from the following:

• Genetics of Cardiovascular Disease
• Genomics and Drug Development
• Drug Discovery II
• Microvascular Biology
• An Introduction to Molecular Laboratory Methods in Cardiovascular Research
• Clinical Cardiology (open to clinicians only)

Clinical Cardiology is an academic MSc module rather than a standard clinical placement. The emphasis is on appreciating the impact of advances in cardiovascular science upon clinical practice.

All MSc students undertake an independent research project which culminates in a dissertation of 10,000-12,000 words and an oral presentation (60 credits).

The programme is delivered through a combination of lectures, seminars, presentations, tutorials, journal clubs, a quiz, statistical and laboratory practicals and anatomical examination of human congenital heart disease specimens. Assessment is through written and oral examinations, coursework essays, case reports, journal club and other oral presentations and the dissertation.