MSc/PgDip/PgCert Molecular and Cell Biology

Course structure

Full time – September start – typically 12 months

Full time – January start – typically 12 months

Part time – September start – typically 24 months

Part time – January start – typically 24 months

Typical modules may include

Course structure

The masters (MSc) award is achieved by successfully completing 180 credits.

Core modules

Biomedical laboratory techniques (15 credits)
You learn about a wide range of techniques used in the modern laboratory, from processing tissue samples, histology, immunohistochemistry and microscopy to flow cytometry, blotting techniques and mass spectrometry. You also gain experience of a number of these techniques within the laboratory setting.

Cell biology (15 credits)
This module gives you an advanced knowledge of cellular organisation and cellular mechanisms in both health and disease. You also learn about cellular interactions including cell signalling, signal transduction, cell-cell and cell-matrix interactions.
Cellular and molecular basis of disease (15 credits)

This module provides you with an understanding of the major cellular and molecular changes which are the underlying cause of a variety of diseases. The exact role of these changes in a number of specific diseases is illustrated, including altered cellular signaling pathways leading to disease processes, and immune-mediated disease.

Molecular biology (15 credits)
This module examines the structure, production and transfer of genetic information. It provides the basis for study of the application of the most recent developments in the detection and treatment of genetic diseases. You study how naturally occurring and novel proteins can be produced from cloned DNA in various types of host cells. You learn about the design and applications of genetically modified organisms.

Professional development (15 credits)
This module aims to extend your professional skills and improve your career prospects. It involves sessions on essential practical skills and problem solving, communication of scientific information and IT skills. Assessment includes a personal and professional development portfolio plus reflective self-evaluation of your progress on the course.

Research methods and statistics (15 credits)
You develop the skills needed to formulate, carry out and report on a research or development project. These skills include creativity or invention as well as more formal skills such as application of knowledge and searching the literature. Statistical analysis of experimental results also forms an important part of this module.

Research project (60 credits)
During this module you work with an individual tutor to design and carry out a research project. This includes a critical review of the literature, considerable laboratory work, analysis of data and an appreciation of the meaning and application of your work.

Options

Two from
Applied biomedical techniques (15 credits)
The aim of this module is to develop laboratory competence in a number of chosen techniques which may include • flow cytometry • RNA extraction • cDNA synthesis • real time PCR and quantitative analysis • SDS gels and western blotting • ELISA and activity assays.

Cellular and molecular basis of cancer (15 credits)
This module provides you with the understanding of the major cellular and molecular changes that occur during cancer development, and how cancer-specific genetic changes may be exploited by novel cancer therapies.

Molecular biotechnology (15 credits)
The aim of this module is to explore the use, manipulation and application of biological molecules in areas such as health, industry, clinical medicine and the promotion of health and wellness in the community. It concentrates on developing an in depth knowledge of mechanisms by which biological systems can be manipulated at the DNA, protein and cellular level. Knowledge of current key examples of use of biotechnology in these areas will be investigated.

The postgraduate certificate (PgCert) is achieved by successfully completing 60 credits.
The postgraduate diploma (PgDip) is achieved by successfully completing 120 credits.