Human and Molecular Genetics
Biochemistry, Genetics, Microbiology and Molecular Biology,
Faculty of Science
Course description
Designed in collaboration with the NHS: Sheffield Diagnostic Genetics Service, this course is for students who are fascinated by medical genetics. Through hands-on practical skills training and lecture modules you’ll explore human genetics and develop an understanding of how human genetic diseases are diagnosed clinically at the chromosome and DNA levels.
Students have the opportunity for clinical work placements in the Sheffield Diagnostic Genetics Service, which is based in the Sheffield Children’s Hospital NHS Foundation Trust.
The biggest part of your course is the Medical Genetics Laboratory Project. Here you’ll spend six months undertaking extensive training before applying this knowledge to the diagnosis of human genetic diseases.
After your degree
Genetic diagnostic technologies are transforming clinical pathology in private and public healthcare systems. Through practical diagnostic laboratory training, clinical research and opportunities for NHS work placements, graduates will be well equipped to pursue careers in healthcare diagnostics, research and industry. Previous students have gone on to join the NHS Scientist Training Programme in Genomics, Cancer Genomics, and Genetic Counselling.
Graduates also progress to bioscience research-based PhDs and professional research assistant positions in industry and academia.
Intercalation
We accept medical students who wish to intercalate their studies. Find out more on the Medical School's website.
Modules
Teaching
Our masters courses give you a solid grounding in experimental science, with personal supervision and tutorials by experienced scientists, based in modern, well-equipped labs, leading to a project in which you design and conduct your own research. You will learn cutting edge science from research leaders, and gain practice in reading scientific literature and writing reports.
Assessment
Assessment is based on a combination of coursework, project work, formal examinations and a dissertation.
Duration
1 year full-time
I believe the analytical skills and techniques I have learned so far have helped me to stand out in my application for the NHS Scientist Training Programme and were critical in landing me a job in this competitive career!
Entry requirements
A 2:1 degree or equivalent university qualification in molecular biology or a related subject (eg biochemistry, genetics, biotechnology, and microbiology).
We also accept medical students who wish to intercalate their studies.
Candidates with professional experience may also be considered following interview.
English language requirements
Overall IELTS score of 6.5 with minimum of 6.0 in each component, or equivalent.
Fees and funding
Apply
You can apply for postgraduate study using our Postgraduate Online Application Form. It's a quick and easy process.
Contact
mbb-pgt-apply@sheffield.ac.uk
+44 114 222 2750
The course information set out here may change before you begin, particularly if you are applying significantly in advance of the start date.