Medical Genetics and Genomics

Entry requirements

2.1 Hons (or non-UK equivalent) in degree related to Biomedical Sciences, Medical Sciences or Biological Sciences subject.

We may sometimes accept degrees at 2.2 Hons (or non-UK equivalent), if higher scores have been achieved in the subjects listed above, or in other relevant modules.

Months of entry

September

Course content

Genomics, with its new advanced technologies, is transforming every area of healthcare, from research and diagnostics to treatment, across a vast range of conditions. This MSc attracts a diverse, international student cohort each year and many graduates now hold influential roles worldwide, including positions in the WHO, UNESCO and HUGO-International. The programme offers cutting-edge teaching delivered by a multi-award-winning team with extensive academic and health service experience. Students benefit from numerous included laboratory practicals and hands-on training with professional genomics software and databases. The MSc is designed to equip graduates with a range of essential skills and a strong working knowledge of the key genetic and genomic principles, preparing them for a wide variety of careers.

Why this programme

• A fully up-to-date Medical Genetics and Genomics degree delivered by dedicated, multi-award-winning teaching and clinical staff of the University, with considerable input from hospital-based Regional Genetics Service clinicians and clinical scientists.
• Learn directly from NHS staff about the latest developments to the service at the West of Scotland Genetic Services, Queen Elizabeth Campus.
• The academic programme lead, Dr Leah Martin, and clinical director, Prof Edward Tobias, both hold international leading roles in genomics education.
• Explore the effects of mutations and variants as well as the current techniques used in NHS genetics laboratory diagnostics and recent developments in diagnostics (including microarray analysis and the use of massively parallel [“next-generation”] sequencing).
• Accredited by the Royal Society of Biology for the purpose of meeting, in part, the academic and experience requirement for the Membership and Chartered Biologist (CBiol).
• Develop your skills in problem solving, experimental design, evaluation and interpretation of experimental data, literature searches, scientific writing, oral presentations, poster presentations and team working.
• Lay the academic foundations on which you may build in pursuing research at PhD level in genetics or related areas of biomedical science or by moving into related careers in diagnostic services.
• Gain hands-on experience and guidance in using software and online resources for genetic diagnosis and for the evaluation of pathogenesis of DNA sequence variants.The widely used textbook “Essential Medical Genetics” is co-authored by a member of the core teaching team, Professor Edward Tobias.
• Access new developments in medical genetics incorporated into the lectures and interactive teaching sessions very soon after they are presented at international meetings or published.
• Collaboration between staff from the University of Glasgow and the NHS West of Scotland Genetics Service enables the MSc in Medical Genetics and Genomics to provide a state-of-the-art view of the application of modern genetic and genomic technologies in medical genetics research and diagnostics, and in delivery of a high quality genetics service to patients, as well as in design of targeted therapies.
• The full spectrum of genetic services is represented, from patient and family counselling to diagnostic testing of individuals and screening of entire populations for genetic conditions: eg the NHS prenatal and newborn screening programmes.
• Based on the south side of the River Clyde in the purpose-built Teaching & Learning Centre, at the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital (we are located 4 miles from the main University Campus).
• The Centre also houses state of the art educational resources, including a purpose built teaching laboratory, computing facilities and a well equipped library.
• Close collaboration between university and hospital staff ensures the Medical Genetics MSc provides an up-to-date representation of the practice of medical genetics and you will have the opportunity to observe during clinics and visit the diagnostic laboratories at the new Southern General Hospital laboratory medicine building.
• For doctors: The Joint Royal Colleges of Physicians’ Training Board (JRCPTB) in the UK recognises the MSc in Medical Genetics and Genomics (which was established in 1984) as counting for six months of the higher specialist training in Clinical Genetics.
• The Medical Council of Hong Kong recognises the MSc in Medical Genetics and Genomics from University of Glasgow in it's list of Quotable Qualifications.