Masters Degrees (Clinical Trial)

Medical statistics is a fundamental scientific component of health research. Medical statisticians interact with biomedical researchers, epidemiologists and public health professionals and contribute to the effective translation of scientific research into patient benefits and clinical decision-making. As new biomedical problems emerge, there are exciting challenges in the application of existing tools and the development of new superior models.

Degree information

The UCL Medical Statistics degree provides students with a sound background in theoretical statistics as well as practical hands-on experience in designing, analysing and interpreting health studies, including trials and observational studies. The taught component equips students with analytical tools for health care economic evaluation, and the research project provides experience in using real clinical datasets.

Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits.

The programme consists of a foundation course, six core modules (90 credits) two optional modules (30 credits) and the research dissertation (60 credits).

Core modules
-Foundation Course (not credit bearing)
-Statistical Inference
-Statistical Models and Data Analysis
-Medical Statistics I
-Medical Statistics II
-Statistical Computing
-Applied Bayesian Methods

Optional modules - at least one from:
-Statistics for Interpreting Genetic Data
-Bayesian Methods in Health Economics

and at least one from:
-Epidemiology
-Statistical Design of Investigations

Dissertation/report
All MSc students undertake an individual research project, culminating in a dissertation of approximately 10,000–12,000 words.

Teaching and learning
The programme is delivered through a combination of lectures, tutorials and classes, some of which are dedicated to practical work. External organisations deliver technical lectures and seminars where possible. Assessment is through written examination and coursework. The research project is assessed through the dissertation and a 15-minute presentation.

Workshops running during the teaching terms provide preparation for this project and cover the communication of statistics, for example, the presentation of statistical graphs and tables.

Careers

Medical statisticians enable the application of the best possible quantitative methods in health research and assist in the reliable translation of research findings to public and patients’ health care.

The National Institute of Health Research (NIHR) has identified Medical Statistics as one of the priority areas in their capacity building strategy and has awarded UCL two studentships annually for this MSc.

Top career destinations for this degree:
-Graduate Bio-Statistician, PRA International
-Statistical and Epidemiological Modeller, University of Oxford
-Biostatistician, Boehringer Ingelheim
-PhD Statistical Science, University College London (UCL)

Employability
There is an acute shortage of medical statisticians in the UK and employment opportunities are excellent. Recent graduates from this programme have been employed by clinical trials units, pharmaceutical industry, NHS trusts and Universities (e.g. London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, UCL).

Why study this degree at UCL?

One of the strengths of UCL Statistical Science is the breadth of expertise on offer; the research interests of staff span the full range from foundations to applications, and make important original contributions to the development of statistical science.

UCL is linked with four NHS hospital trusts and hosts three biomedical research centres, four clinical trial units and an Institute of Clinical Trials and Methodology. Established links between the Department of Statistical Science, the NIHR UCLH/UCL Biomedical Research Centre and the Clinical Trial Units provide high-quality biomedical projects for Master's students and opportunities for excellent postgraduate teaching and medical research.

The programme has been accredited by the Royal Statistical Society. Graduates will automatically be granted the society's Graduate Statistician status on application.

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Programme description

The online programme will provide a knowledge and understanding of the key elements and principles of clinical trial design, delivery and analysis. In addition to a knowledge and understanding of the principles of GCP and their practical implementation in clinical trials.

This programme is suitable for graduates in medicine, nursing, pharmacy, life sciences and other allied disciplines involved in Clinical Trials.

This programme will support the demand for appropriately qualified investigators to lead clinical trials of all phases. Each course is divided into a set of themed sections in which material is presented in a blend of short online lectures, practical case studies, directed readings, podcasts and archived webinars. Discussion board tasks and live expert guest lectures offer opportunity for collaborative critical discourse and debate of current issues under the guidance of expert teaching staff.

The programme covers Commercial Aspects of Drug Discovery and Development, Trial and Project Management, Statistics and Data Management, Regulations and Ethics, Imaging, Medical Devices and Complex Interventions.

Online learning

The programme is delivered completely online, allowing for a curriculum design approach that caters to different ways of learning. Embracing the role that technology can play to enhance teaching, learning and assessment, the programme has been designed with the learner in mind.

Each student will be supported as an active member of a vibrant online community where clearly-defined learning outcomes are facilitated by tasks and materials that foster active, relevant and collaborative learning, supported by the purposeful use of digital media and online technology.

Programme structure

This programme is made up of compulsory and optional courses.

Compulsory courses:

• Clinical Trials Foundation Module
• Introduction to Clinical Trials
• Good Clinical Practice, Ethics and Regulatory Issues

Optional courses:

• Clinical Trial Management (20 credits)
• Clinical Trials in Special Populations (20 credits)
• Patient and Public Involvement (20 credits)
• Study Design (20 credits)
• Monitoring and Audit (20 credits)
• Translational Imaging and Clinical Trials (10 credits)
• Commercial Aspects of Drug Discovery (10 credits)

MSc Dissertation

Clinical Trials e-Portfolio

Career opportunities

The programme will offer candidates an alternative to traditional classroom based research training if they do not wish to or cannot take time away from their professional commitments.

It aims to equip students with the necessary knowledge and skills to be a leader of clinical trials, supplementing and extending any undergraduate training and work experience. The programme will also provide an important step towards gaining employment in either the commercial or non-commercial/industrial sectors.

The MSc programme is designed to highlight the candidate’s commitment to continual professional development and will ensure a competitive edge when applying for future employment positions.

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This course will equip you with the range of basic skills necessary to undertake research and audit activities within the healthcare sector. The programme has been specifically designed to address this vital educational need.

You can choose to study on either a part-time or full-time basis.

Why study Clinical Audit and Research for Healthcare at Dundee?

In recent years there has been a rapid growth in clinical audit and research to evaluate treatment interventions and improvement in patient care and any associated cost benefits. This has led to an increasing number of healthcare professionals being exposed, often for the first time, to clinical audit and research methods. This rapid growth has been recognised here at the Department of Orthopaedic and Trauma Surgery, which has an active and expanding Clinical Audit and Research Unit.

The Clinical Audit & Research Unit is a joint venture between Industry, Dundee Teaching Hospitals Trust and the University of Dundee. It is involved in a number of clinical audit projects relating to orthopaedics and provides clinical and statistical expertise in audit of process, project planning, data processing and trial control mechanisms.

The combination of expertise in postgraduate education delivered by open learning methods, coupled with an active research environment, has enabled us to develop a programme specifically tailored to deliver the skills needed by the healthcare profession to successfully undertake research and audit.

What you will study

Research and the Scientific Method
Information Gathering and Review
Descriptive Statistics
Statistical Inference
Non-parametric Statistical Inference
Reporting & Presentation
Implementing Clinical Audit
Funding Issues
Ethical Issues

Teaching & Assessment

This course is taught by staff from the department of Orthopaedic & Trauma Surgery based in the School of Medicine.

The programme consists of nine learning units. These units may be studied individually so that you can choose to study the units you wish. Each unit requires approximately 100 notational hours of study.

If you successfully complete all the unit assignments, you will be awarded a Postgraduate Certificate by the University of Dundee. You will be able to use this to demonstrate that you have undertaken the programme successfully.

How you will be taught

Learning Materials:
The programme is supplied in a presentation folder containing a student handbook and the nine units. The student handbook provides information about the structure, recommended reference materials and the tutor support system. For every unit there is a study guide that explains the objectives of that unit (what you will have learned by the end of the unit) and leads you through the learning material, section by section, using text, illustrations, activities, exercises and references to the recommended textbooks.

You monitor your own progress through the unit by completing the self-assessment questions, which are placed at regular intervals throughout the text, and checking your answers against those provided in the study guide. When you need to discuss any aspects of your study, you may contact your tutor for support.

Tutor Support:
When you need to discuss any aspects of your study, you may contact your tutor for support. Your tutor is available for direct contact by telephone at set times during the week, as specified in the module guide for each module. A telephone answering service is available after office hourse and you may also contact your tutor by email, post or fax. Tutor support is available for each module for a maximum period of three-months from the date you start the module.

How you will be assessed

Formative assessment consists of self-assessment questions in the Study Guides. Summative assessment consists of a tutor-marked assignment at the end of each module. The exact nature of each assignment is designed to reflect the aim of the module. To qualify for the Certificate students will need to complete and pass the assignments in all nine modules undertaken.

Careers

This course is aimed at those who are already on an established career path and will improve opportunities for career progression and development.

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This course provides you with the opportunity to work within a world class Phase 1 cancer clinical trials unit and, through a mix of taught and experiential learning, to master the discipline of experimental cancer medicine.

You will spend a year as a member of the Experimental Cancer Medicine Team at The Christie. During this year, you will participate in four structured taught modules.

Alongside the taught elements, you will be allocated to one or more clinical trials that are being conducted by The Christie experimental cancer medicine team. You will have a named trainer and be exposed to tasks required in the setup, delivery, interpretation and audit of a clinical study.

As a nursing and physician student enrolled on this course, you will be expected to participate in patient care, with physicians and nursing staff participating in new and follow-on patient clinics, treatment and care giving episodes with patients.

For clinical trials coordinators, no direct patient contact is envisaged and duties will involve clinical trial setup, protocol amendments, database setup, data entry, costing and billing for clinical research.

Aims

The primary purpose of the MRes in Experimental Cancer Medicine is to provide you with the opportunity to work within a premier UK Phase 1 cancer clinical trials unit and, through a mix of taught and experiential learning, master the discipline of Experimental Cancer Medicine.

Teaching and learning

Our course is structured around a 2:1 split between clinical-based research projects and taught elements respectively.

Taught course units will predominantly use lectures and workshops, with e-learning limited to parts of course unit 1.

For the research projects, teaching and learning will take place through one-to-one mentoring from a member of the Experimental Cancer Medicine team.

The clinical and academic experience of contributors to this course will provide you with an exceptional teaching and learning experience.

Coursework and assessment

You will be are assessed through oral presentations, single best answer exams, written reports and dissertation.

Career opportunities

The MRes in Experimental Cancer Medicine is relevant to physician, nursing and clinical research students who are considering a career in Phase 1 clinical studies.

The course provides a theoretical and experiential learning experience and offers a foundation for roles within other experimental cancer medicine centres within the UK and EU, as well as careers in academia, the pharmaceutical industry, clinical trials management and medicine.

The MRes is ideal for high calibre graduates and professionals wishing to undertake directly channelled research training in the clinical and medical oncology field.

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This course is for qualified midwives only. This course is designed to equip you with an understanding of international, political, social and ethical issues of reproduction, and a scientific basis for examining maternity policy and practice. You will gain knowledge and understanding of the social and political context of reproduction and maternal health policy, evidence-based practice and research methods.

Key benefits:

- Central location allows access to world leading clinical and academic resources.
- Access to extracurricular seminars and lectures given by leaders in healthcare from around the world.
- A multi-faculty environment drawing on clinical and academic expertise from a number of world leading schools and hospitals providing an unparalleled inter-professional learning experience.

Visit the website: http://www.kcl.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/taught-courses/advanced-practice-midwifery-msc-pg-dip-pg-cert.aspx

Course detail

- Description

Students undertake core modules in the leadership and delivery of maternity services, evidence-based practice and healthcare research. In addition students select options from a range of areas including:

- Clinical specialities
- Professional development and organisational change.

Other options from our BSc programme and modules from the MSc in Medical Ultrasound may also be available. Students who have already studied clinically focused modules at undergraduate or graduate level at King’s may be able incorporate this study into the programme, provided that the credits have not already contributed to an award. Modules studied elsewhere may be incorporated through accreditation of prior certificated learning (subject to a successful accreditation claim).

- Course purpose

The aim of this master's in Advanced Practice is to equip you with an understanding of international, political, social and ethical issues of reproduction, and a scientific basis for examining maternity policy and practice. You will gain knowledge and understanding of the social and political context of reproduction and maternal health policy, evidence-based practice and research methods.

- Course format and assessment

The majority of assessment is by coursework; some modules are also assessed by examination.

Career prospects

Consultant midwife leading services for teenagers; research midwife managing a clinical trial on the role of vitamins in preventing pre-eclampsia; midwifery lecturer.

Core modules for the MSc:

- Maternity Service Leadership and Delivery (30 credits): The module will enable students to critically inquire into the leadership skills required within and between health care professionals endeavouring to provide high quality maternity care.

- Evidence Based Decision Making in Healthcare (30 credits): This module aims to equip students with the skills and knowledge required to identify best evidence for their practice. It focuses on searching for, appraising and synthesising evidence from health care research.

- Measurement and Evaluation for Healthcare Practice (15 credits): This module aims to provide students with a broad knowledge of the key approaches and techniques used in healthcare research and evaluation. It intends to promote students’ understanding of published articles and enhance skills for critiquing research articles.

- Dissertation (60 credits): This module enables students to undertake a substantial written project relevant to their field of practice. Students draw on learning and skills acquired in the taught components of the MSc programme. The module offers a choice of one of three options: an analysis of an area of healthcare provision, an empirical study, or a systematic review.

How to apply: http://www.kcl.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/fees-and-funding/index.aspx

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For health care professionals from diverse backgrounds who wish to expand their knowledge of theoretical and practical aspects of oncology, including:

medical and clinical oncology SpRs
nurses
pharmacists
radiographers
vets
clinical trial co-ordinators
dieticians

A full-time programme is also available.

This programme aims to give you a scientific understanding of the cellular and molecular biology of cancer, its epidemiology and pathology, and to place this in a clinical context. You will then address how this knowledge effects therapeutic approaches and disease management.

It aims to allow you to understand the research process by drawing on examples within the department and its associated clinical trials unit. A key part of this Masters programme is the planning, execution and reporting of a piece of independent study leading to submission of a dissertation.

At all levels we aim to encourage interactive rather than didactic learning and lecturing. Therefore, in addition to assembling and learning facts you will also to consider some of the philosophical challenges which underlie the treatment of cancer.

The programme is studied part time over 2 years and includes a taught element plus a work place based dissertation. This is made up of 4 residential taught modules per year (8 in total). Taught modules consist of one or two 5 day blocks Monday to Friday approximately 9am - 5.30pm. The total taught element consists of 45-55 days of attendance over the whole programme depending on your choice of optional modules.

You can opt for a Postgraduate Diploma on completion of the core modules and 40 credits of optional modules, or an MSc on successful completion of the taught programme and an independently researched dissertation.

About the College of Medical and Dental Sciences

The College of Medical and Dental Sciences is a major international centre for research and education, make huge strides in finding solutions to major health problems including ageing, cancer, cardiovascular, dental, endocrine, inflammatory diseases, infection (including antibiotic resistance), rare diseases and trauma.
We tackle global healthcare problems through excellence in basic and clinical science, and improve human health by delivering tangible real-life benefits in the fight against acute and chronic disease.
Situated in the largest healthcare region in the country, with access to one of the largest and most diverse populations in Europe, we are positioned to address major global issues and diseases affecting today’s society through our eight specialist research institutes.
With over 1,000 academic staff and around £60 million of new research funding per year, the College of Medical and Dental Sciences is dedicated to performing world-leading research.
We care about our research and teaching and are committed to developing outstanding scientists and healthcare professionals of the future. We offer our postgraduate community a unique learning experience taught by academics who lead the way in research in their field.

Funding and Scholarships

There are many ways to finance your postgraduate study at the University of Birmingham. To see what funding and scholarships are available, please visit: http://www.birmingham.ac.uk/postgraduate/funding

Open Days

Explore postgraduate study at Birmingham at our on-campus open days.
Register to attend at: http://www.birmingham.ac.uk/postgraduate/visit

Virtual Open Days

If you can’t make it to one of our on-campus open days, our virtual open days run regularly throughout the year. For more information, please visit: http://www.pg.bham.ac.uk

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Programme description
Over the last 30 years healthcare research and drug development have been transformed from peripheral activities carried out on an ad hoc basis to a core activities that requires trained, professional, staff. We have developed a modular postgraduate programme in healthcare research, designed to give you the necessary academic background and specialist skills to carry out healthcare research in a contract research organisation, pharmaceutical industry or health service environment.

If you are a graduate, nurse, medical doctor or other health professional working in contract research organisations, the pharmaceutical industry and healthcare, this programme has been designed for you.

Programme outline
This postgraduate programme share a common spine with our Clinical Drug Development programme, which also covers the key areas of expertise needed for a successful clinical research programme. The Healthcare Research Methods programme places an emphasis on health management.

The modular nature of the programme is designed to fit in with full-time employment. The taught elements of the modules are delivered in three-day blocks every six weeks.

Core modules

Clinical Study Design
Practical Aspects of Clinical Research and Early Drug Development
Ethics and Regulation
Data Management and Statistics
Specific Topics in Clinical Trial Design
Elective Dissertation
Health Outcomes and Pharmacoeconomics
Marketing Healthcare
Research Project/Dissertation
Health and the Human Body
Healthcare Organisation and Decision-Making
Module options include:

Drug Discovery and Preclinical Research and Development
Toxicology

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These courses provide students with a theoretical and practical understanding of the issues involved in the design, conduct, analysis and interpretation of randomised controlled trials of health interventions. They are suitable for students working in high-, middle- and low-income countries.

The need for rigorous evaluation of components of health care is increasingly recognised worldwide. An important type of evaluation is the randomised controlled clinical trial. These courses will give students an understanding of trials which will equip them to work in this increasingly important field.

They are suitable both for those wishing to gain an overall understanding of trials before moving into the field, and those who have general or specialist experience in clinical trials and aim to broaden their role in the design, management, analysis and reporting of clinical trials in high, middle and low income countries.

The aims and learning outcomes of the courses are detailed in the programme specification.

- Full programme specification (pdf) (http://www.londoninternational.ac.uk/sites/default/files/progspec-clinicaltrials.pdf)
- Distance Learning prospectus (pdf) (http://www.londoninternational.ac.uk/sites/default/files/prospectus/lshtm-prospectus.pdf)

Visit the website http://www.lshtm.ac.uk/study/masters/dmsct.html

English Language Requirements

You will meet the English language requirement if you have passed, within the past three years:

- Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English when a minimum overall score of B or 190 is achieved;

- (IELTS) International English Language Testing System when an overall score of at least 7.0 is achieved with a minimum of 7.0 in the Written sub-test and a minimum of 5.5 in Listening, Reading and Speaking; or

- Pearson Test of English (Academic) overall score of 68 or above, with a minimum of 68 in Writing and a minimum of 59 in Listening, Reading and Speaking

- (TOEFL) iBT Test of English as a Foreign Language overall score of 100 or above with at least 24 in Writing, 23 in Speaking, 22 in Reading and 21 in Listening

Method of assessment

Assessment varies from module to module but will include a combination of unseen written examinations and written assignments. Details are given in the module specifications.

Examinations take place once a year in June (please note: it is not possible to hold examinations at other times of year). These are normally held in a student’s country of residence. We have examination centres in over 180 countries worldwide (for details please visit the assessment and examinations section).

Examinations are arranged mainly through Ministries of Education or the British Council. Students taking examinations will need to pay a fee to their local examination centre. Please note that if you fail an examination at the first entry you will be allowed one further attempt.

Credit awarded

Credits will be awarded to all modules (15 credits each) and (MSc only) the integrating module (30 credits) successfully completed. To successfully pass an award, the following credits must be gained:

- Postgraduate Certificate – 60 credits
- Postgraduate Diploma – 120 credits
- MSc – 180 credits

Study materials

The majority of the Clinical Trials module study materials are delivered online after course/module registration. You will receive details of how to use the online learning environment effectively. Study materials provided for non-Clinical Trials modules may include study guides, textbooks, CD-ROMs/additional computer software (e.g. Stata). You will have access to past examination papers and Examiners' reports, Student Handbooks, and to the School's online library resources. We also provide all students with a student registration card.

Flexible study

We know that if you have a full-time job, family or other commitments, and wish to study at a distance, you will have many calls on your time. The course allows you to study independently, at a time and pace that suits you (subject to some course-specific deadlines) using the comprehensive study materials provided, with support available from academic staff. You have between 1-5 years in which to complete the Postgraduate Certificate, and between 2-5 years in which to complete the Postgraduate Diploma or the MSc.

Once registered, you will be sent the learning materials for the module(s) you have chosen to study. Clinical Trials module materials are mostly delivered online. These materials will take you through a programme of directed self-study, and indicate how and where you can obtain supplementary study materials and access tutorial support to enhance your studies.

The study year runs from the beginning of October through to the June exams, during which time tutorial support is available. Those writing the Clinical Trials integrating report will also continue to have tutorial support over the summer. Deadlines for submission of coursework vary per course but are usually in March, May, August and September.

Support

- a web-based learning environment (including web conferencing, allowing you to engage in academic discussions with tutors and fellow students)

- personalised feedback from teaching staff and advice on assignments

- tutors are allocated to each module and are available to answer queries and promote discussion during the study year, through the online Virtual Learning Environment

- communicate with other distance learning students, either individually or through learning support groups

Blended learning: taking modules in London

After successful completion of a minimum number of core modules, Postgraduate Diploma and MSc students may also be eligible for the 'blended learning option', which allows for the study of up to two modules only (from a restricted list) at the School in London during the Spring or Summer terms in place of distance learning modules. Please note that these options, and the dates when the modules are held at the School, are subject to change - full details will be sent to all distance learning students in July each year.

Find out how to apply here - http://www.lshtm.ac.uk/study/masters/dmsct.html#seventh

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This course will develop your knowledge of the design, development, analysis and production of medicines, the drug industry and regulatory affairs. It is particularly suitable if you are keen to enter employment in areas such as pharmaceutical marketing, formulation, regulatory affairs, process development, medical statistics and clinical trial organisations. You can choose to combine your studies with training in the fundamentals of management theory (option available only for September intake), which is especially suitable to those interested in taking up management positions in relevant organisations.

What will you study?

You will have the chance to explore current trends in chemical, biological and biotechnological therapeutics, and will look at the latest technologies used in the pharmaceutical industry. You will gain an understanding of the processes used in clinical trials and in the development, manufacture and regulation of medicines. You will also develop your computing and statistical skills and other key skills, such as data collection, communication, time management, organisational and review and synopsis skills.

Assessment

Exams, tests, laboratory reports, assignments, case studies, oral and poster presentations, research project.

Work placement scheme

Kingston University has set up a scheme that allows postgraduate students in the Faculty of Science, Engineering and Computing to include a work placement element in their course starting from September 2017. The placement scheme is available for both international and home/EU students.

-The work placement, up to 12 months; is optional.
-The work placement takes place after postgraduate students have successfully completed the taught portion of their degree.
-The responsibility for finding the placement is with the student. We cannot guarantee the placement, just the opportunity to undertake it.
-As the work placement is an assessed part of the course for international students, this is covered by a student's tier 4 visa.

Details on how to apply will be confirmed shortly.

Course structure

Please note that this is an indicative list of modules and is not intended as a definitive list.

Modules (September start)
-Statistics and Quality Systems
-Pharmaceutical and Analytical Technology
-Manufacture and Clinical Trials of Medicines
-Design, Discovery and Development of Pharmaceuticals
-Business in Practice
-Project

Modules (January start)
-Statistics and Formulation of Therapeutics
-Design, Discovery and Manufacture of Medicines
-Quality and Analytical Systems
-Drug Development and Clinical Trials
-Project

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This course will develop your knowledge of the design, development, analysis and production of medicines, the drug industry and regulatory affairs. It is particularly suitable if you are keen to enter employment in areas such as pharmaceutical marketing, formulation, regulatory affairs, process development, medical statistics and clinical trial organisations. You can choose to combine your studies with training in the fundamentals of management theory (option available only for September intake), which is especially suitable to those interested in taking up management positions in relevant organisations.

What will you study?

You will have the chance to explore current trends in chemical, biological and biotechnological therapeutics, and will look at the latest technologies used in the pharmaceutical industry. You will gain an understanding of the processes used in clinical trials and in the development, manufacture and regulation of medicines. You will also develop your computing and statistical skills and other key skills, such as data collection, communication, time management, organisational and review and synopsis skills.

Assessment

Exams, tests, laboratory reports, assignments, case studies, oral and poster presentations, research project.

Work placement scheme

Kingston University has set up a scheme that allows postgraduate students in the Faculty of Science, Engineering and Computing to include a work placement element in their course starting from September 2017. The placement scheme is available for both international and home/EU students.

-The work placement, up to 12 months; is optional.
-The work placement takes place after postgraduate students have successfully completed the taught portion of their degree.
-The responsibility for finding the placement is with the student. We cannot guarantee the placement, just the opportunity to undertake it.
-As the work placement is an assessed part of the course for international students, this is covered by a student's tier 4 visa.

Details on how to apply will be confirmed shortly.

Course structure

Please note that this is an indicative list of modules and is not intended as a definitive list.

Management Studies pathway modules (only available for a September start)
-Statistics and Quality Systems
-Pharmaceutical and Analytical Technology
-Manufacture and Clinical Trials of Medicines
-Business in Practice
-Project

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The Department of Oncology and the Department for Continuing Education’s CPD Centre offer a part-time MSc in Experimental Therapeutics that brings together some of Oxford's leading clinicians and scientists to deliver an advanced modular programme designed for those in full-time employment, both in the UK and overseas.

The Programme draws on the world-class research and teaching in experimental therapeutics at Oxford University and offers a unique opportunity to gain an understanding of the principles that underpin clinical research and to translate this into good clinical and research practice.

Visit the website https://www.conted.ox.ac.uk/about/msc-in-experimental-therapeutics

The first deadline for applications is Friday 20 January 2017

If your application is completed by this January deadline and you fulfil the eligibility criteria, you will be automatically considered for a graduate scholarship. For details see: http://www.ox.ac.uk/admissions/graduate/fees-and-funding/graduate-scholarships.

Programme details

The MSc in Experimental Therapeutics is a part-time course consisting of six modules and a research project and dissertation. The programme is normally completed in two to three years. Students are full members of the University of Oxford and are matriculated as members of an Oxford college.

The modules in this programme can also be taken as individual short courses. It is possible to transfer credit from up to three previously completed modules into the MSc programme, if the time elapsed between commencement of the accredited module(s) and registration for the MSc is not more than two years.

Programme modules:

- The Structure of Clinical Trials and Experimental Therapeutics
- Drug Development, Pharmacokinetics and Imaging
- Pharmacodynamics, Biomarkers and Personalised Therapy
- Adverse Drug Reactions, Drug Interactions, and Pharmacovigilance
- How to do Research on Therapeutic Interventions: Protocol Preparation
- Biological Therapeutics

Course aims

The aim of the MSc programme is to provide students with the necessary training and practical experience to enable them to understand the principles that underpin clinical research, and to enable them to translate that understanding into good clinical and research practice.

By the end of the MSc programme, students should understand the following core principles:

- Development, marketing and regulations of drugs
- Pharmaceutical factors that affect drug therapy
- Pharmacokinetics, pharmacogenetics and pharmacodynamics
- Adverse drug reactions, drug interactions, and pharmacovigilance
- Designing phase I, II and III clinical trials for a range of novel therapeutic interventions (and imaging agents).
- Application of statistics to medicine
- Laboratory assays used to support trial end-points
- Use of non-invasive imaging in drug development
- Application of analytical techniques

By the end of the programme, students should be equipped to:

- demonstrate a knowledge of the principles, methods and techniques for solving clinical research problems and translate this into good clinical and research practice
- apply skills gained in techniques and practical experience from across the medical and biological sciences
- develop skills in managing research-based work in experimental therapeutics
- carry out an extended research project involving a literature review, problem specification and analysis in experimental therapeutics and write a short dissertation

Guidance from the UK Royal College of Physician's Faculty of Pharmaceutical Medicine

The Faculty have confirmed that if enrolled for Pharmaceutical Medicine Specialty Training (PMST), trainees may be able to use knowledge provided by Experimental Therapeutics modules to cover aspects of a module of the PMST curriculum. Trainees are advised to discuss this with their Educational Supervisor.

Experimental Therapeutics modules may also be used to provide those pursuing the Faculty's Diploma in Pharmaceutical Medicine (DPM) with the necessary knowledge required to cover the Diploma syllabus. Applicants for the DPM exam are advised to read the DPM syllabus and rules and regulations.

Members of the Faculty of Pharmaceutical Medicine who are registered in the Faculty's CPD scheme can count participation in Experimental Therapeutics modules towards their CPD record. Non-members may wish to obtain further advice about CPD credit from their Royal College or Faculty.

Assessment methods

To complete the MSc, students need to:

Attend the six modules and complete an assessed written assignment for each module.
Complete a dissertation on a topic chosen in consultation with a supervisor and the Course Director.

Dissertation:
The dissertation is founded on a research project that builds on material studied in the taught modules. The dissertation should normally not exceed 15,000 words.

The project will normally be supervised by an academic supervisor from the University of Oxford, and an employer-based mentor.

The following are topics of dissertations completed by previous students on the course:

- The outcomes of non-surgical management of tubal pregnancy; a 6 month study of the South East London population

- Analysis of the predictive and prognostic factors of outcome in a cohort of patients prospectively treated with perioperative chemotherapy for adenocarcinoma of the stomach or of the gastroesophageal junction

- Evolution of mineral and bone disorder in early Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD): the role of FGF23 and vitamin D

- Survey of patients' knowledge and perception of the adverse drug reporting scheme (yellow cards) in primary care

- The predictive role of ERCC1 status in oxaliplatin based Neoadjuvant for metastatic colorectal cancer (CRC) to the liver

- Endothelial Pathophysiology in Dengue - Dextran studies during acute infection

- Literature review of the use of thalidomide in cancer

- An investigation into the phenotypical and functional characteristics of mesenchymal stem cells for clinical application

- Identification of genetic variants that cause capecitabine and bevacizumab toxicity

- Bridging the evidence gap in geriatric medicines via modelling and simulations

Teaching methods

The class-based modules will include a period of preparatory study, a week of intensive face-to-face lectures and tutorials, followed by a period for assignment work. Attendance at modules will be a requirement for study. Some non-classroom activities will be provided at laboratory facilities elsewhere in the University. The course will include taught material on research skills. A virtual learning environment (VLE) will provide between-module support.

The taught modules will include group work, discussions, guest lectures, and interaction and feedback with tutors and lecturers. Practical work aims to develop the students' knowledge and understanding of the subject.

Find out how to apply here - http://www.ox.ac.uk/admissions/graduate/applying-to-oxford

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The Institute of Genetic Medicine brings together a strong team with an interest in clinical and developmental genetics. Our research focuses on the causes of genetic disease at the molecular and cellular level and its treatment. Research areas include: genetic medicine, developmental genetics, neuromuscular and neurological genetics, mitochondrial genetics and cardiovascular genetics.

As a research postgraduate in the Institute of Genetic Medicine you will be a member of our thriving research community. The Institute is located in Newcastle’s Life Science Centre. You will work alongside a number of research, clinical and educational organisations, including the Northern Genetics Service.

We offer supervision for MPhil in the following research areas:

Cancer genetics and genome instability

Our research includes:
-A major clinical trial for chemoprevention of colon cancer
-Genetic analyses of neuroblastoma susceptibility
-Research into Wilms Tumour (a childhood kidney cancer)
-Studies on cell cycle regulation and genome instability

Cardiovascular genetics and development

We use techniques of high-throughput genetic analyses to identify mechanisms where genetic variability between individuals contributes to the risk of developing cardiovascular disease. We also use mouse, zebrafish and stem cell models to understand the ways in which particular gene families' genetic and environmental factors are involved in the normal and abnormal development of the heart and blood vessels.

Complex disease and quantitative genetics

We work on large-scale studies into the genetic basis of common diseases with complex genetic causes, for example autoimmune disease, complex cardiovascular traits and renal disorders. We are also developing novel statistical methods and tools for analysing this genetic data.

Developmental genetics

We study genes known (or suspected to be) involved in malformations found in newborn babies. These include genes involved in normal and abnormal development of the face, brain, heart, muscle and kidney system. Our research includes the use of knockout mice and zebrafish as laboratory models.

Gene expression and regulation in normal development and disease

We research how gene expression is controlled during development and misregulated in diseases, including the roles of transcription factors, RNA binding proteins and the signalling pathways that control these. We conduct studies of early human brain development, including gene expression analysis, primary cell culture models, and 3D visualisation and modelling.

Genetics of neurological disorders

Our research includes:
-The identification of genes that in isolation can cause neurological disorders
-Molecular mechanisms and treatment of neurometabolic disease
-Complex genetics of common neurological disorders including Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease
-The genetics of epilepsy

Kidney genetics and development

Kidney research focuses on:
-Atypical haemolytic uraemic syndrome (aHUS)
-Vesicoureteric reflux (VUR)
-Cystic renal disease
-Nephrolithiasis to study renal genetics

The discovery that aHUS is a disease of complement dysregulation has led to a specific interest in complement genetics.

Mitochondrial disease

Our research includes:
-Investigation of the role of mitochondria in human disease
-Nuclear-mitochondrial interactions in disease
-The inheritance of mitochondrial DNA heteroplasmy
-Mitochondrial function in stem cells

Neuromuscular genetics

The Neuromuscular Research Group has a series of basic research programmes looking at the function of novel muscle proteins and their roles in pathogenesis. Recently developed translational research programmes are seeking therapeutic targets for various muscle diseases.

Stem cell biology

We research human embryonic stem (ES) cells, germline stem cells and somatic stem cells. ES cell research is aimed at understanding stem cell pluripotency, self-renewal, survival and epigenetic control of differentiation and development. This includes the functional analysis of genes involved in germline stem cell proliferation and differentiation. Somatic stem cell projects include programmes on umbilical cord blood stem cells, haematopoietic progenitors, and limbal stem cells.

Pharmacy

Our new School of Pharmacy has scientists and clinicians working together on all aspects of pharmaceutical sciences and clinical pharmacy.

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Our Psychology Department is one of the top 10 psychology departments in the UK (REF 2014). You will be taught by a dynamic group of world-class psychologists whose areas of expertise span a broad range, including researchers and practitioners. We provide high quality supervision and teaching, and you will benefit from the friendly and supportive atmosphere in the Department, as evidenced by student feedback available on our website.

This MSc course will equip you with knowledge of cutting-edge developments and issues in applied social psychology, as well as an array of analytical, methodological and communication skills, important for those progressing to a PhD as well as for those looking for jobs in applied settings in commercial and governmental organizations.

See the website https://www.royalholloway.ac.uk/psychology/coursefinder/mscappliedsocialpsychology.aspx

Why choose this course?

- Our Department ranks among the best in the UK for research (rating in the top ten in the UK in the 2014 REF) and teaching (highest rating ‘excellent’ for teaching quality).

- You will develop an enhanced understanding of the subject area through an exciting mix of seminars, lectures and research conveyed by our friendly and accessible staff, who are all involved in cutting edge research.

- You will benefit from high quality lectures that combine theory, research, and application, providing you with insight into topical issues and the latest research in applied social psychology.

- Some of the lectures are delivered by applied psychologists in the field, providing you with insights into the real jobs that await our graduates.

- You will have the opportunity to complete an innovative research project under the supervision of a leading academic in the relevant field.

Department research and industry highlights

Example research projects of our academic staff:
- Wrath of God: Religious primes and punishment.
- Can values reduce prejudice against Muslims even when national identification is high?
- Monetary donations following humanitarian disasters.
- Recalling and recognizing faces of other-races: A behavioural and eye movement study.

Example relations with the industry:
- Laureus Sport for Good Foundation; developing an assessment tool on well-being of youth.
- Relations with care homes helping patients with Multiple Sclerosis.
- Hospitals for a clinical trial test and intervention to help people with back pain.

Course content and structure

You will study seven core units, including the Social Research Project:

Core course units:
Psychology in Applied Settings
In this unit you will:
- develop an enhanced understanding of the link between research and practice

- be equipped with research skills relevant to research in applied settings and implementation of research findings in the practice of psychologists

- participate in specialist seminars on applied psychology topics such as forensic and educational psychology

- take part in interactive discussions of all relevant issues guided by the tutor taking any given session.

- Multicultural Existence
This unit will introduce you to the social psychology of multicultural existence and familiarise you with existing theories and current research on this topic. You will be trained to apply your knowledge to the analysis of real-life examples of multicultural existence.

- Adjustment and Well-Being
This course will introduce you to theory, empirical findings, and applications regarding adjustment and well-being (happiness and self-fulfillment).

- Advanced Techniques in Social and Behavioural Research
You will explore many of the key research techniques that are used in social, health, and developmental research. You will develop an advanced understanding of current techniques within these areas and how to employ these techniques, and be able to evaluate and critique them.

- Social Research Project
You will be provided with the possibility to carry out an original piece of research on a topic of your interest within the broad area of applied and social psychology. You will be given the necessary support during the conception, conduct and writing up of your research

- Topics in Psychological Science
The aim of the unit is to stimulate an interest in topical research findings from a wide range of research areas relevant to psychology. You will develop the skills of presentation, evaluation, interpretation and discussion of original research findings.

- Statistics for Research
You will be provided with an overview and basic understanding of advanced statistical methods used in psychology and neuroscience research, including hands-on experience applying these methods to specific problems. The unit will provide a methodological foundation if you wish to pursue research in disciplines allied to the MSc course.

On completion of the course graduates will have:
- an advanced knowledge of social psychology and its application
- strong research skills in social and applied psychology
- experience in transferable skills that are highly sought after in the job market, such as oral presentations, oral and written communication, and project planning.

Assessment

Assessment is carried out by a variety of methods including coursework, different types of presentations, examinations and a dissertation.

Employability & career opportunities

Our graduates are highly employable and, in recent years, have entered many different psychology-related areas, including careers in human relations and organizational psychology. Our graduates are currently working for organizations such as community associations, NGO’s, organizational psychology firms, and consultancy firms. This course also equips you with a solid foundation for continued PhD studies.

How to apply

Applications for entry to all our full-time postgraduate degrees can be made online https://www.royalholloway.ac.uk/studyhere/postgraduate/applying/howtoapply.aspx .

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The MSc in Evidence-Based Health Care is run jointly between the Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences (in collaboration with the Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine) and the Department for Continuing Education. The teachers and contributors are internationally recognised leaders in the field of evidence-based practice and teaching. The flexible structure of the course has been devised to fit with the structure of specialist training and to accommodate student choice.

Programme details

Students are required to complete two compulsory introductory modules; and then choose four modules to match their learning needs. Students are assessed for each module using coursework designed to integrate new learning with current practice. Students are encouraged to deepen their learning through online learning activities and asynchronous discussion groups.

Students are also required to submit a dissertation which is a major piece of independent work that investigates in depth an aspect of evidence-based practice. Students are encouraged to choose their own topic, in an area that has direct relevance to their professional work.

Visit the website https://www.conted.ox.ac.uk/about/msc-in-evidence-based-health-care

Compulsory Modules

• The Practice of Evidence-Based Health Care
• Introduction to Study Design and Research Methods

Optional Modules (four must be chosen)

• Clinical Trial Management
• Ethics for Biosciences (online)
• Mixed Methods in Health Research
• Knowledge into Action
• Evidence-Based Diagnosis and Screening
• Introduction to Statistics for Health Researchers (online)
• Systematic Reviews
• Randomized Controlled Trials
• Qualitative Research Methods
• Essential Medical Statistics
• History and Philosophy of Evidence-Based Health Care
• Teaching Evidence-Based Practice

Course Aims

The aim of the MSc programme is to help health professionals base their clinical and health management decisions on valid, reliable and relevant evidence, determined by sound scientific research and evaluation.

By the end of the programme students are expected to be able to:
• Find and appraise quantitative and qualitative research evidence critically and efficiently and understand what the results mean in different contexts and for different healthcare decisions.
• Integrate and synthesise different sorts of information, from diverse sources, when making both individual patient and health policy decisions in a wide range of situations.
• Be familiar with key issues for evidence-based practice in their own professional area or specialty.
• Work comfortably in situations of uncertainty and make sound judgements in the absence of definitive evidence.
• Work comfortably in unpredictable situations and deal with complex issues systematically and creatively.
• Have an understanding of ethical frameworks in health care and be able to apply ethical principles to practical issues.
• Understand health care organisations, their management and the changing context in which they operate
• Be pro-active in recognising the need for change and have the ability to manage change.
• Understand how to work with colleagues to make informed decisions based on evidence and operate effectively in a variety of team roles.
• Provide leadership for evidence-based practice and research.
• Manage projects, people, time and change effectively and efficiently.
• Present and communicate information about research evidence and evidence-based practice clearly in written, electronic and oral forms to a range of audiences.
• Be able to produce a robust research protocol, for a variety of different types of research question, in a format that can be submitted as an application for research funding.
• Be able to play a lead role in the conduct and presentation of research.
• Have an understanding of the ethical issues in health research and research governance.
• Routinely use the principles of reflective practice.

Find out how to apply here - http://www.ox.ac.uk/admissions/graduate/applying-to-oxford

Visit the MSc in Evidence-Based Health Care page on the University of Oxford web site for more details!

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Programme description
Over the last 30 years healthcare research and drug development have been transformed from peripheral activities carried out on an ad hoc basis to become core activities that require trained, professional, staff.

We have developed a modular postgraduate programme in clinical drug development designed to give you the necessary academic background and specialist skills needed to carry out clinical drug development in a contract research organisation , pharmaceutical industry or health service environment.

If you are a nurse, medical doctors or other health professionals working in contract research organisations, the pharmaceutical industry and healthcare, this programme has been designed for you.

Programme outline
This postgraduate programmes shares a common spine with our Healthcare Research Methods programme, which covers the key areas of expertise needed for a successful clinical research programme.If you choose the Clinical Drug Development programme, your initial modules will concentrate on early drug development.

The modular nature of the programmes is designed to fit in with full-time employment. The taught elements of the modules are delivered in three-day blocks every six weeks.

Core modules:

Clinical Study Design
Practical Aspects of Clinical Research and Early Drug Development
Ethics and Regulation
Data Management and Statistics
Specific Topics in Clinical Trial Design
Elective Dissertation
Health Outcomes and Pharmacoeconomics
Marketing Healthcare
Research Project / Dissertation
Drug Discovery and Pre-clinical Research and Development
Toxicology
Module options include:

Health and the Human Body
Healthcare Organisation and Decision Making

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