Masters Degrees (Histopathology)

Laboratory medicine is facing an exciting era in the transforming Molecular Pathology landscape that aims to foster the delivery of high-impact innovation on the bases of complex informatics, for benefits to patient care, academic research and UK industry. With a vision of creating the next generation of leaders in Molecular Pathology, this programme will provide the state of the art training programme for Molecular Pathology, in order to facilitate the pathologists, clinical scientists, trainees, and to those in the related health professions, to acquire essential knowledge, skills and attributes in the current and future diagnosis that incorporates molecular knowledge.

Why this programme

● In August 2014, MRC published a review of the UK Molecular Pathology Landscape, in which the critical needs and challenges are pin downed in the delivery of improved diagnostics incorporating the molecular approaches.

● With a vision of creating the next generation of leaders, this programme provides state of the art training for Molecular Pathology

● We are one of the few centres where molecular pathology and diagnostic histopathology are amalgamated on one site, permitting the delivery of a clinically relevant molecular pathology course.

● The areas of main focus include diagnostic molecular pathology, clinical trials and translational research in molecular pathology, pathology bioinformatics and digital pathology. The core courses (PgCert) are designed to cover the intended learning outcomes within Royal College of Pathologists curriculum for Specialty Training in Histopathology 2015.

● The programme is led by the national leaders directly engaged in the various molecular pathology initiatives. Students are kept up-to-date with information and the current needs identified by the professional societies, research councils and charity organizations.

● You will be trained at the purpose-built Laboratory Medicine Building at the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital, which provides services to 52% of the Scottish population. This is one of the largest NHS department of pathology in Europe, accommodating about 50 consultant pathologists.

● The courses will be delivered by a range of professionals with expertise from geneticists, pathologists, clinical, lab scientists and academics, informaticians and clinicians provided across hospital practice and primary care. They are experts based in QEUH and those nationally and internationally recognized experts of molecular pathology.

Programme structure

The main aims of the MSc Molecular Pathology programme are to enable students:

• to fully provide a high quality service in molecular pathology diagnosis
• to participate in research in the area of molecular pathology
• to participate in the training of future generations of molecular pathologists

The "Blended Learning" programme offers the maximum flexibility for students who wish to study Molecular Pathology while on clinical duties and pathology training. "Moodle-Based Learning" sessions offer an advantage allowing clinicians to study within their own schedule. "In person review" sessions will enable active interactions with the course contributors and other students. Case-based and "hands-on" sessions facilitate the knowledge and skills acquired in clinical diagnosis as the programme proceeds, so it is easy to keep motivated throughout the course.

Core Courses

– 3 x compulsory, 20-credit courses; 1 per semester

• Fundamentals of Molecular Biology and Genetics for Histopathology (20 credits)
• Molecular Tests and Techniques for Histopathology (20 credits)
• Multidisciplinary Approaches to Molecular Pathology (20 credits)

The first three core components will provide the minimum requirement for students to apply molecular knowledge and skill in pathology diagnosis currently on-going and in the immediate future.

These courses will form the PgCert.

Advanced Courses

- Courses must be selected from the following options to obtain a total of 60 credits.

• Translational Medical Research Approaches (10 credits)
• Medical and Research Ethics (10 credits)
• Molecular Pathology (20 credits)
• Omics technologies for biomedical sciences: from genomics and metabolomics (20 credits)
• Frontiers in Cancer Science (20 credits)
• Disease Screening in Populations (10 credits)
• Governance and ethics in education research (10 credits)

In the advanced component, students will further their training of Molecular Pathology to acquire the knowledge needed to get involved in research, or development and improvement of diagnostics. There are options for learning of advanced technologies, wider disease areas, research methods, in-depth bioinformatics, and health professional education.

Successful completion of core and advanced courses will be awarded with the PgDip.‌

Dissertation

- 1 x 60-credit project-based course assessed by a dissertation of approximately 8,000 words followed by an oral presentation.

The Masters dissertation project gives students the opportunity to conduct research in an area of Molecular Pathology with supervisor(s) assigned to each project. For example, the opportunity to conduct an independent research project, audit or critical review of the literature in selected topics in the area of Molecular Pathology, current and future diagnosis, clinical and scientific research.

Successful completion of all core and advanced courses and the dissertation will lead to the award of the MSc.

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About the course

This course will equip you with a critical, systematic understanding of oral pathological conditions that require diagnosis by histopathological methods. You’ll study the laboratory methods used to prepare oral diagnostic material for histopathological examination and the research tools used to advance the practice of diagnostic oral pathology.

We teach you competence in the microscopical diagnosis of common and significant oral pathological lesions. You’ll learn when further information or additional procedures are needed to confirm a diagnosis.

Your career

We offer clinical and non-clinical courses that will further your career and develop your interests. Many of our clinical graduates go on to specialist dental practice, hospital practice or academic posts.

World-leading dental school

Our internationally recognised oral and dental research is organised into two overarching themes: ‘clinical and person centred’ and ‘basic and applied’. These themes are supported by three interdisciplinary research groups: Bioengineering and Health Technologies, Integrated Bioscience, and Person Centred and Population Oral Health.

We believe that dental science should not be constrained by the traditional boundaries created by specific clinical disciplines and that progress derives from a multidisciplinary approach. Our research supports our teaching enabling a blended approach to learning.
Your course will make the most of virtual learning environments and advanced practical sessions, as well as traditional lectures and seminars.

Facilities

You’ll develop your clinical skills in one of our two clinical skills labs or in our new virtual reality Simulation Suite where you can use haptic technology to undertake a range of clinical techniques.

You’ll complete your clinical training in Sheffield’s Charles Clifford Dental Hospital, part of the Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust. There are 150 dental units with modern facilities for treatment under sedation, a well-equipped dental radiography department, oral pathology laboratories and a hospital dental production laboratory.

We have new modern research facilities and laboratories for tissue culture, molecular biology, materials science and histology- microscopy. All laboratories have dedicated technical support and academic expertise to guide you.

Core modules

Basic Principles of Pathology; Basic Techniques in Histopathology; Research Problems and Approaches; Laboratory Research Methods; Diagnostic Oral Histopathology; Advanced Oral Histopathology; Current Concepts in Dentistry; Dissertation.

Teaching

Teaching is through an induction period, observational work- shadowing, supervised reporting, staff and student-led seminars, practical laboratory techniques, lectures, literature review, dissertation, independent directed self-study.

Assessment

You’ll be assessed through introductory multi-choice assessment, examinations at the end of each semester consisting of written papers and a microscope-based exam, assessed essays and presentations at journal clubs and seminars, dissertation project.

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About the course

Lead academic 2016: Dr Julie Simpson

This course combines taught modules on the fundamental aspects of the major nervous system diseases, with the development of practical laboratory skills encompassing histopathology, molecular pathology and microscopy.

You’ll be trained to use tissue samples in neuroscience research aimed at understanding the pathophysiology of nervous system diseases and you’ll discover how laboratory breakthroughs have been translated into clinical benefits.

The course will be taught by scientists and consultant neuropathologists who are experts in their fields. You’ll get the opportunity to carry out neuroanatomy dissection and you’ll work with leading research groups during the research project.

Our study environment

You’ll be based in teaching hospitals that serve a population of over half a million people and refer a further two million. We also have close links with the University’s other health-related departments.

Our research funding comes from many sources including the NIHR, MRC, BBSRC, EPSRC, the Department of Health, EU, and prominent charities such as the Wellcome Trust, ARC, YCR, Cancer Research UK and BHF. Our partners and sponsors include Novartis, GlaxoSmithKline, Pfizer, Astra Zeneca and Eli Lilly.

You’ll also benefit from our collaboration with the Department of Biomedical Sciences.

How we teach

Classes are kept small (15–20 students) to make sure you get the best possible experience in laboratories and in clinical settings.

Our resources

We have a state-of-the-art biorepository and a £30m stem cell laboratory. The Sheffield Institute of Translational Neuroscience (SITraN) opened in November 2010. We also have microarray, genetics, histology, flow cytometry and high-throughput screening technology, and the latest equipment for bone and oncology research.

At our Clinical Research Facility, you’ll be able to conduct studies with adult patients and volunteers. The Sheffield Children’s Hospital houses a complementary facility for paediatric experimental medical research.

Hepatitis B policy

If your course involves a significant risk of exposure to human blood or other body fluids and tissue, you’ll need to complete a course of Hepatitis B immunisation before starting. We conform to national guidelines that are in place to protect patients, health care workers and students.

Core modules

Neuro-anatomy; Basic Principles of Pathology and Histopathology; Molecular Neuroscience; Ethics and Public Awareness of Science; Pathology and Modelling of Neurodegenerative Disease; Neuroinflammation, Neuro-Oncology and Neurovascular Disease; Literature Review and Critical Analysis of Science; Research Project.

Teaching and assessment

The taught component of the MSc is delivered through practical laboratory classes and demonstrations, lectures, seminars and tutorials. Assessment is primarily through written assignments and coursework, along with practical laboratory assessments, spotter exams, presentations and debates. The research project is assessed by a thesis and oral presentation.

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This MSc is for biomedical scientists registered with the Health and Care Professions Council wishing to undertake flexible, part-time study towards a masters qualification in a specialist area of clinical pathology.

The degree programme has been informed by consultation with laboratory managers and NHS training staff. It consists of specialist modules in the cellular sciences that explore the theoretical, applied and professional aspects of clinical histopathology and cytopathology.

Designed to complement the professional qualifications of the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS), the course allows you to expand your knowledge and skills in diagnostic laboratory medicine; to apply these skills to clinical diagnosis, laboratory management and research; and to develop as a reflective practitioner, all within the context of the Modernising Scientific Careers (MSC) initiative.

Course structure

You will attend university for a maximum of one day per week. A typical week consists of six hours of teaching time (lectures, seminars and workshops) and a further six hours of student-centred learning, for example directed reading and assessment preparation.

Assessment methods vary between modules, but all contain coursework assignments such as essays and presentations, while only some have examination components.

The course is designed to be flexible and to fit in with your personal and professional circumstances. For example, you can study the blood sciences modules alone to qualify for a PGCert, take additional modules for a PGDip or commit to the research project for the full MSc.

The MSc qualification is normally achieved after three years of part-time study.

Areas of study

You will study:

• two cellular sciences modules: exploring theoretical, applied and professional aspects of clinical histopathology and cytopathology
• two modules that focus on the professional area of practice and work-based learning to deepen your knowledge of biomedical science. These modules are only available to part-time students who are employed in clinical pathology departments
• applied molecular biology modules
• service delivery in clinical pathology modules
• a special topic option: you can select a topic from a range available in the School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences; examples include diabetes, biomedical statistics, and oxidative stress and human disease
• research methods module: you will focus on research methods and project design. This module includes preparation for the research project
• a laboratory-based research project: so you can explore the discipline of blood sciences in depth. The project is based on a topic within blood sciences and includes work conducted in the clinical pathology laboratory workplace.

You will study some of the listed modules with students from the Infection Sciences and Blood Sciences masters, allowing for a multidisciplinary environment where different perspectives on clinical pathology can be shared.

Modules:

Cellular Pathology and Special Topics in Pathobiology
Seminars in Cellular Sciences
Applied Molecular Biology
Service Delivery in Clinical Pathology
Advanced Professional Practice in Clinical Pathology
Research Methods
Research project

Options include:

Diabetes
Oxidative Stress and Human Disease
Pharmacogenomics
Advanced Instrumental Analysis
Biomedical Statistics
Clinical and Applied Immunology

Careers and Employability

The Cellular Sciences MSc contains both professional elements and discipline-specific content, and is a suitable part of training and development for the role of a band 7 healthcare scientist.

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This course builds on many years of biomedical science provision at DMU. The overall aims are to improve your laboratory speciality knowledge, research, and management skills in an atmosphere of ongoing scholarship and research.

•Accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Sciences (IBMS)
•Gives depth of background to bioscience graduates
•Enhances opportunities for progression within the pathology services or bioscience/biotechnology industries both in the UK and overseas
•Provides biomedical science professionals with an enhanced portfolio of skills
•Choose specific areas of speciality study to direct your own learning
•Interaction with other healthcare professionals, learning from others in the field
•Variety of visiting lecturers from many disciplines

Modules:

First year core modules:
•Research Designs in Health
•Evidence-Based Practice

Plus a choice from two of the following:
• Advanced Molecular Biology and Genomics
• Cancer Biology
• Advanced Topics in Biomedical Science

The second year brings in general topics in Biomedical Science including:
•Strategic Leadership and Effective Management

Plus, one pathology speciality module from a choice of:
• Advanced Haematology and Transfusion Science
• Advanced Medical Microbiology
• Advanced Chemical Pathology
• Advanced Immunopathology
• Advanced Histopathology and Cytopathology
• The Research Project

You will study your chosen specialism at an advanced level, through selecting your optional modules. In the final year you will carry out a research project (dissertation) in one of our laboratories or in your NHS laboratory (if you are an existing practitioner). This will enable you to choose and research a particular topic in-depth. Following the submission of the dissertation there will be an oral presentation and questions.

These modules examine the underpinnings of a modern research-based health service and provide the foundation for the dissertation. Several other cohorts of students also take these modules from a health service background, and inter-professional discussion will be encouraged, so as to ensure that topics are examined from a range of perspectives.

Teaching and Assessment:

Teaching will normally be delivered though formal lectures, more informal seminars, tutorials, workshops, discussions and e-learning packages.

Assessment will be via essays, presentations, seen exams, poster presentations, plus a final dissertation.

Free English language tuition delivered by our British Council-accredited Centre for English Language Learning is available both before and during the course. To find out more, please visit dmu.ac.uk/international

Expertise:

The course is delivered by a group of dedicated and experienced professionals, many of whom have come from NHS hospital laboratory experience or dedicated
research institutions.

Graduate careers:

This course will enhance career prospects for graduates of Biomedical Science or other bioscience disciplines, and will enable Health Professions Council (HPC) registered biomedical scientists to increase their opportunities for progression within pathology services. It has been developed in conjunction with local health trusts who support this initiative and contribute to the teaching.
Input from practitioners means that you will benefit from learning the most current debates, concerns, issues and topics in the field of practice. It will assist managers and staff to meet their objectives in relation to agenda for change.

Ultimately the objectives are to produce biomedical scientists that are suitably qualified for entry to postgraduate research programmes leading to PhD or professional doctorates in Biomedical Science, and be able to apply for appropriate employment in hospitals pathology laboratories.

Funding:
Those working in the NHS may be eligible for funding from the Education Commissioning Unit of the East Midlands Strategic Health Authority.


“Some of the modules were shared with other health professionals and learning alongside others in the sector has taught me a lot and made me appreciate how we all have to work together to provide better patient care. The lecturers are fantastic and are ready to give you help anytime you need it.”

Edina Chiriseri, Advanced Biomedical Science MSc graduate

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MRes in Cancer Biology
Imperial College London
Dept of Histopathology
COURSE CODE: A3CB
http://www1.imperial.ac.uk/medicine/teaching/postgraduate/taughtcourses/mrescancerbiology/

Imperial College is ranked in the top five universities of the world, according to the 2007 Times Higher Education Supplement league tables.

This MRes is a 1-year full-time postgraduate course run by the Faculty of Medicine, Dept of Oncology at the Hammersmith Hospital Campus of Imperial College London.

This course is designed both for BSc graduates with a suitable first degree in subjects such as Life Sciences or Biomedical Sciences and clinicians specializing in cancer related fields including medical or clinical oncology wishing to undertake a research degree to further their career in academic medicine.

Course objectives:
1) To provide science or medical graduates with an excellent introduction to the cellular and molecular biological basis of cancer.
2) To enable students to experience some of the most technologically advanced and diverse approaches currently being applied in the broad field of cancer biology through two independent 19-week research projects within the Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College.
3) To introduce students to the research environment, develop the experimental expertise required to embark on an independent research career and provide training in key transferable skills including bioinformatics, and grant writing.
4) To facilitate interactions between clinical and non-clinical scientists, enabling the cross-fertilisation of ideas and approaches bringing about greater understanding and future productive collaboration between scientists with differing backgrounds.

Structure of the MRes in Cancer Biology:
The course comprises an initial eight week taught component in which the cellular and molecular basis of cancer biology are covered plus an introduction to the clinical and pathological aspects of carcinogenesis. Within this period will also be a series of workshops covering key transferable skills such as statistics, bioinformatics and grant writing. This is followed by two separate 19-week research placements in the Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London.


Career opportunities:
The course is primarily designed to prepare students for an academic or industrial research career, with those students successfully completing the course ideally placed to apply for fellowships and register for a Ph.D.

Entrance requirements:
Applications are welcomed from candidates with a first degree in an appropriate medical or science subject. Candidates are normally expected to hold a good first degree (upper second class or better) from a UK university or an equivalent qualification if obtained outside the UK. In line with Imperial College policy, students for whom English is not their first language will be expected to pass the British council IELTS test at grade 6.0 or above, with a score of 5 or above I each component. An alternative is the TOEFL Internet Based Test (minimal score of 90 overall, with required scores of 20 in Speaking and 24 in Writing).

To apply for a place, go to
https://apply.embark.com/grad/imperial/
For application forms & information regarding course fees:
The Registry, Sherfield Building, Imperial College London, London SW7 2AZ

Places are extremely limited

For informal enquiries please see the course website below or contact the Course Organizer Dr Ernesto Yague at [email protected]

http://www1.imperial.ac.uk/medicine/teaching/postgraduate/taughtcourses/mrescancerbiology/

Valuing diversity and committed to equality of opportunity
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Home, EU and Overseas applicants hoping to start this course in October 2014 are eligible to apply for the Imperial Faculty of Medicine Master’s Degree Scholarships. This scheme offers a variety of awards, including full tuition payment and a generous stipend. For more information, please visit our website: http://www1.imperial.ac.uk/medicine/prospectivestudents/mastersdegreescholarships/

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This degree allows you to undertake a major research project in a specialised subject within the UCL Division of Biosciences. To cater for the diversity of topics available, the degree is split into ten subject streams, each with a dedicated tutor. The programme can act as a gateway into further research in academia or industry.

Degree information

Students gain knowledge of their chosen specialism through the major research project, alongside basic skills for planning research and the written, verbal and visual communication of science. The acquisition and critical analysis of primary scientific literature are essential, as is experiencing the multidisciplinary and collaborative nature of bioscience research.

Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits.

The programme consists of three core modules (45 credits), one optional module (15 credits) and a research dissertation (120 credits).

Core modules
-Research Skills
-The Scientific Literature
-Seminar Series

Optional modules - students select one optional module from the field of study of their chosen subject stream. Choice will be guided by the stream tutor and influenced by students' previous experience and project topic.
-Genetics
-Computational Biology
-Stem Cells and Developmental Biology
-Cell Biology
-Structural Biology and Molecular Biophysics
-Neuroscience
-Biochemistry
-Biotechnology
-Biology of Ageing and Age-related Disease
-Pharmacology

Dissertation/report
All students undertake an independent laboratory-based research project which culminates in a dissertation of 15,000-18,000 words.

Teaching and learning
The programme is delivered through lectures, seminars and tutorials, combining research-led and skills-based courses. The core modules are assessed by assignments and coursework, whereas the optional module will also have an examination element. The research project is assessed by an oral presentation, submission of a dissertation and is subject to oral examination.

Careers

This programme provides an ideal foundation for further doctoral research in the field of biosciences, and we envisage that many of the graduates of this programme will undertake a PhD or enter employment in an advanced capacity in industry or the public sector. Approximately 70% of graduates obtained a funded PhD position, either at UCL or elsewhere.

Top career destinations for this degree:
-Histopathology Trainee, London Deanery (NHS)
-Assistant Editor, Biomed Central
-PhD in Stem Cells and Developmental Biology, UCL
-Phd in Evolutionary Development., University of York

Employability
The flexibility and responsiveness of the Biosciences MRes programme provides training in many areas of cutting-edge scientific research. This launches our students into prime academic and industrial careers. Most of our students progress to further study in PhD positions at leading universities but others in the past have used the generic training from the programme to enter medical publishing and commercial science laboratories, for example.

Why study this degree at UCL?

UCL is recognised as one of the world's best research environments within the field of biological and biomedical science.

The UCL Division of Biosciences is in a unique position to offer tuition, research opportunities in internationally recognised laboratories and an appreciation of the multidisciplinary nature of biosciences research.

The division includes the Departments of Cell & Developmental Biology; Neuroscience, Physiology & Pharmacology; Genetics, Evolution & Environment; and Structural & Molecular Biology and also hosts the Centre for Stem Cells & Regenerative Medicine, the UCL Genetics Institute and the Institute for Healthy Ageing.

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Cellular pathology is the study of structural and functional changes in cells, tissues and organs that underlie disease. It is a dynamic, fast-evolving specialism which saves many lives by providing rational clinical care and therapy in the fight against many serious diseases, particularly cancer.


Why study MSc Cellular Pathology at Middlesex?

Our Biomedical Science courses have a burgeoning international reputation, due to our world-class research in areas including biomarkers, public health and biomodelling. Our Centre for Investigative and Diagnostic Oncology has pioneered techniques for cancer diagnosis and treatment, including our breakthrough in the development of a vaccine for bladder cancer.

Our course has a strong practical element, with an emphasis on developing the skills needed in a laboratory and gaining hands-on experience of diagnostic techniques, and our teaching and research facilities surpass those at some UK medical schools. Our £3 million specialist labs are equipped with the most up-to-date technology; here you'll learn to use cutting-edge techniques and equipment for cellular and molecular analysis, such as MALDI-TOF mass spectrometers, flow cytometers, DNA sequencing, real-time PCR, electrophoresis and high-performance liquid chromatography, histology and confocal microscopy. We also have fully-equipped proteomics facilities, a histopathology lab and an incredibly modern cell culture facility.

Course highlights

- All our teaching staff are involved in research and many are pioneers in their own field. Course leader Professor Lucy Ghali is an expert in immunohistochemistry; other teaching staff include Dr Frank Hills, a former clinical scientist at St Bartholomew's Hospital; Dr Ajit Shah, a former principal scientist at GlaxoSmithKline; Sandra Appiah, a former research scientist at Leatherhead Food Research; and Professor Stephen Dilworth, Professor Lucy Ghali and Dr Song Wen are world experts on cancer and Biomarkers.
- The course is accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science, so on graduation you'll have fulfilled the academic requirement for Licentiate membership of the institute; you can apply for student membership while you study.
- We work with London hospitals and NHS laboratories to ensure you're fully versed in both the latest practice and the latest research. - You'll visit diagnostic laboratories and of course, our location gives you easy access to the British Library, the Science Museum, the Royal Institution and more.
- Our staff are supportive and hands-on – ever-ready with advice on your studies, they're also known for their strong pastoral care and for going the extra mile for their students.
- Our flexible timetable means you'll only spend two days a week at university if you're studying full-time, or one if you're part-time.

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This course offers progression from science related degrees for students wishing to develop an academic interest in clinical sciences. The course develops:

Anatomical, physiological and biochemical processes related to cellular, musculo-skeletal and cardiovascular function in terms of both normal and diseased states.
Psychological concepts of health, illness and disease.
Clinical research process from proposal stage to undertaking, including presenting in oral and written form suitable for medical and academic audiences.
This course provides a combination of cutting edge theory and research skills to students who have a strong scientific background but not necessarily any directly relevant subject knowledge which makes this course challenging and rewarding.

Successful students will combine consistently high levels of lecture attendance with a similarly significant amount of self-directed study and will be supported by academics and clinicians who are well respected in their specialist fields.

Modules:

Dissertation (60 credits)
Therapeutics (20)
Applied Anatomy and Histopathology (20)
Clinical Physiology (20)
Research Skills (30)
Metrology and Health (10)
Molecular Pathology (20)

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Medical Molecular Biology is the application of modern molecular biology and genetics in medical research, medical sciences and the clinic has led to huge advances in the understanding, diagnosis and treatment of human disease. Students choosing to study the Medical Molecular Biology with Genetics program will enjoy a modular, but highly integrated course that delivers the theoretical knowledge and extensive practical laboratory experience required for progress on to PhD studies in medical molecular research and/or employment in molecular diagnostics or medical sciences industries.

Successful graduates will also have attained transferable skills required to independently adapt and optimize scientific methodologies, critically interpret and evaluate self-generated and published scientific literature and data and undertake a predominantly self-reliant approach to laboratory based work, study and research.

Modules:

Research Skills
Medical Biotechnology
Human Molecular Genetics
Human Immunology & Disease
Laboratory Molecular Research
Stem Cells, Disease & Therapy
Applied Anatomy & Histopathology
Research projects are run in the Robert Edwards laboratory and the laboratories of the North West Cancer Research Institute.

Semester 3 consists of a 60-credit laboratory based research project and dissertation.

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Programme Aims

This award is offered within the Postgraduate Scheme in Health Technology, which aims to provide professionals in Medical Imaging, Radiotherapy, Medical Laboratory Science, Health Technology, as well as others interested in health technology, with an opportunity to develop advanced levels of knowledge and skills.

A. Advancement in Knowledge and Skill
‌•To develop specialists in their respective professional disciplines to enhance their career paths;
‌•To broaden students' exposure to health science and technology to enable them to cope with the ever-changing demands of work; and
‌•To provide a laboratory environment for testing problems encountered at work.

Students develop intellectually, professionally and personally while advancing their knowledge and skills in Medical Laboratory Science. The specific aims of this award are:
‌•To broaden and deepen students' knowledge and expertise in Medical Laboratory Science;
‌•To introduce students to advances in selected areas of diagnostic laboratory techniques;
‌•‌To develop in students an integrative and collaborative team approach to the investigation of common diseases;
‌•To foster an understanding of the management concepts that are relevant to clinical laboratories; and
‌•To develop students' skills in communication, critical analysis and problem solving.

B. Professional Development
‌•To develop students' ability in critical analysis and evaluation in their professional practices;
‌•To cultivate within healthcare professionals the qualities and attributes that are expected of them;
‌•To acquire a higher level of awareness and reflection within the profession and the healthcare industry to improve the quality of healthcare services; and
‌•To develop students' ability to assume a managerial level of practice.

C. Evidence-based Practice
‌•To equip students with the necessary research skills to enable them to perform evidence-based practice in the delivery of healthcare service.

D. Personal Development
‌•To provide channels for practising professionals to continuously develop themselves while at work; and
‌•To allow graduates to develop themselves further after graduation.

Programme Characteristics

Our laboratories are well-equipped to support students in their studies, research and dissertations. Our specialised equipment includes a flow cytometer, cell culture facilities, basic and advanced instruments for molecular biology research (including thermal cyclers, DNA sequencers, real-time PCR systems and an automatic mutation detection system), microplate systems for ELISA work, HPLC, FPLC, tissue processors, automatic cell analysers, a preparative ultracentrifuge and an automated biochemical analyser.

This programme is accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science (UK), and graduates are eligible to apply for Membership of the Institute.

Programme Structure

The Postgraduate Scheme in Health Technology consists of the following awards:
‌•MSc in Medical Imaging and Radiation Science
‌•MSc in Medical Laboratory Science

A range of subjects that are specific to the Medical Laboratory Science profession, and a variety of subjects of common interest and value to all healthcare professionals, are offered. In general, each subject requires attendance on one evening per week over a 13-week semester.

Award Requirements

Students must complete 1 Compulsory Subject (Research Methods & Biostatistics), 4 Core Specialism Specific Subjects, 2 Elective Subjects (from any subjects within the Scheme) and a research-based Dissertation. They are encouraged to select a dissertation topic that is relevant to their professional and personal interests.

Students who have successfully completed 30 credits, but who have taken fewer than the required 4 Core Specialism Specific Subjects, will be awarded a generic MSc in Health Technology without a specialism award.

Students who have successfully completed 18 credits, but who decide not to continue with their course of MSc study, may request to be awarded a Postgraduate Diploma (PgD) as follows:
‌•PgD in a specialism if 1 Compulsory Subject, 4 Core Subjects and 1 Elective Subject are successfully completed; or
‌•PgD in Health Technology (Generic) if 1 Compulsory Subject and any other 5 Subjects within the Scheme are successfully completed.

Core Areas of Study

The following is a list of the Core Medical Laboratory Science Subjects. Some subjects are offered only in alternate years.
‌
•Integrated Medical Laboratory Science
‌•Advanced Topics in Health Technology
‌•Clinical Applications of Molecular Diagnostics in Healthcare
‌•Clinical Chemistry
‌•Epidemiology
‌•Haematology & Transfusion Science
‌•Histopathology & Cytology
‌•I‌mmunology
‌•Medical Microbiology
‌•Molecular Technology in the Clinical Laboratory
‌•Workshops on Advanced Molecular Diagnostic Technology

Having selected the requisite number of subjects from the Core list, students can choose the remaining Core Subjects or other subjects available in this Scheme as Elective Subjects.

The two awards within the Scheme share a similar programme structure, and students may take subjects across disciplines. For subjects offered within the Scheme by the other discipline of study, please refer to the information on the MSc in Medical Imaging and Radiation Science.

English Language Requirements

If you are not a native speaker of English, and your Bachelor's degree or equivalent qualification is awarded by institutions where the medium of instruction is not English, you are expected to fulfil the University’s minimum English language requirement for admission purpose. Please refer to the "Admission Requirements" http://www51.polyu.edu.hk/eprospectus/tpg/admissions-requirements section for details.

Additional Document Required
Transcript / Certificate

Other Information
Suitable candidates may be invited to attend interviews.

How to Apply

For latest admission info, please visit [email protected] http://www51.polyu.edu.hk/eprospectus/tpg and eAdmission http://www.polyu.edu.hk/admission

Enquiries

For further information, please contact:
Telephone: (852) 3400 8653
Fax: (852) 2362 4365
E-mail: [email protected]

For more details of the programme, please visit [email protected] http://www51.polyu.edu.hk/eprospectus/tpg/2016/55005-mmf-mmp website.

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The MSc Clinical Dermatology has been developed to prepare clinicians for their role as health care professionals working with people with skin conditions. It provides inter-professional working opportunities for the study of key aspects of dermatology practice. There are a range of specialist modules covering key areas of dermatology practice including, management of skin lesions and skin cancers, and chronic skin conditions to enable clinicians to develop knowledge and skills relating to common dermatological conditions.

About the course

The programme has been developed to meet the needs of practitioners with a special interest in skin disease whilst benefiting from shared, inter-professional learning. This dermatology programme is unique in that it recruits both UK/EU and International doctors and allied health professionals to this specialist master’s degree and provides a range of taught postgraduate dermatology modules.

The MSc Clinical Dermatology is aimed at practitioners wanting to undertake further specialist training and develop career aspirations in dermatology and skin integrity. Dermatology is the branch of medicine dealing with the skin, hair, nails, and associated disorders. This postgraduate course offers a structured educational programme in dermatology but does not focus on cosmetic dermatology. Aesthetic practitioners with clinical experience in dermatology who want to learn more about skin disease are welcome.

This programme has an emphasis on developing practical competencies; good diagnostic skills, appropriate and timely management of common skin conditions and allows flexibility to study related specialist content to broaden student’s clinical expertise which is invaluable in today’s competitive workplace.

Course Details

The master’s course aims to:
-Develop methods of inquiry and skills required to research and advance dermatology practice using an in-depth current and relevant evidence base
-Provide knowledge and understanding to foster the further development of critical, contemporary, evidence based and patient centered practice in dermatology
-Develop a systematic advanced knowledge and understanding of the application of specialist dermatology to practice in the context of multi-professional and inter-professional working in the contemporary healthcare setting

It has an emphasis on clinical skills as well as the scientific, evidence base underpinning contemporary dermatology practice. At the end of the programme, students will feel confident treating and managing patients with a wide variety of skin conditions.

Course Content

Teaching focuses on the principles of managing skin conditions in patients of all ages. Topics covered include: the burden of skin disease, diagnostic techniques, skin histopathology, disorders of skin and mucous membranes, environmental and lifestyle factors, immunology and biology, cutaneous manifestations of systemic disease, inflammatory skin conditions, microbiology of the skin, pigmented skin diseases, skin cancer, surgical intervention, psychological impact of skin disease, patient education and optimal service delivery.

Core skills for specialist practice will be developed including decision making and problem solving skills, leadership and communication skills, information retrieval, critical analysis and application of evidence based practice, audit and research methods and an ability to support and influence service improvement amongst others.

A practical skills theme runs throughout the programme. This is supported by significant clinical teaching and assessment. Overseas students are offered the opportunity to visit a local Dermatology Unit to observe clinical practice in a NHS setting and experience a series of specialist clinic observations.

Careers

The MSc Clinical Dermatology tailors knowledge, skills & assessment to the needs of NHS employers and the global healthcare sector to provide a highly relevant curriculum that facilitates the development of specialist practitioners and increases student’s employability.

The course is designed to provide clinicians with a better understanding of core clinical dermatology and skin integrity. Some students have pursued a career pathway as academic lecturers and specialist dermatology practitioners while some international graduates have gone on to work in private practice and specialist government positions in their own countries. On graduating, you will benefit from increased employability as clinical specialists and graduates are often promoted to senior leadership positions.

This programme offers excellent opportunities for continuing professional development for practicing health professionals. Home / EU clinicians can choose to study specific modules relevant to their professional practice as standalone modules.

International students should note that completion of this master’s programme does not lead to registration to practice in the UK. This programme may be sufficient for clinician’s to work as specialist practitioners in their country of origin, but local requirements should be checked prior to commencing the programme.

Teaching methods

All specialist teaching is done via face-to-face lectures and is supported by the universities online learning environment. You will experience a wide variety of teaching methods throughout the programme including: interactive and key-note lectures, seminars, workshops, individual and group based tutorials incorporating for example case studies, role play, problem based learning and discussion groups covering a broad range of topics.

Each module is led by a specialist module tutor who has a particular interest in the topic being studied and teaching is supported by a large enthusiastic team of academics and specialist dermatology practitioners who are visiting lecturers contributing to this master’s programme.

Structure

Optional modules
-Chronic Skin Conditions
-Clinical Practice in Action
-Core Competencies in Medical Practice
-Enhancing Skin Integrity Skills
-Evidence Based Practice
-Health Disciplines Project
-Leadership in Practice
-Mind and Skin
-Recognition and Management of Skin Lesions
-Skin Surgery Skills
-Therapeutics of Skin Conditions
-Work Based Learning

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Our flexible, blended Molecular Pathology MSc course will enable you to take advantage of growing opportunities within this field, which is critically important for translational medicine, both in cancer and non-cancer diseases.

The number of academic pathologists trained in molecular pathology has steadily declined over the past 20 years. As such, it has been identified as an area requiring support and development by the Medical Research Council (MRC) and the Royal College of Pathologists, creating careers opportunities for students and professionals alike.

Our master's course is aimed at medical students, biomedical scientists, medical practitioners and trainee pathologists who want to learn more about molecular pathology. Trainee pathologists can take our course as part of an existing training programme.

You will benefit from a unique focus on the molecular analysis of tissue samples and take optional units in various areas of laboratory medicine and emerging diagnostic methods, such as proteomics and chemical pathology.

Students will also become part of Manchester's world leading precision medicine research community, learning practical skills that will be directly applicable to this emerging field.

In addition, you will benefit from our association with the network of MRC and Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council funded Molecular Pathology nodes, which have been partly established to train more scientists to work in this field. This will enable you to connect with colleagues and related opportunities across the UK.

Aims

This course aims to provide you with a wide and detailed understanding of the various aspects of molecular pathology.

Provided as part of The University of Manchester MRC/EPSRC Molecular Pathology node (Manchester Molecular Pathology Innovation Centre), we recognise the need for providing more training in molecular pathology among histopathology trainees, clinical scientists and biomedical scientists.

As such, the course addresses a wide audience, and has a broad range of both core and non-core course units to facilitate the different learning and training needs of different groups of professionals.

In addition to the taught components, which will give an in-depth understanding of molecular pathology and associated disciplines (including genomics and bioinformatics), the full MSc course will also develop your experience of and skills in scientific investigation, analytical thought and scientific criticism.

Special features

This course has been designed to take into consideration the training requirements of biomedical scientists, clinical scientists and medical histopathologists. We have consulted with local Postgraduate Deaneries, associated professional bodies including the Institute of Biomedical Scientists (IBMS), and the Royal College of Pathologists, to tailor its content appropriately.

The option to take the course over four years will particularly appeal to specialist trainee pathologists, who will be able to fit study around their clinical training.

They can also use Year 4 to undertake the research project over three months on a full-time, salaried basis, as per RCPath regulations and Deanery funding.

Teaching and learning

Teaching is largely delivered through face-to-face, interactive sessions, consisting of some lecture material, with discussions and group work, and with a range of audio-visual stimuli including PowerPoint slides, images and videos.

All units are supported by the use of Blackboard (a virtual learning environment) on which staff post lecture slides, reading lists and other accompanying material.

Each unit on Blackboard also has its own discussion board, where you can interact with staff and other students on the course, for example, by posting and responding to questions, and making comments related to the course.

For students completing the full MSc, a significant amount of teaching and learning will take place through the dissertation research unit (60 credits or 30 credits), in which you will be expected to take a lead role in developing a research project with regular support, input, and mentorship from your project supervisor.

Coursework and assessment

Formative assessments will be given throughout the taught component of the course and will take the form of MCQs, short answer questions, verbal presentations, data and method analysis exercises.

A range of summative assessments will be employed to assess your knowledge and understanding, and the development of your intellectual and transferable skills including:
-Verbal presentations
-Written assignments
-Data analysis and interpretation exercises
-Analytical method analysis
-Evaluation and formal unseen written examinations consisting of short answer questions and essays

The assessment methods employed by each unit will vary and will be tailored to match the material delivered and stated ILOs of that particular unit.

Your ability to gather information from a wide range of sources, evaluate and critically analyse information, make considered judgments about that information and synthesise material into logical and coherent pieces of work will all be assessed.

Examples of the marking proformas used in the assessment of verbal and written assignments will be provided in student handbooks and on Blackboard, the University's virtual learning environment.

As per the postgraduate taught degree regulations, students exiting with a postgraduate diploma (or postgraduate certificate) may be permitted to rescind this award and upgrade to a master's (or postgraduate diploma) by successfully completing the appropriate further component of the course, providing the following conditions are met:
-The rescinding occurs within five years of your initial registration on the original course, subject to the course still being available
-An overall pass at the appropriate standard to assure admission to a master's course has been obtained for the postgraduate diploma (or postgraduate certificate), including any capped or compensated grades

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