Masters Degrees in Virology, United Kingdom

In the era of AIDS, avian and swine Influenza, and other emerging viral infections, the importance of medical virology as a co-discipline with medical microbiology is increasingly recognised.

The MSc and Postgraduate Diploma in Medical Virology are intensive full-time or part-time postgraduate taught courses encompassing the medical and molecular aspects of virology, bacteriology and mycology, as well as immunity to infection and epidemiology.

You will explore the current issues and concepts in medical virology, and acquire the academic and practical skills necessary to make independent, informed judgements in relation to these issues.

A unique feature of this course is the focus on practical, laboratory-based teaching; you will spend time in the laboratory, learning how to be a virologist.

We aim to give you a theoretical and practical understanding of medical virology, which will be important if you want to follow a career in clinical sciences or academic or industrial research.

The programme runs in parallel with the MSc in Medical Microbiology and the MSc in Medical Mycology.

Aims

We aim to produce graduates with an understanding of and expertise in microbiology, with a particular focus on medical virology.
You will develop an understanding of the scientific basis of established and novel medical virology concepts, as well as the specialist knowledge, practical skills and critical awareness required to pursue a career in medical virology.

Special features

This course has a significant component of practical-based teaching, ensuring that you obtain maximum exposure to the practical and theoretical aspects of a wide range of clinically relevant pathogens.

This will result in practical skills that are valued by potential employers.

Teaching and learning

Teaching is delivered using lectures, seminars, tutorials and comprehensive practical classes. Other teaching includes the use of face-to-face sessions and blended learning methods, with some material delivered and assessed online.

Coursework and assessment

You will be assessed via continual assessment and formal theory and practical examinations.

The course is delivered by academics from the University and NHS specialists in infectious disease and medical microbiology.

Career opportunities

Our graduates typically find employment in the NHS and related organisations, or as medical microbiologists in industrial and pharmaceutical settings.

In addition, many graduates progress to PhD study and a research or academic career.

The course is also useful if you work or plan to work in developing countries that need expertise in and knowledge of the existing and emerging virological and microbiological challenges facing developing communities.

Accrediting organisations

The MSc is accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Scientists (IBMS).

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Offered by Liverpool John Moores University, this online distance learning Masters-level course in Virology is accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science.

•Complete this Masters degree part time, via distance learning, in three to five years
•Considered the country’s only online distance learning MSc in Virology, this programme is accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science
•Follow the course from anywhere in the world and work as you study part time over three years
•Enjoy a supportive learning environment and personal tutor system
•Qualify for Chartered Scientist (CSci) status (other criteria apply)

With learning material developed by practicing virologists working at the forefront of UK diagnostic virology, the online curriculum for this course is regularly updated to reflect the dynamic nature of the subject.

All learning materials are delivered by Blackboard, LJMU’s Virtual Learning Environment. You will also have access to an extensive database of e-journals and e-books to extend your reading.

The programme has good IT support and you can communicate with fellow students via Blackboard discussion boards, ensuring a sense of community which is often lacking from distance learning courses.

As a UK home student or an international student you will be allocated a tutor, usually a practicing virologist, who will provide support principally by email and there will also be some online tutorial sessions.

The role of the tutor is at the heart of the MSc Virology programme. Your tutor will give general advice about assignments and answering exam questions and point you in the direction of recent publications.
You will also receive support from the programme manager, module leaders and programme administrator and will be appointed a specialist supervisor for your final year project/dissertation.

Please see guidance below on core and option modules for further information on what you will study.

Principles of Virology
Introduces the study of viruses and the fundamental principles of immunology. It enables you to understand the principles of diagnosis of viral infections.
Understanding and controlling viral infections
Provides an understanding of epidemiology as related to viral disease and the principles of controlling viral infections. It also introduces the role of viruses in cancer.
Viral zoonoses
Develops an understanding of viruses transmitted by insect or mammalian vectors and evaluates the problems of controlling these infections.
Research methods for virology
Develops and embeds a critical and rigorous approach to the research process.
Viral infections of the respiratory and alimentary tracts
Introduces the anatomy, physiology and pathology of the above tracts. It provides current knowledge of viruses causing disease in these tracts, along with an appreciation of the epidemiology, diagnosis and control of these infections.
Viral infections of pregnancy and childhood
Introduces the physiology of pregnancy and changes to the immune system. It provides current knowledge on viruses causing infection to the mother, foetus and young children, and evaluates the effects of these infections.
Blood-borne viral infections and sexually transmitted infections
Introduces viruses transmitted by bodily fluids and the potential long term effects on individuals, their partners and children. It enables you to understand the laboratory and symptomatic diagnosis of these infections.
The following options are typically offered:

Research project
Comprises an independent in-depth laboratory research study of an aspect of virology.
Dissertation
Comprises an independent in-depth research study of an aspect of virology, researched by a critical review of the literature.

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Overview

The objectives of this course are to equip those intending to pursue a career in academic or industrial research with the required knowledge and skills, and to provide a solid foundation for those who aim to go on to study at PhD level.

During the course you will develop an in-depth understanding of the structure and function of viruses and the processes of viral infection and viral diseases at the molecular level.

The course also provides training in laboratory and research skills in a supportive learning environment.

Two parts of the course:

The course is comprised of two parts, a taught component, which is given over the first two terms (approximately 5 months) and a full-time laboratory based research project (7 months) which is carried out over the remainder of the session. The taught component is comprised of lectures, laboratory practical’s, tutorials and student presentations and covers the most important aspects of viruses and viral diseases under the 6 topic headings.

Testing of the knowledge acquired is through a combination of written examinations, assessed coursework in the form of laboratory write-ups and essays (Element 2), and the individual research project dissertation and viva (Element 2).

Course content

Introductory Core Lecture Programme

Virus Architecture and Virus Interactions with Cells

Virus Genomes, Gene Expression and Replication

Host Responses to Virus Infection

Diagnosis, Vaccines and Therapies

Epidemiology, Transmission and Evolution of Viruses

You can apply online

http://www.imperial.ac.uk/study/pg/apply/how-to-apply/

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This course provides comprehensive knowledge and practical training in the spread of microorganisms (predominantly bacterial and viral pathogens), disease causation and diagnosis and treatment of pathogens significant to public health. The increasing incidence of microbial infections worldwide is being compounded by the rapid evolution of drug-resistant variants and opportunistic infections by other organisms. The course content reflects the increasing importance of genomics and molecular techniques in both diagnostics and the study of pathogenesis.

In response to a high level of student interest in viral infections, the School has decided to offer the opportunity for students who focus on viruses in their module and project choices to be awarded a Master's degree in Medical Microbiology (Virology). This choice will depend on the module selection of the individual student in Terms 2 and 3 and choice of project.

Graduates from this course move into global health careers related to medical microbiology in research or medical establishments and the pharmaceutical industry.

The Bo Drasar Prize is awarded annually for outstanding performance by a Medical Microbiology student. This prize is named after Professor Bohumil Drasar, the founder of the MSc Medical Microbiology course.

The Tsiquaye Prize is awarded annually for the best virology-based project report.

- Full programme specification (pdf) (http://www.lshtm.ac.uk/edu/qualityassurance/mm_progspec.pdf)
- Intercalating this course (http://www.lshtm.ac.uk/study/intercalate)

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

Objectives

By the end of the course students should be able to:

- demonstrate advanced knowledge and understanding of the nature of viruses, bacteria, parasites and fungi and basic criteria used in the classification/taxonomy of these micro-organisms

- explain the modes of transmission and the growth cycles of pathogenic micro-organisms

- demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the mechanisms of microbial pathogenesis and the outcomes of infections

- distinguish between and critically assess the classical and modern approaches to the development of therapeutic agents and vaccines for the prevention of human microbial diseases

- demonstrate knowledge of the laboratory diagnosis of microbial diseases and practical skills

- carry out a range of advanced skills and laboratory techniques, including the purification of isolated microbial pathogens, study of microbial growth cycles and analyses of their proteins and nucleic acids for downstream applications

- demonstrate research skills

Structure

Term 1:
There is a one-week orientation period that includes an introduction to studying at the School, sessions on key computing and study skills and course-specific sessions, followed by two compulsory modules:

- Bacteriology & Virology
- Analysis & Design of Research Studies

Recommended module: Molecular Biology

Sessions on basic computing, molecular biology and statistics are run throughout the term for all students.

Terms 2 and 3:
Students take a total of five modules, one from each timetable slot (Slot 1, Slot 2 etc.). The list below shows recommended modules. There are other modules that can be taken only after consultation with the Course Director.

- Slot 1:
Clinical Virology
Molecular Biology & Recombinant DNA Techniques

- Slot 2:
Clinical Bacteriology 1
Molecular Virology

- Slot 3:
Advanced Training in Molecular Biology
Basic Parasitology

- Slot 4:
Clincal Bacteriology 2
Molecular Biology Research Progress & Applications

- Slot 5:
Antimicrobial Chemotherapy
Molecular Cell Biology & Infection
Mycology
Pathogen Genomics

Further details for the course modules - http://www.lshtm.ac.uk/study/currentstudents/studentinformation/msc_module_handbook/section2_coursedescriptions/tmmi.html

Project Report

During the summer months (July - August), students complete a laboratory-based original research project on an aspect of a relevant organism, for submission by early September. Projects may take place within the School or with collaborating scientists in other colleges or institutes in the UK or overseas.

The majority of students who undertake projects abroad receive financial support for flights from the School's trust funds set up for this purpose

Course Accreditation

The Royal College of Pathologists accepts the course as part of the professional experience of both medical and non-medical candidates applying for membership. The course places particular emphasis on practical aspects of the subjects most relevant to current clinical laboratory practice and research.

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

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The taught Infection Biology MSc will help you to develop your knowledge and understanding of the molecular mechanisms by which bacteria, viruses and parasites cause disease in humans and in domesticated animals, and the immune responses generated by these hosts to such pathogens. You can choose to specialise in virology, microbiology (bacteriology) or parasitology.

Why this programme

◾This degree in Infection Biology allows you to study in an Institute housing two UK National centres of excellence, in Virology and Parasitology, and active in the Scottish Infection Research Network (SIRN), a key clinical focus on healthcare-related
◾You will work in the laboratories of internationally recognized infection biology researchers, conducting high quality basic, translational and clinical science.
◾We have exciting scholarship opportunities.
◾This MSc in Infection Biology provides access to a combination of highly specialised equipment, unique in Scotland, including cutting edge in vitro and in vivo research facilities for biological imaging, high content screening microscopy , and a state of the art polyomics facility bringing together metabolomics, proteomics, genomics, transcriptomics, and integrations of data sets with bioinformatics.
◾You can attend guest lectures and workshops from scientists and clinicians working in the pharmaceutical, diagnostic and biotechnology fields.
◾You can carry out a research project in an internationally recognized centre of excellence, working with world-leading researchers in infection biology.
◾This Infection Biology degree integrates infection biology with cutting edge molecular and cellular techniques.
◾The MSc in Infection Bilogy offers breadth, covering bacteria, viruses and parasites.
◾Students can opt to specialise in one of the three areas of infection biology, and will graduate with a named specialism e.g. MSc Infection Biology (Microbiology).
◾Optional courses allow students to develop their interests: ◾Technology transfer and commercialisation of bioscience research.
◾Drug discovery
◾Diagnostic technologies and devices
◾Current trends and challenges in biomedical research and health

◾We have excellent opportunities to engage with industrial and clinical scientists, with guest lecturers from the pharmaceutical industry, medical diagnostic laboratories and bioscience business.
◾Students have the opportunity to carry out a research project in an internationally recognized centre of excellence, working with world-leading researchers in infection biology.

Programme structure

The MSc programme will consist of five taught courses and a project or dissertation, spread over 11-12 months. Three courses are compulsory, and two are chosen from a series of options.

The PGDip programme will consist of five taught courses, spread over 7-8 months, with three compulsary courses and two chosen from a series of options.

The PgCert programme consists one core taught course over 3-4 months.

Core Courses and Project
◾Host-pathogen interactions and immune responses to infection
◾Omic technologies for the biomedical sciences: from genomics to metabolomics
◾Designing a research project: biomedical research methodology
◾Infection Biology Research project (laboratory based or non-laboratory based, in Virology, Parasitology, or Microbiology)

Optional Courses
◾Drug discovery
◾Diagnostic technologies and devices
◾Current trends and challenges in biomedical research and health
◾Technology transfer and commercialisation of bioscience research

Teaching and Learning Methods

A variety of methods are used, including lectures, tutorials, workshops, laboratories and problem-based learning. These are supplemented by a wide range of course-specific electronic resources for additional learning and self assessment. As a result, you will develop a wide range of skills relevant to careers in infection biology research, diagnostics or drug development. These skills include team-working, data interpretation and experimental design. You will use the primary scientific literature as an information resource.


Electronic Resources

Our online resources were voted the best in the United Kingdom in the International Student Barometer in 2012, and include:
◾a continually updated Moodle (virtual learning environment) with extensive additional teaching and self-assessment materials
◾over 35,000 online textbooks and e-journals available through the University library website, 24/7
◾academic databases of biological sciences and medicine
◾Henry Stewart Talks - animated audio visual presentations by world leading experts covering many topics in infection biology.

Career prospects

The University of Glasgow MSc in Infection Biology provides you with many career opportunities.

Research: About half of our MSc students enter a research career, mainly by undertaking further postgraduate research studies towards a PhD), or by working in research laboratories in clinical or academic settings, including national government laboratories.

Industry: Other students go on to work in the pharmaceutical, diagnostic or biotechnological industries.

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The language and concepts of infection and immunity, from basic science to translational clinical research, are taught by our world class investigators. The programme emphasises data interpretation, critical analysis of current literature and culminates in a full-time research project: excellent preparation for a research career.

Degree information

The programme provides insight into state-of-the-art infection and immunity research, current issues in the biology of infectious agents, the pathogenesis, prevention and control of infectious diseases, and immunity and immune dysfunction.

Students learn from UCL scientists about their research and are trained in the art of research by carrying out a full-time research project in a UCL laboratory.

Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits. The programme consists of five core modules (75 credits), three optional modules (45 credits) and a research dissertation (60 credits). A Postgraduate Diploma comprising four core modules and four optional modules (120 credits, full-time nine months, part-time, flexible study two to five years) is offered. A Postgraduate Certificate comprising four core modules (60 credits, full-time three months, and flexible study up to two years) is offered.

Core modules
-Laboratory Introduction to Basic Bacteriology
-Molecular Virology
-Immunology in Health and Disease
-Epidemiology and Infectious Diseases
-Data Interpretation

Optional modules
-Microbial Pathogenesis
-Tropical Microbiology
-Advanced Virology
-HIV Frontiers from Research to Clinic
-Immunological Basis of Disease
-Immunodeficiency and Therapeutics
-Infectious Diseases Epidemiology and Global Health Policy

Dissertation/report
All MSc students undertake independent research which culminates in a 4,000-word dissertation.

Teaching and learning
The programme is delivered through a combination of lectures, tutorials, paper review sessions, laboratory practicals, an independent research project and self-directed learning. A diverse range of assessment methods is used; coursework may be in the form of presentations, essays, data interpretation exercises, poster preparation, and group working. Many modules also have unseen written examination.

Careers

The programme produces graduates who are equipped to embark on research careers. Immersion in the superb research and teaching environment provided by UCL and the Division of Infection & Immunity, gives our graduates a unique understanding of the cutting edge of infection and immunity research and how world-class research is carried out.

Opportunities for networking with UCL senior investigators with international reputations and their world-wide collaborators can provide the inside track for career development. Graduates are well placed to move onto PhD programmes, research positions in diverse biomedical fields, clinical research positions, further training and positions in associated professions.

Top career destinations for this degree:
-Research Assistant, UCL (University College London)
-Research Officer, A*STAR Agency for Science, Technology and Research
-Biology, The University of Cambridge
-Research Assistant, Stanford University
-PhD Immunology, Cardiff University (Prifysgol Caerdydd)

Employability
Graduates are exceptionally well prepared for a career in research. The combination of research-informed teaching and practical research training provides an ideal preparation for a PhD and is equally applicable for clinicians seeking specialist training or wishing to pursue the clinical academic career track.

More broadly, a rigorous grounding in scientific method, critical analysis, data interpretation and independent thinking provides a pallet of marketable and transferable skills applicable to many professional career paths.

Why study this degree at UCL?

The UCL Division of Infection & Immunity is a vibrant and world-class research community. Students are embedded in this superb training environment which provides a challenging and stimulating academic experience.

Programme content reflects the research and clinical excellence within the division as well as cross-disciplinary research from all over UCL. First-class teaching and research supervision is provided by UCL academics, many of whom have international reputations.

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Programme description

This new three-year, part-time, online postgraduate programme leads to the degree of Masters of Science in Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases (CMID).

Aimed at junior doctors currently undergoing, or about to undertake, specialty training in an infection discipline, this programme is open to trainees in the UK and worldwide.

This degree will also be attractive to those who have completed their training but wish to fulfill continuing medical education requirements or those who wish obtain a formal qualification in Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases.

The programme is aligned with JRCPTB and RCPath training in infection disciplines: Combined Infection Training and Higher Specialty Training in Infectious Diseases, Medical Microbiology and Medical Virology.

This programme is designed to support trainees/specialists in preparation for FRCPath Part 1/Diploma in Infection, Infection Specialty end of training assessments and hospital-based practice.

Programme participants will have access to key texts and research bases and will have direct contact with leading clinicians and clinical scientists, providing a repository of information on infection disciplines that can be accessed at any time.

Online learning

Our online learning technology is fully interactive, award-winning and enables you to communicate with our highly qualified teaching staff from the comfort of your own home or workplace.

Our online students not only have access to the University of Edinburgh’s excellent resources, but also become part of a supportive online community, bringing together students and tutors from around the world.

• More information on how you will learn

Programme structure

This programme is taught entirely online. The structure of the degree is designed to meet the needs of trainees and specialist practitioners from all over the world.

Courses are offered as five week courses, each worth 10 credits. Courses in Year 1 are compulsory. Year 2 is a mix of compulsory and optional modules.

Year 1:

• Introduction to Immunology
• Science and biology of bacteria
• Science and biology of viruses
• Science and biology fungi, parasites and prions
• Laboratory practise in microbiology, virology and serology
• Anti-infective therapy and resistance

Year 2:

• Immunopathology
• Molecular diagnostics of infection
• Community acquired infections and public health
• Infection prevention & control
• HIV infection and other immune-compromised patients
• Clinical syndromes and infection
• The returning traveller: Diagnosis, investigation and management of imported infection
• Bioinformatics and study design in infectious diseases
• Emerging Infectious Diseases

Year 3:

• Research in Infection Medicine, written reflective element (project)
• More information on programme structure

Postgraduate Professional Development (PPD)

Postgraduate Professional Development (PPD) is aimed at working professionals who want to advance their knowledge through a postgraduate-level course(s), without the time or financial commitment of a full Masters, Postgraduate Diploma or Postgraduate Certificate.

You may take a maximum of 50 credits worth of courses over two years through our PPD scheme. These lead to a University of Edinburgh postgraduate award of academic credit. Alternatively, after one year of taking courses you can choose to transfer your credits and continue on to studying towards a higher award on a Masters, Postgraduate Diploma or Postgraduate Certificate programme. Although PPD courses have various start dates throughout a year you may only start a Masters, Postgraduate Diploma or Postgraduate Certificate programme in the month of September. Any time spent studying PPD will be deducted from the amount of time you will have left to complete a Masters, Postgraduate Diploma or Postgraduate Certificate programme.

Please contact the programme team for more information about available courses and course start dates.

Flexible study

The programme also offers the opportunity to take a Postgraduate Certificate (60 credits), either part-time over 9 months or on an intermittent basis over 2 years; or a Postgraduate Diploma (120 credits), either part-time over 21 months or on an intermittent basis over 4 years.

Please contact us before submitting an application if you are interested in applying to the Certificate or Diploma programme.

• Online learning options

Career opportunities

This unique programme will offer the student the knowledge and skills required to enhance their career progression in clinical or academic medicine. The programme will offer an alternative to traditional classroom based research training for those candidates who do not wish to take time away from their professional commitments.

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This is a multidisciplinary programme that bridges the fields of epidemiology, laboratory sciences and public health. It includes a strong practical component and the opportunity to undertake a research project overseas. The course will train students in all aspects of the control of infectious diseases and prepare them for a career in a range of organisations.

This course will equip students with specialised skills that will facilitate a career in the control of infectious diseases as staff of health ministries, health departments, national or international disease control agencies, aid organisations or universities.

The majority of the research projects are performed overseas, with collaborating public health or research organisations and NGOs. Students are encouraged to take advantage of this overseas opportunity, which is crucial to the nature of the course.

- Full programme specification (pdf) (http://www.lshtm.ac.uk/edu/qualityassurance/cid_progspec.pdf)
- Intercalating this course (http://www.lshtm.ac.uk/study/masters/intercalating/index.html)

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

Objectives

By the end of this course students should be able to:

- investigate the transmission of endemic and epidemic infections

- select appropriate methods of control

- design, implement and evaluate co-ordinated control methods

- assess constraints of local public health delivery systems

- manage available resources in the context of the control of infectious diseases

- focus their efforts on particular geographical regions or specific diseases

Structure

Term 1:

After orientation, students take two compulsory modules: Basic Statistics and Introduction to Disease Agents & Their Control, which focus on the life cycle and characteristics of infectious disease agents according to their principal transmission routes; the principal intervention strategies used to combat infectious diseases; and examples of successes, partial successes and failures in intervention programmes against infectious diseases.

In addition, students take one of the following module combinations:

- Basic Epidemiology; Health Economics; and Health Policy, Process and Power
- Extended Epidemiology and Health Economics or Health Policy, Process and Power

An interdisciplinary approach is emphasised which takes account of the social, political and economic context in which health systems operate.

Terms 2 and 3:

Students take a total of five study modules, one from each timetable slot (Slot 1, Slot 2 etc.). The list below shows recommended modules. There are other modules which may be taken only after consultation with the Course Directors.

*Recommended modules

- Slot 1:

Designing Disease Control Programmes in Developing Countries*
Epidemiology & Control of Malaria*
Health Care Evaluation*
Childhood Eye Disease and Ocular Infections
Clinical Infectious Diseases 1: Bacterial & Viral Diseases & Community Health in Developing Countries
Clinical Virology
Economic Evaluation
Health Promotion Approaches and Methods
Maternal & Child Nutrition
Research Design & Analysis
Study Design: Writing a Study Proposal.

- Slot 2:

Clinical Bacteriology 1*
Conflict and Health*
Design & Analysis of Epidemiological Studies*
Population, Poverty and Environment*
Statistical Methods in Epidemiology*
Advanced Diagnostic Parasitology
Clinical Infectious Diseases 2: Parasitic Diseases & Clinical Medicine
Health Systems
Qualitative Methodologies

- Slot 3:

Applied Communicable Disease Control*
Control of Sexually Transmitted Infections*
Current Issues in Safe Motherhood & Perinatal Health*
Economic Analysis for Health Policy*
Medical Anthropology & Public Health*
Spatial Epidemiology in Public Health*
Tropical Environmental Health*
Vector Sampling, Identification & Incrimination*
Basic Parasitology
Clinical Infectious Diseases 3: Bacterial & Viral Diseases & Community Health in Developing Countries
Modelling & the Dynamics of Infectious Diseases
Nutrition in Emergencies
Organisational Management
Social Epidemiology

- Slot 4:

Clinical Bacteriology 2*
Epidemiology & Control of Communicable Diseases*
Analytical Models for Decision Making
Clinical Infectious Diseases 4: Parasitic Diseases & Clinical Medicine
Ethics, Public Health & Human Rights
Globalisation & Health; Sexual Health
Vector Biology & Parasite Infections

- Slot 5:

AIDS*
Applying Public Health Principles in Developing Countries*
Integrated Vector Management*
Advanced Statistical Methods in Epidemiology
Antimicrobial Chemotherapy
Integrating Module: Health Promotion
Integrating Module: Health Services Management
Mycology
Nutrition Programme Planning
Principles and Practice of Public Health

Further details for the course modules - http://www.lshtm.ac.uk/study/currentstudents/studentinformation/msc_module_handbook/section2_coursedescriptions/tcid.html

Project Report:
During the summer months (July - August), students complete a research project studying aspects of an intervention programme, for submission by early September. If appropriate, this may take the form of an optional period in a relevant overseas location. Most students on this course undertake projects overseas. Students undertaking projects overseas will require additional funding of up to £1,500 to cover costs involved.

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

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With the discovery of new pathogens & increases in resistance to antimicrobials, challenges facing microbiologists have never been greater. The programme provides a firm understanding of the impact of infectious disease on populations worldwide.

This programme has several different available start dates - for more information, please view the relevant web-page:
JANUARY 2017 - http://www.gcu.ac.uk/hls/study/courses/details/index.php/P02247-1FTAB-1617/Clinical_Microbiology_(Jan)?utm_source=XXXX&utm_medium=web&utm_campaign=courselisting

JANUARY 2018 - http://www.gcu.ac.uk/hls/study/courses/details/index.php/P02247-1FTAB-1718/Clinical_Microbiology?utm_source=XXXX&utm_medium=web&utm_campaign=courselisting

Programme Description

Tuberculosis and cholera are well-established diseases that continue to devastate populations around the world, previously unrecognised infectious human pathogens such as Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) and new strains of influenza emerge. For almost a century mankind has relied heavily on vaccines and antimicrobial drugs to either prevent or treat infectious diseases. This approach has largely been successful, but with the discovery of new pathogens and increases in resistance to antimicrobials, the challenges facing microbiologists have never been greater.

The programme provides a firm understanding of the impact of infectious disease on human populations worldwide. It takes a scientific approach to the field of clinical microbiology, emphasising the importance of research and development in the area, and exposes you to the latest advances in both the theory and practice of microbiology.

The programme provides you with comprehensive theoretical knowledge and hands-on practical experience of clinical microbiology. This will include the principles and practice of bacteriology, virology, parasitology and mycology; focusing on the transmission of pathogens, the disease process, diagnosis, treatment and the prevention of infectious disease.

Learning and Teaching Methods

A combination of lectures, seminars and practical laboratory classes, culminating in a laboratory based research project, develops the key skills required of an independent researcher.

Employment Opportunities

In addition to attaining a firm foundation of theoretical knowledge and an extensive range of practical skills, employment opportunities are enhanced through the development of a series of transferable skills necessary for success in a highly competitive market.

Career opportunities can be found in the areas of health and medicine, the life sciences sector and in university and industry research departments, as well as further study towards a PhD.

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Investigate the effects of pathogens on the body, the intricacies of the human immune system and the impact of infections. You will also explore advanced medical microbiology, studying specific global health issues and the procedures involved in medical diagnostics.

Gain advanced laboratory skills and an in-depth knowledge of investigative methods being applied within the search for novel antimicrobial agents.

You will carry out extensive practical investigations, including quantifying the antimicrobial effects of compounds against specific microorganisms, or studying the mechanisms of microbial resistance to therapeutics. You'll have access to Class 2 microbiology facilities, along with cell culture, molecular virology and epigenetic research methods. With our new biomedical sciences research laboratory you will be able to conduct project work in a dedicated research environment and benefit from an enhanced range of equipment.

- Research Excellence Framework 2014: twice as many of our staff - 220 - were entered into the research assessment for 2014 compared to the number entered in 2008.

Visit the website http://courses.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/microbiology_biotechnology

Mature Applicants

Our University welcomes applications from mature applicants who demonstrate academic potential. We usually require some evidence of recent academic study, for example completion of an access course, however recent relevant work experience may also be considered. Please note that for some of our professional courses all applicants will need to meet the specified entry criteria and in these cases work experience cannot be considered in lieu.

If you wish to apply through this route you should refer to our University Recognition of Prior Learning policy that is available on our website (http://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/studenthub/recognition-of-prior-learning.htm).

Please note that all applicants to our University are required to meet our standard English language requirement of GCSE grade C or equivalent, variations to this will be listed on the individual course entry requirements.

Careers

You will be able to go into a range of careers, including those within pharmaceutical companies, food manufacturing, chemical facilities or developing further investigative and innovative research. A move into a more senior position will be available to you, such as senior researcher or laboratory analyst roles, where you would be involved in designing research projects and analysing the data generated.

- Medical Research Scientist
- Labratory Analyst
- Microbiologist

Careers advice: The dedicated Jobs and Careers team offers expert advice and a host of resources to help you choose and gain employment. Whether you're in your first or final year, you can speak to members of staff from our Careers Office who can offer you advice from writing a CV to searching for jobs.

Visit the careers site https://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/employability/jobs-careers-support.htm

Course Benefits

You will spend a considerable proportion of your time in a hands-on environment, spending over 200 hours within the biomedical science laboratories, completing practicals and working on a specific research project that interests you and aligns with our expertise.

We will give you access to Class 2 microbiology facilities, along with cell culture and micro-electric fabrication equipment. With our new dedicated biomedical sciences research laboratory (opened in 2013) you will be able to conduct project work in a dedicated research environment and will benefit from an enhanced range of equipment.

You'll benefit from working with a first class teaching team. One of our lecturers, Dr Margarita Gomez Escalada, developed internationally-recognised research data on treating acne using the ingredient thyme, with a student who performed all the practical tests for her project.

Core Modules

Contemporary Research In Biomedical Science
Discuss and evaluate current research in biomedical sciences and relate this both to the theoretical basis of the subject and to the methodologies used to generate the data.

Advanced Professional Practice and Research
Gain a grounding in the different approaches to research, including quantitatative and qualitative data collection methods. You will then be able to plan research, effectively search for and evaluate research literature and be able to apply and analyse data using appropriate statistical tests.

Bio-analytical Techniques
Combine theory and practice of many modern analytical techniques that are used in biological, medical and chemical analysis, and learn the important steps in the development and assessment of analytical measures.

Infection and Immunity
Develop an in-depth understanding of the infection process, taking into consideration the pathogenesis process both from the point of view of the pathogen as well as the host where the immune response will be investigated.

Advanced Medical Microbiology
Look at different aspects of current trends in microbiological research, and use laboratory sessions to undertake problem solving activities such as the planning of a class lab activity and mini projects.

Applied Biotechnology
Study up to date issues concerning current biotechnological products and processes, especially with regard to the use of microorganisms and recombinant DNA techniques.

Research Project
Undertake an independent research project within the remit of expertise of our course team. Design experimental methods to test your aims or hypotheses and report the findings in the form of both a thesis and an oral presentation.

Dr. Margarita Gomez Escalada

Senior Lecturer

"I find it really exciting to generate new data and ideas alongside my students and collaborators, which may one day lead to changes in the ways in which we tackle diseases caused by microorganisms. Teaching allows me to share and explore these latest findings with those who will go on to work in the field."

Margarita recently produced internationally-recognised research treating acne with herbal compounds. Working with a student, she discovered that an extract of thyme was more effective than traditional chemical-based creams.

Facilities

- Biomedical Research Laboratory
The latest scientific testing equipment lets you put your learning into practice and break new ground in biomedical research.

- Library
Our libraries are two of the only university libraries in the UK open 24/7 every day of the year. However you like to study, the libraries have got you covered with group study, silent study, extensive e-learning resources and PC suites.

- Biomedical Sciences Laboratory
Housing state-of-the-art IT and AV facilities, our new Biomedical Sciences laboratory provides important, cutting edge facilities for our students including walk-in cold rooms.

Find out how to apply here - http://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/postgraduate/how-to-apply/

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Either biomedical science Masters offered at Nottingham Trent University are accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science.

This MSc Biomedical Science course provides a biological understanding of human disease processes, the treatment principles of such diseases, and the underlying biological disciplines that enable their study and explanation. It has extensive links with BioCity Nottingham, the city's groundbreaking healthcare and biosciences centre. One of the largest innovation and incubation centres of its kind in Europe.

This course can be taken full-time for one year or add an additional work placement year to make it two years; or go part-time.

If you would like to study part-time and through distance learning for a Masters qualification while continuing to work, then this flexible programme is for you - MSc Biomedical Science (Flexible Learning). It is designed to further your career in the healthcare profession, biomedical industry or in academia and has the potential to lead on to a professional doctorate.

With multiple entry points in September, January and April, take this Masters as a part-time option or study individual modules for continuing professional development points.

Modules

• Cell culture and antibody technology
• Research methods and bioethics
• Research project
• Microbial diagnostics
• Pharmacology
• Molecular biology
• Biology of disease
• Cellular pathology
• Clinical chemistry
• Haematology and transfusion science
• Medical microbiology
• Scientific analysis, review and presentation
• Cytology
• Cancer and heart disease
• Molecular biology and DNA technology
• Special topics in molecular biology
• Cellular pathology with professional studies
• Clinical chemistry with professional studies
• Haematology and transfusion science with professional studies
• Medical microbiology with professional studies

COME VISIT US ON OUR NEXT OPEN DAY!

Visit us on campus throughout the year, find and register for our next open event on http://www.ntu.ac.uk/pgevents.

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Your programme of study

If Biology is your passion Microbiology at Aberdeen allows you to understand advances in microbiology, adaptation, host-pathogen interactions and infection and disease processes. You learn with established and renowned international researchers and there are opportunities to learn and apply knowledge in practical situations. You also learn about applied statistics methods, bioinformatics and immunology plus regulation and genome enabled medicines.

This programme is designed to provide advanced training in molecular microbiology. You will investigate molecular microbiology, host-pathogen interactions and immune system interactions by pathogens, environmental microbiology, and the core physiology and biochemistry of bacterial and fungal pathogens. Bioinformatics and biotechnology areas are currently in high growth within innovation markets due to major advances in the discipline areas, IOT and Photonics advances and customised methods of treating disease at source within advanced stratified medicine for example. Careers upon graduation can include hospital diagnostics, pathology laboratories and microbiology research. There is a lot of scope to develop innovation in this subject area if you continue to apply innovative research towards new solutions within biological patents.  Scottish innovation centres http://www.innovationcentres.scot/innovation-centres/ you may be interested in finding out about if you want to continue within research and innovation at SMS-IC, IBioIC, DHI and CENSIS or if you live within England the CPI. All of these innovation centres allow for exciting new research and upstream testing towards new spin out companies or product lines. You may also be interested in continuing your studies to PhD in order to teach.

Courses listed for the programme

Semester 1

Basic Skills - Induction

Introduction to Microbiology

Applied Statistics

Bioinformatics

Generic Skills

Semester 2

Regulation in Microbial Biochemistry

Genome -Enabled Medicine

Research Tutorials

Host-Pathogen Reactions

Semester 3

Masters Research Project

Find out more detail by visiting the programme web page

https://www.abdn.ac.uk/study/postgraduate-taught/degree-programmes/184/microbiology/

Why study at Aberdeen?

• Aberdeen is a top 10 university to study MSc Microbiology at one of the largest clinical complexes in Europe
• You are taught by world renowned researchers from Aberdeen Fungal Group to MRC Centre for Medical Mycology status
• The University if ranked 9th in the world and 5th in Europe for international research collaboration in Biomedical and Health Sciences (Leiden 2015)

Where you study

• University of Aberdeen
• Full Time or Part Time
• 12 months or 24 months
• September start

International Student Fees 2017/2018

Find out about fees:

https://www.abdn.ac.uk/study/international/tuition-fees-and-living-costs-287.php

*Please be advised that some programmes have different tuition fees from those listed above and that some programmes also have additional costs.

Scholarships

View all funding options on our funding database via the programme page

https://www.abdn.ac.uk/study/postgraduate-taught/finance-funding-1599.php

https://www.abdn.ac.uk/funding/

Living in Aberdeen

Find out more about:

• Your Accommodation
• Campus Facilities
• Aberdeen City
• Student Support
• Clubs and Societies

Find out more about living in Aberdeen:

https://abdn.ac.uk/study/student-life

Living costs

https://www.abdn.ac.uk/study/international/finance.php

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Your programme of study

Immunology is linked to our ability to remain healthy and free of disease - fighting off infections and disease and understanding our genetic factors and risk factors in inheriting disease. You look at behavioural factors and their links to disease to understand protection methods and you go into the detail of bioinformatics and genomics to understand DNA and analyse within practical research when you test for specific issues such as stress, hunger and so on and responses in the body.

The programme is designed for you to develop your academic knowledge of immunology and its relevance to disease with analysis and research skills designed to enhance your career prospects, or continue to PhD. You can use your training within educational establishments to apply training, work in patents, science outreach and public engagement.

Focusing on the relevance of the immune response in the maintenance of health and development of disease, graduates will be able to attain the intellectual and practical skills needed to address both theoretical and technical aspects of modern biomedical research.

In common with the other molecular biosciences Masters courses, the MSc in Immunology builds on recent advances in genomics to understand the generation of immunological diversity at a cellular level, how this imparts variability in immune responses at the individual and population level and the relevance of the immune system in disease areas such as autoimmunity, cancer, allergy and microbial infections.

You may also be interested in the Scottish Innovation Centres research and enterprise work with companies in Scotland to find out more about the possibilities in this area of health science and spin-out research going on from Aberdeen and other universities: http://www.innovationcentres.scot/

• Stratified Medicine -SMS-IC http://www.innovationcentres.scot/innovation-centres/smsic
• DHI - http://www.innovationcentres.scot/innovation-centres/dhi
• IBioIC - http://www.innovationcentres.scot/innovation-centres/ibioic

Courses listed for the programme

Semester 1

Basic Skills Induction

Generic Skills

Current Topics in Immunology

Introductory Immunology

Applied Statistics

Semester 2

Host-Pathogen Interactions

Genome - Enabled Medicines

Research Tutorials

Immunogenetics

Find out more detail by visiting the programme web page

https://www.abdn.ac.uk/study/postgraduate-taught/degree-programmes/127/immunology/

Why study at Aberdeen?

• You will be taught by world leading researchers in immunology and bioscience with practical training in Flow Cytometry analysis
• You study at one of the largest health campuses in Europe with a teaching hospital, Medical School, and Institute of Medical Sciences plus Rowett Institute on one campus
• The university ranked 9th in the world and 5th in Europe for international research collaboration (Leiden 2015)

Where you study

• University of Aberdeen
• Full Time or Part Time
• 12 Months Full Time or 24 Months Part Time
• September start

International Student Fees 2017/2018

Find out about fees:

https://www.abdn.ac.uk/study/international/tuition-fees-and-living-costs-287.php

*Please be advised that some programmes have different tuition fees from those listed above and that some programmes also have additional costs.

Scholarships

View all funding options on our funding database via the programme page

https://www.abdn.ac.uk/study/postgraduate-taught/finance-funding-1599.php

https://www.abdn.ac.uk/funding/

Living in Aberdeen

Find out more about:

• Your Accommodation
• Campus Facilities
• Aberdeen City
• Student Support
• Clubs and Societies

Find out more about living in Aberdeen:

https://abdn.ac.uk/study/student-life

Living costs

https://www.abdn.ac.uk/study/international/finance.php

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This programme concentrates on understanding the molecular principles underlying the biology of microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi and yeasts. In particular we study gene expression and regulation, gene transfer, genome structure, epidemiology, cell communication, and pathogenicity and virulence factors.

The MSc programmes in Biology & Biochemistry are designed for students who wish to specialise further in a particular field or wish to change direction from their first degree (in a related area).

If you already have extensive and relevant research experience and would like to specialise, you might consider an MRes programme (http://www.bath.ac.uk/science/graduate-school/taught-programmes/).

Why study Biology and Biochemistry with us?

- Biology & Biochemistry ranked 2nd in the Sunday Times University Guide 2013
- 90% of our research judged to be internationally recognised, excellent or world-leading
- Our current research funding portfolio stands at £14 million, supporting internationally excellent research in the biosciences

What will I learn?

The aim of each of our MSc programmes in Biology and Biochemistry is to provide professional-level training that will develop highly skilled bioscientists with strong theoretical, research and transferable skills, all of which are necessary to work at the forefront of modern biosciences.

For further information please visit our department pages (http://www.bath.ac.uk/bio-sci/)

Career opportunities

Since graduating, our students have gone on to employment or further research at institutions in the US, Europe, Australia, Asia and Africa.

Recent employers include:

Morvus-Technology Ltd
Janssen-Cilag
Royal United Hospital, Bath
Ministry of Defence
State Intellectual Property Office, Beijing
Wellcome Trust Centre for Human Genetics, Oxford University
AbCam
Salisbury Foundation Trust Hospital
BBSRC
Lonza

Find out more about the department here - http://www.bath.ac.uk/bio-sci/

Find out how to apply here - http://www.bath.ac.uk/science/graduate-school/taught-programmes/how-to-apply/

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This programme is concerned with understanding the biology of plants at the molecular level. We study, in particular, mechanisms of microbial pathogenicity and host plant defence in temperate and tropical species, cell and molecular biology of pollen-stigma recognition and signalling in flowering plants, plant hormone and G protein signalling pathways, genomics and gene networks, and molecular biology of stress responses in the important tropical crop cassava.

The MSc programmes in Biology & Biochemistry are designed for students who wish to specialise further in a particular field or wish to change direction from their first degree (in a related area).

If you already have extensive and relevant research experience and would like to specialise, you might consider an MRes programme.

Visit the website http://www.bath.ac.uk/science/graduate-school/taught-programmes/msc-molecular-plant-sciences/

Why study Biology and Biochemistry with us?

- Biology & Biochemistry ranked 2nd in the Sunday Times University Guide 2013
- 90% of our research judged to be internationally recognised, excellent or world-leading
- Our current research funding portfolio stands at £14 million, supporting internationally excellent research in the biosciences

What will I learn?

The aim of each of our MSc programmes in Biology and Biochemistry is to provide professional-level training that will develop highly skilled bioscientists with strong theoretical, research and transferable skills, all of which are necessary to work at the forefront of modern biosciences.

For further information please see our department pages (http://www.bath.ac.uk/bio-sci/)

Career opportunities

Since graduating, our students have gone on to employment or further research at institutions in the US, Europe, Australia, Asia and Africa.

Recent employers include:

Morvus-Technology Ltd
Janssen-Cilag
Royal United Hospital, Bath
Ministry of Defence
State Intellectual Property Office, Beijing
Wellcome Trust Centre for Human Genetics, Oxford University
AbCam
Salisbury Foundation Trust Hospital
BBSRC
Lonza

Find out more about the department here - http://www.bath.ac.uk/bio-sci/

Find out how to apply here - http://www.bath.ac.uk/science/graduate-school/taught-programmes/how-to-apply/

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