Course Content
The MSc in Genomic Medicine follows a three-term structure combining core teaching, electives, and a research project.
In the first term, all students complete four core modules. In the second term, students choose three elective modules—two from Set A and one from Set B.
The final term is dedicated to a 12–14-week research project supervised by academic or clinical researchers, culminating in a 10,000–12,000-word dissertation.
A longitudinal Academic and Research Skills module runs throughout the course, providing training in academic writing, research integrity, scientific communication, and foundational computational skills.
CORE MODULES
Core 1 – Fundamentals in Human Genetics and Genomics
Covers the principles of inheritance, genetic variation, and their links to disease. Builds a foundation for the course, illustrated by landmark discoveries from Oxford research.
Core 2 – Genomics of Rare and Inherited Diseases
Introduces disease phenotypes and molecular basis of common and rare inherited disease. Explores genetic mapping, causal variant identification, clinical case studies, and the ethical and societal considerations.
Core 3 – Omic Technologies and their Application to Genomic Medicine
Introduces sequencing and other -omics technologies used in research and clinical settings. Focuses on methods for genome profiling and their application to disease.
Core 4 – Bioinformatics and Statistics for Genomic Data Interpretation
Provides theoretical and practical skills in computational analysis. Students gain experience in programming, data handling, and interpretation using real-world datasets.
ELECTIVE MODULES
Elective A1 – Molecular Pathology and Precision Medicine
Introduces molecular pathology and how this is being informed and developed through genomics and related -omic technologies to allow better understanding of the basis of disease, the development of precision medicine approaches and novel therapies.
Elective A2 – Bioinformatics: algorithms, analysis and workflows
Covers bioinformatics and statistical approaches for large-scale datasets. Topics include whole-genome sequencing, integrative multi-omics, and workflow automation.
Elective A3 – Genome Engineering and Gene-Based Therapeutics
Explores programmable nucleases (ZFNs, TALENs, CRISPR/Cas9) and their use in research and clinical therapies. Addresses applications, challenges, ethics, and societal impact.
Elective A4 – Single-cell and Spatial Omics for Precision Medicine
Introduces single-cell and spatial omics platforms and pipelines for RNA-seq, epigenomics, and proteomics.
Elective B1 – Genomics in Clinical Practice
Focuses on practical experience of working with genomic data for diagnostic purposes, including whole genome sequencing for rare disease and cancer, genetic counselling, variant interpretation, and managing clinical workflows.
Elective B2 – Applications of Genomics in Therapeutics, Vaccinology and Industry
Highlights translational applications in drug development, vaccines, and clinical trials. Emphasis on pharmacogenomics, industry partnerships, and real-world case studies.
RESEARCH PROJECT
The final term will focus on a research project, offered by academic research groups and affiliated clinical supervisors in Oxford. During your research project, you will be embedded within the research groups in the Centre for Human Genetics (CHG) and other institutes, giving you the opportunity to work alongside experienced post-graduate and post-doctoral research staff. You will be supported by a named supervisor with postgraduate supervision experience and will produce a written dissertation based on your research project.
ACADEMIC AND RESEARCH SKILLS
This module will run throughout the course helping you develop skills in academic writing, scientific communication, computational and statistics training, alongside topics such as good research practice and career support.
TEACHING FORMAT
Modules will comprise a mix of lectures, small-group tutorials, structured learning, individual and group-based assignments, practical wet-lab and computational sessions, alongside independent learning. You will be expected to spend approximately 30-40 hours studying per week, with the balance of contact teaching hours and self-directed learning being approximately equal. In the first term, a student-focussed seminar series will feature expert guest speakers discussing cutting-edge research in genomic medicine and its clinical application.
Throughout the course, you will have the opportunity to attend a wide range of training, seminars and journal clubs.
Please note: this course is reviewed annually and may be subject to minor changes in response to academic developments and student feedback. Please refer to the course's Graduate Admissions Page on the University website for definitive information about the course.