MSc Genomic Medicine

The MSc in Genomic Medicine is a full-time, one-year cross-disciplinary course, which benefits from world-leading expertise in genomic science across the University of Oxford coupled with direct links to clinical and translational medicine. It is hosted at the Centre for Human Genetics, part of the thriving biomedical research community on the University's Old Road Campus in Headington, Oxford.

The course is designed to equip students from diverse academic and workplace backgrounds with knowledge of the fundamental principles, technologies and basis of genomic science and how this can be translated for the benefit of human health, economics and broader society.

Oxford has unique strengths in genomic medicine that include world-leading expertise in diverse aspects of genomic science coupled with direct links to clinical and translational medicine, providing an outstanding and inspiring learning environment for all students on the course. In particular, the course seeks to promote:

• rigorous scientific training to understand the complexities of genomic data;
• the concept of ‘gene to patient’ in its broadest sense, encompassing fundamental genomics research, bioinformatics pipelines, clinical trials, drug development, translational genomics, education and training for healthcare practitioners, patients and the wider public; and
• a multi-disciplinary approach providing the awareness and skill sets needed to engage with relevant specialists and technologies for the future development and delivery of genomic medicine. 

There are routes to tailor the course to individual interests and future career trajectories, which are carefully woven into the overall programme. Upon completion of the course, you will be equipped with the relevant knowledge, understanding and skills to pursue or advance your career in genomic medicine in academic research, clinical or professional setting.

Intended Learning Outcomes

By the end of this programme you will be able to:

• Describe the principles, importance and relevance of genomic medicine in a variety of contexts
• Explain methods, study design and technologies that have been used to investigate genetic disease
• Describe key developments, initiatives and resources in the genomic era
• Apply genomic data pipelines and bioinformatics principles to research and clinical data
• Critically evaluate and interpret data relating to genomic medicine
• Consider complexities surrounding interpretation of genomic data
• Discuss the role and impact of genomic medicine in public health and the challenges and opportunities for translation into clinical practice
• Demonstrate in-depth knowledge of relevant genomic medicine topics
• Critically evaluate evidence through scientific literature review and journal clubs
• Complete a high-quality research project, demonstrating good experimental design principles and appropriate methods for data collection, analysis and interpretation
• Develop communication skills required to operate effectively in a multidisciplinary environment.