Course Philosophy
The Genomic Medicine course has been commissioned by Welsh Government as part of
the all-Wales strategy to offer training and education in Genomics. The course is primarily
informed by the indicative curriculum developed by Health Education England, NHS England and Genomics England Ltd. (https://www.genomicseducation.hee.nhs.uk/taught-courses/courses/masters-in-genomic-medicine/) to equip graduates, and a diverse range of healthcare professionals, with an appreciation and education in genomics and genomic technology. This knowledge and understanding of genomics (which is an emerging field of expertise) will prepare graduates for a career within the NHS or for healthcare professionals to translate their newfound knowledge of genomics into the clinical setting to inform patient care.
Students will be introduced to the fundamentals of human genetics and genomics along with
techniques required for DNA and RNA sequencing to study genomic variation observed in the clinical
setting. A third module entitled Data Analysis for Health and Medical Sciences, will introduce the
bioinformatic approaches required for the analysis of genomic data.
Subsequent study will build on these foundations. Specific modules will focus on the application of
genomics to Molecular Pathology of Cancer, Application of Genomics in Infectious Disease, and
Common and rare inherited diseases.
This modular programme offers the opportunity to gain a postgraduate qualification on a full or part-time basis.
MSc 180 credits- 1-year full time, 2 years part time
PGDip 120 credits – 1-year Full time 2 years Part time
PGCert 60 credits- 1-year Full time 1 year Part time
All modules are also available on a CPD basis.
Entry requirements
Applicants should hold a 2:1 in a relevant subject such as genetics, biochemistry, medical biosciences, pharmacy, pharmacology, and nursing. Significant relevant experience may be accepted in lieu of a degree. IELTS: 6.5 (or Swansea University recognised equivalent).
Programme Structure
Post graduate Certificate (PgCert) 60 Credits
Post graduate Diploma (PgDip) 120 Credits
Post graduate Masters (MSc) 180 credits
Student opting to undertake the MSc can undertake laboratory or a suitable non-laboratory-based project in a topic related to the field of genomics.
Dissertation projects can be conducted in:
Cancer genomics,
Cardiovascular genomics
Microbial Genomics,
Bioinformatics
Computational genomics
Genomics Education
Genomic Technology optimisation
Student Feedback quotes:
“Genomic medicine research is a fast-growing, dynamic field and absolutely key in improving healthcare. So as a researcher, to have the opportunity to take this course is incredibly exciting. So far it has been very interesting and thought-provoking; all delivered in an engaging and carefully thought-out way. I would recommend it to anyone wanting to work in this field” Helen Daniels, Research Officer, Swansea University
“One in 17 people in the UK is affected by a rare disease, 80% of which are genetic in origin. The application of Genomics will allow more accurate diagnosis, management, surveillance, family counselling and individualised treatment with a significant impact over the lifetime of a child. The MSc in Genomics will enable me as a General Paediatrician to stay on top of developments in this field and apply this to the best benefit of my patients and their families” Dr Torsten Hildebrandt, Consultant Paediatrician (Cwm Taff Morgannwg Health Board)
“Loved being part of the first part-time cohort for this course. Some amazing lecturers and I learnt so much” – Rhiannon Clegg BioMedical Scientist ( Aneurin Bevan University Health Board).
Dr Claire Morgan – Bio
Claire gained her PhD in 2002 and since then has worked in the field of cancer research. Claire has previously held a post at the prestigious MRC Cancer Cell Unit in Cambridge before returning to Swansea University. Claire is based at the Institute of Life Science 1 where her research focuses on cancer drug discovery and gene manipulation. She has recently been awarded Cancer Research UK and Welsh Government Funding to further her drug discovery research.
Claire is an Associate Professor in cancer Genetics and is Programme Director for the MSc Genomic Medicine course. Claire, as Programme Director, established the first fully NHS- supported Genomic Medicine course in Wales. Claire is also an invited member of Genomics Partnership Wales and Wales Gene Park Strategic Advisory group.
Claire is also Programme Director for the BSc Genetics and Medical Genetics degree schemes and teaches on all the UG degree schemes including the Genetics/ Medical Genetics/Applied Medical Sciences and Population Health and Medical Sciences BSc degree schemes in the School of Medicine.
She is a senior fellow of the Higher Education Academy (HEA) and has several external reviewers roles; acting as external examiner for MSc Genomic Medicine at Kings and St George’s University of London, external examiner for BSc Genetics at Aberystwyth University and external examiner for MSc in Health for Cardiff Metropolitan.
Claire is also the Local Representative of the Genetics Society, a Fellow of the Royal Society of Biology and newly appointed to the role of member of the International Advisory Group for the Genomic Medicine Foundation UK.