Medical Genetics

Programme Structure

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Course A: Molecular Genetics (20 credits: September - March) 
In Course A you will study the molecular basis of inherited disease and cancer, and the molecular technologies that are currently used in medical genetics molecular diagnostics.

Course B: Cytogenetics (15 credits: September - March) 
This Course includes chromosome structure, nomenclature and behaviour, and the underlying causes and effects of chromosomal disorders, together with the diagnosis of chromosomal disorders by current cytogenetic and molecular cytogenetic techniques.

Course C: Biochemical Genetics (15 credits: September - March)
Course C covers the use of biochemical methodologies in screening and diagnostics for inherited diseases and congenital abnormalities, including analysis of data from biochemical tests.

Course D: Clinical Skills (10 credits: September - March)
Course D covers the principles and practice of clinical medical genetics, including pedigree analysis, genetic risk calculation, genetic counselling and ethical considerations in clinical genetics.

Course E: Case Investigations (30 credits: April - June) 
In Course E you will work in a group with other students to investigate real clinical case scenarios, providing possible diagnoses if appropriate, suggesting further investigations, management and/or treatment options. Each group produces a report of their findings and students give individual presentations on an aspect of the case.

Course F: Integrated Case Studies (30 credits: April - June) 
Course F assesses the ability of each student to analyse case scenarios involving individuals and / or families with genetic disease, and, where appropriate, to see beyond the immediate problem to identify other key issues.

Course G: Research Skills (60 credits: September - September)  (Dissertation element June -September)
Course G includes a series of taught practicals, together with numeracy skills relevant to working in the laboratory. You will also carry out an independent piece of research on a relevant topic, either a laboratory-based or library/clinical data-based investigation and write this up as a dissertation.