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MSc in Molecular Pathology of Cancer (Blending Learning)

Academic Year 2017/18

A programme specification is required for any programme on which a student may be registered. All programmes of the University are subject to the University's Quality Assurance and Enhancement processes as set out in the DASA Policies and Procedures Manual.

Programme Title

MSc in Molecular Pathology of Cancer (Blending Learning)

Final Award
(exit route if applicable for Postgraduate Taught Programmes)

Master of Science

Programme Code

MED-MSC-PC

UCAS Code

JACS Code

A900 (DESCR) 100

Criteria for Admissions

Criteria for Admissions
For current general University entry requirements for this pathway go to: http://www.qub.ac.ado

(1) Applicants to the programme will be required to hold a professional qualification (MBBS, BDS, BVsc or equivalent through the University’s procedures for Recognition of Prior Learning - RPL), or
(2) 2.1 Hons degree (as minimum) or equivalent in a relevant biological subject (Note: significant long term experience may also be considered on an individual basis), or
(3) Intercalating Medical or Dental Students from within QUB will also be considered but must have successfully completed the third year of the 5 year medical/dental course and achieved at least an upper second class honours standard. Intercalating applicants should also ensure that they have permission to intercalate from either the Director of medical Education or Dentistry, as appropriate. To have an intercalated application considered, an eternal candidate must be ranked in the top half of their year cohort. A student must normally have passed all assessments at first attempt in the year in which they are applying.

International students:
Non-EEA nationals must satisfy UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) requirements for English language for visa purposes.

• An IELTS score of 6.5, with not less than 6 in each of the four component elements of listening, reading, speaking and writing taken within the last 2 years
• A TOEFL score of 90+ (internet based test) taken within the last 2 years, with minimum component scores of Listening-20; Reading -19; Speaking-21; Writing 20
• A valid Certificate of Proficiency in English grade A or B
• A valid Certificate of Advanced English grade A or
• A 1st or Upper second class honours degree from a UK University, Republic of Ireland or other suitably quality assured location in a country deemed by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) to be majority English speaking
For further Information Refer to:
Course Handbook
School of Medicine, Dentistry and Biomedical Sciences
Postgraduate and Professional Development
Whitla Medical Building
97 Lisburn Road Belfast BT9 7BL
www.qub.ac.uk/schools/mdbs/
http://go.qub.ac.uk/mscclinicalanatomy
Tel: +44 (0) 28 9097 2615
Email: pgoffice.smdb@qub.ac.uk

ATAS Clearance Required

No

Health Check Required

No

Portfolio Required

Interview Required

Mode of Study

Full Time

Type of Programme

Postgraduate

Length of Programme

1 Academic Year(s)

Total Credits for Programme

180

Exit Awards available

INSTITUTE INFORMATION

Awarding Institution/Body

Queen's University Belfast

Teaching Institution

Queen's University Belfast

School/Department

Medicine, Dentistry and Biomedical Sciences

Framework for Higher Education Qualification Level 
www.qaa.ac.uk

Level 7

QAA Benchmark Group
www.qaa.ac.uk/quality-code/subject-benchmark-statements

Accreditations (PSRB)

REGULATION INFORMATION

Does the Programme have any approved exemptions from the University General Regulations
(Please see General Regulations)

No

Programme Specific Regulations

Programme Specific Regulations
The following regulations should be read in conjunction with the General Regulations of the University.

1. Candidates must achieve a pass in all the taught modules and the Research Project to be awarded the degree of MSc.
2. In the case of failed modules, candidates will normally be permitted only one re-sit attempt in each module.
3. Candidates who fail a re-sit examination will normally be required to withdraw from the programme.
4. Candidates who achieve an overall pass mark in in the first three modules of the programme (60 CATS) and then withdraw from the programme may be awarded the Postgraduate Certificate in Molecular Pathology of Cancer.
5. Candidates who achieve an overall pass mark in the second three modules of the programme (60 CATS) but may have failed a first semester module, and then withdraw from the programme may be awarded the Postgraduate Certificate in Pathology, Informatics and Business Applications.
6. Candidates who achieve an overall pass mark in all the taught modules (120 CATS) worth and then withdraw from the programme may be awarded a Postgraduate Diploma in Molecular Pathology of Cancer.
7. A candidate who fails the Research Project may re-submit within 6 months. Only one resubmission will be permitted.
8. Candidates who pass all the taught modules but who fail the Research Project, shall be eligible for the award of Postgraduate Diploma only.

Students with protected characteristics

Normally there are no barriers but being a laboratory based subject each case will be considered individually

Are students subject to Fitness to Practise Regulations

(Please see General Regulations)

No

EDUCATIONAL AIMS OF PROGRAMME

To develop the knowledge and skills to understand the advanced principles of cancer biology, genomics and immunology and their importance to molecular pathology in an era of precision medicine.

To foster acquisition of knowledge and practical skills for use in a molecular diagnostic environment.

The evaluation of current and future developments in translational medicine and the critical assessment of biomarkers and novel therapeutic approaches in clinical medicine.

Critical analysis of scientific literature and scientific writing of research articles.

To nurture skills in digital molecular pathology and pathology informatics for effective application across academic, health care delivery or bio-industry sectors.

Describe the importance of integrative approaches in molecular pathology for its successful application in the workplace.

Demonstrate how close working relationships with industry are essential to facilitate rapid transfer of translational medicine into clinical practice.

Apply effective core molecular pathology skills to the workplace.

To promote leadership in molecular pathology across academic, health care delivery or bio-industry sectors.

To provide knowledge and skills to progress through participation high quality research programmes.

To foster skills in oral presentations and promote lifelong learning.

LEARNING OUTCOMES

Learning Outcomes: Cognitive Skills

On the completion of this course successful students will be able to:

Critically analyse and apply the principles of cancer biology, immunology and genomics to implement molecular pathology services in an era of Precision Medicine

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, Seminars, Tutorials, Masterclasses, Practicals, Journal Clubs, Small Group Teaching, Guided Self-Directed learning

Methods of Assessment

Coursework, Presentations and Assignments

Select and evaluate theories and research from the knowledge base of molecular pathology to integrate digital molecular pathology and bioinformatics in order to underpin molecular diagnostics, theranostics and clinical trials delivery

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures (traditional and online), Seminars/Webinars, Tutorials, Workshops, Masterclasses, Practicals, Journal Clubs, Small Group Teaching, Guided Self-Directed learning including online quizzes

Methods of Assessment

Coursework, Essays and Assignments

Lead teams applying molecular pathology skills in academia, healthcare or bio-industry sectors

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures (traditional and online), Seminars /Webinars, Tutorials, Masterclasses, Practicals, Journal Clubs, Small Group Teaching, Guided Self-Directed learning including online quizzes

Methods of Assessment

Presentations and Assignments

Analyze, interpret and appraise experimental data including data made publically available

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, Webinars, Tutorials, Practical’s, Guided Self-Directed learning including online quizzes

Methods of Assessment

Assignments

Analyse and combine information from different sources to develop strategies for effective application of molecular pathology in the workplace

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, Seminars , Tutorials, Master classes, Practicals, Journal Clubs, Small Group Teaching, Guided Self-Directed learning

Methods of Assessment

Coursework, Presentations and Assignments

Learning Outcomes: Knowledge & Understanding

On the completion of this course successful students will be able to:

Critically appraise the key processes and biological events that lead to malignant disease in humans and describe how these are utilised to underpin stratified approaches to patient management

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, Seminars, Tutorials, Workshops, Masterclasses, Practicals, Journal Clubs, Guided Self-Directed learning, Small Group Teaching

Methods of Assessment

Course work, Presentations, Assignments

Describe the translational pipeline from discovery to clinical application and evaluate how translational research benefits from integrated digital and analytical approaches to molecular pathology

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, Seminars, Tutorials, Workshops, Masterclasses, Practicals, Journal Clubs, Guided Self-Directed learning, Small Group Teaching

Methods of Assessment

Course work, Assignments, Presentation

Provide a modern interpretation of research relating to cancer immunology and outline recent strategies for using immunotherapy to treat patients

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, Seminars, Tutorials, Workshops, Masterclasses, Practicals, Journal Clubs, Guided Self-Directed learning, Small Group Teaching

Methods of Assessment

Course work, Assignments, Presentation

Evaluate and apply basic principles of statistical analysis for handing data in translational medical research

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

On line lectures, online tutorials and guided self-directed learning

Methods of Assessment

Course work, Assignments

Explain how academia and industry intersect to develop mutually beneficial research collaborations

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, Tutorials, Workshops, Masterclasses, Guided Self-Directed learning

Methods of Assessment

Course work, Assignments

Appraise the theoretical and technical aspects of digital pathology and have an appreciation for the regulatory requirements relating to digital pathology for research and clinical application

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

On line lectures, online tutorials and guided self-directed learning

Methods of Assessment

Course work, Assignments

Learning Outcomes: Subject Specific

On the completion of this course successful students will be able to:

Discuss and evaluate the basic principles of cancer biology, genomics and cancer immunology and be able to summarise the complexity of cancer genetics

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, Tutorials, Journal Clubs, Guided Self-Directed learning, Small Group Teaching

Methods of Assessment

Presentation, Assignment

Outline the principles of research ethics and governance relating to translational research and correctly apply established principles and legislation as required

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, Seminars, Tutorials, Workshops, Masterclasses, Practicals, Journal Clubs, Guided Self-Directed learning, Small Group Teaching

Methods of Assessment

Course work, Presentations, Assignments

Discuss experimental approaches, techniques and design in translational cancer medicine and evaluate the interdisciplinary aspect of translational cancer research including the contributions of basic scientists and clinicians as well as researchers based in health and social care settings.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, Seminars, Tutorials, Guided Self-Directed learning, Small Group Teaching

Methods of Assessment

Course work, Presentations, Assignments, Continuous Assessment, Research Project

Describe the basics of laboratory design and critically analyse the regulatory, safety and financial aspects of a molecular laboratory to deliver an effective laboratory quality management system

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, Seminars, Tutorials, Workshops, Masterclasses, Practicals, Journal Clubs, Guided Self-Directed learning, Small Group Teaching

Methods of Assessment

Presentation, Essay

Evaluate the principles of clinical trial design and describe how clinical trials can be supported by integrated molecular pathology translational research programmes

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, Seminars, Tutorials, Workshops, Masterclasses, Practicals, Journal Clubs, Guided Self-Directed learning, Small Group Teaching

Methods of Assessment

Essay, Presentation

Identify and evaluate the key components required to establish a spin off company from research findings; including familiarity with aspects of IPR, patenting and licencing

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

On line lectures, online masterclasses and guided self-directed learning

Methods of Assessment

Course work

Discuss commercial strategies for marketing and developing products

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

On line lectures, online tutorials and guided self-directed learning

Methods of Assessment

Course work

Evaluate how different ‘omics’ research data are analysed

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

On line lectures, online tutorials and guided self-directed learning

Methods of Assessment

Course work

Discuss digital pathology platforms and evaluate how different image analyse approaches are used for research and clinical application

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

On line lectures, online tutorials and guided self-directed learning

Methods of Assessment

Course work

Learning Outcomes: Transferable Skills

On the completion of this course successful students will be able to:

Demonstrate a well-developed knowledge base

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, tutorials and through identifying additional resources, gathering information

Methods of Assessment

Course work, Essays, Presentations, Written Assignments,

Critically evaluate current scientific literature

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, Seminars, Tutorials, Workshops, Masterclasses, Practicals, Journal Clubs, Guided Self-Directed learning, Small Group Teaching

Methods of Assessment

Course work, Presentations, Assignments, Continuous Assessment, Research Project

Demonstrate critical, analytical and creative thinking by identifying resources and by gathering and managing important information

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, tutorials and through identifying additional resources, gathering information

Methods of Assessment

Course work, Essays, Presentations, Written Assignments,

Demonstrate creativity by initiating and expressing new ideas, developing sound arguments and a persuasive opinions including critically evaluating and writing a business plan

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, tutorials and through identifying additional resources, gathering information

Methods of Assessment

Course work, Essays, Presentations, Written Assignments.

Data management skills – increased ability to carry out advanced data management/ data–base interrogation including ability to utilise statistical programming and interpret results from a statistical analysis in biomedical terms

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, tutorials and through identifying additional resources, gathering information

Methods of Assessment

Course work, Essays, Presentations, Written Assignments

Organisational and personal skills – including life-long responsibility and self-motivation, self-confidence, personal integrity, setting own goals and time management

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, tutorials, course guidance about time requirements for course completion

Methods of Assessment

Timely submission of coursework and Continuous Assessment, Research Project, Assessment of Presentations

Innovative thinking and its application to commercialisation of opportunities

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures (traditional and online), tutorials, self directed learning

Methods of Assessment

Course work, Essays, Presentations, Written Assignments

General IT skills including use of bibliographic software such as RefWorks or equivalent

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, tutorials, masterclasses, delivery of presentation, self-directed learning

Methods of Assessment

Research Project, Course work, Data handling assignments

Demonstrate good interpersonal skills

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Participation in group discussions and presentations

Methods of Assessment

Formative assessment of presentations

MODULE INFORMATION

Programme Requirements

Module Title

Module Code

Level/ stage

Credits

Availability

Duration

Pre-requisite

 

Assessment

 

 

 

 

S1

S2

 

 

Core

Option

Coursework %

Practical %

Examination %

Biostatistical Informatics

SCM8109

7

20

YES

12 weeks

N

YES

100%

0%

0%

Cancer Biology/Immunology Genomics

SCM8121

7

15

YES

12 weeks

N

YES

100%

0%

0%

Molecular Pathology: Diagnostics and Technologies

SCM8122

7

25

YES

12 weeks

N

YES

100%

0%

0%

Translational Research

SCM8123

7

20

YES

12 weeks

N

YES

100%

0%

0%

Digital Pathology Distance Learning

SCM8124

7

20

YES

12 weeks

N

YES

100%

0%

0%

The Academia-Industry Intersect

SCM8126

7

20

YES

12 weeks

N

YES

100%

0%

0%

Dissertation

SCM8127

7

60

YES

YES

52 weeks

N

YES

100%

0%

0%

Notes