Cancer Biology Masters (MSc)

Program Overview

Through scientific research methods and techniques in cell and molecular biology and pathology, graduates gain expertise for careers in medicine, hospital laboratories, and cancer research. The program offers flexible study formats, including full-time, part-time, and professional placement options.

Program Outline

The program focuses on training students in scientific research methods and the techniques used in cell and molecular biology and pathology.

Key Objectives:

• Provide in-depth knowledge of oncology topics and their relationship to other medical disciplines.
• Train students in scientific research methods.
• Develop expertise in cell and molecular biology and pathology techniques.
• Equip students with an understanding of the principles and practice of core topics in medical science.
• Offer the opportunity to conduct a research project with a life science research group or in the student's workplace.

Outline:

The Cancer Biology MSc program is offered in several flexible formats:

• Full-time: 1 year, 2 days a week; 2 years including a professional placement, 2 days a week plus placement year
• Part-time: 2 years, 1 day a week

Course Schedule:

• The program starts in September or January.
• Full-time: 2 days per week, typically with lectures, seminars, workshops, and tutorials.

Core Modules:

• Research techniques and scientific communication (30 credits): This module develops and extends research and communication skills in biosciences, covering principles and practices of laboratory techniques, research planning, management, data handling, and presentation.
It covers topics like cancer epidemiology, risk factors, symptoms, imaging, biopsy, laboratory investigations, tumor markers, staging, prognosis, and various therapeutic options like radiotherapy, chemotherapy, hormonal therapy, and targeted therapy. It also introduces cellular mechanisms and genetic causes of disease, considering physiological manifestations and public health implications.
• Cellular and Molecular Biology of Cancer (30 credits): This module delves into biological interactions between tumor cells and the host, explaining how these interactions affect tumor progression.
• Research Project (60 credits): This capstone module provides students with the opportunity to apply their acquired knowledge and skills in a real-world learning environment.
It involves presenting work in professional formats, practicing laboratory skills, and demonstrating the ability to independently solve complex problems. Students gain experience in an appropriate working environment, developing and enhancing key employability and subject-specific skills. Students are responsible for finding and securing their placements, which must be approved by the Course Leader.

Assessment:

The program employs a variety of assessment methods.

Assessment Methods:

• Coursework: 51% of the overall assessment
• Exams: 35% of the overall assessment
• Practical: 14% of the overall assessment

Assessment Types:

• Exams (tests or examinations)
• Practical assessments (presentations, performance)
• Coursework (essays, reports, self-assessment, portfolios, dissertations)

Teaching:

The Cancer Biology MSc program employs a range of teaching methods.

Teaching Methods:

• Lectures
• Seminars
• Workshops
• Tutorials

Potential Career Paths:

• Roles in medicine
• Hospital laboratories
• Commercial laboratories
• Professional Experience: Students can gain professional experience alongside their studies through placements in hospitals, community health care, NHS foundation trusts, academic publishers, and pharmaceutical companies.
The Professional Experience scheme is designed to provide practical experience and enhance employability skills.

Home 2025/26 MSc full time £11,400 MSc part time £6,270 International 2025/26 MSc full time £19,300 MSc part time £10,615 Home 2024/25 MSc full time £10,900 MSc part time £5,995 International 2024/25 MSc full time £18,500 MSc part time £10,175