Who is this programme aimed at?
What will I study on the awards?
How is the programme structured?
How are the modules delivered?
Can I undertake the awards without attendance?
Who teaches on the courses?
What are the fees?
How do I get more information?
How do I apply?

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Who is this programme aimed at?

The programme comprises postgraduate certificate, diploma and masters courses and is aimed at professionals in health and related areas such as pharmaceuticals and biotechnology, who wish to acquire knowledge and develop understanding of molecular biology and its impact on biomedicine. The programme explores current understanding of molecular biology and techniques within a clinical context.

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What will I study on the awards?

Each of the awards has been designed specifically to meet the needs of professionals in Biomedicine.

• The Certificate will introduce you to recent advances made in the study of disease, with the emphasis on how advanced molecular technologies inform and impact on clinical practice.
  
• The Diploma takes theory into practice, with hands-on practical skills developed during two one week residential short courses (in January and June). These workshops will enable you to meet with your cohort, attend seminars and undertake practical work in our excellent laboratory facilities under the guidance of practicing clinical scientists and academics.
  
• The Masters in Molecular Biology incorporates all of the Certificate and Diploma studies and provides you with an opportunity to undertake a masters research project. Projects may be completed in your place of work or at the University.

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How is the programme structured?

Awards within the programme are based on masters level modules worth 15 credits.

For the Postgraduate Certificate in Molecular Basis of Disease (60 credits) you will study:

• Principles of Molecular Biology.
• Molecular aspects of multifactorial disease.
• Molecular aspects of infectious disease.
• Gene expression, regulation and dysfunction

For the Postgraduate Diploma in Molecular Biology for Health Professionals (120 credits) you will study:

• All of the modules in the certificate plus:
• Molecular Diagnostics (one week hands-on practical course)
• DNA Techniques (one week hands-on practical course)
• Research Skills and Project Management
• Genomics and Bioinformatics
  

For the Masters in Molecular Biology (180 credits) you will study:

• All of the modules in the Certificate and Diploma plus:
• Masters research project (60 credits)

Modules may be studied sequentially or in tandem, over nine-week blocks and are delivered via distance learning. There are four blocks in a year and two entry points in September and February.

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How are the modules delivered?

• The modules are delivered principally via Blackboard - an online distance learning software package that enables you study without attending the University.
  
• Each module delivered via Blackboard is also supported by additional materials which are sent to you (books, additional workbooks, videos, CD's etc).
  
• Online learning enables you to study in your own home and/or place of work, making it an effective use of your time.
  
• Group activities, collaborative and co-operative learning are encouraged and you will be required to contribute to on-line discussion and other similar activities.
  
• Extensive tutor support is provided via the award leader, module tutors and personal tutors.

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Can I undertake the awards without attending the University?

• Yes for the PgCert in Molecular basis of disease - this may be completed entirely without attendance at the University.
  
• No for the PgDip in Molecular Biology for Health Professionals. For this award, you will need to attend for two weeks minimum. The two weeks are scheduled during January and June where you will undertake the practical modules as full-time short courses.
  
• No for the Masters in Molecular Biology. For the Masters award you will need to attend for the two weeks of the practical courses (see above for the Diploma). In addition, if you are undertaking the project at the University, this will require a minimum of 5 months residence. International students on the programme may wish to reside at the University for the duration of the award and undertake the on-line modules whilst on campus. This would enable you to meet with tutors, utilize University resources and make an early start to the development of your project plans.

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Who teaches on the courses?

Click on a name for more information :

Dr. Sue Bird
Dr. Peter Gowland
Dr. Pauline Gowland
Dr. Harry Mountain
Dr. Angela Priestman
Dr. Stephen Merry

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What are the fees for awards in the programme?

Our course fees are currently being reviewed. Please contact the Recruitment centre on 00 44 (1) 782 294354 or scidistlearn@staffs.ac.uk if you need more information.

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How do I find out further information and obtain an application form?

The award handbook can be viewed here.

Apply online using the link on the right hand menu, or for further details and an application form, contact:

Recruitment Centre,
Sciences,
Staffordshire University,
College Road.
Stoke-on-Trent,
ST4 2DE.

Tel: 00 44 (0)1782 294880
Fax: 00 44 (0)1782 294986

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