Course summary
This is a full-time 1 year MSc programme suitable for biomedical or life scientists who wish to acquire an extensive knowledge and key skills relating to the fundamental molecular and cellular regulation of immunity and its application to the treatment of disease. The programme will be delivered by world leaders at the forefront of immunology and immunotherapy research, each with an internationally renowned research group. Over the past few years significant advances have been made in our understanding of the molecular and cellular control of immune responses. These discoveries are now being translated into the design and testing of immunotherapeutic interventions for a range of diseases including cancer, autoimmunity and inflammatory disease. This programme is for biomedical or life scientists who wish to extend their knowledge and skills in both immunology and its translation to immunotherapy. A series of interlinked taught modules cover molecular mechanisms in immune cell differentiation and function, autoimmunity, transplant and tumour immunology, and inflammation. This is complemented by comprehensive coverage of the latest developments in immunotherapy including the use of microbial products in immunomodulation and vaccination, small molecules and biologics, as well as cellular immunotherapy. The programme aims to allow you to understand the research process, from the fundamental discoveries at the forefront of immunological research, to the application of novel interventional immune-based therapies. A key part of the MSc programme is the planning, execution and reporting of a piece of independent study leading to submission of a dissertation. This study will be in the form of an extensive laboratory research project carried out in internationally renowned research groups. Each student will be a fully-integrated member of one of the large number of research teams in a wide variety of topics across both immunology and immunotherapy.
Modules
The content of the programme is broadly divided into two components: the taught modules and the independent research project (dissertation). Each taught module comprises 15-40 hours of face-to-face taught classroom-based learning plus self-directed learning and an in-course assessed assignment. Towards the beginning of the programme there is a laboratory research methods module and running throughout is a journal club where you present and discuss cutting-edge research publications. You will have the exciting opportunity to undertake an extensive laboratory research project as a fully-integrated member of one of the large number of research teams in a wide variety of topics across both immunology and immunotherapy. We also plan to offer some projects within external biotechnology companies. Introduction to Immunology (10 credits) Laboratory Research Methods in Immunology (10 credits) Immunology and Immunotherapy Journal Club (10 credits) Molecular mechanisms in immune cell differentiation and function (20 credits) Transplant, autoimmunity and tumour immunology (20 credits) Inflammation and cell migration (10 credits) Immunotherapy: (40 credits) The module will build on basic knowledge provided in previous modules with a focus on applied immunology and translating basic science into safe and effective therapeutics. The module will be divided into four sections: Microbes -immunomodulation and vaccination, Small molecules, Cellular and Biologics Research project in Immunology and Immunotherapy (60 credits).
Assessment method
Taught Modules Modules are assessed through a variety of means including extended essays (up to 3000 words), preparation of a research proposal, preparing and conducting a short presentation on a defined topic related to the module content, and unseen written examination (essays, short answer, MCQ). Dissertation This is defined as a substantial body of work containing some new findings or thoughts. It is envisaged that this will be 10,000-15,000 words in length. You will be assigned to a suitable supervisor and agree the nature of the research at the start of their programme.
How to apply
International applicants
Academic requirements We accept a range of qualifications, our country pages show you what qualifications we accept from your country. English language requirements You can satisfy our English language requirements in two ways: by holding an English language qualification to the right level by taking and successfully completing one of our English courses for international students English to IELTS 7.0 (with a minimum of 6.5 in each component). If you need help with your English language skills then support is available. The English for Academic Purposes Presessional course is for international students who have a conditional offer to study at the University, but who do not currently meet the English language requirements. The course is tailored to your level of English and allows you to meet the English language requirements for your programme without retaking IELTS. The EAP programme runs throughout the year and offers different programme lengths ranging from 42 weeks to 6 weeks. The length of course you need depends on your future course, your existing IELTS score and the English level you need for your university degree.
Entry requirements
Life science or biomedical science degree normally classified at 2.1 or above or equivalent. English requirements are: IELTS 7.0 with no less than 6.5 in any band, TOEFL 95 overall with no less than 22 in any band, or PTE Academic 67 in all 4 skills.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
No fee information has been provided for this course
Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website .
Additional fee information
For more detailed information on available funding and fees for postgraduate courses please visit: https://www.birmingham.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/taught/fees-funding
Provider information
University of Birmingham
Edgbaston
Birmingham
B15 2TT