PGCert Medical and Molecular Virology

Course descriptionMany of the world's greatest global health challenges arise from viral infections such as novel coronaviruses and the Ebola and Zika viruses. To tackle these major health threats, we need well-trained virologists with the knowledge and skills to diagnose, treat and prevent such disease.Our MSc Medical and Molecular Virology course will provide education and training in medical virology to equip you with the molecular skills and knowledge to understand the increasingly important role molecular and bioinformatic analysis plays in modern virology.You will acquire in-depth knowledge and understanding of viruses, the diseases they cause and how they cause them through the taught element of the course. You will also look at how to diagnose, control and prevent infections in individuals and communities.Later in the course, you will choose a research project and carry it out under the supervision of an academic or clinical supervisor, depending on your interests. This is your opportunity to study a relevant and topical question in medical virology using state-of-the-art techniques and facilities.By combining academic study with the practice of clinical virology in the health service, our MSc is highly relevant and at the cutting edge of medical and molecular virology.Teaching and learningYou will learn through lectures, seminars, and extended case study-based practical laboratories, among other teaching methods. You will be encouraged to develop independent thinking and leadership skills.You will also learn to plan and design a research project using a blended learning approach through online resources and discussion with an individually assigned supervisor.Coursework and assessmentWe use a range of methods to assess your progress, including coursework, written examinations and a laboratory skills portfolio.Career opportunitiesYou will graduate with the skills and knowledge required for a career as a modern virologist.You will be well placed to pursue a career as a diagnostic laboratory scientist or manager, or as a scientist in industry or academia in medical andor molecular virology, or in any of a number of biotechnology fields relevant to virology.These include: gene therapy (where recombinant viruses are the mainstay of the technology); molecular biology particularly next generation sequencing and new virus discovery; vaccinology; antiviral development; epidemiological and public health control.For medically qualified applicants, the course will benefit those wishing to specialise in virology or infectious diseases, or pursue a clinical academic route in this or related subjects.