Program Overview

Introduction to Respiratory Clinical Science MSc

The Respiratory Clinical Science MSc program at University College London (UCL) is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the scientific and clinical basis of respiratory diseases. This program is ideal for life science or medical science graduates seeking to lead the way in the growing field of respiratory medicine as clinicians or scientists.

Program Overview

The MSc in Respiratory Clinical Science focuses on the study of the scientific and clinical basis of respiratory diseases, with all courses and modules directed towards understanding disease and the effects on patients. The program offers a unique translational focus, working with the world's best, and access to some of the most innovative research projects in this area.

Key Concepts

Students will learn about key concepts relevant to respiratory medicine, including:

• Respiratory cell and molecular biology and disease
• Scientific and clinical aspects of respiratory diseases
• Lung physiology
• Genetics
• Immunology
• Biochemistry
• Microbiology
• Lung repair and regeneration
• Pathophysiology
• Pharmacology
• Physiology
• Occupational and environmental lung disease

Entry Requirements

To be eligible for the program, applicants must have:

• A minimum of an upper second-class Bachelor's degree in a relevant subject (respiratory care, respiratory therapy, advanced respiratory practice, life sciences, medicine, chemistry, biomedicine including applied medical sciences) from a UK university or an overseas qualification of an equivalent standard.
• English language requirements: Level 1 UCL Pre-Master's and Pre-sessional English courses are available for international students.

Course Structure

The program is delivered through a mix of:

• Seminars
• Lectures
• E-learning
• Laboratory work
• Practicals
• Small group tutorials
• Clinical tutorials at University College London Hospital and Royal Free Hospital

Modules

The full-time program consists of eight core taught modules and a research project in term three. The part-time program takes four core taught modules in the first academic year and four core taught modules and the research project in the second academic year. Compulsory modules include:

• Principles of Respiratory Biology and Physiology
• Drug Discovery in Respiratory Medicine
• Respiratory Diseases and Conditions
• Tissue Repair and Regeneration
• Principles of Immunology
• Principles of Inflammation
• Respiratory Cell and Molecular Biology
• Practical Laboratory Research Skills
• Research Project (Respiratory Clinical Science)

Careers and Employability

The MSc prepares students for further academic study and to work at the highest levels of respiratory medicine. Students will develop transferable skills through individual and group activities, such as problem-solving, data interpretation, bench projects, literature review, essay writing, journal clubs, oral and poster presentations, and leadership training. Career opportunities include:

• Public healthcare sector and NHS
• Industry and biopharma
• Government and research councils
• Biomedical charities and stakeholders
• Scientific media and publishing houses

Fees and Funding

• UK students: ｣18,400 (full-time), ｣9,200 (part-time)
• International students: ｣36,500 (full-time), ｣18,250 (part-time)
• Additional costs: fee deposit, Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service Clearance check, travel card
• Funding opportunities: bursaries, scholarships, including the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship Scheme and Division of Medicine Biomedical Sciences Programme Bursary

Next Steps

Students are advised to apply as early as possible due to competition for places. The application process includes submitting a personal statement and reference. It is essential to demonstrate a clear understanding of and commitment to respiratory medicine as a career, as well as good interpersonal and communication skills.