Molecular Genetics MSc

Program Overview

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Molecular Genetics MSc

Course Description

Join an internationally-recognised centre for pioneering research into genetics with specific expertise in patterns of human inheritance, identification of genetic determinants of human diseases, cancer genetics, circadian rhythms and microbial pathogenesis. Our renowned research includes the discovery by Professor Sir Alec Jeffreys of the technique of DNA fingerprinting and, more recently, for the identification of the bones of Richard III. We are proud of our cross-organism approach, which emphasises the fundamental importance of genetics as a common language for understanding the biology of organisms as diverse as bacteriophages, bacteria, yeast, fruit flies, insects, plants and humans.

The MSc in Molecular Genetics is a one-year full-time degree for biological sciences graduates to learn and develop an understanding of current concepts in modern molecular genetics and how to apply these techniques to research. The course is divided into a taught phase (semester 1) and an extended research project (semester 2) within the College of Life Sciences.

Entry Requirements

• 2:2 degree (or equivalent) in a biological science.
• Significant relevant work experience may be considered.
• IELTS 6.5 or equivalent. If your first language is not English, you may need to provide evidence of your English language ability. If you do not yet meet our requirements, our English Language Teaching Unit (ELTU) offers a range of courses to help you to improve your English to the necessary standard.
• International Qualifications: Find your country in this list to check equivalent qualifications, scholarships and additional requirements.

Fees and Funding

UK Students

• £10,950
• If you are resident outside the UK and the Republic of Ireland, you will need to pay a deposit of £3,000 to secure your place. This will be subtracted from your total tuition fee.
• 20% alumni discount
• International student information

International Students

• £23,650
• You will need to pay a deposit of £3,000 to secure your place. This will be subtracted from your total tuition fee.
• 20% alumni discount

Careers and Employability

The course is ideally suited for students aiming to gain further experience in experimental protocols for a career in laboratory science. As the techniques are broadly applicable to a range of organisms and samples, the course provides career opportunities in various laboratory settings and stages of research or practical application.

Related Courses

• Bioinformatics MSc, full-time
• Browse all courses

Course Structure

Modules

• Introduction to Molecular Techniques
• Experimental Design and Application of Molecular Genetic Techniques in Research

Research Project

One of the most valued features of this course is the Research Project, in which you will put your newly acquired practical skills and knowledge to the test. For up to six months, you will work as a member of a dedicated research team, designing and conducting your own research, culminating in the production of a dissertation. You will choose your laboratory research placement from projects covering a broad range of disciplines involving molecular genetics and a variety of organisms.

Recent research project titles offered include:

• Effect of Genetic Variation on Campylobacter Virulence Phenotypes
• Characterisation of human RAB39B mutation in fruit fly model
• Seeing is believing: Spatial expression of photo pigments in mosquito brains
• Investigating expression of highly selected genes in the social region of an ant
• Developing Y chromosome markers in Saudi Arabian hamadryas baboons
• Analysing Arabidopsis meiotic recombination mutants
• Expression of mucin genes in lung cells in response to Mycobacterium tuberculosis
• Killing the killer: Isolation of bacteriophages against the pathogenic Vibrio spp

Why Leicester?

Leicester was recently ranked 2nd in the UK for its world-leading research in clinical Medicine (2021 Research Excellent Framework - REF).

The University of Leicester is home to the prestigious Leicester Cancer Research Centre that conducts pioneering research

The University of Leicester is at the forefront of molecular genetics research. Researchers are working on model species such as yeast, bacteria, fruit flies and Arabidopsis and are translating these findings into humans, biotechnology, and agriculture.

Our history of genetic achievements includes the invention of DNA fingerprinting by Prof Sir Alec Jeffreys and the genetic identification of the remains of King Richard III, the last king of England to die in battle.

Teaching and Learning

In Semester 1, the taught phase of the course, you will study modern concepts of molecular genetics through intensive laboratory classes. You will be trained in laboratory techniques and will develop your proficiency in experimental design through hands-on laboratory experiments.

Alongside the laboratory classes, you will have a core lecture programme, which is shared between our various postgraduate laboratory-based courses and will develop your specialist knowledge. There are also optional lectures in fields related to your own, which will allow you to increase your understanding of the interdisciplinary aspects of your speciality.

The taught modules are assessed by in-module assessments, essays and exams. Successful completion of the taught phase is required to proceed to the MSc research project stage in semester 2.

In semester 2, you will put into practice the laboratory skills from the taught phase by conducting a 6-month MSc research project, which comprise two-thirds of the credits for your degree. You will have the opportunity to choose a laboratory research project from projects covering a broad range of disciplines involving molecular genetics and a variety of organisms. You will become part of an active research group employing modern approaches and technologies to solve significant research questions.

Your research project will involve generating and analysing your research data and is assessed on your independence, initiative and understanding whilst performing the project, as well as submission of a final dissertation and project presentation.

The project is an ideal preparation if you are wishing to proceed to a PhD in the fields of Molecular Genetics, and offers a great opportunity to enhance your employability as a molecular scientist.

Independent Learning

In addition to attending lectures and laboratory sessions you will be expected to continue learning independently through self-study. To help with your independent learning, you can access the Library and our social study spaces in halls of residence.

Academic Support

Our Student Learning Development Team provides help in the following areas:

• Academic writing
• Presentations
• Dissertations
• Numerical data skills
• Referencing sources

Our AccessAbility Centre offers support and practical help for students with dyslexia or other specific learning difficulties, including physical, mental health or mobility difficulties, deafness, or visual impairment.

Key Dates

• Application deadline: 8 September 2025 (Please note if you require a visa to study you will be required to submit your course application by 25 July 2025)
• Deposit payment deadline: 8 August 2025
• CAS request deadline: 5 September 2025
• 70% tuition payment deadline: 5 September 2025

Applying for

• Where are you studying? Country
• When would you like to start? Start date
• How would you like to study? Attendance

Please note that the application process and deadlines may vary depending on your location and circumstances. It is essential to check the University's website or contact the admissions team for the most up-to-date information.

Program Outline

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Molecular Genetics MSc - University of Leicester

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Degree Overview:

The MSc in Molecular Genetics is a one-year full-time degree designed for biological sciences graduates. It aims to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of current concepts in modern molecular genetics and equip them with the skills to apply these techniques in research.

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Outline:

The program is structured into two semesters:

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Semester 1: Taught Phase (3 months)

• Intensive lectures and laboratory work: This phase provides students with a strong foundation in the scientific knowledge underpinning modern molecular genetics techniques.
• Modules:
• Core Laboratory Techniques:
This module focuses on essential laboratory techniques used in molecular genetics research.
• Experimental Design and Application of Molecular Genetic Techniques in Research: This module delves into the practical application of molecular genetic techniques in research settings, emphasizing experimental design and data analysis.

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Semester 2: Research Project (6 months)

• Research Project: Students undertake a six-month research project within one of the department's key research areas.
This provides an opportunity to delve deeper into a specific area of molecular genetics and contribute to world-leading research.
• Recent Research Project Titles:
• Effect of Genetic Variation on Campylobacter Virulence Phenotypes
• Characterisation of human RAB39B mutation in fruit fly model
• Seeing is believing: Spatial expression of photo pigments in mosquito brains
• Investigating expression of highly selected genes in the social region of an ant
• Developing Y chromosome markers in Saudi Arabian hamadryas baboons
• Analysing Arabidopsis meiotic recombination mutants
• Expression of mucin genes in lung cells in response to Mycobacterium tuberculosis
• Killing the killer: Isolation of bacteriophages against the pathogenic Vibrio spp

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Assessment:

• Taught Modules: Assessed through in-module assessments, essays, and exams.
• Research Project: Assessed in three parts:
• Research performance: Evaluates the student's ability to conduct independent research.
• Dissertation: A written report detailing the research findings.
• Seminar: A presentation summarizing the research project at the end of the semester.

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Teaching:

• Teaching Methods:
• Intensive lectures: Provide theoretical knowledge and background information.
• Laboratory classes: Offer hands-on experience with molecular genetics techniques.
• Research project: Provides practical experience in designing and conducting research.
• Faculty: The program is taught by renowned researchers in the field of molecular genetics, including experts in human inheritance, cancer genetics, circadian rhythms, and microbial pathogenesis.
• Unique Approaches: The program emphasizes a cross-organism approach, highlighting the fundamental importance of genetics in understanding the biology of diverse organisms.

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Careers:

• Potential Career Paths:
• Laboratory science: The course prepares students for careers in laboratory settings, including research and development.
• Research: Graduates can pursue careers in academic research or industry research.
• Biotechnology: The skills learned in the program are applicable to various biotechnology fields.
• Opportunities: The program provides students with the skills and experience necessary to pursue a wide range of career opportunities in the field of molecular genetics.
• Outcomes: Graduates of the program are well-equipped to contribute to the advancement of molecular genetics research and its applications in various fields.

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Other:

• Publications: Many research projects undertaken by students have resulted in publications in highly respected scientific journals.
• University of Leicester: The University of Leicester is renowned for its world-leading research in clinical medicine and molecular genetics.
The program benefits from the university's strong research culture and facilities.
• Independent Learning: Students are encouraged to engage in independent learning through self-study, utilizing resources such as the library and social study spaces.
• Academic Support: The university provides academic support services, including the Student Learning Development Team and the AccessAbility Centre, to assist students with their academic endeavors.

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UK Students

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Starting in September 2024

£10,700 If you are resident outside the UK and the Republic of Ireland, you will need to pay a deposit of £3,000 to secure your place. This will be subtracted from your total tuition fee.

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International Students

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Starting in September 2024

£23,650 You will need to pay a deposit of £3,000 to secure your place. This will be subtracted from your total tuition fee.