Blood Science - MSc

Program Overview

The Master of Science in Blood Science at London Metropolitan University is a comprehensive program that integrates clinical biochemistry, medical immunology, and clinical haematology. It equips students with advanced knowledge and skills in blood science, preparing them for careers in laboratory diagnostics, research, and other relevant areas. The program emphasizes hands-on learning through practical workshops and lab work, and is accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS).

Program Outline

Master of Science in Blood Science: Comprehensive Program Overview, Outline, and More

Degree Overview:

• Program overview: The Master of Science in Blood Science (MSc) at London Metropolitan University provides advanced knowledge and skills in the rapidly evolving field of blood science.
It integrates clinical biochemistry, medical immunology, and clinical haematology into a single, comprehensive program.
• Program objectives:
• Equip you with the expertise to practice biomedical science at the highest level within the multidisciplinary field of blood science.
• Cultivate high-level analytical skills and foster continuous professional development (CPD).
• Prepare you for professional practice in laboratory diagnostics, research, or other relevant areas within the blood science field.
• Program description: The MSc in Blood Science delves into the intersection of clinical biochemistry, medical immunology, and clinical haematology, offering a profound understanding of the theoretical and practical aspects of blood science.
The program adopts a hands-on approach, emphasizing practical skills development through extensive lab work and practical workshops.

Outline:

• Program content: The MSc in Blood Science covers a wide range of topics, including:
• Clinical Biochemistry:
This module dives into the fundamentals and applications of clinical biochemistry, focusing on the analysis, metabolism, and physiology of blood components in the context of both clinical and research settings.
• Haematology: This module explores the theoretical and practical aspects of haematology, covering the causes, consequences, and management of various blood disorders, including haematological and haemostatic diseases.
• Research Project: This independent research project allows you to delve into a specific blood science topic and apply your acquired knowledge to real-world research problems.
• Scientific Frameworks for Research: This module equips you with the essential skills and frameworks for scientific research, including experimental design, statistical analysis, and quality control.
• Transfusion Science: This module provides a comprehensive understanding of transfusion and transplantation science, covering the scientific principles, methodologies, ethical considerations, and current trends in this area.
• Program structure:
• Duration:
1 year (full-time) or 2 years (part-time)
• Mode of delivery:
Face-to-face
• Start date:
September or January
• Location:
Holloway Campus
• Course schedule:
• The program typically runs through autumn and spring semesters, with some modules offered in summer.
• Classes are usually scheduled on Thursday afternoons and Wednesday mornings.
• Individual modules:
• Year 1:
• Clinical Biochemistry:
20 credits, Thursday afternoons (autumn semester)
• Haematology:
20 credits, Thursday mornings (spring semester)
• Research Project:
60 credits, spans spring, summer, and autumn semesters
• Scientific Frameworks for Research:
20 credits, Wednesday mornings (spring and autumn semesters)
• Transfusion Science:
20 credits, Thursday afternoons (spring semester)
• Year 2 (optional modules):
• Advanced Immunology:
20 credits, Wednesday mornings (autumn semester)
• Biomedical Diagnostics:
20 credits, Thursday mornings (autumn semester)
• Genetic and Genomic Informatics:
20 credits, Wednesday afternoons (spring semester)
• Integrated Pathology:
20 credits, Tuesday afternoons (spring semester)
• Medical Genetics and Genomics:
20 credits, Monday afternoons (spring semester)

Assessment:

• Assessment methods:
• Self-diagnostic testing:
Assessing your understanding of key concepts through self-administered tests.
• Debates and group work: Enhancing critical thinking and collaboration skills through engaging debates and group activities.
• Computer-based analysis: Analyzing data and drawing conclusions using computer-based tools.
• Lab reports and presentations: Demonstrating your mastery of laboratory techniques and presenting your findings effectively.
• Coursework and essays: Assessing your written communication and analytical skills through various assignments.
• Exams: Evaluating your knowledge and understanding of the covered material through formal exams.
• Assessment criteria:
• The program employs a variety of assessment criteria, including accuracy, knowledge depth, critical thinking, scientific reasoning, communication skills, and presentation effectiveness.
• Each module carries its own specific assessment weightage and criteria, depending on the learning objectives and intended outcomes.

Teaching:

• Seminars: Exploring specific topics in more detail and fostering active participation through seminar discussions.
• Practical workshops: Enabling hands-on learning through lab work, practical experiments, and data analysis exercises.
• Faculty:
• The program is taught by experienced professionals and academics with expertise in their respective fields.
• Each module is led by a dedicated subject specialist who possesses advanced qualifications and research interests relevant to the topic.
• The faculty team is committed to creating a stimulating learning environment and fostering student engagement through interactive teaching methods.
• Unique teaching approaches:
• The program emphasizes a blended learning approach, combining traditional lectures and seminars with interactive workshops, group activities, and hands-on laboratory experiments.
• Students are encouraged to actively participate in debates, share their perspectives, and engage in critical thinking during classes.
• The virtual learning environments (VLEs) Weblearn and Collaborate provide students with additional resources, study materials, and opportunities for online interaction.

Careers:

• Career opportunities: The MSc in Blood Science equips you with the knowledge and skills required for a successful career in blood science, opening doors to a variety of exciting opportunities in several sectors:
• National Health Service (NHS) hospitals:
Work in hospital laboratories, conducting blood tests, analyzing data, and supporting diagnosis and treatment decisions.
• Private laboratories: Pursue career paths in private laboratories, conducting research, developing new diagnostic methods, or providing quality control services.
• Research institutions: Engage in research-oriented roles, making valuable contributions to the advancement of knowledge and understanding of blood science.
• Pharmaceutical companies: Utilize your expertise in drug development and testing, conducting clinical trials, and evaluating the efficacy and safety of new medications.
• Salary prospects: The salary you can expect will depend on factors such as your experience, qualifications, and the specific role you pursue.
However, graduates of blood science programs are generally well-positioned for lucrative careers in the healthcare and research sectors.
• CPD and progression: The MSc in Blood Science provides a strong foundation for continued professional development (CPD) and opens avenues for further specialization in various subfields of blood science.
By completing this program, you become eligible for IBMS registration, which is a valuable asset for career advancement in the field.

Other:

• University facilities: The London Metropolitan University boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including a superlab, which provides students with access to advanced equipment and technology for cutting-edge research and practical training.
• Industry collaboration: The program has strong links with relevant industries, providing students with internship opportunities, guest lectures from leading professionals, and valuable insights into the latest developments in the field.
• Accreditation: The MSc in Blood Science is accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS), recognizing the program's rigorous standards and its alignment with industry expectations.