Program Overview

Medical Genetics Program

The Medical Genetics program at Queen Mary University of London is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the genetic basis of diseases and the potential of targeted therapies and personalized medicine.

Overview

The program is driven by the goal of saving lives and making an impact in the field of medicine. Students will learn from pioneers in medicine and the sciences, and will have the opportunity to work with top facilities and academic experts. The program will set students up for careers in biomedical or genetic research, biotechnology, and bioinformatics/data science.

Structure

The program can be completed in three or four years, with the option to study abroad in the third year. The program is divided into several modules, including:

• Year 0: Foundation Programme
  • Semester 1: Communication in Science and Technology
  • Year-long modules: Science and Engineering Success, Foundations of Chemical Science, Foundations of Physical Science, Foundations of Engineering, Foundations of Biological Science, Mathematics A
• Year 1:
  • Basic Biochemistry
  • Cells
  • Essential Skills for Biologists
  • Molecular Genetics
  • Practical Biology
  • Practical Molecular and Cellular Biology
  • Physiology
  • Tissue Biology
• Year 2:
  • Cell Biology and Developmental Genetics
  • Genes and Bioinformatics
  • Human Genetic Disorders
  • Research Methods and Communication
  • Choose four from: Basic Immunology, Biomedical Pharmacology, Comparative and Integrative Physiology, Infectious Disease Biology, Enzymes and Metabolism, Microbial Physiology and Growth, Techniques in Biological Sciences
• Year 3:
  • Advanced Human Genetic Disorders
  • Functional Genomics and Epigenetics
  • Professional Skills and Development for Biologists
  • Choose one from: Biological Sciences Research Project, Project: Engaging the Public with Science, Structured Research Projects
  • Choose three from: Advanced Immunology, Biomedical neuroscience, Cancer Biology, Endocrine Physiology and Biochemistry, Molecular Basis of Personalised Medicine, Population and Chromosome Genetics, Reproductive & Developmental Biology

Entry Requirements

The entry requirements for the Medical Genetics program are as follows:

• A-Level: Grades ABB at A-Level, including A-Level Biology
• IB: International Baccalaureate Diploma with a minimum of 32 points overall, including 6,5,5 from three Higher Level subjects, including Biology at Higher Level
• BTEC: See detailed subject and grade requirements
• Access HE: We consider applications from students with the Access to Higher Education Diploma in a science discipline, with a minimum of 60 credits overall, including 45 credits at Level 3, of which 18 credits must be at Distinction and 27 credits at Merit or higher
• GCSE: Minimum five GCSE passes, including English and Maths at grade C or 4
• EPQ: Alternative offers may be made to applicants taking the Extended Project Qualification
• Contextualised admissions: Our standard contextual offer is BBC, including B in Biology at A-Level, and our enhanced contextual offer is BCC, including B in Biology at A-Level

Funding

The program offers various funding options, including:

• Loans and grants: UK students are eligible to apply for tuition fee and maintenance loans from Student Finance England or other government bodies
• Scholarships and bursaries: Queen Mary offers a generous package of scholarships and bursaries, which currently benefits around 50 per cent of our undergraduates
• Support from Queen Mary: We offer specialist support on all financial and welfare issues through our Advice and Counselling Service

Careers

The Medical Genetics program will prepare students for careers in medical research, the pharmaceutical industry, and health sciences. Many of our students go into scientific roles, such as clinical and laboratory work, postgraduate study, or science communication. Others transfer their skills into sectors such as marketing and finance.

About the School

The School of Biological and Behavioural Sciences is a large and dynamic school with strong links to industry. We offer a stimulating and supportive learning experience, with inspirational teaching from high-calibre staff who are leaders in their field. According to the Research Excellence Framework 2021, 91 per cent of our Biological Sciences research is either world-leading or internationally excellent.