Program Overview

Program Overview

The Genomics of Common and Rare Inherited Diseases microcredential is a five-day specialized program that provides a comprehensive foundation in rare inherited diseases. It helps participants understand the patient and family perspective and explores the variety of approaches used to identify genes responsible for common and rare diseases.

Course Details

• Campus: Birmingham (Edgbaston)
• Delivery format: In person
• Start date: February 2025
• Duration: 5 days
• Award: Microcredential (15 credits)

Entry Requirements

• A good honours degree in a life sciences subject
• Alternative qualifications and professional experience within the health service or other relevant background will be considered
• Applicants should either take Fundamentals in Human Genetics and Genomics and Omics Techniques and Technologies and their Application to Genomic Medicine first, or be able to show equivalent knowledge and understanding

Fees and Scholarships

• Home microcredential fee: £1,000

Course Content

Overview

The microcredential aims to provide an introduction to the clinical presentation and manifestations of common and rare inherited diseases. It considers the patient and family perspective with respect to the role and impact of genomics and provides an overview of the approaches used to identify the underlying genes involved.

Topics Covered

• Landscape of common and rare inherited diseases
• Clinical presentation and course of a range of rare inherited and common diseases
• Principles and practice of medical genetics
• Approaches and techniques used to identify genes responsible for common and rare inherited diseases
• Basic statistics to aid interpretation of Genome Wide Associated Studies (GWAS) and analysis of populations
• The NHS Genomic Medicine Service and National Genomic Research Library, and their data infrastructures
• Selection of tractable cases with unmet diagnostic need, suitable for whole genome analysis
• Analytical challenges in genomics as applied to rare inherited diseases

Teaching Staff

• Professor Timothy Barrett, Leonard Parsons Professor of Paediatrics and Child Health
• Dr Richard Tuxworth, Deputy Head of Department (Education)

Application Process

• Applicants eligible for Home fees are to apply a minimum of 6 weeks before the module start date
• Applicants eligible for Overseas fees are to apply a minimum of 3 months before the module start date

Benefits of the Microcredential

• Opportunity to boost your CV without the commitment of a full degree
• Develop specialist skills for your career goals
• Alumni status with the University of Birmingham
• Access to student support and campus facilities
• Postgraduate level qualification to add to your CV

Additional Information

• The microcredential is available for home applicants only
• Once registered for the microcredential, you cannot swap for the non-credit short course version.