Program Overview

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MSc in Radiobiology

The MSc in Radiobiology is a one-year, full-time course designed for individuals interested in a career in academic research in radiobiology or radiation oncology, or in professions that require a knowledge of radiobiology.

About the Course

The main aim of this course is to combine the principles of radiobiology at molecular and cellular level with their clinical applications, providing a thorough grounding in radiobiology for MSc students. The course is based on a series of overarching learning outcomes, which students should be able to demonstrate on completion of their studies:

• Explain the underpinning physics which governs the interactions between ionising radiation and biological tissues
• Critically analyse the effects of ionising radiation on DNA and the associated DNA damage response, with respect to their effects on cell survival
• Critically appraise the irradiation response of cells and tissues, including the factors that modify this response, with respect to how this may affect clinical practice
• Evaluate the relationship between the characteristics of the tumour microenvironment and the response of that tumour to irradiation
• Critically discuss the risks associated with radiation exposure, at the whole body and population level, and precautions which can be taken to mitigate these risks
• Critically appraise the use of novel external beam radiotherapy techniques for the treatment of cancer
• Explain the rationale and mechanisms of action of common treatments used as alternatives to, or in combination with, external beam radiotherapy for the treatment of cancer
• Explain and evaluate the research approaches used in applied and translational research within the field of radiobiology
• Apply the scientific method to address research questions within the field of radiobiology

Course Structure

The course consists of eight compulsory modules, delivered in two-week blocks, following on from each other. Students can expect to receive seven to eight lectures and two to four tutorial or practical classes per module on average. There will also be preparatory reading, independent study tasks, and formative assessments set throughout the course.

Attendance

The course is full-time and requires attendance in Oxford. Full-time students are subject to the University's Residence requirements.

Resources to Support Study

As a graduate student, you will have access to the University's wide range of resources, including libraries, museums, galleries, digital resources, and IT services. The Bodleian Libraries is the largest library system in the UK, and the University's IT Services is available to support students with core university IT systems and tools.

Supervision

The allocation of graduate supervision is the responsibility of the Department of Oncology. You will be assigned a Director of Studies from the course team, who will help you review your progress and discuss any concerns you have. You will also have an advisor at your Oxford college, to whom you can turn if you feel you need to discuss your progress or anything else pertinent to your study.

Assessment

Taught modules are assessed by a mixture of submitted coursework, presentations, and timed assessments such as examinations. The dissertation is assessed by a written thesis and a poster presentation at the end of the academic year.

Graduate Destinations

Typically, approximately 40-50% of MSc graduates in the Department of Oncology go on to study for a doctoral level qualification (DPhil/PhD), and around 30% go on to clinical work in some capacity.

Entry Requirements

• Degree-level qualifications: A first-class or strong upper second-class undergraduate degree with honours in a biological or medical science subject.
• GRE General Test scores: No Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or GMAT scores are sought.
• Other qualifications, evidence of excellence, and relevant experience: Peer-reviewed publications are not a requirement for the course but will be viewed positively.
• English language proficiency: This course requires proficiency in English at the University's higher level.

Funding

For entry in the academic year, the collegiate University expects to offer over 1,100 full or partial graduate scholarships across a wide range of graduate courses. Most scholarships are awarded on the basis of academic merit and/or potential.

Costs

• Annual course fees: The fees for this course are charged on an annual basis. For the academic year, the annual course fees are Ł15,800 for Home students and Ł36,170 for Overseas students.
• Living costs: The range of likely living costs for a single, full-time student is between Ł1,405 and Ł2,105 for each month spent in Oxford.

College Preference

Students enrolled on this course will belong to both a department/faculty and a college. The following colleges accept students on the MSc in Radiobiology:

• Green Templeton College
• Jesus College
• Linacre College
• Lincoln College
• Reuben College
• St Anne's College
• St Cross College
• St Edmund Hall
• St Hilda's College
• St Hugh's College
• Wolfson College
• Wycliffe Hall

How to Apply

You should refer to the information below when completing the application form, paying attention to the specific requirements for the supporting documents. For this course, the application form will include questions that collect information that would usually be included in a CV/résumé.

Referees

You must register three referees, who can give an informed view of your academic ability and suitability for the course. Academic references are preferred, but one professional reference is acceptable.

Official Transcript(s)

Your transcripts should give detailed information of the individual grades received in your university-level qualifications to date.

Personal Statement

Your statement should be written in English and explain your motivation for applying for the course at Oxford, your relevant experience and education, and the specific areas that interest you and/or you intend to specialise in. Your statement will be assessed for your reasons for applying, your ability to present a coherent case in proficient English, and your commitment to the subject.

After You've Submitted Your Application

Your application will be assessed against the entry requirements detailed on this course page. You can find out more about the shortlisting and selection process in the detailed guide to what happens next.