Comments about MSc-PGDip in Medical Microbiology (Part-time) - At the institution - Guildford - Surrey
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Objectives
This part-time day-release programme is intended for candidates with experience of working in a medical microbiology laboratory, in public health, the food industry or water authorities. Most of your practical training is the responsibility of your home laboratory. However, practical modules (one per annum) provide an opportunity to introduce new techniques and equipment. To enhance your understanding of the basic principles behind modern kits and tests, traditional techniques will also be used. The programme is designed for completion in two years, although the modular programme design will enable you to take longer if necessary. Those who undertake this MSc will already have practical experience in medical microbiology or a closely related field, and will aspire to become leaders in their profession. This programme aims to provide a strong scientific and intellectual platform on which further development can be built. This programme is one of the longest running and most successful programmes in its field. Many of our graduates have gone on to positions of responsibility within the profession, while others have opted for alternative paths including study for a PhD. The programme covers a wide range of topics and involves external specialist lecturers who are expert in these fields, in addition to the expertise available internally.
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Entry requirements
Typical entry requirements Applicants should hold a good relevant degree, have at least one year's experience in a suitable laboratory, and be currently employed in such a laboratory. Candidates who do not meet these requirements may be considered, subject to interview and assessment. Selection is based upon a candidate's application, references and an informal interview. In special circumstances, a student may be set work for assessment before being offered a place on the programme.
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Academic title
MSc/PGDip in Medical Microbiology
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Course description
MSc/PGDip in Medical Microbiology (Part-time) Module overview
Bacterial Infectious Diseases; Viral and Protozoal Infections
These two modules cover the aetiology, clinical features, laboratory diagnosis, pathogenesis, epidemiology and control of infectious diseases. They aim to consolidate and expand students' prior basic knowledge and form the core of medical microbiology.
Introduction to Immunology
This module gives students a broad, basic understanding of the cellular and biochemical mechanisms involved in protecting the host from disease, and highlights the relevance of immunology to medical microbiology.
Pathology and Pathogenesis of Infectious Diseases
A 'disease' results from both the properties of the infecting microorganism and the host's response. This module is concerned with both aspects and how they influence the major pathological changes accompanying infectious disease.
Antimicrobial Agents
This module aims to increase the student's understanding of the scientific basis of the use and action of antibiotics, and encourages a critical examination of the ways in which their use may be controlled.
Genetics and Molecular Biology
This module consolidates prior basic knowledge of microbial genetics, and considers further those aspects especially relevant to medical microbiology.
Epidemiology and Disease Control
This module examines the strategies used in controlling infectious diseases, the basic methods used in epidemiology and the factors affecting disease spread.
Management Skills
This module is an introduction to aspects of management (presentation skills, team building, problem solving, and so on) and the skills required for research management, including the principles of laboratory safety.
Food and Water Microbiology
This module is an introduction to the microbial ecology of food and water, the effects of processing/treatment and the practical measures taken to ensure a safe and wholesome supply.
Practical Modules
These are full-time modules, one week long, that run during the Easter break in alternate years. Part-time students take both modules, but full-time students can choose one. Both modules must be taken by full-time students requiring an IBMS-accredited programme and for the award of a Postgraduate Diploma.
Practical Bacteriology, Immunology and Pathology
This module gives students experience in some relevant techniques used to study immunopathology and to explore their understanding of and practical skills in bacteriology.
Practical Molecular Biology and Virology
This module introduces students to some relevant virological and molecular biology techniques which may not be routinely available in all laboratories.
Research Project
All students aiming for the MSc qualification undertake a research project.
Part-time students usually do their project at their normal place of work, while full-time students will do their project in one of the Faculty's research laboratories.
Programme length
24 months part-time
