Gain the skills you need to be an NHS Clinical Scientist in bioinformatics genomics.
Follow this pathway through the Scientist Training Programme (STP) and you’ll play a crucial role in diagnosing, monitoring, and treating genetic conditions.
This three-year fully funded course combines academic learning at The University of Manchester with clinical training in NHS Trusts.
What is the role of an NHS Clinical Scientist working in clinical bioinformatics?
Clinical bioinformatics genomics is a discipline which combines computing, biology and medicine.
NHS Clinical Scientists who specialise in clinical bioinformatics genomics play a crucial role in the analysis and management of genetic and genomic data which underpins the diagnosis and treatment of genetic conditions.
They work within the NHS Genomic Medicine Service (NHS England) using their knowledge of bioinformatic resources and skills in programming and data analysis to develop and support services which ensure standardised, efficient and secure analysis of complex patient data.
For further information about the role please see the NHS Healthcare Careers website.
Why study MSc Clinical Science in Clinical Bioinformatics Genomics?
Professional accreditation
Accredited by the National School of Healthcare Science and The Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).
Excellent career prospects
Commissioned training for a career as an NHS Clinical Scientist in Clinical Bioinformatics. Following successful completion of the programme and Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) registration, graduates are eligible for band 7 Clinical Scientist posts.
Research led teaching
Learn from world-class researchers and experts in the field of clinical genomics and bioinformatics.
Blended learning approach
The course is delivered using a combination of online materials and in person teaching.
Supportive learning environment
You will have access to a range of resources designed to support your learning in a holistic way.
Course description
Our MSc in Clinical Science (Genomic Sciences) trains you as a Clinical Bioinformatician in the NHS.
You’ll gain the skills to:
- develop, support and maintain complex scientific and clinical analysis pipelines;
- select and design appropriate clinical analysis strategies;
- make critical decisions based on complex information.
The MSc Clinical Science (Genomic Sciences) is accredited by the National School for Healthcare Sciences. It consists of 120 credits of taught units and a 60 credit research project.
Course Units
| Year | Title | Credit Rating | Mandatory/Optional |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Professional Foundations of Healthcare and Clinical Science | 20 | Mandatory |
| 1 | Introduction to Genetics Genomics and Molecular Science | 10 | Mandatory |
| 1 | Introduction to the Principles and Practice of Genetic and Genomic Counselling | 10 | Mandatory |
| 1 | Introduction to Clinical Bioinformatics Genomics | 10 | Mandatory |
| 1 | Introduction to Cancer Genomics | 10 | Mandatory |
| 2 | Research Skills in Healthcare Science | 10 | Mandatory |
| 2 | Software Engineering | 10 | Mandatory |
| 2 | Diagnostic Sequencing | 10 | Mandatory |
| 3 | Applied Statistics, Data Science and Quality | 15 | Mandatory |
| 3 | Service Delivery and Development | 15 | Mandatory |
| 2/3 | Research Project in Genomics | 60 | Mandatory |
Entry Requirements
To apply to the Scientist Training Programme (STP) you must have either:
- A First or Upper Second class honours degree in either an undergraduate honours degree or an integrated master’s degree. Both options must be in a pure or applied science subject relevant to the specialty for which you are applying
- Or a higher degree (a degree completed after a bachelors degree, at a more advanced level such as MSc) in a relevant subject for the specialty being applied to and a Lower Second class honours degree in any subject.
How to apply
Apply for the programme through the National School for Healthcare Science website.
Application to the course takes place annually through a highly competitive national process. Please see the National School for Healthcare Science website for full application details.