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At a Glance

Up to 6 weeks
Accredited
Part Time
CPPD (15 credits)
Blended learning, Online

Evolutionary Genomic Medicine

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This module explores how evolutionary forces shape human health and disease. You will examine how selection, drift, introgression and epigenetic adaptation contribute to genetic risk, resilience and health inequalities and how these processes underpin conditions such as cancer, immunity, ageing and mental health. Through population, comparative ancient genomics and case studies of pathogens, somatic evolution and pharmacogenomics, the module highlights how evolutionary insights inform therapeutic strategies, clinical research and public health.

The module is part of the NHS England Genomics Education Programme’s Master’s in Genomic Medicine framework. 

Description

In this module, you will explore the principles of evolutionary biology and their relevance to human health. You will be introduced to key evolutionary theories and concepts, including life history theory, kin selection, mismatch theory, natural selection, genetic drift, mutation, and gene flow. Case studies will help you understand why certain disease alleles persist in populations, with examples such as sickle cell disease, cystic fibrosis, obesity, and schizophrenia.

You will examine genomic and epigenomic approaches for detecting evolutionary signals in the human genome and their implications for health, including drug metabolism, immunity and disease risk. The module will also consider somatic and epigenetic adaptation, exploring examples such as methylation patterns associated with smoking and cancer.

You will investigate evolutionary processes in action, including host–pathogen co-evolution, the evolutionary influences on drug response, and somatic evolution in cancer. Topics will include Neanderthal introgression, antagonistic pleiotropy in ageing, and mechanisms of therapy resistance in tumours.

Finally, you will gain practical experience using population and comparative genomics tools, such as Ensembl, UCSC Genome Browser, 1,000 Genomes, and the GWAS Catalogue, to study selective sweeps, introgression, divergence and human-specific gene expression.

Learning outcomes

By the end of this module you will be able to:

  • Evaluate and synthesise evolutionary medicine theory in explaining modern diseases.
  • Analyse how evolutionary processes shape genomic and epigenomic variation.
  • Assess the evolutionary dynamics of pathogens, immunity and behaviour.
  • Interpret and integrate ancient and modern genomic data using evolutionary frameworks.
  • Compare and contrast evolutionary explanations for health and disease using theoretical frameworks and case studies.
  • Communicate evolutionary concepts in multidisciplinary and clinical contexts.
  • Apply evolutionary knowledge ethically and responsibly in research, clinical interpretation, and public communication.

Funding rules

The Genomics Education Programme offers funding on a modular basis, initially covering 1-4 modules, with the potential for additional funding for the full Master’s degree upon demonstrating satisfactory progress. The maximum amount of funding available to each student is the equivalent of 12 modules (180 credits), to cover the full Master’s degree.

Funding covers course fees only and is limited to NHS healthcare professionals working in England on a permanent contract from the full range of professional backgrounds and groups (such as medicine, nursing, midwifery, healthcare scientists and technologists).

Applicants must have the support of their line manager. Without this, funding cannot be approved, as line manager support is essential to ensure learners are able to apply their knowledge and skills in practice and are supported both operationally and academically. Funding decisions are made jointly with the system to support service development.

Funding is allocated on a modular basis for each financial year and is not guaranteed year on year. Eligibility criteria may also be subject to change annually.

The Genomics Education Programme provides limited funding to the universities listed below. Please check with your preferred university to obtain details of the programme modules and entry criteria. This may include criteria around existing understanding and minimum English language requirements.

For information about how to apply for either CPPD module(s)/postgraduate certificate or postgraduate diploma/Master’s degree, see the Master’s in Genomic Medicine application process.

Timetable

 

 University Start date
City St George’s, University of London 7 October 2026

Please check your preferred university’s website for more detailed information about start dates, length and mode of study.

FAQs

I have previously applied and received funding for two modules, but would like to complete two more. Is it possible to transfer my studies to another university?

Yes.  You will need to speak to your chosen university re your requirements. You must also meet the Genomics Education Programme eligibility criteria for funding.

I have previously applied and received funding for two modules, but would like to complete two more. Is it possible to obtain funding?

Yes.  You will need to speak to your chosen university re your requirements. You must also meet the Genomics Education Programme eligibility criteria for funding

I have been awarded funding and started the programme, but I am unable to complete. What are my options?

Funding is awarded for the period specified in the application form and there is no automatic ability to defer completion of the programme. You should speak to your university in the first instance about your situation and also contact the Genomics Education Programme (GEP) team regarding funding.

You may choose to reduce the workload of your programme by switching from, for example, a full Master’s degree to a diploma or certificate. Again, you would need to contact your course provider and the GEP.

How much study time is required to undertake this programme?

Study time will vary across the course providers. You are advised to visit your preferred university’s website for more information or to contact the relevant course lead. Most modules involve around 5 days of face-to-face teaching, followed by 2-4 weeks of independent study and assessment preparation. However, distance learning options are available for most universities.

 

Can I build up my CPPD modules to a full Master’s, PGDip or PGCert qualification?

Funding is allocated on an individual module basis only. Candidates who meet the Genomics Education Programme eligibility criteria for funding can apply for up to four funded modules in the first instance. If you wish to progress to a full Master’s or PGDip, you should discuss options with your chosen university.

I am eligible but have been refused a commissioned place – why?

This may be due to the following potential reasons:

  • The university you have applied to has used up all its commissioned allocations.
  • The total number of available national commissions have been fully allocated.
  • We are now applying controls to the commissioned places based on healthcare profession roles to help ensure equitable access across professions on a national scale.

I am not eligible for a NHS-funded place – can I self-fund?

This should be discussed with your preferred university.

I work for an organisation that provides services to the NHS – am I eligible to apply?

Yes – please provide details of your organisation and its services for the NHS when you apply to your preferred university.

Make an enquiry

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University Providers

Funded

The logos below indicate the university providers that are able to accept HEE funded applications for this course. Follow the links provided to begin your university application process.

City St George's, University of London

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