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At a Glance

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

Ethical, Legal and Social Issues in Applied Genomics

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This course provides a framework for the ethical understanding of medical genomics and an opportunity to explore the ethical, legal and social issues involved in genomic testing and the wider implications for patients and their families.

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

Description

During this module, you will consider issues of human confidentiality, autonomy, disclosure, informed consent and natural justice within an ethical framework. The course explores the impact of genomic technologies on individual lives and those of demographic and ethnic groups. There will also be an opportunity to discuss the social implications of the availability of genetic testing and screening, especially in the context of reproductive technologies.

Learn from leading experts in genomics about:

  • The impact of genomic testing on individuals, taking into account demographic and ethnic differences.
  • Social implications of genetic testing and screening, particularly in the context of human reproduction.
  • A legal framework for the patenting of genetic information as well as the use of genetic data for research, diagnostic and therapeutic purposes.
  • Obtaining ethical approval for research projects.
  • Specific issues in clinical pathways.

Learning outcomes

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

  • Defend the ethical principles of autonomy, justice and fairness, and apply these to key practical issues such as confidentiality, disclosure and informed consent in scenarios within genomic medicine.
  • Critically evaluate the challenges of emerging genomic technologies on society and its values.
  • Analyse the current legal framework within which genomic medicine is practised in the UK.
  • Evaluate the potential ethical, legal and social impact of genomic medical advances in a clinical pathway.
  • Critically appraise the potential impact of genetic databases on human autonomy, healthcare provision and discrimination.
  • Identify clinical pathways in your own specialty or field of practice where the use of genomic investigation or techniques may be beneficial to patients, and be able to present a balanced view taking into account the benefits and potential burdens.
  • Know the differences in legal frameworks within which genomic medicine is practised in Europe, USA and globally.
  • Understand the processes of obtaining ethical approval for research projects, the principles of the Declaration of Helsinki and specific issues in clinical pathways.

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, healthcare scientists and technologists). Please note funding can only be allocated to those who are post registration professionals.

University entry requirements may include criteria around existing understanding and minimum English language requirements.

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.

More information about the application process for CPPD module(s)/PGCert or PGDip/Master’s applications is available on this webpage.

Timetable

  Start date  
Imperial College London TBC
Queen Mary University of London / University College London 01 October 2025
St George’s, University of London / King’s College London 11 February 2026
University of Exeter TBC
University of Manchester TBC

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

FAQs

Are applications for funding still open during the Covid-19 pandemic?

Yes. Many of our partner universities are running modules online and funding is available. Please contact your chosen university to discuss your options. You must meet the Health Education England Genomics Education Programme eligibility criteria to receive funding for modules.

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 HEE GEP 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 HEE GEP 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 HEE 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 HEE-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 LondonImperial College LondonQueen Marys University of London / University College LondonUniversity of ExeterUniversity of Manchester

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