Changing practice and building a cohort of ‘genomics ready’ health professionals

The Master’s in Genomic Medicine framework is an educational programme designed to provide healthcare professionals with a multidisciplinary perspective on genomics and its applications in healthcare.

It is a flexible framework offering a range of qualifications. Individuals can undertake continued personal and professional development (CPPD) modules, a postgraduate certificate or diploma, or a full Master’s degree.

NHS professionals can apply for course funding. Funding is currently available for standalone CPPD modules up to March 2026, though you may be able to complete further modules to lead to a postgraduate qualification. Please see the ‘Funding rules’ section of your chosen module(s) for information.

The purpose

The Master’s framework is intended to support NHS healthcare professionals in developing their knowledge of genomics and how it can be applied to clinical practice and medical research, so they can:

  • Engage

    Liaise with specialist services, colleagues and patients.

  • Educate

    Be involved with the teaching and training of colleagues and students.

  • Inform

    Take part in policy discussions.

  • Research

    Develop clinical academic research careers.

The history of the Master’s

Initiated in 2014, the Master’s was one of the first major initiatives devised and delivered by the Genomics Education Programme (GEP).

The curriculum was first developed by the GEP in collaboration with NHS England and Genomics England, and was fully reviewed and revised in 2018.

A selection of Russell Group universities were commissioned to deliver the framework, and the first intake of funded students began study in 2015.

To date, the GEP has funded more than 1,500 NHS professionals to participate. Read on for some of our alumnis’ feedback.

"This course opened up my eyes on how genomics will be pivotal across healthcare, probably without exception to any of the disciplines."

Ibrahim, Biomedical Scientist

"I particularly liked the flexibility the course offered and the fact that it was a brand new course in an exciting new area. Exceptionally rewarding."

Alena, Masters Student

"I hope this will lead to a wider range of job opportunities and give me that extra step when opportunities come up."

Katherine, Nurse

"This course has been invaluable in giving me a broad introduction to genomic medicine, next-generation sequencing, analysis and the place for this in clinical practice. I would definitely recommend."

Claire, IBD Pharmacogenetics Research Manager

"I can honestly say that I have thoroughly enjoyed each of the modules, They have opened my eyes to the potential transformation of healthcare in the NHS through genomic medicine."

Bradley, Genetic Technologist

The curriculum

The Master’s framework curriculum comprises individual modules across a range of genomics topics.

The modules are organised into mandatory and optional modules for those studying for a postgraduate diploma (120 credits) or full Master’s degree (180 credits). For a postgraduate certificate (60 credits) or an individual CPPD module (15 credits), you have free choice.

Click on each module’s link for further information about the course content. All modules are 15 credits except where noted.

Mandatory modules

Optional modules

Research project

  • Optional for postgraduate diploma (30 credits)
  • Mandatory for Master’s degree (60 credits)

BELOW FOR REFERENCE (HIDDEN)

Mandatory

Elective

Optional
Fundamentals in Human Genetics and Genomics Genomics of Common and Rare Inherited Diseases Ethical, Legal and Social Issues in Applied Genomics
Omics Techniques and Technologies and their Application to Genomic Medicine Molecular Pathology of Cancer and Application in Cancer Diagnosis, Treatment and Monitoring Introduction to the Counselling Skills used in Genomic Medicine
Bioinformatics, Interpretation and Data Quality Assurance in Genomic Analysis Pharmacogenomics and Stratified Healthcare Health Economic Evaluation in Genomics
Application of Genomics in Infectious Disease Professional and Research Skills

Our university partners

We are proud to work with these world-leading universities to deliver the Master’s in Genomic Medicine framework.

 
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