Cancer Biology MSc
Why choose this course?
You will be trained in science research methods and learn about the techniques used in molecular biology. You will study the biology of disease, tumour biology, immunology, molecular oncology, haematological malignancy, plus diagnostic and therapeutic techniques for cancer.
In addition to an understanding of the principles and practice of core topics in medical science, you will gain in-depth knowledge of oncology topics and their relationship to other medical disciplines.
Your research project can be carried out with one of our life science research groups or in your workplace if you are a part-time student. It is often an excellent selling point when looking for a job or promotion.
| Mode | Duration | Attendance | Start date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full time | 1 year | 2 days a week |
September 2022 January 2023 |
| Full time | 2 years including professional placement | 2 days a week plus placement year |
September 2022 January 2023 |
| Part time | 2 years | 1 day a week |
September 2022 January 2023 |
| Location | Penrhyn Road |
Reasons to choose Kingston University
- You will have the opportunity to work with companies such as GlaxoSmithKline, or at a research institute such as the Institute of Cancer Research.
- Through a research project you can study an area of interest in depth and gain valuable research skills.
- Flexible and part-time options can help you fit your studies around other commitments. Single modules may be taken as part of continuing professional development (CPD).
What you will study
You will be trained in science research methods and learn about the techniques used in molecular biology. You will study the biology of disease, tumour biology, immunology, molecular oncology, haematological malignancy, plus diagnostic and therapeutic techniques for cancer.
In addition to developing a comprehensive understanding of the principles and practice of core topics in current areas of medical science, you will gain an in-depth knowledge of oncology topics and their relationship to other medical disciplines. You will also learn how to plan, carry out and report on a piece of independent scientific research.
Please note that this is an indicative list of modules and is not intended as a definitive list.
For a student to go on placement they are required to pass every module first time with no reassessments. It is the responsibility of individual students to find a suitable paid placement. Students will be supported by our dedicated placement team in securing this opportunity.
Modules
Core modules
Research Techniques and Scientific Communication
30 credits
The module allows students to develop and extend skills required to research and communicate in biosciences, and the principles and practice of laboratory techniques, research planning, management, data handling and presentation. The material is contextualised by lectures, practicals, workshops and directed reading around the planning and execution of experiments and interpretation of the data in a clinical setting or in clinically based studies.
Cancer Diagnosis and Therapy
30 credits
This is a core module for students studying for the MSc in Cancer Biology. The module introduces you to the methodologies and clinical rationale of diagnosis and therapy for solid tumours and haematological malignancy. Topics covered include cancer epidemiology, risk factors and symptoms, imaging, biopsy and laboratory investigations, tumour markers (e.g. diagnostic, prognostic and predictive biomarkers), staging and prognosis of tumours and various therapeutic options including radiotherapy, chemotherapy, hormonal therapy and targeted therapy of cancer. The module is delivered through a variety of lectures, seminars, workshops, tutorials and practical laboratory sessions. Additional support materials will be provided on StudySpace highlighting the most recent advances on the diagnosis and treatment of human cancers.
Immunology and the Biology of Disease
30 credits
It provides students with an introduction to the concepts of immunity and pathobiology. Students will become familiar with the different cells and organs of the immune system and how these function and interact to protect the body from infection. In addition, the module introduces students to the cellular mechanisms and genetic causes of disease considering both the physiological manifestations and the public health implications. The module also introduces some of the molecular processes and signalling events that are important in communication between cells of the immune system. It goes on to consider the role of cellular pathology in the context of other pathology disciplines such as clinical chemistry. Practical classes are used to allow students the opportunity to apply their basic knowledge of immunology to interpret the significance of laboratory data and the role of the immune system in disease.
Cellular and Molecular Biology of Cancer
30 credits
This module introduces biological interactions between tumour cells and the host and how these interactions affect tumour progression. The module is designed to provide a more detailed understanding of the hallmarks of cancer and the molecular processes and changes (ie genetic and epigenetic alterations) that underlie the generation of malignancies. Processes to be studied include carcinogenesis, angiogenesis and metastasis. Tumour responses to therapeutic approaches such as the development of drug resistance, as well as some of the mechanisms by which tumours may escape immune destruction, are also covered.
On successful completion of the module, you will be able to:
- Discuss the mechanisms by which cancers develop, grow and spread within the body.
- Demonstrate comprehension regarding the ways in which normal cell growth and differentiation is controlled.
- Discuss the complexity and interactions involved in the regulation of gene expression and to interpret the molecular consequences of gene deregulation.
- Evaluate the role of genetics in sporadic and familial human cancer.
- Expound on the mechanisms and consequences of acquired drug resistance in tumour cells.
- Understand some of the mechanisms by which tumours may evade immune recognition and destruction.
Research Project
60 credits
This module culminates from knowledge gained throughout the course, in particular, the Research Techniques and Scientific Communication module in order to present work in formats appropriate to wider professional audiences, practising new and/or improved laboratory skills, as well as demonstrate the ability to independently solve complex problems. The research proposal assessment will usually be based on the research area that has been allocated for the research project or alternatively an external laboratory placement. The project results should be statistically analysed and scientifically presented and discussed within a 9,000-word thesis and scientific poster.
On successful completion of the module, you will be able to:
- Plan, organise and carry out a sustained piece of independent research.
- Practise new and/or improved laboratory skills and/or critical data analytical skills.
- Present and critically evaluate their own research in a clear and concise fashion in both written and poster formats.
Professional Placement
120 credits
The Professional Placement module is a core module for those students following a masters programme that incorporates an extended professional placement. It provides students with the opportunity to apply their knowledge and skills in an appropriate working environment, and develops and enhances key employability and subject specific skills in their chosen discipline. Students may wish to use the placement experience as a platform for the major project or future career.
It is the responsibility of individual students to find and secure a suitable placement opportunity; this should not normally involve more than two placements which must be completed over a minimum period of 10 months and within a maximum of 12 months. The placement must be approved by the Course Leader, prior to commencement to ensure its suitability. Students seeking placements will have access to the standard placement preparation activities offered by Student Engagement and Enhancement (SEE) group.
Read more about the postgraduate work placement scheme.
The information above reflects the currently intended course structure and module details. Updates may be made on an annual basis and revised details will be published through Programme Specifications ahead of each academic year. The regulations governing this course are available on our website. If we have insufficient numbers of students interested in an optional module, this may not be offered.
Entry requirements
Work placement scheme
Many postgraduate courses at Kingston University allow students to take the option of a 12-month work placement as part of their course. The responsibility for finding the work placement is with the student; we cannot guarantee the placement, just the opportunity to undertake it. You may find securing a professional placement difficult as they are highly competitive and challenging, but they are also incredibly rewarding. So it is very important to prepare and apply yourself if this is the route you wish to take. Employers look for great written and oral communication skills; and an excellent CV/portfolio. As the work placement is an assessed part of the course, it is covered by a student's Student Route visa.
Find out more about the postgraduate work placement scheme.
Teaching and assessment
Who teaches this course?
This course is delivered by the School of Life Science in the Faculty of Science, Engineering and Computing.
The Faculty's wide selection of undergraduate and postgraduate courses covers a diverse range of subject areas, from aerospace to geography; from maths and computing to biotechnology; and many more. Our collaborative set-up provides new opportunities for our students, and we design our courses with industry professionals to ensure you stay up to date with the latest developments.
School of Life Sciences
The School of Life Sciences is a dynamic and forward-looking School within the University, which has grown steadily since it was founded in 1989. Our diverse range of courses is taught by well-qualified academics, and aims to provide students with the skills they need to be successful in the modern world.
The School has invested heavily in developing its labs for both teaching and research. As well as specialist instrumentation laboratories, there are subject labs for biochemistry; microbiology; histology; anatomy; immunology; cell biology; nutrition; radiotracer studies; and physiology and sports science (including biomechanics and an environmental testing chamber).
Postgraduate students may run or assist in lab sessions and may also contribute to the teaching of seminars under the supervision of the module leader.
What our students say
Facilities
Cancer Biology MSc students have access to a range of laboratory facilities at our Penrhyn Road campus, where this course is based. These include tissue culture laboratories, molecular biology laboratories and cell biology laboratories. In addition to the subject specific laboratories, students also have the opportunity to use faculty-based laboratories, including analytical chemistry facilities and instrumentation, computing and data analysis resources.
Specialist equipment includes:
- RT-PCR and DNA manipulation facilities;
- state-of-the-art image analysis, including scanning electron and confocal microscopy equipment;
- specialist histology; and
- staining and protein analysis equipment.
Being part of a large, broad-based University means students will also get the chance to use facilities from other faculties. For example, our students visit the virtual radiotherapy facilities in the School of Radiography. Links with industry and research institutes afford further opportunities to become familiar with specialist equipment.
Access to this type of highly specialised scientific equipment ensures that students get practical, hands-on-experience of current research techniques, which equips them for further study or for work in cancer-related fields. All of the facilities are supported by dedicated technicians and experienced staff.
In addition, the Learning Resource Centre offers:
- subject libraries, plus a free inter-library loan scheme to other libraries in the Greater London area;
- online database subscriptions; and
- a growing selection of resource materials.
Course fees and funding
Additional costs
Depending on the programme of study, there may be extra costs that are not covered by tuition fees which students will need to consider when planning their studies. Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching, assessment and operating University facilities such as the library, access to shared IT equipment and other support services. Accommodation and living costs are not included in our fees.
Where a course has additional expenses, we make every effort to highlight them. These may include optional field trips, materials (e.g. art, design, engineering), security checks such as DBS, uniforms, specialist clothing or professional memberships.
What this course offers you
- The Cancer Biology course provides you with an understanding of:
- the disease processes involved in malignancy
- the scientific rationale for therapeutic options.
- It links your academic knowledge to practical applications, particularly in relation to modern diagnostic methods.
- The MSc research project gives you the chance to study an area of interest in greater depth and gain valuable research skills. You can carry it out with one of our life science research groups or in your place of work if you are a part-time student. Our students often find this an excellent selling point when looking for a job or promotion.
- The taught modules will prepare you for the job market. Alongside your academic studies, you will gain skills in:
- problem solving and organisation
- data collation, review and synopsis
- communication (oral, written and electronic)
- time management
- computing
- cooperation and teamwork.
- We regularly review our courses to make sure they remain up to date and that you graduate as a marketable industry professional.
- We offer flexible timetables and part-time options to help you fit your studies around other commitments.
After you graduate
Graduates have gone on to roles in a wide variety of careers in hospital laboratories, commercial laboratories and cancer research.
Current research in this subject
Many of our staff in the Faculty of Science, Engineering and Computing are research active. This ensures they are in touch with the latest thinking and bring best practice to your studies.
Science research is organised into several research areas. The Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Group is an interdisciplinary group shared by Kingston University and St George's, University of London.
Research focuses on the interaction of chemistry and life sciences with medicine. It is divided into three main sub-areas;
- Therapy – including immunology, stem cell research and allergenic effects of foods;
- Parasitology – including parasite transmission, drug responses and host cellular immune responses; and
- Pharmaceutical Sciences – including the use and understanding of free-radical reactions and the use of anti-cancer drugs/new bioactive natural products.
Get professional experience alongside your studies
We work with a variety of employers such as hospitals, community health care, NHS foundation trusts, academic publishers, and pharmaceutical companies, many of which also offer professional experience opportunities for our Cancer Biology MSc students.
Benefits of professional experience
- Get work experience in a scientific environment – making you more employable
- Work on a project of benefit to the employer
- Develop transferable skills and enhance your CV
- Make professional contacts
- Receive a work reference at the end of a successful placement
What's on offer
- Part-time, unpaid and either office or laboratory-based
- Flexible to fit in with your studies and the employer's needs
- An academic supervisor allocated to all placement students
- Should encompass 200 hours of work during the period October to April alongside studies
Professional experience could include
- Conducting discrete pieces of research, investigation, and fact finding
- Supporting laboratory work such as ensuring that Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) are available for all lab materials
- Assessing, archiving, sorting, transcribing, and filing scientific documents and files
- Taking minutes in meetings involving scientific content
How to get professional experience
Competition to gain professional experience is fierce and places are not guaranteed. During Induction Week, you will be introduced to the scheme and the Kingston University Careers and Employability Centre resources where you will find a CV and covering letter template.
All applications must use these CV and covering letter templates, which are accessed via your KU account. Therefore, to apply for the Professional Experience opportunities, you must first be a student enrolled on an eligible MSc programme.
The KU Careers and Employability Centre will help you to complete your CV and covering letter, so that you can make your best application for the scheme. CVs and covering letters are reviewed by employers and students chosen for interview are supported to prepare by the Careers and Employability Centre.
Please email Lori Snyder for any general information you need about the professional experience scheme.
