Programme
Specification
Programme
Specification
A statement
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understanding
and
skills
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A statement
the knowledge,
understanding
and
skills
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underpin aa
taughtprogramme
programme
of study
leading
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taught
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University
of Sheffield
The University of Sheffield
1
Programme Title
Molecular Medicine
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Programme Code
MEDT01, MEDT03, MEDT05, MEDT07
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JACS Code
Not applicable
4
Level of Study
Postgraduate
5a
Final Qualification
Master of Science (MSc)
5b
QAA FHEQ Level
Masters
6
Intermediate Qualification(s)
Postgraduate Diploma (PGDip)
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Teaching Institution (if not Sheffield)
Not applicable
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Faculty
Medicine, Dentistry and Health
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Department
Medical School
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Other Department(s) involved in
teaching the programme
All 5 Medical School Departments
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Mode(s) of Attendance
Full-time
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Duration of the Programme
12 months
13
Accrediting Professional or
Statutory Body
None
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Date of production/revision
March 2009
15. Background to the programme and subject area
An appreciation of human biology and new approaches to the understanding of human diseases, broadly known as
molecular medicine, has developed around the framework created by molecular biology. Molecular biology is now
fundamental to most of the biological sciences and is increasingly important in biomedical science. High-throughput
technologies develop and significantly change on an annual basis now. The data that comes from the application of
this technology are providing answers to previously intractable questions. For some years, the effects of molecular
medicine have been feeding into medical practice, but the impact of molecular biology on medicine has only just
begun to be felt.
The combined Molecular Medicine MSc programme intends to explain the nature and origin of the concepts of
molecular medicine. Students will learn the logical processes underlying a scientific, molecular approach to
medicine science as well as being provided with hands-on experience in the practice of experimental molecular
biology in the context of a medical problem. The course involves teaching from all areas within the Medical School.
The course is suitable for all undergraduates who require an introduction to modern, rigorous, experimental
biomedical science. Our current market consists of students who are seeking an introduction to the theory and
practice of biomedical research.
The course begins with a series of core modules, and then divides into three pathways that allow students to develop
some specialised interest. Though parallel, the pathways each maintain a common structure. The structure is
designed to be able to accept new pathways. A programme of parallel pathways is particularly attractive to overseas
students because it will allow them time to investigate the available pathways and their chosen specialisations during
the core modules. This offers a degree of flexibility that is not offered by other courses.
The areas of specialisation are summarised as follows:
• The impact of molecular genetics on the understanding of human diseases or
• The application of molecular information to clinical medicine or
• The application of molecular biology to the study of neurological and psychiatric diseases.
The first two pathways were embodied in 2006-2007 within the unified Molecular Medicine course (MEDT01/
MEDT03), though they began as closely linked, separate courses in 2005-2006 (MEDT01/ GEMT03). The template
for MEDT01 was GEMT03 (Molecular and Genetic Medicine) which had already run as a successful MSc course for
five years.
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By changing ten modules in 2007, we updated and removed redundancy from teaching and ensured that universal
material is taught across the pathways. We also introduced the Neuroscience Pathway, which can be studied on
MEDT07.
The Core (80 credits)
In the earlier four Core modules (MED6001, MED6002, MED6003 and MED6006; 40 credits total), all students cover
the methods, principles and ethics of biomedical research, the information contained in the human genome and new
approaches to exploring gene function, human immunology and the strategies that can be used to manipulate it
therapeutically, and the role of genetics in human diseases.
The later four Core modules are practical courses in scientific writing, on-line essential bioinformatics (MED6005)
and laboratory techniques.
• For 2009-2010 we will replace MED6004, the current two essay-writing module (previously 30 credits) with a new
20 credit module, MED6007. This will consist of two parts. In the first, small groups of students (5 or 6 per team)
will discuss two conflicting research papers. Each of two teams will present one of the papers. This part of the
module will be assessed (25%) on the basis of the students’ contribution to the discussion and evidence of critical
thought that they each display. The remaining 75% of the marks for the module will be assigned for writing a single
3000-word review on an original title that will be chosen from a list of titles. This part of the module should be
enhanced by learning from the first part. Students will begin by seeking appropriate up-to-date literature and
preparing an outline of the review, which will be formatively assessed by a supervisor before they produce the final
work. In the final assessment, we will be looking for evidence of scientific reading of 20 papers, correct scientific
style, understanding of the literature, analysis and critical insight.
• For 2009-2010 we intend to introduce a new module to introduce students to basic laboratory skills, calculations
and statistics MED6009, 10 credits. We have run a five day course containing some of these elements for the past
two years, but have not previously assigned credit for it.
The Pathways (100 credits on parallel modules)
Students will then need to choose and commit to one of three pathway options. Pathway-specific teaching will
consist of 100 credits consisting of 30 credits of taught modules, a 10 credit presentation module before the
laboratory project and 60 credits for the project itself. Each project description will be assigned to one or more of the
specialist pathways in the light of the specialist training that each can provide.
(1) The Experimental Medicine pathway leads to an MSc in Molecular Medicine (Experimental Medicine) or simply
an MSc in Molecular Medicine, according to the student’s choice. The pathway will cover the translation of laboratory
based medical research into an understanding of and changes to medical practice. The pathway contains separate
example-led taught modules on the molecular and cellular basis of selected diseases (MED6020, 10 credits), the
value of a range of in vitro and in vivo models in investigating diseases (MED6021, 10 credits) and therapeutic
possibilities and the pathway to the development of new therapeutic strategies (MED6022, 10 credits).
(2) The Genetics pathway leads to the award of an MSc in Molecular Medicine (Genetics) or simply an MSc in
Molecular Medicine, according to the student’s choice. The pathway contains a taught module on Genomics,
Proteomics and Bioinformatics (MED6010, 10 credits), an advanced practical module on Bioinformatics (MED6011,
10 credits) and a module on the use of genetics, particularly pathogen genetics, in exploring the interactions between
pathogens and their hosts MED6012, 10 credits).
(3) The Neuroscience pathway leads to an MSc in Molecular Medicine (Neuroscience) or simply an MSc in Molecular
Medicine, according to the student’s choice. The pathway will contain a revised module on the relationship between
neuroanatomy, molecular biology and genetics and the pathophysiology of neurological and neuropsychiatric
disorders (MED6035, 10 credits). A new module (MED6031, 10 credits) has also been created in parallel with
MED6021 concerning experimental models for the investigation of neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative
diseases. MED6032 (10 credits) explores molecular mechanisms of neurodegenerative diseases.
Students explore the background of their projects and learn to present material in MED6013/6023/6033 (10 credits).
The final five months of the course are taken up with the individual laboratory project, MED6014/6024/6034 (60
credits), at the end of which, students submit a thesis of up to 100 pages. The entire range of research specialties
from within the Medical School is available to students.
The following degrees can be awarded:

PG Dip in Molecular Medicine, to students who successfully complete the taught component but do not wish
to proceed to the project;

MSc in Molecular Medicine, to students who follow one of the three pathways and do not want a statement
of specialisation;

MSc in Molecular Medicine (Genetics),

MSc in Molecular Medicine (Experimental Medicine)

MSc in Molecular Medicine (Neuroscience).
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We anticipate that further sets of modules will be offered to create new pathways within the MSc in Molecular
Medicine over the next several years.
Our records of past students show that successful graduates are well positioned to take up laboratory
based research posts in both academia and industry. They will also be in a strong position to secure funding
for PhD studies. This programme also forms the first year of a new route PhD for suitable candidates.
16. Programme aims
1. To train scientists to be able to design, perform and critically analyse studies that will elucidate the role of
molecular and cell biology and molecular genetics in human disease.
2G (Genetics pathway) To train scientists in the use of bioinformatics and genetics in human biomedical research.
2E (Experimental Medicine pathway) To train scientists in the principles of contemporary translational research using
examples of good scientific practice from a variety of medical disciplines.
2N (Neuroscience pathway) To train scientists in understanding the molecular, cellular and techniques of anatomical
localisation that are used in neuropathological and psychological investigations.
3.
To demonstrate the principles, advantages and limitations of key research tools in molecular medicine.
4.
To provide training in and understanding of the ethical and legal implications and requirements of laboratory
based experiments and clinical trials.
5.
To foster a commitment to continuing professional development.
17. Programme learning outcomes
Knowledge and understanding: By the end of the programme candidates will be able to:
CORE KNOWLEDGE ELEMENTS

Demonstrate systematic understanding of the nature of scientific research

Demonstrate the ability to conduct research in accordance with correct research methodologies and
procedures in accordance with up-to date ethical guidelines and policies.

Show systematic understanding of the fundamental principles of designing research projects and
protocols.

Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the relevance of publicly available human molecular
data to the identification of genes involved in human diseases.

Demonstrate insight into the current methodologies for exploring regulatory networks.
K3

Demonstrate an advanced knowledge of the use of biotechnology to generate recombinant therapeutics
for the modulation of human immune responses.
K4
Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the genetic basis of common diseases and will be able to;
K1
K2

Select examples of the genetic basis of common diseases.

Illustrate ethical issues surrounding genetic studies.
K5
Demonstrate competence in finding, interpreting, referencing and presenting published literature in the field
of biomedical science.
K6
(Masters only)
Conduct a laboratory research project and analyse the findings to demonstrate an understanding of critical
hypothesis-driven biomedical research in a specialised area.
Pathway 1 – Experimental Medicine (KE7-KE10)
KE7
Demonstrate a systematic understanding of the processes of translational research.
KE8
Demonstrate understanding of the ways in which the dysregulation of molecular and cellular systems can be
investigated.
KE8
Demonstrate a systematic understanding of the ethical and scientific issues that will lead to the choice of
particular model systems in investigating disease processes and therapeutic strategies. (Same as KN8).
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KE10
Demonstrate a systematic understanding of the processes behind the generation of new therapeutic agents
and be able to comment on relevant economic and ethical issues.
Pathway 2 –Genetics (KG7-KG9)
KG7
Demonstrate an understanding of the interactions at the molecular level between infecting pathogens and
the human host and the application of genetics to their investigation.
KG8
Demonstrate practical computer-based skills in the use of bioinformatics databases and the extraction of
logically linked information on target genes.
KG9
Demonstrate a systematic understanding of the current methodologies and techniques used in extracting,
analysing and comparing genomic, proteomic and functional data.
Pathway 3 –Neuroscience (KN7-KN9)
KN7
Demonstrate an understanding of the molecular and cellular approaches that may be adopted to elucidate
the pathology of neurodegenerative diseases.
KN8
Demonstrate a systematic understanding of the ethical and scientific issues that will lead to the choice of
particular model systems in investigating disease processes and therapeutic strategies.
KN9
Demonstrate understanding of imaging methods used in neurological and psychological investigation.
Skills and other attributes: By graduation the student will
S1
(Masters only)
Have gained experience in the design and execution of major scientific experimental techniques commonly
used in molecular medicine.
S2
Exercise independent thought and judgement.
S3
Be able to communicate orally and in writing both to peers in the scientific world and to the general public.
S4
Be able to retrieve information both through traditional reference sources and through the current IT gateways.
S5
Have developed a scientific approach to problems.
S6
Demonstrate critical awareness of scientific studies.
S7
Be able to design, perform and interpret results from molecular studies.
18. Teaching, learning and assessment
Development of the learning outcomes is promoted through the following teaching and learning methods:
The programme consists of roughly half of taught modules (regardless of pathway). The teaching is mostly in the
form of lectures with a smaller proportion of interactive problem based classes. There are also hands-on training
modues classes in laboratory practice, in bioinformatics and in scientific literature criticism. Each student
independently produces one open book review essay on an original title having done all background work necessary
to write a review. The student makes an introductory presentation describing their research proposal. This is
prepared with guidance from the supervisor. The research project is carried out in a research lab under the
supervision of an experienced member of staff and the student will write a thesis, with guidance from the supervisor.
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Research
dissertation
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Oral presentation
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Research Project
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Problem Based
Learning
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K4
K5
K6
KE7
KE8
Assessment
Practical classes
Teaching
Lectures
Learning outcome
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KE10
KG7
KG8
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KN7
KN8
KN9
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Opportunities to demonstrate achievement of the learning outcomes are provided through the following
assessment methods:
The assessment of the core teaching is tested primarily by written assignments, which the student must hand in by
specific dates. Written examinations are restricted to tests of learning in calculation and statistics. Two modules are
assessed by presentations. The students are well informed, repeatedly, of the University’s attitude towards
plagiarism, and our own attitudes are made clear on word-by-word redrafting too, which we regard as countereducational. Assignments are all screened with plagiarism software. Plagiarism is punished according to the
University’s rules. Word-by-word redrafting receives poor marks.
The specific pathways are also assessed by a combination of written assignments and presentations, depending on
the nature of the module. The project is assessed entirely from the written thesis, oral presentation and viva voce
exam. The research project is a major part of the MSc. The viva is an opportunity for the student to discuss/defend
their dissertation and is used by the external examiner as a means of assessing the quality of the projects. Vivas are
selective for those who a have achieved a) more than 150 but less than the 180 credits, b) have performed well in
the examinations and coursework but distinctly less well in their dissertation, c) are just below the borderline for a
distinction or d) just below the borderline for a pass. The external examiner is given the option to increase the mark
for the thesis by as much as 6%. (This is the maximum discrepancy that is permitted between the two original
markers of the thesis). For comparison, the highest marked students and a group of median students are also
invited to vivas, with the understanding that their marks cannot be changed.
Students who achieve a credit-weighted average mark of at least 69.5 over all the assessments and who scored at
least 69.5 in at least 90 credits will be awarded a “pass with distinction”. Students achieving at least 59.5% (and at
least 59.5% in at least 90 credits) have been awarded a “pass with merit” since 2008.
19. Reference points
The learning outcomes have been developed to reflect the following points of reference:

Framework for Higher Education Qualifications (2008) http://www.qaa.ac.uk/Publications/InformationAndGuidance/Pages/The-framework-for-higher-educationqualifications-in-England-Wales-and-Northern-Ireland.aspx

University Strategic Plan - http://www.sheffield.ac.uk/strategicplan

Learning and Teaching Strategy (2011-16) - http://www.shef.ac.uk/lets/staff/lts

Feedback from lecturers, students and the external examiners.
20. Programme structure and regulations
All students complete the core modules during the first semester:

Principles of Biomedical Research

From Genome to Gene Function

Modulating Immunity

Human Disease Genetics
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
Genome and Sequence Analysis

Writing a Critical Review

Practical Laboratory Training
All students must then complete one set of pathway specific modules, which are:
For the Experimental Medicine Pathway:

Molecular and Cellular Basis of Disease

Model Systems in Medical research

Novel Therapies
For the Genetics Pathway:

Genomics, Proteomics and Informatics

Bioinformatics Online

Genetics of Host Pathogen Interactions
For the Neuroscience Pathway:

Genetics and Pathophysiology of Neurological Diseases

Experimental Systems in Neuroscience

Molecular Mechanisms of Neurodegeneration
• An assessed oral presentation will be given in preparation for the research project. A student who does not wish to
progress to Masters may be awarded the Postgraduate Diploma in Molecular Medicine. For those progressing to
Masters the second semester is taken up with the research project.
Please refer to the Programme Regulations, General University Regulations and the On-line Directory of Modules for
detailed information about the structure of programmes, regulations concerning assessment and progression and
descriptions of individual modules. Also see www.sheffield.ac.uk/molmed for a detailed description of the course
and the content of each module.
21. Student development over the course of study
The seven core modules shown above provide a firm background and basis to the general subject area and build on
the broad biomedical principles that students will have learned as undergraduates. Following a comprehensive
training in Molecular Medicine and Genetics, students will enhance either their knowledge of bioinformatics and the
practical analysis and modelling of biomedical systems and engage in research connected with the application of
genetics to medical problems (in the Genetics pathway), their understanding of biomedical research and its methods
as they are applied to practical examples relevant to contemporary medicine (in the Experimental Medicine pathway)
or their understanding of biomedical research as it is applied to neurodegenerative and psychiatric diseases (the
Neuroscience pathway).
Students are presented with a booklet of the available projects (which will always exceed student numbers by 30%)
early in the course. Students will be asked to choose between pathways and make their project selections
immediately after their return to the course in January. These will include projects from throughout the School and
from related Departments that choose to participate. (Recently we have offered Projects in Biomedical Science,
Molecular Biology and Biotechnology and Chemistry). At the successful completion of the taught modules, students
will have achieved those learning outcomes K1-5 and either KE7-KE10, KG7-KG9 or KN7-KN9, listed in Section 17
and above skills S2-7 and may be awarded the Postgraduate Diploma at this point. For Masters students, the
dissertation must be submitted by the end of August and the viva voce exam, if applicable, is usually held two weeks
later.
22. Criteria for admission to the programme
Detailed information regarding admission to the programme is available at http://www.shef.ac.uk/molmed . We are
continually adapting our admissions criteria to maintain a good quality of admissions from both the UK and from
overseas.
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23. Additional information
This course will attract those with first degrees in a biological science with some recent training in basic molecular
genetics and a good understanding of molecular biology who are interested in applying these subjects to medicine.
We also welcome recently medically trained students. The course has presented a career development opportunity
for those with overseas medical qualifications en route to PhD studies.
This specification represents a concise statement about the main features of the programme and should be
considered alongside other sources of information provided by the teaching department(s) and the University. In
addition to programme specific information, further information about studying at The University of Sheffield can be
accessed via our Student Services web site at http://www.shef.ac.uk/ssid.
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