Overview
The health of individuals is determined by their own genetic makeup combined with their lifestyles and environment. Genomics is the study of the body’s genes, their functions and their influence on the growth, development and working of the body. Analysing information about our genes and genome allows clinicians to determine an individual’s risk of developing disease, their response to infection (eg COVID), cancer diagnosis and treatment strategies, manage cardiovascular disease and personalise their healthcare.
Key benefits
- The course covers fundamental human molecular and complex disease genetics, as well as cancer genetics, and the processes involved in medical genetics, including gene therapy
- You will explore current trends in cutting- edge areas of research working alongside international experts at a leading research institution
- Taught by internationally renowned scientists and researchers
- Some students have obtained publications following their iBSc project, and some have gone on to present their work at national and international conferences
- The programme prepares students for pathways leading to consultant positions in Clinical or Medical Genetics.
Course essentials
The NHS intends to be the world-leading healthcare system in the use of cutting-edge genomic technologies to predict and diagnose inherited and acquired disease, and to personalise treatments and interventions. This programme provides you with the opportunity to discover how genetics and genomics are poised to revolutionise medical practice as healthcare moves towards delivering personalised medicine.
Genetics is unique in cutting across all disciplines as a contributory factor in the study of all disease states. The NHS is investing huge resources to embed genomics within healthcare and the application of genome-based diagnostic methods and development of future genetic-based therapeutic options.
The aims of the iBSc in Healthcare Genetics and Genomics are aligned with those of the Health Education England Genomics Education Programme (see www.genomicseducation.hee.nhs.uk/). It will prepare medical school graduates to understand, and take full advantage of, new genetic and genomic diagnostic and treatment options, which are being developed by the NHS as a new core service provision for patients.
The Healthcare Genetics and Genomics iBSc explores the importance and future potential of molecular and medical genetics in the understanding, diagnosis, treatment and prevention of human diseases. The course covers both a range of single gene disorders and complex disease genetics for conditions such as cancer, which have defects in multiple gene functions at their basis.
Course aims
- Provide a broad understanding of the importance and future potential of genetics and genomics in the understanding, diagnosis, treatment and prevention of human diseases.
- Provide an opportunity to conduct an original piece of research or investigation on a specific topic related to the application of genetics or genomics in healthcare
- Gain a thorough understanding of the fundamental principles and components of recombinant DNA technology
- Gain an understanding of the genome, gene organisation, structure and function, and genetic and epigenetic mechanisms of regulation of gene expression.
- Demonstrate high level knowledge in the application of genetics and genomics in healthcare
- Develop a research question and address that topic through independent research in the laboratory, using bioinformatic methods or investigation of the literature.
- Develop the ability to communicate, orally and in writing, the concepts and applications in medical genetics and genomics.
Key Information
Course type:
Single honours
Delivery mode:
In person
Study mode:
Full time
Required A-Levels:
Duration:
One year
Application status:
Closed
Start date:
September 2025
Application deadline:
29 June 2025
Administrative bodies
Regulating body
Base campus
Guy’s Campus
As a potential student, Guy’s Campus feels dynamic and focused—perfect for health and science studies. Located near London Bridge, it blends cutting-edge labs with a close-knit community, all in the heart of one of London’s most vibrant areas.