Immunology and Immunotherapy

Entry requirements

Life science or biomedical science degree normally classified at 2(i) or above or equivalent.

Months of entry

September

Course content

This full-time 1 year MSc programme is suitable for biomedical or life scientists who wish to acquire an extensive knowledge and key skills relating to the fundamental molecular and cellular regulation of immunity and its application to the treatment of disease. The programme will be delivered by world leaders at the forefront of immunology and immunotherapy research, each with an internationally renowned research group.

Over the past few years significant advances have been made in our understanding of the molecular and cellular control of immune responses. These discoveries are now being translated into the design and testing of immunotherapeutic interventions for a range of diseases including cancer, autoimmunity and inflammatory disease. This programme is for biomedical or life scientists who wish to extend their knowledge and skills in both immunology and its translation to immunotherapy.

A series of interlinked taught modules cover molecular mechanisms in immune cell differentiation and function, autoimmunity, transplant and tumour immunology, and inflammation. This is complemented by comprehensive coverage of the latest developments in immunotherapy including the use of microbial products in immunomodulation and vaccination, small molecules and biologics, as well as cellular immunotherapy.

The programme aims to allow you to understand the research process, from the fundamental discoveries at the forefront of immunological research, to the application of novel interventional immune-based therapies.

A key part of the MSc programme is the planning, execution and reporting of a piece of independent study leading to submission of a dissertation. This study will be in the form of an extensive laboratory research project carried out in internationally renowned research groups. Each student will be a fully-integrated member of one of the large number of research teams in a wide variety of topics across both immunology and immunotherapy. We also plan to offer some projects within external biotechnology companies.

Why study this course

This course:

• is run by research scientists at the forefront of immunology and immunotherapy across the Schools of Immunity & Infection and Cancer Sciences
• includes clinical staff who are involved in the delivery of immunotherapy to patients
• can contribute towards career development and open up further career progression opportunities
• provides an exciting opportunity to carry out an extensive research project either within the University or selected external biotechnology companies
• will increase your personal knowledge of the principles of immunology and its application to immune-based therapy of disease

Explore postgraduate study at Birmingham at one of our on-campus open days.

If you can’t make it to one of our on-campus open days, our virtual open days run regularly throughout the year.

Information for international students

English to IELTS 7.0 (with a minimum of 6.5 in each component) or TOEFL Internet based 95 overall with no less than 22 in any band.

Fees and funding

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