The course is designed for graduates with a BSc in the life sciences or other science disciplines, and for intercalating and fully qualified MBBS or BDS students. It can be taken either as a stand-alone qualification or as an entry route onto a PhD or MD.

The taught component of the course includes subject-specific content in the area of epidemiology. You have the flexibility to develop your own bespoke course by selecting additional, complementary modules. You will also participate in training in general research principles, and other professional and key skills.

You will study a subject-specific module in clinical epidemiology that provides theoretical and practical understanding of:

• the value, theoretical basis and practicalities of epidemiology
• approaches to epidemiological research

It covers the basic epidemiology of cancer, children's health and adult onset diseases, with an emphasis on practical application.

Your research project comprises the major element of the course. This project will involve 24 weeks of research in an area of epidemiology under the supervision of an expert academic researcher in the field.

The course allows you to experience an internationally competitive research area, predominantly in academia but also potentially in industry.

A minimum of a 2:1 honours degree, or international equivalent, in:

• a life science or related discipline
• or an MBBS/BDS degree

This programme accepts both medical and dental students wishing to take a master's degree as an intercalation. You will need to have successfully completed your third or fourth year of study.  

Practical laboratory work experience is desirable, although not essential. The modules you can study may depend on your academic background.