Genomic Medicine and Statistics

The MSc in Genomic Medicine at the University of Oxford offers a comprehensive and rigorous training program designed to equip students with a deep understanding of the rapidly evolving field of genomics and its application to medicine. This programme aims to develop the skills necessary to interpret complex genomic data, understand the underlying biological mechanisms, and apply this knowledge to improve patient care and health outcomes. Students will explore a wide range of topics, including genomics technologies, bioinformatics, genetic variation, disease mechanisms, and personalized medicine. The course combines theoretical foundations with practical skills, offering hands-on experience in data analysis, laboratory techniques, and computational methods. The programme also emphasizes the ethical, legal, and social implications of genomic medicine, preparing graduates for responsible practice in diverse healthcare settings. Taught by leading experts from the University of Oxford and collaborating institutions, the MSc provides access to cutting-edge research and state-of-the-art facilities. Students will engage in research projects, seminars, and workshops that foster critical thinking and innovation. The program is suitable for graduates in biomedical sciences, medicine, genetics, or related fields who wish to advance their expertise in genomic medicine. Upon completion, graduates will possess the knowledge and skills required for careers in clinical genetics, research, pharmaceuticals, or healthcare policy. The MSc in Genomic Medicine at Oxford represents an exceptional opportunity to be at the forefront of one of the most transformative disciplines in modern medicine, contributing to the development of personalized therapeutic strategies and enhancing patient care worldwide.

Complementing this, large-scale population biobanks are bringing together extensive genomic and phenotypic information on millions of individuals, while new genome editing and single cell genomics techniques are offering novel and powerful approaches to understanding biology.

This four-year DPhil programme trains future scientific leaders who will work at the cutting edge of genomic technologies in biomedical research and who will help develop the sophisticated analytical methods to fully exploit the potential of the next generation of genomic technologies and apply these in diverse settings.

Characteristic of this are state-of-the-art experiments generating large and complex data sets, and students on this programme will undertake comprehensive training to gain familiarity with both the challenges, vagaries, and artefacts of the complicated experiments which generate the data, as well as with the strengths and weaknesses of routine tools used for data analysis. Students will use and learn approaches leveraging next generation sequencing and other technologies, including application in genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, metabolomics, and epigenomics, all of which are critical to the growing understanding of basic biology in normal and disease tissues. 

The programme is hosted in the interdisciplinary environment of the Wellcome Trust Centre for Human Genetics (WTCHG), which hosts world-leading research groups in statistics, bioinformatics, genomic analysis, protein structure, and functional biology, to complement disease-focussed research. United by common interests in understanding the molecular basis of disease, researchers come from clinical and pure science backgrounds. The co-location of the WTCHG with the Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust provides unique opportunities for translation of research into clinical practice, enhanced by having the Oxford NIHR BRC Genomics Theme based within the WTCHG and the Centre for Personalised Medicine. 

Students joining the programme are drawn from very diverse backgrounds, ranging from genetics to pure maths but united by a track record of academic excellence and enthusiasm for this field. The first year of the DPhil course contains a series of taught modules covering fundamental topics within genomics, statistics, bioinformatics and epidemiology that combine theoretical and practical classes.

First-year students will also undertake a number of laboratory visits, will attend additional training and teaching sessions tailored to the needs of individual students, carry out a literature review and will undertake two short research projects. These will inform the choice of a DPhil project for the subsequent years of the programme. Students will benefit from the outstanding environment for graduate studies provided within the University of Oxford.

Applicants are advised to visit the course webpage for further information about supervisors connected to this programme.  

Applicants are normally expected to be predicted or have achieved a first-class or strong upper second-class undergraduate degree with honours (or equivalent international qualifications), as a minimum, in a relevant biological science or quantitative subject.

For applicants with a degree from the USA, the minimum GPA sought is 3.5 out of 4.0.

If you hold non-UK qualifications and wish to check how your qualifications match these requirements, you can contact the National Recognition Information Centre for the United Kingdom (UK NARIC).

No Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or GMAT scores are sought.

However, entrance is very competitive and most successful applicants have a first-class degree or the equivalent.

Substantial professional experience or a graduate qualification may be a substitute for a lower grade at undergraduate level.

• Official transcript(s)
• CV/résumé
• Statement of purpose/personal statement:Up to one page
• References/letters of recommendation:Three overall, generally academic

ENGLISH LANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS

Higher level

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The University of Oxford offers various funding options for students enrolled in the MSc in Genomic Medicine and Statistics. Prospective students can explore a range of scholarships, bursaries, and studentships available through the university and external sources. The university has dedicated scholarship programs such as the Oxford University Clinical Academic Graduate School (OUCAGS) scholarships, which aim to support students pursuing postgraduate degrees in medical sciences, including genomic medicine and related fields. Additionally, the Department of Statistics and the Institute of Biomedical Engineering may offer specialized funding opportunities aimed at outstanding candidates or those with specific research interests.

Students are encouraged to investigate external funding sources, including government grants, research council funding, and industry-sponsored scholarships. The UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) provides several funding streams for international and domestic students, which can cover tuition fees and living expenses. The Chevening Scholarships offer support for international students wishing to study at Oxford, including programs in health sciences and biomedical research. Other external organizations, such as the Wellcome Trust and the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR), also offer funding programs for postgraduate students engaged in biomedical and genomic research.

Applicants are advised to check the university's financial aid webpage regularly, as funding opportunities are updated annually. The university also offers guidance on bursaries and loans, which can assist students with their study costs. International students should consider applying early, as many scholarships have specific deadlines and eligibility criteria. Moreover, students can explore part-time work opportunities within the university or associated hospitals to help finance their studies. All applicants are encouraged to contact the university's student finance office for personalized advice and assistance in applying for funding.

Overall, financing a degree in Genomic Medicine and Statistics at the University of Oxford involves a combination of university scholarships, external grants, and personal funding strategies. While competitive, these funding options aim to make postgraduate education accessible to talented students from diverse backgrounds.

The MSc in Genomic Medicine at the University of Oxford is a pioneering program designed to equip students with comprehensive knowledge and practical skills in the rapidly evolving field of genomic medicine. This interdisciplinary course combines principles from genetics, bioinformatics, molecular biology, and clinical practice to prepare graduates for careers in research, healthcare, and industry sectors focused on genetic diagnostics and personalized medicine. Students will explore the fundamental techniques of genomic data analysis, interpretation of genetic variation, and the ethical considerations associated with genomic information. The program offers a blend of taught modules, practical laboratory sessions, and independent research projects, fostering both theoretical understanding and hands-on experience.

Designed for graduates in medicine, biology, biomedical sciences, or related fields, the MSc in Genomic Medicine aims to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills necessary for cutting-edge genomic research and its translation into clinical practice. The course emphasizes current technologies such as next-generation sequencing, bioinformatics tools, and data management systems. Students will gain insights into how genomic data guides diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment decisions in various medical specialties, including oncology, rare diseases, and inherited disorders. The program also highlights the importance of ethical, legal, and social issues surrounding genomic data, ensuring that graduates are aware of the responsibilities involved in handling sensitive information.

The University of Oxford provides access to world-class research facilities and expert faculty who are leaders in genetics and genomics. Collaboration with hospitals and research institutes offers students unique opportunities for clinical exposure and involvement in active research projects. The program duration is typically one year for full-time students, comprising coursework, practical training, and a dissertation. Upon graduation, students are well-positioned to pursue further research, clinical careers, or roles within biotech and pharmaceutical industries. The MSc in Genomic Medicine at Oxford is highly regarded for its rigorous academic standards and its commitment to training the next generation of professionals capable of advancing personalized medicine and improving patient outcomes globally.