Infection Immunology and Translational Medicine

The MSc in Infection, Immunology and Translational Medicine at the University of Oxford offers a comprehensive and rigorous postgraduate education designed to equip students with a thorough understanding of the fundamental principles underlying infection biology, immune responses, and the translation of scientific discoveries into innovative clinical therapies. This interdisciplinary programme integrates concepts from microbiology, immunology, molecular biology, and clinical research, providing students with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary to address global health challenges posed by infectious diseases. Throughout the course, students will explore the mechanisms by which pathogens infect hosts and evade immune defenses, as well as how the immune system can be modulated to develop effective vaccines and immunotherapies. Emphasising translational aspects, the programme highlights the pathway from bench to bedside, preparing graduates for careers in biomedical research, clinical practice, disease diagnostics, and pharmaceutical development. Delivered by leading experts in the field, the programme combines lectures, seminars, laboratory work, and research projects, fostering critical thinking and independent investigation. Students will have access to state-of-the-art facilities and participate in cutting-edge research activities, with opportunities to collaborate with world-renowned researchers and clinicians. The programme is designed for students with a background in biological sciences or medicine seeking to deepen their understanding of infection and immunity, or pursuing careers in biomedical research, health policy, and innovation in healthcare. Upon completion, graduates will be well-equipped to contribute to advancements in understanding infectious diseases and improving patient outcomes through translational research initiatives.

The first year comprises three laboratory rotations in different disciplines, and access to extensive training courses and support. There is then a three-year period to undertake research towards your DPhil.

Students benefit by performing research with world-leading scientists in excellent facilities, and training in state-of-the-art techniques for studying infectious disease and immunology.

Applicants are advised to visit the course webpage for further information about supervisors associated with this course.

The course is integrated around three themes:

• immunology
• infection
• translational medicine

In the first year you will undergo three 12-week laboratory rotations and a series of training courses relevant to your work. You will be advised on your choice of courses and laboratory rotation to help tailor an individual student package.

In the second year you will initiate your DPhil project from the large number of projects available; a list of participating supervisors is available on the course webpage. This choice will be aided by your exposure to potential DPhil supervisors and scientific areas during the first year. Programme directors will also guide you through this process.

You will present your work from your three rotations to the management committee. Each rotation will be assessed in a different format.  The first rotation will involve an oral presentation, the second a poster presentation and the third rotation a written report. There is no formal progression mark towards the final three years; however you have to write a small grant proposal at the end of the rotation year. 

In your second year you will write a literature review on a selected topic. Many of these reviews have been published in scientific literature. You will be required to meet standard University milestones for progress and will be monitored formally via supervisor feedback forms submitted three times per year.

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 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.

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

ENGLISH LANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS

Higher level

The MSc in Infection, Immunology and Translational Medicine at the University of Oxford offers a range of financing options to support prospective students throughout their studies. Tuition fees vary depending on the student’s nationality: for UK and EU students, the fee is approximately £13,220 per year, while international students are charged around £28,770 annually. These fees cover tuition, access to university facilities, and academic support. In addition to tuition, students should budget for living expenses in Oxford, which are estimated to be around £14,000 to £16,000 per year, encompassing accommodation, food, travel, books, and personal expenses.

The university provides several funding opportunities to help ease financial burdens. Scholarships and bursaries are available for outstanding applicants, including the Clarendon Scholarship, which is merit-based and covers full tuition along with a living stipend. Other targeted funding sources include departmental scholarships specifically for students in medical sciences, and research council grants which may be accessible for those involved in research components of their studies.

Students can also explore external funding options, such as government or national research grants, scholarships from charitable foundations, and international funding bodies. The university’s Careers Service offers advice on part-time work opportunities within Oxford to supplement income, subject to visa restrictions for international students.

Additionally, the university encourages early application for funding to maximize the chances of securing financial aid. The process involves submitting scholarship applications alongside course applications or as specified by each funding scheme. The university’s financial aid team provides guidance on eligibility criteria and application procedures, ensuring students are aware of all available options to support their academic journey.

Overall, while studying at Oxford involves significant financial investment, numerous funding opportunities and financial planning resources are designed to enable talented students from diverse backgrounds to pursue their MSc in Infection, Immunology and Translational Medicine without undue financial hardship.

The MSc in Infection, Immunology and Translational Medicine at the University of Oxford is a comprehensive postgraduate program designed to equip students with in-depth knowledge and practical skills in the fields of infectious diseases, immunology, and the translation of scientific research into clinical applications. The course aims to prepare graduates for careers in biomedical research, clinical practice, and healthcare innovation. The program covers a broad range of topics including the immune response to pathogens, mechanisms of infectious diseases, vaccine development, immune system disorders, and the latest advances in translational medicine. Students engage with advanced coursework, laboratory research, and clinical case studies to develop a multidisciplinary understanding of how immunological principles are applied in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of infectious diseases.

The program typically involves a combination of lectures, seminars, practical laboratory sessions, and research projects. Students may have opportunities to collaborate with leading scientists and clinicians at Oxford's world-renowned institutions, such as the Nuffield Department of Medicine and the Jenner Institute, fostering a rich environment for learning and innovation. The curriculum is designed to be flexible, allowing students to tailor their studies according to their interests and career aspirations. Assessment methods usually include written assignments, exams, laboratory reports, and a dissertation or research project carried out under academic supervision.

Graduates of the MSc in Infection, Immunology and Translational Medicine are well-prepared for further research, such as PhD studies, or for employment in the healthcare sector, biodefense, pharmaceutical industries, and public health organizations. The program benefits from Oxford’s extensive network of research facilities, clinical partnerships, and policy bodies, offering students unique opportunities for internships, networking, and professional development.

The program's duration typically spans one year for full-time students, with part-time options sometimes available. The university places strong emphasis on research-led teaching, ensuring students are knowledgeable about the latest scientific developments. Admission requirements generally include an undergraduate degree in a relevant field such as biomedical sciences, medicine, or related disciplines, along with evidence of academic excellence and a keen interest in infectious disease research.

Overall, the MSc in Infection, Immunology and Translational Medicine at Oxford is a rigorous academic program designed to produce skilled professionals capable of advancing global health through innovative research and clinical excellence.