Course Description

MSc in Diagnostics and Precision Medicine



The MSc in Diagnostics and Precision Medicine is a blended-learning programme that details how diagnostics and therapeutics are revolutionising healthcare and medicine by providing the right person with the right therapy at the right time.

Recent advances in the understanding of normal and diseased states has led to revolutionary new treatments for conditions such as cancer, inflammatory diseases and inherited diseases. Furthermore, advances in science and technology have resulted in the development of new biomedical assays to (a) diagnose diseases and conditions more accurately (b) classify disease more precisely (c) approach treatment more individually and (d) identify who is at risk of developing a disease or condition.

Such advances in diagnostics and therapeutics have ushered in an exciting new era known as Precision Medicine, which refers to prevention and treatment strategies that takes patient variability into account (people’s genes, environment and lifestyles) by providing the right patient with the right medicine at the right time. As an example, the treatment of several cancers have shifted away from the “One-Size-Fits-All” approach of treatment (e.g. chemotherapy) to a more focused and tailored strategy where targeted therapies are matched according to the molecular profile of a patient’s tumour. In this situation, variations in the sequence, structure or expression of that person’s DNA, RNA or protein (i.e. biomarkers) are analysed using clinically-validated diagnostic assays (commonly referred to as Companion Diagnostics) and used to stratify patients so that those who are likely to benefit from these therapies are identified and treated, while who are unlikely to benefit (and may experience unnecessary side effects) can receive alternative treatments.  Similarly, molecular diagnostic assays are increasing used to predict the outcome of a patient’s disease (prognosis), and therefore medical treatments can be tailored accordingly.

The MSc in Diagnostics and Precision Medicine was established in 2018 as Ireland’s first postgraduate course in precision medicine. It was also one of the first courses worldwide to deliver structured module-based training at postgraduate level on the latest advances in diagnostics and therapeutics and their relevance for precision medicine.

The programme is aimed at:

  • Life scientists (including newly qualified graduates)
  • Professionals from the diagnostics, biopharmaceutical, pharmaceutical and healthcare industries
  • Medical Practitioners (including General Practitioners and clinicians-in-training)

Who wish to:

  • Develop and broaden their knowledge of how new therapies including targeted therapeutics, cell-based therapies and gene modulation technologies are revolutionising the treatment of diseases such as cancer, inflammatory diseases and inherited diseases
  • Understand how the integration of diagnostics and therapeutics are changing the landscape of healthcare and medicine through Precision Medicine
  • Pursue a career in the biomedical diagnostics, biomedical science and biopharmaceutical industries
  • Develop/consolidate their research skills with a view to undertaking further research (e.g. PhD or MD)
  • Develop their critical analysis skills and enhance their professional development

For more information, see: https://www.dcu.ie/courses/postgraduate/school-biotechnology/msc-diagnostics-and-precision-medicine

CollegeDublin City University (DCU)
Course LocationGlasnevin, Dublin
Location PostcodeDublin 9
Course CategoryMedicine & Healthcare
Awarding BodyDublin City University
Awarding Body DetailsMSc in Diagnostics and Precision Medicine
Entry RequirementsGeneral Entry Requirements For admission to the MSc in Diagnostics and Precision Medicine candidates must have a primary degree that equates to an NFQ Level 8 Second-Class Honours, Grade 1 Award (H2.1) in a Life Science, Pharmaceutical, Medical or Chemical discipline. In addition, candidates who hold a primary degree (NFQ Level 8), with a Second-Class Honours, Grade 2 Award (H2.2) in one of the relevant degrees and with industrial experience will be considered. International candidates who are non-native speakers of English must satisfy the University of their competancy in the English language. More information about DCU's English language requirements can be found here. Fees Full time EU Status Fee €6,812 per annum Non EU Fee €13,000 per annum Part time EU Status Fee Part-time 5 Credit Module €370/Dissertation (30 credits) €2,220/Part time capitation fee €170 Non EU Fee Part time 5 Credit Module €713 /Dissertation (30 credits) €4,278/Part time capitation fee €170
Carear PathGraduates will find employment in industry, clinical, healthcare and academic environments. This includes the diagnostics and biopharmaceutical industries, life science and clinical trials companies, as well as academic research centres. In addition, our graduates have also gone on to pursue further research (e.g. a PhD) as well as gaining entry to Graduate Medicine programmes.
Phone+353 (0) 1 700 5961
Course CodeDC739 (Full-Time) & DC740 (Part-Time)
For information about Dublin City University (DCU), please visit our College Profile page on Postgrad.ie by clicking here.

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Dublin City University (DCU)
Glasnevin
Dublin 9, Glasnevin, Dublin
Ireland
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