Developer Info

At a glance

• Course is accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science
• Supportive Learning Environment and Personal Tutor System
• You will be eligible for Chartered Scientist (CSci) title on completion of the programme
• This part-time programme that can be completed alongside full-time employment
• Successful completion of the programme can enhance career advancement within the workplace or lead to progression to Ph.D

Course overview

If you are a practicing Biomedical Scientist and looking for an MSc. that is accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science, this could be the course for you.  We also accept suitably qualified students who do not work in virology laboratories. To our knowledge, it is the only course of its kind to be offered as distance learning.

This programme was primarily designed to provide a distance learning opportunity for staff working in diagnostic virology laboratories, although many students who don’t fall into this category have also successfully completed the course.

Much of the learning material has been developed by practicing virologists working at the forefront of diagnostic virology in the UK, and because of the online format, the curriculum is regularly updated to reflect the dynamic nature of virology.

The first year of the programme includes introductory material that underpins the more specialist content of the modules taught in the second year. The third year is spent undertaking a Research Project in the workplace, and for those who do not have this opportunity, we offer an alternative equivalent Dissertation.

Modules

Principles of Virology
Understanding and Controlling Viruses
Viral Zoonoses
Viral Infections of the Respiratory and Alimentary Tracts
Blood-borne Viruses and Sexually Transmitted Infections
Viral Infections of Pregnancy and Childhood
Research Methods
Research Project or Dissertation

All learning materials are delivered by Blackboard, LJMU’s Virtual Learning Environment.  You will have access to an extensive database of e-journals and e-books to extend your reading, providing access for students all over the world. The programme emphasises on independent student learning and each module provides you with the opportunity to explore current literature and information.

Introduction to the School

The Teaching Quality Assessment claims that ‘the close relationship between the students and teaching staff in Biomolecular Sciences provides a very harmonious and effective teaching environment’.

Staff research interests

The School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences conducts research in a diverse range of areas including:Microbiology; Cell Biology; Biochemistry; Toxicology; Genetics; Forensic Science; Drug Delivery; Materials Science;; Medicinal Chemistry (for which the School houses specialised equipment); Pharmacy Practice; QSAR and Modelling, using sophisticated computer programmes.

How will I be assessed?

Most taught modules have a written exam, and two assignments, that are essays, critiques of scientific papers etc.  Two modules do not have an exam and are assessed by two assignments.   The research project and dissertation are examined by both a written report and an oral presentation.  Students can elect to come to Liverpool for the presentation, or deliver it via video link. UK students sit exams at designated venues, which may involve some travel, and individual arrangements are made for overseas students.  

What do past and present students say about the course?

"This course has provided me with a breadth and depth of knowledge of medical virology that has greatly helped me in my work as a virology biomedical scientist.  The design of the course is particularly suited to people in full-time employment who may otherwise not have the opportunity to study."

"Completing the MSc has given me the impetus to continue my scientific education, and having this extra qualification has helped me in my applications for a PhD in virology."

"The organisation of the course is ideal for the distance learning format, with the ability to structure the study around your existing work being invaluable. Coupled with the support provided by your tutor and the University, the structure allows you to progress steadily."

Entry requirements

Entrants should hold a relevant Biosciences degree (e.g. Microbiology, Biomedical Sciences etc.) of classification 2:2 or higher.

Professional experience, publications, CPD activities and other suitable evidence of accomplishment will be taken into account, and the candidate may be interviewed by the Programme Leader.

Industry experience: Please refer to Admissions Hub

In addition, international students should hold IELTS English language at a minimum of 6.5 or equivalent

Minimum TOEFL requirements:
Listening - 17
Reading - 18
Speaking - 20
Writing - 17

Applicants who do not hold an Honours degree in a relevant biological science will be considered on their individual merits in relation to the programme.

All applicants must provide a satisfactory reference from a suitable person such as their employer or line manager.

An intake of students is recruited in August every year.

INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS: Please note that as this is a Distance Learning programme that the usual rules in terms of UK Visas and restriction to full-time study do not apply to MSc Virology.

Application and Selection

To discuss the programme please contact Dr Anne Humphreys at A.M.Humphreys@ljmu.ac.uk or call 0151 231 2205

Will I be interviewed?

No

Fees information

Please contact the admissions team for details

Financial support

Securing funding is one of the main hurdles you may have to face when considering Postgraduate study. However there is help available and you may be able to apply for funding from the sources below.

Loans

This will normally be from a bank. The most popular of these is a Professional and Career Development Loan (PCDL). These loans are from £300 to £10,000 in value and can be used to cover up to 80% of your course fees. Further Information from www.direct.gov.uk and look for PCDL

Charities and Trusts

Trusts and charities can offer assistance to some students. Eligibility for these trusts and charities vary enormously. Your local library will have a section of books and directories of grant making trusts.

Research Councils

Research councils may provide support for recognised postgraduate courses. Their websites offers useful information regarding the support and funding opportunities on offer. Competition for this type of funding can be very strong. For more information about Research Councils visit: www.rcuk.ac.uk

Statutory funding

You need to be aware that most PG courses do not attract statutory funding. The ones that do attract statutory support (grants and/or loans) that we offer at LJMU are:

• PGCE courses , for more information please vist www.directgov.co.uk and www.tda.gov.uk
• MA social work for which an NHS bursary is payable to some students. For more information please visit www.nhsbsa.nhs.uk
• PG dip in Architecture

Advice and support at LJMU

LJMU offers a Postgraduate bursary of £500 to students who go from an undergraduate course to study a taught PG course. For further information and eligibility see http://www.ljmu.ac.uk/feesandfunding/117585.htm

LJMU employs a team of staff that are experts in fees and funding who can offer advice based upon your personal circumstances. You can contact them on 0151 904 6056/6057, or email studentadvice@ljmu.ac.uk for guidance and support.

How to apply

Please contact the programme leader

LJMU's Admissions policy is in line with the University's Equal Opportunities Policy and applications are welcome from all candidates who fulfil the entry criteria. The university has a commitment to equality of opportunity and welcomes application from everyone regardless of age, disability, race or sex. The University is committed to widening participation and therefore will actively consider applicants who do not have a relevant degree but who are able to provide satisfactory evidence of their knowledge in the area. All applicants will be considered by the Recruitment and Selection Panel, if shortlisted applicants will be asked to attend for an interview.

International students

LJMU offers an extensive support system through its international office and study centre. An equivalence to the normal entry requirements is needed for entry. Students must also demonstrate a proficiency in communicating through English, for example with an IELTS tests or equivalent. Please note that because of UK visa restrictions, International students are only permitted to study on a full-time basis. Please contact LJMU’s International Team by visiting www.ljmu.ac.uk/international for more information and advice.

Further information

Please contact the Faculty of Science on:

tel: 0151 231 2888
fax: 0151 207 3224
email: ScienceAdmissions@ljmu.ac.uk

If you have any queries relating to LJMU or university life in general please contact:

Course Enquiries
Tel: +44(0)151 231 5090
Email: courses@ljmu.ac.uk
Web: www.ljmu.ac.uk