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At a Glance

Up to 6 weeks
Accredited
Part Time
CPPD (15 credits)
Blended learning

Epigenetics in Human Health and Diseases

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Epigenetics involves the regulation of gene expression without change in the DNA sequence and is a mechanism for the interaction of the genome with environmental exposures. This module will help you understand the role of the epigenome in health and disease and how the epigenome changes with age and in response to environmental and psychosocial factors.

This module forms part of the HEE Genomics Education Programme’s Master’s in Genomic Medicine framework. It is offered by the course providers in addition to the framework’s core and optional modules.

Description

During this course, you will explore the relationship between the genome and the epigenome in the context of human disease.

Learn from leading experts in genomics about:

  • The epigenome, including: epigenetic modifications, such as DNA methylation, histone modification, chromatin remodelling and non-coding RNAs; cellular maintenance of the epigenome; epigenetic control of gene expression, and epigenetics and development.
  • X inactivation and genomic imprinting.
  • The relationship between the genome and the epigenome, including epimutations and methylation quantitative trait loci (mQTL).
  • Epigenomic plasticity: how aging and environmental factors can alter the epigenome.
  • Epigenetic variation, with a special focus on DNA methylation, in human health and disease.
  • Cancer epigenetics, including epigenetic biomarkers in cancer and the emergence of epigenetic therapeutics in cancer treatment.
  • Interrogating the epigenome using experimental techniques and bioinformatics research tools.

Learning outcomes

By the end of the module you will be able to:

  • Understand the structure of the epigenome, including DNA methylation, histone modification and chromatin remodelling.
  • Discuss the function of the epigenome, including the regulation of gene transcription and its relationship to the genome.
  • Know basic epigenetics principles, the role of epigenetic variation in health and disease, and how epigenomic information can facilitate the discovery of underlying disease mechanisms.
  • Critically evaluate the malleable nature of the epigenome in response to aging and environmental factors, and the potential pitfalls in current epigenetic research.
  • Understand how the field of epigenomics is currently applied in the diagnosis, treatment and monitoring of certain cancers, for example prostate cancer.
  • Compare and contrast the different genomic technologies and bioinformatics techniques used to interrogate the epigenome in the context of human health and disease.

Funding rules

Funding covers course fees only and is limited to NHS healthcare professionals working in England on a permanent contract from the full range of professional backgrounds and groups (such as medicine, nursing, healthcare scientists and technologists). Please note funding can only be allocated to those who are post registration professionals. 

University entry requirements may include criteria around existing understanding and minimum English language requirements.

The Genomics Education Programme provides limited funding to the Universities listed below. Please check with your preferred university to obtain details of the programme modules and entry criteria. See below for the key steps in the application process:

Click here to view the application process for CPPD module(s) or postgraduate certificate

Click here to view the application process for extending a PGcert to a PGdip, or a PGdip to a Master’s degree

Timetable

  Start date  
University of Cambridge 22nd April 2024 and 28th April 2025   
University of Exeter TBC  

Please check your preferred university’s website for more detailed information about start dates, length and mode of study.

FAQs

Are applications for funding still open during the Covid-19 pandemic?

Yes. Many of our partner universities are running modules online and funding is available. Please contact your chosen university to discuss your options. You must meet the Health Education England Genomics Education Programme eligibility criteria to receive funding for modules.

I have previously applied and received funding for two modules, but would like to complete two more. Is it possible to transfer my studies to another university?

Yes.  You will need to speak to your chosen university re your requirements. You must also meet the HEE GEP eligibility criteria for funding.

I have previously applied and received funding for two modules, but would like to complete two more. Is it possible to obtain funding?

Yes.  You will need to speak to your chosen university re your requirements. You must also meet the HEE GEP eligibility criteria for funding

I have been awarded funding and started the programme, but I am unable to complete. What are my options?

Funding is awarded for the period specified in the application form and there is no automatic ability to defer completion of the programme. You should speak to your university in the first instance about your situation and also contact the Genomics Education Programme (GEP) team regarding funding.

You may choose to reduce the workload of your programme by switching from, for example, a full Master’s degree to a diploma or certificate. Again, you would need to contact your course provider and the GEP.

How much study time is required to undertake this programme?

Study time will vary across the course providers. You are advised to visit your preferred university’s website for more information or to contact the relevant course lead. Most modules involve around 5 days of face-to-face teaching, followed by 2-4 weeks of independent study and assessment preparation. However, distance learning options are available for most universities.

 

Can I build up my CPPD modules to a full Master’s, PGDip or PGCert qualification?

Funding is allocated on an individual module basis only. Candidates who meet the HEE Genomics Education Programme eligibility criteria for funding can apply for up to four funded modules in the first instance. If you wish to progress to a full Master’s or PGDip, you should discuss options with your chosen university.

I am eligible but have been refused a commissioned place – why?

This may be due to the following potential reasons:

  • The university you have applied to has used up all its commissioned allocations.
  • The total number of available national commissions have been fully allocated.
  • We are now applying controls to the commissioned places based on healthcare profession roles to help ensure equitable access across professions on a national scale.

I am not eligible for a HEE-funded place – can I self-fund?

This should be discussed with your preferred university.

I work for an organisation that provides services to the NHS – am I eligible to apply?

Yes – please provide details of your organisation and its services for the NHS when you apply to your preferred university.

Make an enquiry

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University Providers

Funded

The logos below indicate the university providers that are able to accept HEE funded applications for this course. Follow the links provided to begin your university application process.

University of BirminghamUniversity of CambridgeUniversity of Exeter

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