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At a Glance

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

Genomics of Neurological Disorders

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During this module, students will get insights into the genetic contribution and complexity of neurological disorders and will learn how to plan investigations and interpret genetic results in the context of a clinical phenotype.

This module is designed for researchers, students with a foundational knowledge of genetics, healthcare professionals and, more specifically, neurologists, clinical nurse specialists in neurology, genetic counsellors and clinical geneticists who wish to develop a special interest in neurogenetics.

This module forms part of the wider Master’s in Genomic Medicine framework.

Description

This module explores the contribution of genomics to neurological disorders. Students will receive refresher sessions focussed on neuroanatomy and the development of the neurological system followed by an introduction to the key diagnostic tools used in neurology. They will learn about the major neurological disorder categories which have a high genetic contribution. The module will explore the value of the multidisciplinary team in phenotyping, interpretation of results, management and family communication.

Throughout the module, students will learn from experts in genomics and related disciplines about:

  • an overview of neurodevelopment and basic neuroanatomical structures;
  • approaches and techniques used in phenotyping of neurological disease (neuroimaging, electrophysiology, pathology);
  • clinical presentation and course of a range of rare inherited and common neurological disorders (for example, neuromuscular, mitochondrial diseases, paediatric neurodevelopmental disorders, neurodegenerative disorders);
  • modelling of multidisciplinary approach to inherited neurological disease; from phenotyping and interpretation of genomic data to management; and
  • the impact of inherited disease on the whole family and considerations for predictive testing (genetic counselling and ethics in practice).

Learning outcomes

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

  • Discuss the molecular basis of neurological diseases and the different technologies required to make a diagnosis.
  • Evaluate the importance of deep phenotyping using specialist investigations and the importance of recognising non-neurological features to aid diagnostics.
  • Reflect on the impact that inherited neurological disorders has on the wider family.
  • Discuss the utility of genomics in the development of novel therapeutics for neurological disorders.

Funding rules

The Genomics Education Programme offers funding on a modular basis, initially covering 1-4 modules, with the potential for additional funding for the full Master’s degree upon demonstrating satisfactory progress. The maximum amount of funding available to each student is the equivalent of 12 modules (180 credits), to cover the full Master’s degree.

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.

More information about the application process for CPPD module(s)/PGCert or PGDip/Master’s applications is available on this webpage.

Timetable

  Start date  
St George’s, University of London / King’s College London November 2024

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.

St Georges, University of London

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