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At a Glance

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

Pharmacogenomics and Stratified Healthcare

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This lecture-based course provides a comprehensive overview of the analytical strategies and techniques used in pharmacogenomics, and outlines how a patient’s genetic make-up can determine their response to medication.

This module forms part of the HEE Genomics Education Programme’s Master’s in Genomic Medicine framework.

Description

During this course, you will learn about some of the challenges and limitations in the field of pharmacogenomics and the different types of genomic biomarkers – the predictive tools for optimising drug responses and preventing adverse reactions.

You will learn from leading experts in genomics about:

  • The genomic basis of drug reaction and drug efficacy, the ethnic differences that apply; and how these are implemented in prescribing practice.
  • Challenges and limitations of pharmacogenetic studies, including the availability of patient samples for studies of adverse drug reactions; allelic heterogeneity between different ethnic groups, and patient compliance with the drug regime.
  • Different types and examples of genomic-targeted intervention and how to tailor drug treatments to improve a patient’s response.
  • Genomic biomarkers: SNPs, variability of short sequence repeats, haplotypes, DNA modifications; for example, methylation, deletions or insertions, copy number variants, RNA expression levels, RNA splicing, microRNA levels.
  • Use of biomarkers in treatments other than cancer.
  • Use of genomic information for targeted drug development.
  • Companion diagnostics and options for NHS service delivery models.
  • Availability of direct-to-consumer testing and the implications for pharmacogenomics testing.

Learning outcomes

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

  • Evaluate the genomic basis of drug reaction and drug efficacy.
  • Appraise the strategies and analytical approaches for stratifying patients.
  • Analyse the challenges and limitations of pharmacogenetic studies.
  • Evaluate the different types of biomarkers used in personalised medicine.
  • Critically evaluate how genomic information can enable the development of drugs targeted for particular genotypes.
  • Critically evaluate the use of pharmacogenetic testing for patient stratification and the integration into standard healthcare.
  • Evaluate ethical, legal and social issues relating to patient stratification.
  • Appreciate the importance of patient choice regarding treatment plans.

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  
Imperial College London TBC
Queen Mary University of London / University College London TBC
St George’s, University of London / King’s College London 15th January 2025
University of Birmingham TBC
University of Cambridge 03rd March 2025  
University of Exeter TBC
University of Manchester 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.

Imperial College LondonQueen Marys University of London / University College LondonSt Georges, University of LondonUniversity of BirminghamUniversity of CambridgeUniversity of ExeterUniversity of Manchester

Self Funded

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

The University of SheffieldUniversity of Southampton

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