Changing practice and building a cohort of ‘genomics ready’ health professionals

The Master’s in Genomic Medicine framework is an educational programme designed to provide healthcare professionals with a multidisciplinary perspective on genomics and its applications in healthcare.

It is a flexible framework offering a range of qualifications. Individuals can undertake continued personal and professional development (CPPD) modules, a postgraduate certificate or diploma, or a full Master’s degree.

NHS professionals can apply for course funding. Funding is currently available for standalone CPPD modules up to March 2025, though you may be able to complete further modules to lead to a postgraduate qualification. Please see the ‘Funding rules’ section of your chosen module(s) for information.

The purpose

The Master’s framework is intended to support NHS healthcare professionals in developing their knowledge of genomics and how it can be applied to clinical practice and medical research, so they can:

  • Engage

    Liaise with specialist services, colleagues and patients.

  • Educate

    Be involved with the teaching and training of colleagues and students.

  • Inform

    Take part in policy discussions.

  • Research

    Develop clinical academic research careers.

The history of the Master’s

Initiated in 2014, the Master’s was one of the first major initiatives devised and delivered by the Genomics Education Programme (GEP).

The curriculum was first developed by the GEP in collaboration with NHS England and Genomics England, and was fully reviewed and revised in 2018.

A selection of Russell Group universities were commissioned to deliver the framework, and the first intake of funded students began study in 2015.

To date, the GEP has funded more than 1,500 NHS professionals to participate. Read on for some of our alumnis’ feedback.

"The genomics and infectious diseases module offered something that would be extremely beneficial to my career."

Natalie, Second year STP student in bioinformatics (genomics)

"This course has been invaluable in giving me a broad introduction to genomic medicine, next-generation sequencing, analysis and the place for this in clinical practice. I would definitely recommend."

Claire, IBD Pharmacogenetics Research Manager

"This course enables students to engage with current scientific research and the latest available technologies. The modules’ content find a way to be relevant to the diversity of NHS workforce undertaking the course."

Marisa, Higher Level Biomedical Support Worker – Microbiology

"This course will definitely give me options around doing a PhD or working in labs, and will be invaluable for making useful connections and networking."

Joshua, Biomedical Graduate

"Don’t worry if you haven’t got a genetics or molecular biology background, as the staff were very supportive and put on extra tutorials when needed."

Elizabeth, Midwife

The curriculum

The Master’s framework curriculum comprises the following modules – click on each module’s link for further information about the course content.

Some universities have developed additional modules to further enhance and expand the Master’s framework. View our Education page to see all the available courses.

Mandatory

Elective

Optional
Fundamentals in Human Genetics and Genomics Genomics of Common and Rare Inherited Diseases Ethical, Legal and Social Issues in Applied Genomics
Omics Techniques and Technologies and their Application to Genomic Medicine Molecular Pathology of Cancer and Application in Cancer Diagnosis, Treatment and Monitoring Introduction to the Counselling Skills used in Genomic Medicine
Bioinformatics, Interpretation and Data Quality Assurance in Genomic Analysis Pharmacogenomics and Stratified Healthcare Health Economic Evaluation in Genomics
Application of Genomics in Infectious Disease Professional and Research Skills

Our university partners

We are proud to work with these world-leading universities to deliver the Master’s in Genomic Medicine framework.