Course structure

The programme is modular in structure and consists of seven core modules and one of a number of supplementary modules.

The core modules are obligatory components of the MSc and will be offered over a one (full-time) or two year (part-time) period. Each module is an intensive 5-day course, which is self contained and individually assessed.

There will be a total of 35 hours of instruction, including:

• 20/25 hours of lecturing or skills instructions including tutorials.
• Case studies (application of knowledge)
• Integrative work (problem solving, analysis and development of individual skills)
• Distance learning material – interactive web sites with projects to complete, reading lists and reprints, links to further sources of material related to course work.

Research Project

The research project will form part of the ongoing research themes in the Division and will be allocated early in the course from a selection of topics after discussions between students, supervisors and the Course Director. Candidates who are based in London and/or who are able to attend Imperial College regularly may choose from projects based at Imperial College. Candidates from further afield may choose to do a project based at his or her own workplace provided a suitable project and supervisor are available. The candidate will present a thesis on the topic of between 10,000 to 15,000 words.  This thesis should be submitted by the end of August in the final year. This thesis would usually be based upon laboratory or clinical work, within a programme of research.

Tuition

Teaching methods include lectures (from the Division of Surgery, Oncology, Reproductive Biology & Anaesthetics (SORA) as well as experts from other Imperial College Departments), seminars, tutorials, practical classes and demonstrations.

Amount of work normally required

Students are expected to undertake private study in addition to the formal teaching sessions. In addition they are expected to make use of the material provided on the MSc website and to complete an assignment on the Web inbetween modules. They are also expected to complete a research project in addition within the one or two year period, either at Imperial College or if a suitable project exists, and with the agreement of the Course Director, at their own work place. For the latter arrangement, a suitably qualified supervisor must be appointed and agreed, since liaison will be required with the Imperial College Supervisor.