MSc in Integrated Immunology
Course content
This one-year full-time taught course begins in October and is divided into three terms. The first two terms comprise taught Units, while the third term is spent on a research project, which will take place within a University of Oxford research group.
Unit 1
In Michaelmas Term you will study the fundamental science of immunology and will be exposed to current thinking across the range of sub-disciplines within our field. Unit 1 is broken down into topic themes that span innate, innate-like and adaptive immunology at a molecular, cellular, tissue and system level. This is integrated with applied aspects of modern immunology including research techniques and ethics, and with related bioscience disciplines such as genetics, cell biology, biochemistry and physiology. The Unit also includes tutor-supported group sessions and activities to build and refine scientific and academic skills including in data interpretation, critical thinking and communication. Additionally, you will benefit from a range of interesting specialist seminars and continuing professional development (CPD) sessions.
Unit 2
In Hilary Term you will study clinical and applied aspects of immunology. Topics covered in this Unit include infection and immunity, immunodeficiencies, autoimmunity and hypersensitivity, tumour immunology, and immunomodulation including drugs, transplantation and vaccinology. This is integrated with relevant scientific and clinical disciplines e.g. virology, bacteriology, mycology and parasitology, clinical oncology and organ-based pathologies, with examples from neurology, rheumatology, and gastroenterology. The Unit also includes regular problem-based learning sessions that interrogate clinical cases or applied problems in immunology, CPD sessions and research seminars.
Unit 3
In Trinity Term you will undertake an original, supervised research project to gain a current and working understanding of research techniques in immunology or a related area. You will undertake a fourteen-week supervised project with two additional weeks write up time, in a University of Oxford laboratory. The research supervisor/s will provide regular guidance during the course of the research project. Supervisors are drawn from the Oxford Immunology Network or the wider University; past projects have taken place widely across the Departments in the Medical Sciences Division.
ASSESSMENT
The degree examination currently comprises five formally assessed components.
| Term 1 | Essay (up to 4000 words) | 20% | Week 8 |
| Computer-based examination on fundamental aspects of immunology | 10% | Week 10 | |
| Term 2 | Clinical case commentaries (two of up to 3,000 words each) | 20% | Week 8 |
| Computer-based examination on applied aspects of immunology | 10% | Week 10 | |
| Term 3 | Dissertation on a research project (up to 10,000 words) | 40% | Late July |
Candidates are also examined by viva voce at the end of each term.
Formative assessments, including of critical writing, poster and oral presentations are also in place throughout the year. These do not contribute to final grades but developmental feedback is given, which students can use to improve their practice and skills, and to inform their summative assessment work.
PRIZES
Each year the Board of Examiners award a 'Best Dissertation' prize to a member of the class.