Cancer and Cell Biology MSc

**Please check the Sheffield Hallam University website for the latest information.**<br/><br/>**Course Summary**<br/><br/><br/>- Explore cell biology and the molecular processes driving cancer.<br/><br/><br/>- Develop applied research techniques using state-of-the-art laboratory facilities.<br/><br/><br/>- Build confidence in presenting your work to academic and professional audiences.<br/><br/><br/>- Enhance your investigative skills, including the design, execution and interpretation of practical work.<br/><br/><br/>Cancer remains a significant global challenge and a growing area of research. Our MSc version of the course provides an in-depth knowledge of cell biology and the molecular changes leading to cancer, alongside approaches to diagnosis and treatment. Youll be taught by research-active staff and practising clinicians, gaining laboratory and research skills at the forefront of the cancer field.<br/><br/>To complete an extended research project, see our MRes Cancer and Cell Biology course.<br/><br/>**How You Learn**<br/><br/>You’ll study in an engaging and supportive environment, designed to develop your independence, critical thinking and professional skills. The course follows our Hallam Model, ensuring an applied, collaborative and industry-relevant approach to your learning.<br/><br/>Lectures introduce key concepts, with interactive discussions and problem-solving exercises to encourage deeper learning. Youll engage with recent scientific developments and apply theoretical knowledge in practical settings, reflecting on your learning through discussions with peers and tutors.<br/><br/>Key skills are embedded throughout the course to enhance your employability – including scientific writing, literature and database searching, data handling and critical analysis. These skills are particularly developed in your research project, where youll gain experience in designing, managing and conducting independent research.<br/><br/>You learn through:<br/><br/><br/>- lectures and seminars<br/><br/><br/>- interactive workshops<br/><br/><br/>- practical laboratory classes<br/><br/><br/>- an independent research project <br/><br/><br/>- small group academic tutorials<br/><br/><br/>**Key themes**<br/><br/>You’ll study current and developing cellular and molecular concepts that underpin cell behaviours, and the processes that lead to cancer. Youll progress from tutor-led learning to student-centred exploration, supported by continuous guidance and constructive feedback.<br/><br/>In trimester 1, you’ll develop underpinning knowledge alongside structured laboratory classes, gaining techniques to prepare you for practical cancer research. In trimester 2, you’ll build on this knowledge to explore therapeutic approaches, as well as taking elective modules to explore cutting-edge concepts in big data analysis or translational research. <br/><br/>You’ll also prepare for a research project in trimester 3, building critical literature analysis skills that help you to undertake genuine research in the fields of cellular and cancer biology, under the supervision of our research-active staff.<br/><br/>**Course-level support**<br/><br/>You’ll be supported in your learning journey towards highly skilled, graduate-level employment through a number of key areas. These include:<br/><br/><br/>- access to academic and career development support<br/><br/><br/>- one-to-one guidance from student support advisers<br/><br/><br/>- online and in-person resources from the Skills Centre, including assignment planning and structuring assistance<br/><br/><br/>**Applied learning**<br/><br/>**Networking opportunities**<br/><br/>Youll benefit from strong links with Sheffield Teaching Hospitals and industry professionals, ensuring that your learning aligns with employer needs. Career fairs, mentoring schemes and leadership programmes provide opportunities to connect with experts in cancer research and biotechnology.