MSc Molecular Pathology of Cancer / Course details

Diagnostic Molecular Pathology of Solid Cancers unit is a 15 credit, interactive learning course which provides students with a broad knowledge of molecular pathology in the context of the diagnostic histopathology and molecular testing for prognostication and treatment stratification. The unit will be delivered by oncologists, clinical pathologists, and non-clinical academic staff, many of whom are internationally recognised experts in their field. The course employs various teaching styles to cater to different learning preferences and will include lectures, seminars, and workshops. Through this diverse range of instructional methods, students will gain a broad knowledge base and skills necessary to comprehend and apply molecular pathology principles in the diagnosis and management of solid cancers.

To equip students with an advanced knowledge of molecular pathology with a focus on the role of tissue morphology in diagnosis and the role of ancillary molecular tests in refining diagnosis, prognosis, and prediction of treatment response.

The unit spans a duration of one week and employs diverse instructional techniques to facilitate learning, including lectures, seminars, and workshops. The teaching methods employed are adaptable and incorporate a range of multimedia resources. The course follows a blended learning approach, combining face-to-face sessions held on campus with online synchronous and asynchronous sessions. Students are encouraged to assume ownership of their learning process and construct knowledge by actively participating in the sessions, engaging with the provided learning materials, and interacting with both the teaching staff and their fellow students.

Students should/will be able to:

• Understand the significance of tissue morphology in diagnostic practice of solid cancers
• Demonstrate understanding of the principles and the role of diagnostic histopathology for diagnosing a range of solid cancers, including skin, lung, breast, gastrointestinal (GI), prostate and soft tissue cancers
• Recognise the role of molecular testing as a complementary tool to tissue morphology in the diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment stratification of the above solid cancers
• Demonstrate knowledge of the principles and techniques involved in molecular testing for solid cancers
• Acknowledge the importance of effective collaboration of interdisciplinary teams in integrating molecular pathology findings into comprehensive patient care plans
• Demonstrate an awareness of ethical considerations and quality assurance in the practice of molecular pathology for solid cancers

Students should/will be able to:

• Critically evaluate the role of diagnostic molecular pathology in cancer diagnosis and guiding treatment decisions
• Analyse and evaluate the role of molecular markers in patient outcomes
• Recognise the need for continuous professional development and stay abreast of emerging trends and advancements in the field of diagnostic molecular pathology for solid cancers

Students should/will be able to:

• Enhance listening and taking notes skills
• Integrate new facts and concepts from a variety of sources, whilst critically assessing their relevance
• Demonstrate competence, confidence and an investigative approach in learning

Students should/will be able to:

• Demonstrate independent thinking
• Manage time effectively and schedule task in order of importance
• Take responsibility for own learning, to further develop skills and knowledge through active engagement with learning resources

Summative assessment and feedback will be provided in line with University regulations.