Students will be trained in science research methods and learn the techniques used in molecular biology. Students will study the biology of disease, tumour biology, immunology, molecular oncology, haematological malignancy, plus diagnostic and therapeutic techniques for cancer.
In addition to an understanding of the principles and practice of core topics in medical science, students will gain in-depth knowledge of oncology topics and their relationship to other medical disciplines.
The research project can be carried out with one of Kingston University London's life science research groups. It is often an excellent selling point when looking for a job or promotion. Students will have the opportunity to work with companies such as GlaxoSmithKline or at a research institute, such as the Institute of Cancer Research and in hospital laboratories.
Kingston University allow students to take the option of a 12-month work placement as part of their course. The responsibility for finding the work placement is with the student; the university cannot guarantee the placement, just the opportunity to undertake it. Students may find securing a professional placement difficult as they are highly competitive and challenging, but they are also incredibly rewarding. It is very important for students to prepare and apply themselves if this is the route they wish to take. Employers look for great written and oral communication skills and an excellent CV/portfolio. As the work placement is an assessed part of the course, it is covered by a student's Student Route visa.
Kingston University work with a variety of employers such as hospitals, community health care, NHS foundation trusts, academic publishers, and pharmaceutical companies, many of which also offer professional experience opportunities for the Cancer Biology MSc students. Graduates have gone on to roles in a wide variety of careers in hospital laboratories, commercial laboratories and cancer research.