Master's Programme in Precision Medicine

The first year consists of courses aimed at providing students with a broad knowledge of medical genetics, molecular diagnostics, and precision medicine. As a student, you will learn about the technologies used for molecular diagnostics. You will also gain practical knowledge in the computer-based methods used to analyse molecular data and image diagnostics, including programming, biostatistics, machine learning, and handling of sensitive personal data.

The second year begins with a project course that involves a significant amount of independent work, where students conduct and present analyses of previously published data and real patient data. Students also learn about the precision diagnostics and treatments used in clinical routines today, as well as the ongoing research and development in the field. At the end of the programme, the student undertakes a Master's project of either 45 credits or 30 credits, in combination with an additional elective course.

Courses within the programme

Semester 1

• Medical Genetics and Cancer - Molecular Mechanisms, 15 credits
• Introduction to programming in R, 7.5 credits
• Biostatistics, 7.5 credits

Semester 2

• Molecular Techniques and Data Analysis in Precision Medicine I, 7.5 credits
• Introduction to machine learning and artificial intelligence in the life sciences, 7.5 credits
• Molecular Techniques and Data Analysis in Precision Medicine II, 15 credits

Semester 3

• Applied Precision Medicine, 15 credits
• Elective course(s), 15 credits, alternatively 45 credits degree project

Semester 4

• Degree project, 30 credits, alternatively 45 credits.

The teaching consists of lectures, laboratories, seminars, group exercises and project work. The programme is directly linked to ongoing research and clinical applications and our teachers are active researchers with deep specialist knowledge in the subjects. Some parts of the programme are compulsory where you are expected to actively participate. You are expected to take responsibility for your studies. Your acquired knowledge will be continuously evaluated during the training through oral and written presentations, seminars and exams.

Part of the teaching is done by specially invited guest lecturers who work in different environments outside the academy, for example, healthcare or industry. Through these lectures, you will not only gain an understanding of how your skills will be used in working life but also opportunities to make valuable contacts before the degree project and with future employers.

A mandatory seminar series with lectures on, among other things, research ethics, presentation techniques and bioethics is given during the first semester.

The programme is given in English and the studies are conducted full-time in Uppsala.

Precision medicine will play an increasingly important role in healthcare in the future. There will be an increased demand for personnel with training in the field and practical experience in analysing the produced data. The need for training in precision medicine and data analysis in the healthcare sector is growing, as more hospitals and politicians realise the benefits of using computer-based diagnostics at an increasing degree.

As a student in the Master's programme in Precision Medicine, you are expected to have a broad job market both nationally and internationally. You receive solid theoretical training coupled with hands-on practical experience in analysing and interpreting large-scale biological data in relation to precision medicine. When you have finished the programme, your skills will make you attractive in a strongly growing job market in health and healthcare, the medical technology industry or for continued research training in academia, both nationally and internationally, at organisations such as:

• universities,
• hospitals,
• pharmaceutical companies,
• The Swedish Medical Agency,
• clinical genetics,
• precision medicine centers.

You will be able to work with, for example:

• Research and Development,
• Patient data analyses,
• Development of disease diagnostics,
• Project management,
• Drug development,
• Management and analysis of Clinical trials.

Career support

During your time as a student, UU Careers offers support and guidance. You have the opportunity to take part in a variety of activities and events that will prepare you for your future career.