Never before has this area of study been so publicised. The importance of infection and its control, being so visible during the coronavirus pandemic, highlighted the need for scientists who can contribute to infectious disease research from an understanding of epidemiology, to public health measures and how the immune system responds to viruses and vaccines.
Introduction
Our Infection and Immunity MSc programme will develop your understanding and skills within infectious disease, immunology, therapeutics and vaccines that connects with world class infection-related research and interfaces with clinical and global health issues.
You will be taught by internationally-renowned infection and health scientists and clinicians in practice, to provide in-depth scientific knowledge and you will receive training for research that can be applied to academic, commercial and healthcare settings.
In addition, you will learn digital, programming and informatic skills that are of increasing importance for research and many employers.
Please note that this programme is suitable for intercalating medical students.
What you'll learn
Develop core skills in critically evaluating issues associated with emerging infectious disease and pandemics
Statistical techniques in the design of experiments in biological research
Develop core skills in critically evaluating design and implementation of diagnostics, therapeutics and vaccines
Theoretical and technical knowledge in sequence analysis, phylogenetics, and the modelling of proteins, and others
Coding skills to perform tasks in the biological sciences
Develop principal skills in presenting immunological interactions and responses
Course content
Discover what you'll learn, what you'll study, and how you'll be taught and assessed.
Semester one
Compulsory modules
INTRODUCTION TO RESEARCH (LIFE702)
Credits: 30 /
Semester: whole session
This module will prepare students for their MSc research project. Students will work under the guidance of their research project supervisor to acquire the knowledge and skills they will need for their MSc research project. Students will work in collaboration with their supervisor to identify skills and knowledge essential for their MSc research project and to devise a plan of work to address these. Students are expected to work independently through their plan of work, with guidance provided by their supervisor at regular meetings. Students will create a reflective portfolio of work which will highlight how and where the skills have been developed. Students will perform a literature search and write a literature review based on their project area, as well as write a grant proposal. Upon completion of this module, students will progress on to their MSc research project module.
BIOLOGICAL DATA SKILLS (LIFE707)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 1
Data skills are essential for a career in modern biology. Biological studies increasingly involve the generation of large or complex sets of data, and the ability to analyse data is a core component of a successful biologist’s skill set. Digital fluency is also required more widely outside biological research and a grounding in data analysis is in demand by a broad range of employers. Here you will learn the ability to visualise data, critically test hypotheses, and to interpret and present results.
The learning and teaching materials are delivered as an online set of resources (available through Canvas) coupled with computer-based practical workshops. The module will also introduce students to the powerful open access statistical software package, R.
The module will be assessed by a written data analysis report and an open-book exam
For any students studying off-campus – due to a placement in industry or studying at an overseas University – on-line drop-in sessions will be provided instead of the practical workshops.
INFORMATICS FOR LIFE SCIENCES (LIFE721)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 1
Bioinformatics is a key skill needed in many research settings. This module gives students a theoretical and technical grounding in a range of application areas including bioinformatics-related topics such as sequence analysis, phylogenetics, and the modelling of proteins, and others. While lectures are provided on core topics, there is a strong emphasis on practical exercises to demonstrate the application of common tools and data sources in these contexts. Teaching is delivered in the form of a weekly lecture and workshops. Students will be given guided reading and online activities to support their learning. The module will be assessed by two coursework assessments. The assessments will allow students to demonstrate their understanding of the tools used in workshops and interpretation of results.
CODING FOR LIFE SCIENCES (LIFE733)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 1
This module is aimed at postgraduate students in the Biosciences, wishing to learn about methods for use in data-intensive research. The module provides a broad introduction to the use of Python coding for performing basic tasks in the biological sciences. The student will get practical experience in writing their own Python scripts for basic bioinformatics tasks, such as manipulating DNA, RNA and protein sequences, file input/output and working with other programs, such as BLAST. There is also an introduction to data visualisation using Python, and simple techniques used in data science.
Around 10 hours of lectures will be provided on core topics, with a strong emphasis on practical activity in workshops (totalling around 40 hours), allowing students to gain confidence in writing scripts for their own tasks. The module will be assessed by two short coding assignments, one team working coding assignment building a bioinformatics pipeline, and a data science mini-project.
Emerging Infections and Pandemics (LIFE751)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 1
This is a key module for students on the MSc Infection and Immunity Programme and might also be taken by other MSc, MBioSci and MRes students whose interests include infection and immunology. The module is topical in light of the pandemic and will address areas of research-connected infection biology teaching across areas of broad relevance to infectious disease, as well as to coronavirus. The module includes research connected lectures, workshops and structured discussions on selected texts as student-led topics. The content will focus on areas of infectious disease that support the programme and are relevant in that: (i) they are current/topical or (ii) they address fundamental questions of general importance. In addition, students will also be supported with key research and ideas in emerging infections and pandemics, showing how interconnected interconnected nature of health and disease through integrating aspects of biology and society. The module assessments are aimed at: 1) writing a report on a selected emerging pathogen that communicates the multifactorial considerations for researchers and society 2) presentation of a key factor that contributes to or affects disease emergence and the response by society or an agency. The factor focused on will be selected from workshops and student-led discussions
Any optional modules listed above are illustrative only and may vary from year to year. Modules may be subject to minimum student numbers being achieved and staff availability. This means that the availability of specific optional modules cannot be guaranteed.
Semester two
Compulsory modules
INTRODUCTION TO RESEARCH (LIFE702)
Credits: 30 /
Semester: whole session
This module will prepare students for their MSc research project. Students will work under the guidance of their research project supervisor to acquire the knowledge and skills they will need for their MSc research project. Students will work in collaboration with their supervisor to identify skills and knowledge essential for their MSc research project and to devise a plan of work to address these. Students are expected to work independently through their plan of work, with guidance provided by their supervisor at regular meetings. Students will create a reflective portfolio of work which will highlight how and where the skills have been developed. Students will perform a literature search and write a literature review based on their project area, as well as write a grant proposal. Upon completion of this module, students will progress on to their MSc research project module.
Immunology (LIFE728)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 2
This is a key module for students on the MSc Infection and Immunity Programme and might also be taken by other MSc, MBioSci and MRes students whose interests include infection and immunology. The module is topical in light of the pandemic and will address areas of research-connected immunology teaching across areas of broad relevance to infectious disease, as well as to coronavirus. The module includes research connected lectures, workshops and structured discussions on selected texts as student-led seminars. The content will focus on areas of immunology that support the programme and are relevant in that: (i) they are current/topical or (ii) they address fundamental questions of general importance. In addition, students will also be supported with key research and ideas in immune mechanisms and host defence, showing how research fields progress and our understanding of defence mechanisms develop. The module assessments are aimed at: 1) using graphics to show illustratively specific and complex immunological host-pathogen interactions and will aid skills in image design; and 2) poster presentation to demonstrate immunological interactions based on the student-led workshops on host defence and microbial evasion.
Diagnostics, Therapeutics and Vaccines (LIFE732)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 2
For students with interests in infection biology, the module will enhance skills and enable critically evaluation of key concepts, technologies and multifactorial considerations circumscribing diagnostics, therapeutics and vaccines. The module is topical in light of the current pandemic. The research-connected teaching will focus on prevention, limitation and treatment of infectious disease.
The module comprises lectures, workshops and seminars and uses active-learning delivery methods to ensure students can synthesise and evaluate relative merits, attributes, issues and applications of the topics. There are two coursework assessments in the module: 1) writing a report on a selected emerging pathogen that communicates the multifactorial considerations for researchers and society 2) presentation of a key factor that contributes to or affects disease emergence and the response by society or an agency. Materials will be included on the VLE to develop digital fluency and promote assimilation and appraisal of the module content.
Any optional modules listed above are illustrative only and may vary from year to year. Modules may be subject to minimum student numbers being achieved and staff availability. This means that the availability of specific optional modules cannot be guaranteed.
Final project
Compulsory modules
MSC RESEARCH PROJECT (LIFE703)
Credits: 60 /
Semester: summer
In this module students will work on a research project in their chosen area of study under the supervision of a project supervisor. Students are expected to work independently, with guidance provided by their supervisor. Students will create a plan of work at the start of the project, and will present their work orally, as well as write a final project report. Students will also be assessed on their approach and technique during the project. Students will defend their work in a viva at the end of the module. This module will give students experience in conducting their own independent research project, and the presentation of this work through oral and written formats.
Any optional modules listed above are illustrative only and may vary from year to year. Modules may be subject to minimum student numbers being achieved and staff availability. This means that the availability of specific optional modules cannot be guaranteed.
How you'll learn
You will experience a range of teaching and learning methods, including lectures, seminars, workshops, group discussion and e-learning.
Programme modules encourage individual and group work where you will tackle problems by developing ideas and hypotheses, design learning strategies to solve problems, and then analyse and interpret your findings.
Course material is available 24-hours a day on Canvas, our online learning platform. One-to-one meetings with your research supervisor will allow you to discuss science, develop your critical thinking and creativity through an ongoing feedback model.
Your master research project provides a full academic research experience, including the planning, execution and communication of scientific research.
How you're assessed
Assessment of knowledge and understanding, practical skills and transferrable skills is through a blended mix of coursework that may include practical and project reports, essays, completion of workbooks, talks, data handling sessions and posters.
All modules will provide you with feedback on your learning progress and allow for adjustment of your learning. Electronic resources available on the University virtual learning environment support learning and teaching.
Liverpool Hallmarks
We have a distinctive approach to education, the Liverpool Curriculum Framework, which focuses on research-connected teaching, active learning, and authentic assessment to ensure our students graduate as digitally fluent and confident global citizens.
Course options
Studying with us means you can tailor your degree to suit you. Here's what is available on this course.
This course is led by the Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences. The Institute integrates cutting-edge research in infectious diseases, veterinary science, ecology and evolution to benefit people, animals and ecosystems, nationally and globally. Their work addresses major societal challenges, including emerging infectious diseases, food security, antimicrobial resistance and the impacts of environmental change. Research-led teaching provides exciting opportunities for students, who will form the next generation of researchers and medical and veterinary clinical practitioners.
Commercial sectors such as the pharmaceutical, biotechnology and agriculture industries are employers of our graduates, especially with the increase of next-generation sequencing and the corresponding data analysis that is required. Graduates have also developed careers in conservation or qualified to immediately go into industries.
Career support from day one to graduation and beyond
Past graduates of the School of Biosciences have continued their academic careers as research assistants or pursued further study leading to a PhD.
There is also a current demand for science teachers and following the completion of a PGCE, this master’s is suitable for those interested in a career in teaching. In fact, many of our graduates pursue careers in a wide range of fields, including management, where the skills obtained through this degree are of considerable benefit.
Fees and funding
Your tuition fees, funding your studies, and other costs to consider.
Tuition fees
UK fees (applies to Channel Islands, Isle of Man and Republic of Ireland)
Full-time place, per year
£13,300
International fees
Full-time place, per year
£28,300
Fees stated are for the 2025-26 academic year.
Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching and assessment, operating facilities such as libraries, IT equipment, and access to academic and personal support.
If you're a UK national, or have settled status in the UK, you may be eligible to apply for a Postgraduate Loan worth up to £12,167 to help with course fees and living costs. Learn more about fees and funding.
Additional costs
We understand that budgeting for your time at university is important, and we want to make sure you understand any course-related costs that are not covered by your tuition fee. This could include buying a laptop, books, or stationery.
We accept a 2:2 honours degree from a UK university, or an equivalent academic qualification from a similar non-UK institution. This degree should be in a Biological Sciences subject or equivalent. Candidates must have a scientific background acceptable to the Programme Director.
International qualifications
If you hold a bachelor’s degree or equivalent, but don’t meet our entry requirements, a Pre-Master’s can help you gain a place. This specialist preparation course for postgraduate study is offered on campus at the University of Liverpool International College, in partnership with Kaplan International Pathways. Although there’s no direct Pre-Master’s route to this MSc, completing a Pre-Master’s pathway can guarantee you a place on many other postgraduate courses at The University of Liverpool.
International applicants who do not meet the minimum required standard of English language can complete one of our Pre-Sessional English courses to achieve the required level.
English language qualification
Requirements
IELTS
6.5 overall, with no component below 6.0
TOEFL iBT
88 overall, with minimum scores of listening 19, writing 19, reading 19 and speaking 20. TOEFL Home Edition not accepted.
Duolingo English Test
120 overall, with no component below 105
Pearson PTE Academic
61 overall, with no component below 59
LanguageCert Academic
70 overall, with no skill below 65
PSI Skills for English
B2 Pass with Merit in all bands
INDIA Standard XII
National Curriculum (CBSE/ISC) - 75% and above in English. Accepted State Boards - 80% and above in English.
WAEC
C6 or above
PRE-SESSIONAL ENGLISH
Do you need to complete a Pre-Sessional English course to meet the English language requirements for this course?
The length of Pre-Sessional English course you’ll need to take depends on your current level of English language ability.
Liverpool bursts with diversity and creativity which makes it ideal for you to undertake your postgraduate studies and access various opportunities for you and your family.
To fully immerse yourself in the university experience living in halls will keep you close to campus where you can always meet new people. Find your home away from home.
Discover what expenses are covered by the cost of your tuition fees and other finance-related information you may need regarding your studies at Liverpool.
Contact us
Have a question about this course or studying with us? Our dedicated enquiries team can help.
