This master’s in Clinical Sciences advances expertise in molecular mechanisms that underpin human health with cutting-edge clinical applications, equipping students with globally relevant skills. The course offers a unique balance of in-depth taught material coupled with a hands-on research project in the final semester. Students will explore advanced techniques like cutting-edge organoid models and ex-vivo techniques, bridging the gap between lab discoveries and clinical innovation.
The Clinical Sciences MSc is designed to advance the students’ expertise in the molecular and cellular mechanisms that underpin human health, alongside cutting-edge clinical applications. This programme offers an integrative approach that spans fundamental biomedical sciences to advanced translational research, all under the broad theme of Molecules, Cells, Tissues, and Clinical Practice. The programme couples in depth taught material to gain further insight into cellular mechanisms in health and disease, with a final semester, hands-on, independent research project.
The curriculum has been designed to deepen your understanding of how biomedical research drives innovation in clinical settings with research-led approaches embedded throughout. From 2D and 3D cell culture models to in vivo and ex vivo systems, you will explore a wide range of experimental techniques that are currently at forefront of biomedical science. The programme places a strong emphasis on the translational aspects of clinical research and how it feeds into medical interventions, equipping the students to bridge the gap between laboratory research and clinical implementation.
This programme is designed for students who require an in-depth knowledge of biomedical and clinical sciences, and will equip you with globally-relevant skills to address critical healthcare challenges through cutting-edge research methodologies. You will engage with state-of-the-art techniques in topics such as advanced bioinformatics, organoid and embryonic stem cell model systems, as well as incorporating uniquely-advanced training in the regulatory frameworks that govern translational medicine. Examples of the latter include the application of the 3Rs principles (Replacement, Reduction, Refinement) and the latest discussions on how embryonic stem cell research drives diagnostics and regenerative medicine. Throughout the programme, you will develop comprehensive skills, bringing in research integrity, ethical publishing and scientific communication, all well beyond basic technical proficiency. This comprehensive skillset will enhance your ability to conduct and disseminate research with a clear global impact.
Discover what you'll learn, what you'll study, and how you'll be taught and assessed.
ILCMS702 – Molecules, Cells, Tissues
MCMR003 – Research Frontiers in Clinical Sciences 1
LIFE707 – Biological Data Skills
Modules listed are subject to approval – the full module structure for this course will be available soon.
| Compulsory modules | Credits |
|---|---|
| BIOLOGICAL DATA SKILLS (LIFE707) | 15 |
| RESEARCH FRONTIERS IN CLINICAL SCIENCES 1 (MCMR003) | 15 |
Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.
ILCMS703 – Cells, Tissues, Clinic
MCMR002 – Transferable Skills
MCMR004 – Research Frontiers in Clinical Sciences 2
Modules listed are subject to approval – the full module structure for this course will be available soon.
| Compulsory modules | Credits |
|---|---|
| TRANSFERABLE SKILLS (MCMR002) | 15 |
| RESEARCH FRONTIERS IN CLINICAL SCIENCES 2 (MCMR004) | 15 |
Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.
ILCMS701 – Research Project
Modules listed are subject to approval – the full module structure for this course will be available soon.
Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.
This programme aims to equip students with:
All assessments will mirror activities you may undertake as a professional scientist or healthcare professional e.g. paper reviews and referee reports, writing a grant proposal, business proposal, report writing, producing a visual abstract, presentations (oral, poster) either online or in person.
The project module assessment is designed to support student learning by being distributed throughout the module. For example, a summative preliminary report in semester one, encourages students to demonstrate understanding of the background and rationale of the project, whilst also providing clear aims and a project plan.
Formative assessments in the form of an oral presentation will provide you an opportunity to reflect and evaluate your progress, including the project design, results and strengths and limitations of your project.
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.
The Liverpool Curriculum framework sets out our distinctive approach to education. Our teaching staff support our students to develop academic knowledge, skills, and understanding alongside our graduate attributes:
Our curriculum is characterised by the three Liverpool Hallmarks:
All this is underpinned by our core value of inclusivity and commitment to providing a curriculum that is accessible to all students.
Studying with us means you can tailor your degree to suit you. Here's what is available on this course.
Earn an additional undergraduate or master's degree by adding a year of intercalated study. Once you've completed your intercalation year - usually following your third year - you'll finish the rest of your programme.
Intercalation allows you take a break from your medical degree, usually after year 3 or 4, and study an additional qualification. Most intercalating students choose to study a master's degree. This gives you the opportunity to explore a subject of interest at an advanced level and acquire new skills and knowledge that will enhance and/or complement your medical degree.
In semesters 1 and 2, you will follow research connected modules on the main campus in central Liverpool. This will include diverse lectures, seminars and practical sessions. You will also engage with a range of online materials in your own time. The third semester is entirely dedicated the Project.
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Graduates will emerge with the skills to pursue careers in advanced clinical research, biotechnology, and translational medicine across diverse international contexts. The programme fosters high-level analytical abilities and ethical decision-making, positioning you to contribute to the global advancement of healthcare as a leading researcher, clinician-scientist, or industry expert.
As the programme places an emphasis on practical, transferrable skills and ethical scientific practice, it is envisaged that students will emerge as future leaders ready to contribute to the advancement of global healthcare solutions as well as other relevant career paths.
By the end of the course, you will be well-prepared to pursue further academic studies at the PhD level, or to transition directly into research-focused roles within industries such as biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and clinical sciences.
The advanced research skills acquired through this programme will enable graduates to contribute to cutting-edge scientific developments and innovations, making them highly competitive candidates in a variety of international research environments.
It is also envisioned that outside academia, graduates will have the necessary expertise to pursue careers in the public sector, as they are in demand within research institutes, government bodies, healthcare organisations, and environmental agencies. Moreover, the broad analytical and problem-solving skills gained during the programme are highly transferable, equipping you for roles in management, teaching, accountancy, human resources, and other professional areas that value critical thinking and research capabilities.
This programme also serves as excellent preparation for those seeking to apply to graduate-entry medical school, the NHS Scientific Training Programme, and the Physician Associate Studies programmes, or other specialized postgraduate courses. Its strong focus on research integrity, ethical practice, and scientific communication ensures graduates are well-positioned to pursue leadership roles in both academic and industry settings
Our campus Career Studio is a space for students and graduates to drop into and talk to a career coach. Career coaches are highly trained to help no matter what stage you are at in your career planning. You can access support to find and apply for full-time and part-time roles, placements, internships and graduate schemes. You will also find the help you need if you have a start-up idea or want to create a business plan. You can explore the world of work, prepare for job interviews, and access careers events and workshops. The Career Studio is open Monday to Friday from 10am-5pm, simply drop in at a time that works for you.
We develop our programmes with employers in mind. You will be supported to enhance your long-term employment prospects as you learn. We do this by exposing you to professionals, a variety of sectors and supporting you to work collaboratively with others to develop transferable skills. You are equipped with a clearer view of what to focus on in your area of interest, and to reflect on your studies. Our digital employability tools give you a tech-enhanced curriculum experience and make it easy for you to prepare for the world of work. You can use tools like the Handshake platform to connect with employers and message the Career Studio 24/7.
You can start building good professional networks by attending events and employability activities. Our events are designed to develop your skills and expose you to many different employers, as well as to help you make contacts in your field. We help you improve your confidence when speaking to employers and give you access to unique opportunities. Our networking events also boost your understanding of the competencies and skills that employers are looking for in their recruitment process, giving you a competitive edge.
Your tuition fees, funding your studies, and other costs to consider.
Full-time place, per year - £13,300
Part-time place, per year - £6,650
Full-time place, per year - £28,300
Part-time place, per year - £14,150
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.
You can pay your tuition fees in instalments.
All or part of your tuition fees can be funded by external sponsorship.
International applicants who accept an offer of a place will need to pay a tuition fee deposit.
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 paying for your studies..
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.
Find out more about the additional study costs that may apply to this course.
We offer a range of scholarships and bursaries that could help pay your tuition and living expenses.
If you’re a UK student, either born in or with strong family connections to Merseyside, you could be eligible to apply for a fee discount of up to £4,500. You’ll need to demonstrate an active interest in global, community and environmental issues to be considered.
If you’re a UK University of Liverpool graduate joining a master’s degree with us, you could be eligible to receive £3,000 off your tuition fees. You must have graduated in the last two years and received a widening access scholarship during your undergraduate studies.
Apply to receive tailored training support to enhance your sporting performance. Our athlete support package includes a range of benefits, from bespoke strength and conditioning training to physiotherapy sessions and one-to-one nutritional advice.
The qualifications and exam results you'll need to apply for this course.
| Qualification | Details |
|---|---|
| Postgraduate entry requirements | 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 medical, biomedical or relevant biological science discipline. Previous MRes or MSc study or a medicine, veterinary or dental qualification may also be accepted. |
| International qualifications |
Many countries have a different education system to that of the UK, meaning your qualifications may not meet our entry requirements. Completing your Foundation Certificate, such as that offered by the University of Liverpool International College, means you're guaranteed a place on your chosen course. |
You'll need to demonstrate competence in the use of English language, unless you’re from a majority English speaking country.
We accept a variety of international language tests and country-specific qualifications.
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.
| Qualification | Details |
|---|---|
| IELTS | 6.5 overall, with no component below 6.0 |
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.
If you don’t meet our English language requirements, we can use your most recent IELTS score, or the equivalent score in selected other English language tests, to determine the length of Pre-sessional English course you require.
Use the table below to check the course length you're likely to require for your current English language ability and see whether the course is available on campus or online.
| Your most recent IELTS score | Pre-sessional English course length | On campus or online |
|---|---|---|
| 6.0 overall, with no component below 6.0 | 6 weeks | On campus |
| 6.0 overall, with no component below 5.5 | 10 weeks | On campus and online options available |
| 6.0 overall, with no more than one component below 5.5, and no component below 5.0 | 12 weeks | On campus and online options available |
| 5.5 overall, with no more than one component below 5.5, and no component below 5.0 | 20 weeks | On campus |
| 5.0 overall, with no more than one component below 5.0, and no component below 4.5 | 30 weeks | On campus |
| 4.5 overall, with no more than one component below 4.5, and no component below 4.0 | 40 weeks | On campus |
If you’ve completed an alternative English language test to IELTS, we may be able to use this to assess your English language ability and determine the Pre-sessional English course length you require.
Please see our guide to Pre-sessional English entry requirements for IELTS 6.5 overall, with no component below 6.0, for further details.
Discover more about the city and University.
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.
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Last updated 11 November 2024 / / Programme terms and conditions