The programme is designed to support healthcare staff in staying ahead of developments in genomics

Genomic Medicine extension for Exeter

The University of Exeter Medical School has received additional funding from Health Education England (HEE) to extend its MSc Genomic Medicine programme, as part of the 100,000 Genomes Project.

The programme is designed to support healthcare staff in staying ahead of developments in genomic technologies and information, and to equip the NHS workforce for the Genomic era. It will help healthcare professionals to embed these innovations to transform clinical practice over the next decade. Exeter is one of 13 Genomic Medicine Centres established to recruit patients to the 100,000 genomes project, a world-leading, government-funded initiative to sequence the genomes of patients with rare diseases and cancer.

The University of Exeter collaborates with the universities of Plymouth, Bath and University of the West of England, as well as the NHS Genomic Medicine Centres in the region, to deliver the Masters programme. The programme at Exeter started in September 2016 and filled all the funded places in the first 12 months, indicating the appetite for training in genomics within the NHS. To date, approximately 150 students have completed or are undertaking the degree at Exeter.

HEE has now awarded additional funding to seven course providers nationally, including the University of Exeter. This is a fantastic opportunity to train more NHS professionals in this fast moving field, which will have a direct impact on patient care.

Professor Jean McEwan, Professor of Clinical Education, Vice Dean of Education at the University of Exeter Medical School said: “We are delighted to continue our contribution to the Chief Medical Officer’s vision for the development of Generation Genome. The excellent feedback from our first cohort of students, who joined us not only from across the region, but across the whole country, contributed to our success in gaining this new award in this competitive process. These NHS commissioned places to study Genomic Medicine are a fantastic opportunity for the Healthcare workforce, from all backgrounds and professional groups to update their knowledge and develop personally. We look forward to welcoming new students, full time or part time.”

Date: 6 March 2018