Biomedical scientists, microbiologists and virologists play a critical role in preventing, diagnosing, treating and managing the spread of infection. Accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science, our MSc aims to deepen your understanding of disease processes and the methods used to test, analyse and monitor them. Keele has long-established expertise in infectious diseases and conducts research in collaboration with worldwide networks including Eclipse.Course summaryThis Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS) accredited MSc Biomedical Science (Medical Microbiology) course focuses on the prevention, diagnosis and treatment infectious diseases, incorporating the study of microbiology and virology.<br><br>Comprising of all aspects of human health and disease, biomedical science is one of the broadest areas of modern science and medicine. By developing new treatments and uncovering new knowledge which can save and improve lives, it is arguably one of the most important too.<br><br>Infection Sciences is one of four different and distinct laboratory disciplines within the field of Biomedical Science, as outlined by the IBMS, alongside Blood Sciences, Cell Sciences, and Genetics and Molecular Pathology. At Keele, we also offer an MSc Biomedical Science (Blood Science) covering clinical biochemistry, medical immunology and haematology, as well as a Graduate Diploma in Biomedical Science.<br><br>Building on existing, undergraduate knowledge in basic science, you’ll undertake higher level scientific training to develop the advanced laboratory and analytical skills needed in clinical or research contexts, fully aware of the potential implications for patients, health workers and research alike.<br><br>The emphasis on this MSc is to look at health and disease from a patient or population-oriented perspective and in support of evidence-based clinical decision-making. Real-life case studies on travel associated infections, outbreaks of infectious disease and vector-borne infections, for example, provide up-to-date information on different aspects of disease caused by bacteria and viruses, which laboratory tests and diagnostics were applied and why.<br><br>We pay particular attention to the development of core practical skills in areas such as critical thinking, innovation, communication, problem-solving and project management. Preparing you to take on more senior roles, you’ll become familiar with biomedical ethics, aware of how to fully integrate these issues, for example, when writing grant proposals and business plans.Your careerBiomedical science sit at the heart of multidisciplinary teams in healthcare, providing the vital scientific information which informs clinical decisions, monitors patient conditions, investigates disease and identifies ways to stop or fight infection.<br><br>The roles open to you on graduation are vast and varied and include: drug testing, infection control, cancer screen, forensics, pharmaceutical research, blood donation, transfusion services, rapid response labs, point of care testing, armed forces, and teaching. You could also enter the commercial field in technical support roles and sales in the research and healthcare markets.<br><br>The general skills you’ll gain – for example, in data analysis, investigation, interpretation, problem-solving, critical thinking, communication, observation, project management – are highly valued by employers and relevant to almost any career path.<br><br>While the specialist research skills you learn provide a strong foundation for pursuing further study at doctoral level for those interested in doing so. You could embark on a research career that may include research and development roles within academia, research institutes or industry.