Postgraduate Diploma in Molecular and Cancer Biology
An integrated two-semester programme combining foundational life sciences with molecular biology, oncological mechanisms, diagnostics, and independent research investigation.
Programme Overview
The Postgraduate Diploma in Molecular and Cancer Biology provides an integrated understanding of the molecular and cellular processes underlying human health, disease and cancer development. The programme combines foundational life sciences with molecular biology and cancer biology to develop students' knowledge of cellular function, genetic mechanisms, molecular changes associated with disease and the biological basis of cancer.
Students explore the structure and function of cells, DNA, RNA and proteins, gene expression, genetic inheritance, cancer development, cancer risk factors, diagnostic approaches, biomarkers and treatment strategies. The programme also introduces the applications of molecular biology in biomedical research, biotechnology and disease diagnosis, while developing scientific literacy and the ability to interpret biological evidence.
A dedicated research component develops students' skills in scientific literature evaluation, research design, evidence synthesis and scientific communication. The programme prepares graduates for further academic study and research-oriented roles in biological, biomedical and health-related fields.
What You Will Learn
Module Overview
The programme comprises twelve integrated modules delivered across two semesters, followed by a supervised research project. The first semester establishes the foundations of life sciences and molecular biology. The second semester focuses on cancer biology and research methods, enabling students to integrate their scientific knowledge and apply it to an independent, literature-based research investigation.
Introduce the fundamental principles of life sciences, the characteristics of living organisms and the organization of the human body. Explore biological terminology, levels of biological organization and the relationship between biological processes and human health.
Examine the structure and functions of major human body systems including the cardiovascular, respiratory, digestive, nervous, urinary, endocrine and reproductive systems. Explore how these systems work together to maintain normal body function and homeostasis.
Explore cell structure, organelles, cellular membranes and the functions of major cellular components. Introduce carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, nucleic acids, enzymes, cellular respiration and basic metabolic processes that support life.
Examine the principles of inheritance, chromosomes, genes, genetic variation and patterns of heredity. Introduce mutations, inherited disorders and the relationship between genetic information and biological characteristics.
Explore the molecular basis of life, including DNA and RNA structure, DNA replication, transcription, translation and protein synthesis. Examine how genes are expressed and regulated and how genetic information determines cellular functions.
Introduce molecular genetic mechanisms, gene regulation and the relationship between genetic changes and disease. Explore the principles and applications of biotechnology including polymerase chain reaction (PCR), gel electrophoresis, DNA sequencing and recombinant DNA technology through theoretical learning and case studies.
Explore the major groups of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites and their roles in human health and disease. Introduce infection, transmission, host responses, common diseases and the basic biological mechanisms underlying selected human disorders.
Introduce cancer as a group of diseases characterized by abnormal cell growth and uncontrolled proliferation. Examine normal cell division, the cell cycle, tumour formation, benign and malignant tumors, and the differences between normal and cancerous cells.
Explore how genetic mutations, oncogenes, tumors suppressor genes, altered gene regulation and failures in cell-cycle control contribute to cancer development. Introduce apoptosis, genomic instability, tumors progression, invasion and metastasis at an appropriate introductory level.
Examine major cancer risk factors, including genetic predisposition, environmental exposures, lifestyle factors and infections. Explore common cancer types, signs and symptoms, screening approaches, diagnostic investigations and the role of selected tumors markers and molecular biomarkers in cancer detection and monitoring.
Introduce the principles of cancer treatment, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, targeted therapies and immunotherapy. Examine cancer prevention, screening and public health approaches. Develop foundational research skills in literature searching, critical appraisal, research question development, research ethics and the selection of appropriate research methods for biological and cancer-related questions.
Conduct a supervised research project addressing a focused question in molecular biology, cancer biology or a related biomedical field. Students will formulate a research question, develop a proposal, systematically search and evaluate published literature, extract and synthesize evidence, and prepare a structured scientific report.