Biomedical Science - Infection and Immunity MSc
2025-26 Year of entry
Following the pandemic, there has never been a greater need for scientists who understand how infection and immunity impact the human body
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Overview
We have now seen the devastating effect that a global pandemic can have on our modern world. This course can help you develop the skills and knowledge needed to tackle this issue professionally.
Why choose Biomedical Science (Infection and Immunity) MSc at Middlesex?
Following the global pandemic, there has never been a greater need for scientists who understand the transmission, aetiology and control of infectious organisms such as viruses, and how the immune system responds.
Our degree is unique. It combines Biomedical Science with Infection and Immunity which is not offered anywhere else in London. If you have a Biomedical Science background this is a great opportunity to develop your understanding of the complex interplay between infection and immunity.
This master's course equips you with the skills necessary to work in the NHS or in the pharmaceutical industries, for example in the development of vaccines. You'll be better enabled to compete for positions in academic research in the areas of infection and immunity, an area of research in which there is great interest after the COVID-19 pandemic.
What you will gain
Many of your guest lecturers work in the NHS, industry and research organisations, so you will always be learning about the latest insights and have the opportunity to connect with potential employers.
For example, you will be taught by experts working in the area of infection control, such as for the UKHSA - National Infection Service as well as Infection Control Services, University College London Hospital. You will also be taught by a parasitologist from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine.
You will have opportunities to:
- undertake a research project combining both infection and immunity, which will be supervised by experts in the field
- form links with institutions outside of Middlesex University
- acquire expertise in a range of advanced analytical and technical skills that will equip you to pursue a range of career options that require specialist technical knowledge
During your research project, you will gain experience in techniques such as flow cytometry, cell culture, ELISAs and isolation and culture of microorganisms.
3 great reasons to pick this course
About your course
You'll study how the immune system fights infections, and how diseases spread and how to control them. You'll learn advanced bioanalytical techniques and research skills, biomedical ethics and law, leadership and management. We will also share with you the best practice principles of laboratory management for safety and quality control. For your own research project which will be supervised by an expert, you will develop critical analysis, specialized practical skills and a good understanding of the modern technology used for diagnostics, product development and research. You can apply this knowledge to develop new treatments.
TBC
This module aims to provide you with sound knowledge of the transmission, epidemiology and pathogenesis of human infectious diseases.
This module aims to provide you with sound knowledge of the means of controlling the transmission of, and exposure to, infectious agents, the means through which the human body limits infection by the innate and adaptive immune response and the theoretical and practical aspects of immunisation and antimicrobial chemotherapy.
The module aims to examine advanced bioanalytical techniques that are used in biomedical research, for the analysis of products, for improving disease understanding, and for the analysis of disease biomarkers. It also provides a detailed understanding of the principles, theory and practice of bioanalytical techniques, including safety, instrumentation, sample preparation techniques together with analysis and interpretation of analytical data.
The module aims to provide insight into a range of ethical and legal issues that relate to professional practice involving research with human and animal subjects. The module will further explore the ethical issues present in the rapidly developing area of genetic technology, including genetic testing and selection, genetic engineering, and the concept of genetic disease.
The module aims to provide you with the tools required to design effective and efficient experiments, and to test scientific hypotheses. The module will also equip you with the tools necessary for statistical analysis in a hypothesis testing context.
The module aims to provide you with the knowledge of current theories and approaches to leading and managing people so that they can bring about a positive change in their team or organisation.
This module aims to develop your skills in the planning and execution of an analytical, laboratory-based study and critical evaluation of real research results drawing on your acquired knowledge from other modules. In addition, the module aims to develop your communication skills to enable you to communicate your findings in written and oral form.
To find out more about this programme, please download the MSc Biomedical Science (Infection & Immunity) course specification (PDF).
Register your interest
Sign up now to receive more information about studying at Middlesex University London.
Teaching
You'll be taught by an experienced teaching team with a wide range of expertise and professional experience
This course will be delivered through a combination of lectures, seminars and laboratory work, self-study (both directed and self-directed), flipped learning, problem-solving exercises and peer presentations.
You will learn research skills through undertaking a research project supervised by an appropriately trained and subject specific research supervisor. The course is delivered by our academics and industry partners —such as UKHSA - National Infection Service and Infection Control Services, University College London Hospital— in person and via digital platforms.
Our learning activities include lectures, presentations, laboratory practical sessions one-to-one tutorials and group projects.
You'll be taught by an experienced teaching team with a wide range of expertise and professional experience.
You will be based at our north London campus in Hendon, and use our state-of-the-art laboratories in the Hatchcroft building.
Whether you are studying full or part-time – your course timetable will balance your study commitments on campus with time for work, life commitments and independent study.
We aim to make timetables available to students at least 2 weeks before the start of term. Some weeks are different due to how we schedule classes and arrange on-campus sessions.
In a typical year, you’ll spend about 1200 hours on your course.
Outside of teaching hours, you’ll learn independently through reading articles and books, working on projects, undertaking research, and preparing for assessments including coursework and presentations.
Typical weekly breakdown
You'll receive full information on your teaching before you start your course. Some weeks are different due to how we schedule classes and arrange on campus sessions. A typical week looks like this:
|
Learning |
Hours per week |
|
On-campus |
7 |
|
Online |
7 |
|
Independent study |
4 |
Learning terms
On-campus: This includes tutor-led sessions such as seminars, lab sessions and demonstrations as well as student-led sessions for work in small groups.
Online learning: This is teaching that is delivered online using tools like Skype or Zoom, as well as work that you do yourself using online teaching resources.
Independent study: This is the work you do in your own time including reading and research.
Part-time study
You can also study this course part-time over two years.
We have a strong support network online and on campus to help you develop your academic skills. We offer one-to-one and group sessions to develop your learning skills together with academic support from our library, IT teams and learning experts.
There are no exams but your coursework will be assessed using individual and group presentations, written assignments including laboratory reports, critical reviews and seen and unseen practical and theory examinations.
Your cognitive skills are assessed by written work incorporating problem solving, report and project writing including statistical analysis, examinations, and submission of a research dissertation.
You'll evaluate your work, skills and knowledge and identify areas for improvement. Sometimes you'll work in groups and assess each other's progress.
Each term, you'll get regular feedback on your learning.
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North London campus
Our north London campus is just 20 minutes from central London, giving you easy access to everything this vibrant city has to offer. Make the most of incredible professional opportunities, cultural experiences, and more affordable living, all within a supportive and close-knit campus community.
Learn about campus lifeFacilities and support
Cell and tissue culture lab
This lab focused on the culture of mammalian cell lines. Its outstanding facilities include:
- Biological safety cabinets for the sterile handling of cells
- Four phase-contrast microscopes
- Several atmosphere-controlled incubators for growing cells.
Use the lab to discover new biomarkers which can be used to detect disease, as well as in vitro models to determine the efficacy of many potential treatments for disease. This facility is essential to cancer, reproductive, stem cell and nano-pharmaceutics research at Middlesex.
Flow cytometry facilities
We have two flow cytometers located within the laboratories in the Hatchcroft building. Students will be taught how to use flow cytometry to:
- Immunophenotype immune cells
- Determine apoptosis induced by cancer-treating drugs
- Determine the impact of various hormones and growth factors on the proliferation and differentiation of cells of the immune response
Mass spectrometry and analytical facilities
Our exceptional array of high-end equipment can support your research in:
- Investigative and diagnostic oncology
- Urban pollution control
- Biophysics and bioengineering
- Molecular biology
- Reproductive biology
Microbiology and molecular biology labs
There's everything you need to develop advanced microbial techniques, infectious sample processing and the culture of microorganisms.
You can develop molecular biology techniques such as:
- Cloning and analysing DNA and RNA sequences
- Quantify RNA levels
- Separate DNA molecules
You’ll be able to use industry-standard equipment including:
- A Leica SP2 confocal microscope for the high-resolution analysis of protein sub-cellular distribution
- Our tissue culture facility for the large-scale production of monoclonal antibodies and proteins
- A Nikon live cell microscope system for time-lapse imaging
The Sheppard Library
Our library is open from 7am to 11pm Monday to Sunday during the term and includes:
- Over 1,000 study areas with rooms for group study and over 600 computer spaces
- 350,000 books and e-books and more than 24,000 online journals
- Free laptop loans, Wi-Fi and printing
Student Support
We offer lots of support to help you while you're studying including financial advice, wellbeing, mental health, and disability support.
Additional needs
We'll support you if you have additional needs such as sensory impairment or dyslexia. And if you want to find out whether Middlesex is the right place for you before you apply, get in touch with our Disability and Dyslexia team.
Wellness
Our specialist teams will support your mental health. We have free individual counselling sessions, workshops, support groups and useful guides.
Work while you study
Our Middlesex Unitemps branch will help you find work that fits around uni and your other commitments. We have hundreds of student jobs on campus that pay the London Living Wage and above. Visit the Middlesex Unitemps page.
Financial support
You can apply for scholarships and bursaries and our MDX Student Starter Kit to help with up to £1,000 of goods, including a new laptop or iPad.
We have also reduced the costs of studying with free laptop loans, free learning resources and discounts to save money on everyday things. Check out our guide to student life on a budget.
Entry requirements
Qualifications
We welcome your application regardless of your background or experience. Ideally, we are looking for these qualifications:
- 2:2 honours degree in an appropriate subject
- other qualifications and/or substantial work experience in biomedical science will also be considered under the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) scheme
Applicants with a disability can enter the programme following assessment to determine if they can work safely in the laboratory. The programme team have experience of adapting teaching provision to accommodate a range of disabilities and welcome applications from students with disabilities.
If you have relevant qualifications or work experience, we may be able to count this towards your entry requirements.
We welcome students from the UK and all over the world. Join students from over 122 countries and discover why so many international students call our campus home:
- Quality teaching with top facilities plus flexible online learning
- Welcoming north London campus that's only 30 minutes from central London
- Work placements and networking with top London employers
- Award-winning career support to get you where you want to go after university.
Qualifications
We accept a wide range of international qualifications. Find out more about the accepted qualifications on your country's support page. If you are unsure of the suitability of your qualifications or would like help with your application, please contact your nearest international office.
English language
You will need to meet our English language requirements. And, don’t worry If you don't meet our minimum English language requirements, as we offer a Pre-sessional English course.
Visas
To study with us in the UK, you might need a Student visa. Please check to see if this applies to you.
Apply as early as possible to make sure you get a place. You can submit your application before you receive your final qualification.
Personal statements
Make sure that you highlight your best qualities in your personal statement that are relevant to this course. Such as your ability to be forward-thinking, creative and collaborative.
Interviews
You won’t be required to attend an interview.
Find out how to apply for postgraduate taught courses and watch our step-by-step video.
Careers
How can the MSc Biomedical Science (Infection and Immunity) support your career?
Our postgraduate courses have been recognised for their ability to support your career.
We are a top 10 UK University for employability (UniCompare Rankings 2025), and a top 10 UK university for industry connections and funding in Times Higher Education Young University Rankings 2024.
Career paths
This course will be ideal if you’re interested in developing your knowledge and skills in the field of infection and immunity for a career in the healthcare sector, academia, or industrial research and development.
You could also find employment in the fields of infection control and vaccine and assay development within the pharmaceutical Industry.
Biomedical science is the second largest profession registered by the Health Professions Council and there is a high demand for well-qualified graduates. The range of roles open to graduates is vast and many have gone on to work in medical or pharmaceutical research, in primary care in surgeries and clinics, or in the community, identifying health risks, educating people about infection prevention and helping to stop the spread of disease.
Others have gone onto to in environmental health, investigating food poisoning outbreaks and ensuring that food and drink businesses meet health and hygiene standards. There are also opportunities in diagnostic laboratories within both the public and private sectors.
MDXworks
MDXworks, our employability service, will help you make the most of your experience and connections to achieve your career goals. You'll have unlimited access to one-to-one advice and support from specialists in your sector plus 24/7 online support. You can also make the most of events and networking opportunities, on and off campus.
Our dedicated lifetime career support, like our business start-up support programme and funding for entrepreneurs, has been recognised with the following awards:
- The top 20 UK universities for business leaders and entrepreneurs – Business Money, 2023
- A top 10 university for producing CEOs – Novuana, 2023
Global alumni network
You’ll be studying with students from 122 countries who’ll become part of your personal global network. You'll learn how to work with a global mindset and make invaluable connections on your course for your chosen industry.
Fees and funding
The fees below refer to the 2025/26 academic year.
UK students1
Full-time students: £10,700
Part-time students: £71 per credit
Part-time students: £35 per dissertation credit
International students2
Full-time students: £17,100
Part-time students: £114 per credit
Part-time students: £57 per dissertation credit
*Course fees are subject to annual inflation so the total costs for part-time study are shown here as a guide
For more information and to answer your frequently asked questions, please visit our postgraduate funding page.
Additional course costs
We cover your costs for the day-to-day things that you need to do well in your studies.
- Free – laptop loans, Wi-Fi and printing
- Free specialist software for your course.
Scholarships and bursaries
You may be eligible for one of our scholarships including:
- The Alumni Postgraduate Award – for all UK/EU Middlesex alumni a 20% fee reduction
- The Commonwealth Scholarship – full course fees, airfares and a living allowance
- The Chevening Scholarship – full course fees
- The European Academic Awards – £1000 to £7000 for students showing academic excellence
- Regional or International Merit Award –up to £2,000 towards course fees
For international students, we also have a limited number of other awards specific to certain regions, and work in partnership with funding providers in your country to help support you financially with your study.
Find out more about our postgraduate scholarships.
Help from your employer
Your employer can contribute towards the cost of your postgraduate study as part of their staff development programme.
Work while you study
If you are not currently working, we can help you find work that fits around uni and your other commitments. We have hundreds of student jobs on campus that pay the London Living Wage and above.
Fees disclaimers
1. UK fees: The university reserves the right to increase postgraduate tuition fees in line with changes to legislation, regulation and any government guidance or decisions. The tuition fees for part-time UK study are subject to annual review and we reserve the right to increase the fees each academic year by no more than the level of inflation.
2. International fees: Tuition fees are subject to annual review and we reserve the right to increase the fees each academic year by no more than the level of inflation.
Any annual increase in tuition fees as provided for above will be notified to students at the earliest opportunity in advance of the academic year to which any applicable inflationary rise may apply.
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Get answers from our Unibuddy student ambassadors
View our range of student ambassadorsWe’ll carefully manage any future changes to courses, or the support and other services available to you, if these are necessary because of things like changes to government health and safety advice, or any changes to the law.
Any decisions will be taken in line with both external advice and the University’s Regulations which include information on this.
Our priority will always be to maintain academic standards and quality so that your learning outcomes are not affected by any adjustments that we may have to make.
At all times we’ll aim to keep you well informed of how we may need to respond to changing circumstances, and about support that we’ll provide to you.