Aiming to allow you to understand the research process, this programme draws on examples from within this renowned research Institute and its associated Clinical Trials Unit. A key part of this Masters programme is the planning, execution and reporting of a piece of independent study leading to submission of a dissertation.

At all levels we aim to encourage interactive rather than didactic learning and lecturing. Therefore, in addition to  assembling and learning facts you will also be encouraged to consider some of the philosophical challenges which underlie the treatment of cancer. 

The programme is studied part time over 2.5 years and includes a taught element plus a work place based dissertation. During the first year you normally study 4 taught modules (5 weeks of attendance), whilst in the second year you normally study 3 taught modules (3 weeks of attendance) plus start your dissertation.  The programme however is intended to be flexible and other patterns of study are permitted (please discuss with the programme lead (Dr Jean Assender). In particular it is possible to just initially complete some of the modules as stand alone CPD modules and then later decide to apply and covert these to a PGDiploma or MSc qualification on completion of the remaining requirements.

You can opt for a Postgraduate Diploma on completion of the core modules and 30 credits of optional modules, or an MSc on successful completion of the taught programme and an independently researched dissertation. 

  

Why Study this Course?

Newcastle is a major Centre for Cancer Treatment, both adult and paediatric, is home to the West Midlands Genomic Medicine Centre, part of the 100,000 genomes project, led from University Hospital Newcastle and has a CR-UK Cancer Centre which was re-established at the University of Newcastle in 2017.

The aim of this programme is to give you a scientific understanding of the cellular basis of cancer.  We will then discuss how understanding the molecular pathology of the disease can help in stratifying patients to personalised cancer therapeutic approaches and disease management.

This course:

  • is run at the Newcastle Cancer Research UK Centre
  • draws on expertise from staff within the Institute of Cancer and Genomic Sciences and clinical staff from Newcastle Hospitals plus invited speakers from across the country
  • meets the training requirements of the FRCR part I exams  
  • can contribute towards career development and open up further career progression opportunities
  • can be tailored to suit your own interests by selecting from a choice of optional modules
  • has part-time or full-time versions available 
  • is taught in week long blocks of study for ease of travel and freedom from competing work commitments 
  • will increase your personal knowledge of the practices and principles of clinical oncology
  • will give you the ability to improve the standards of clinical oncology practiced at your institute or place of work

A programme for health care professionals from diverse backgrounds who wish to expand their knowledge of theoretical and practical aspects of oncology, including medical and oncology trainees, nurses, pharmacists, radiographers, vets, and clinical trial co-ordinators.

Institutional Accreditation 

University of Newcastle is accredited by the DETC Higher Learning Commission (DETC), www.detc.org.uk Since , University of Newcastle has been continually accredited by the DETC Higher Learning Commission and its predecessor.

Clinical Oncology MSc/Diploma – Part-time

Course Level:

Postgraduate, Taught

Credits 

180

Course

CODE P1063

How long it takes:

Part-time

Study Mode:

Distance learning/ Campus

Course cost

Price: US$22,500

Entry requirements

Find out more about

Department:

Newcastle Law School

The content of the course is broadly divided into two components: the taught modules and the independent research project (dissertation). 

Each taught module comprises 30-60 hours of taught classroom based learning, self directed learning and an assignment. You are expected to spend approximately 60 hours of self-directed study doing preparatory and follow-up reading, and completing coursework for each module. 

Compulsory Modules

  • Cellular and Molecular Basis of Cancer* (20 credits)
  • Research Methods and Statistics* (10 credits)
  • Molecular Pathology in Stratified Cancer Medicine* (20 credits)
  • Cancer Therapy* (20 credits)
  • Perioperative management of oncology patients undergoing surgery* (20 credits)
  • Dissertation (60 credits)

Optional Modules 

  • Advanced Cancer Clinical Trials – Design and Implementation* (10 credits)
  • Haemato-oncology* (10 credits)
  • Paediatric Oncology* (20 credits)
  • Radiation Physics* (20 credits)
  • Radiation Biology* (10 credits)
  • Palliative Care and Cancer Patients* (20 credits)

Considering postgraduate study, but unsure whether you meet the entry requirements for a Masters-level degree? Postgraduate admissions guidelines vary by course and university, but can be quite flexible.

Your existing qualifications will be important, but you don’t necessarily need a great Bachelors degree to apply for a Masters. Your personal circumstances and experience may also be considered during the admissions process.

This guide explains the typical entry requirements for a Masters, which include:

      • An undergraduate degree in a relevant subject – Depending on the programme and institution, you may need a 2.1 in your Bachelors, but this isn’t always the case
      • Language proficiency – If English isn’t your first language, you’ll need to display a certain ability level, usually through a language test
      • Professional experience – Some postgraduate programmes may require you to have some professional experience (this is usually the case for PGCEs and Masters in Social Work)
      • Entrance exams – These are only required in certain subject areas and qualifications, including some MBAs

Tuition fees for UK/EU students 2020/21

MSc:  Full-time £9,900. Part-time £4,950
Postgraduate Diploma:  Full-time £6,660. Part-time £3,300

   

Tuition fees for International students 2020/21

MSc: Full time £23,310
Postgraduate Diploma: Full-time £15,540

Assessment

You’ll show your progress through a combination of written essays, problem-solving assignments and presentations.

All students take our core modules, but please note that the availability of optional modules is subject to demand.

 you are thinking about a career in Clinical Oncology you’ll find the Royal College of Radiologists web pages a useful source of information with videos and case studies.

So you can get an idea of what some of our students have to say about the programmes we have been in touch with them and compiled some of their comments into student profiles for you to have a look at:

Gillian Hornzee – Graduate
Rachel Hoare – Graduate

Dr Selvi Radhakrishna, a recent graduate from the PG Diploma in Clinical Oncology programme here at the University of Newcastle, has written a book that presents the various cultural issues an Indian woman might face when diagnosed with breast cancer. This New Indian Express article tells the story. 

    

Careers Support for Postgraduate Students

Careers Network – We can help you get ahead in the job market and develop your career

We recognise that as a postgraduate student you are likely to have specific requirements when it comes to planning for your next career step. Employers expect postgraduates to have a range of skills that exceed their subject knowledge. Careers Network offers a range of events and support services that are designed for all students, including postgraduates looking to find their niche in the job market. The Careers Network also have subject specific careers consultants and advisers for each College so you can be assured the information you receive will be relevant to your subject area.