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Postgraduate Study

The MPhil in Biological Science (Pathology) is a one-year, full-time research programme. Students join an active biomedical research group and conduct an original research project. The course aims to provide students with a solid foundation of analytical and laboratory skills, preparing them for a wide range of career options, including doctoral studies or industrial research.

Students write an MPhil thesis, which is examined via an oral examination. There is no examined coursework, and there are no grades; a successful student gains a pass. Students on the programme undertake a research project in an area of their choice in discussion with their selected Supervisor.

In addition to the research training provided by the department, the Postgraduate School of Life Sciences (PSLS) offers students access to courses to widen their experience and enable them to acquire generic skills. All students attend induction and safety training courses in the department in addition to the training they receive in their research laboratory.

This course is suited to those who wish to pursue biomedical research at a level beyond that of an undergraduate degree, it provides a solid foundation in laboratory and analytical skills. Students will become members of an active research laboratory, planning and executing their own original piece of biomedical research. They will develop the ability to critically appraise scientific literature while cultivating their intellectual abilities and gaining transferable skills.

Learning Outcomes

Successful completion of the MPhil prepares the postgraduate for a wide range of future career opportunities, from PhD studies to industrial research and ancillary work in areas such as intellectual property and patents. Upon graduation, the student will have attained a high level of expertise in biomedical methodology and research strategy.


Continuing

Those wishing to progress to a PhD after completing an MPhil will be required to pass the master's degree and apply for the PhD via the Postgraduate Applicant Portal.


Open Days

The University hosts and attends fairs and events throughout the year, in the UK and across the world. We also offer online events to help you explore your options:

  • Discover Cambridge: Master’s and PhD study webinars - these Spring events provide practical information about applying for postgraduate study.

  • Postgraduate Virtual Open Days - taking place in November each year, the Open Days focus on subject and course information.

For more information about upcoming events visit our events pages.

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Key Information


12 months full-time

2 years part-time

Study Mode : Research

Master of Philosophy

Department of Pathology

Course - related enquiries

Application - related enquiries

Course on Department Website

Dates and deadlines:

Applications open
Sept. 4, 2023
Application deadline
Oct. 2, 2024
Course Starts
Jan. 5, 2025

Some courses can close early. See the Deadlines page for guidance on when to apply.

Michaelmas 2025

Applications open
Sept. 4, 2024
Application deadline
April 16, 2025
Course Starts
Oct. 1, 2025

Some courses can close early. See the Deadlines page for guidance on when to apply.

Applications open
Sept. 4, 2024
Application deadline
Oct. 2, 2025
Course Starts
Jan. 5, 2026

Some courses can close early. See the Deadlines page for guidance on when to apply.

Course Funding Deadline
Jan. 7, 2025
Gates Cambridge US round only
Oct. 16, 2024

These deadlines apply to applications for courses starting in Michaelmas 2025, Lent 2026 and Easter 2026.


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