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Postgraduate Study

Course closed:

Medical Science (MRC Epidemiology Unit) is no longer accepting new applications.

The MRC Epidemiology Unit is a research department in the School of Clinical Medicine at the University of Cambridge and investigates the causes and prevention of obesity and diabetes.  

Please note that this is a research-only course. Information for applicants for the University of Cambridge taught courses in Epidemiology or Public Health is available https://www.phpc.cam.ac.uk/postgraduate-studies/

Applicants for this course must contact a research supervisor before applying.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the programme, students will have:

  • a comprehensive understanding of techniques, and a thorough knowledge of the literature, applicable to their own research;
  • demonstrated originality in the application of knowledge, together with a practical understanding of how research and enquiry are used to create and interpret knowledge in their field;
  • shown abilities in the critical evaluation of current research and research techniques and methodologies;
  • demonstrated some self-direction and originality in tackling and solving problems, and acted autonomously in the planning and implementation of research.

Continuing

Those who wish to progress to a PhD after completing an MPhil will be required to satisfy their potential supervisor, Head of Department and the Faculty Degree Committee that they have the skills and ability to achieve the higher degree.

Transfer from MPhil to PhD is possible although it is not automatic. All cases are judged on their own merits based on a number of factors, including evidence of progress and research potential; a sound PhD research proposal; the availability of a suitable supervisor, full funding and resources required for the research; and acceptance by the Head of Department and the Degree Committee. 


Open Days

The Postgraduate Virtual Open Day usually takes place at the beginning of November. It’s a great opportunity to ask questions to admissions staff and academics, explore the Colleges virtually, and to find out more about courses, the application process and funding opportunities. Visit the Postgraduate Open Day page for more details.

Key Information


12 months full-time

24 months part-time

Master of Philosophy

MRC Epidemiology Unit

Course - related enquiries

Application - related enquiries

Course on Department Website

Dates and deadlines:

Applications open
Sept. 15, 2022
Application deadline
Jan. 6, 2023
Course Starts
Oct. 1, 2023

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

Course Funding Deadline
Jan. 5, 2023
Gates Cambridge US round only
Oct. 12, 2022

These deadlines apply to applications for courses starting in Michaelmas 2023, Lent 2024 and Easter 2024.


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