Genomic Medicine (Online)

Course structure

The online Genomic Medicine PgCert runs part-time over one year. Students are required to complete four taught modules worth 15 credits each, to a total of 60 credits. Three of the modules are compulsory, with the final module chosen from two optional modules.

Core mandatory modules (15 credits):

• Fundamentals of Human Genetics and Genomics (term 1)
• Genomics of Common and Rare Inherited Diseases (term 2)
• Variant Interpretation (term 2)

Optional modules (15 credits) choosing one from the below:

• Genomics of Cardiovascular Disorders (term 2)
• Genomics of Neurological Disorders (term 2)

Modules run consecutively. Once a module opens, you will have ten weeks to complete it including the assessment. Completed module content will be available for you until the end of the course.

You will study on average 15 hours per week, which includes self-directed learning and preparing for assessments alongside learning materials. Depending on your level of genetics knowledge, you may need to spend less time, particularly for the fundamentals module.

2025/26 timetable (PDF)

Our modules can also be studied individually as part of Continuous Professional Development (CPD). View the above timetable for module running dates, and the apply tab for information on application deadlines and how to apply. 

You can choose to upgrade the online PgCert to the in-person PgDip or MSc Genomic Medicine following successful completion of the course.

Modules

Entry criteria

To be considered for this course, you will need to:

• meet the entry criteria
• write a personal statement
• provide two suitable references

Undergraduate degree or equivalent

You should have or be expected to achieve, a minimum of a second class degree (2:2) in a relevant bioscience degree with sufficient genetics content. For healthcare graduates, a pass is required. All degrees must be awarded before 1 August on the year of entry.

We may invite you to interview if are unable to make a decision directly from your application.

Alternative professional qualifications, or previous related experience, may be considered and we encourage you to apply.

Intercalating students

Applicants who do not have an undergraduate degree but are current medical students who have successfully completed 360 credits (or equivalent) including at least 120 credits at Level 6 (or equivalent) of their medical degree are also eligible to apply. 

International qualifications

We accept equivalent qualifications gained in other countries and use UKNARIC to assess international qualifications. Please see our International Student Support pages for more information.

If you have any questions, you can contact us at study@sgul.ac.uk

English Language

This is a Group 1 course.

Full details can be found on our English Language requirements webpages.

Personal statement and references

You will be asked to outline your reasons for applying for the course in a brief personal statement on the application form. You will also need to provide two satisfactory references.

Go to the ‘Apply’ tab for more information.

Teaching and learning

We are dedicated to delivering a world-class learning experience designed for today’s global audience. Our online Genomic Medicine PgCert combines flexibility, engagement, and cutting-edge technology to ensure students around the world can access high-quality education.

You will study on average 15 hours per week, which includes self-directed learning and preparing for assessments alongside learning materials. Depending on your level of genetics knowledge, you may need to spend less time, particularly for the fundamentals module.

Flexible scheduling

We understand the challenges of studying alongside other commitments in your life and we are excited to welcome a global audience as well. To accommodate our students, we offer a combination of synchronous (live) and asynchronous sessions (recorded sessions and many other directed-learning activities). The vast majority (at least 90%) of learning will be asynchronous meaning that you can complete the work at a time that suits you. Live classes are scheduled to accommodate students from diverse regions, including the Americas, Asia, Africa, and beyond.

Each module will include five live sessions set at the following suggested times 08.00, 11.00, 13.00, 16.00 and 17.00 (GMT/GMT+1). For those who cannot attend live, all sessions are recorded and made available for review at your convenience.

Self-paced learning

Modules will be designed with a clear study planner allowing you to progress at your own pace through the learning material. You will be able to see when there is an assignment coming up, allowing you to plan and manage your schedule. Miss a live session? No problem. Our platform ensures all course materials are accessible 24/7. This allows you to revisit lessons, catch up on missed classes, and study at a pace that suits you.

Interactive and engaging activities

Our online Genomic Medicine PgCert modules include a range of activities such as:

• Scenario-based assignments allowing you to apply what you’ve learned;
• Quizzes with in-built feedback to test your knowledge;
• Peer-to-peer discussion and group work to foster collaboration;
• Expert webinars and careers talks;
• Practical assessments that mirror real-world challenges.

Networking opportunities

When you join the course, you become part of an extensive learning community. You’ll connect with students and professionals from diverse backgrounds, creating opportunities for cross-cultural exchange, inter-professional learning and networking that extend beyond the course.

Assessment

The way we assess your learning will change depending on the module but we use a variety of assessment methods, so every student has a chance to show their knowledge and strengths. You can expect a mixture of:

• Pre-recorded presentation (case analysis)
• Analysis of rare and common disease cases involving exome sequencing data
• Multidisciplinary team discussion (MDT) simulation
• Scenario based essays

Your assessments will be formative and summative. This means some won’t count towards your final grade and you’ll have the chance to improve based on our feedback.

As this is a modular course there is no final exam. Instead, each module has one online assessment.

MOOCs

To support your learning outside of classes we’ve created three non-assessed Massive Online Open Courses (MOOCs). In preparation for our course, we recommend our students take The Genomics Era: The Future of Genetics in Medicine as it provides a basic grounding in genomics.

The course also offers training and resources on academic and research skills including refreshers in laboratory techniques and academic support for assessments.

Student support

From day one, you’ll become part of a community of staff and students of different ages, ethnicities, nationalities and backgrounds. Everyone you meet will have one thing in common – a passion for healthcare, science and medicine.

Whether you’re an existing healthcare professional, returning to education after a break or joining us after graduating from an undergraduate degree, we want to help you make the most of your time here. To do this, we offer a full range of academic support and student services.

Careers service

We offer 1:1 career guidance to undergraduate and postgraduate students at every stage of your professional development, from the start of your course through to graduation and beyond. As a student, you’ll also benefit from career development activities that are specifically tailored to your course.

What we offer:

• Career guidance: We offer 30-minute 1:1 careers guidance sessions to support you in your career planning, build your confidence, and help you identify next steps on your career journey.
• CV and application advice: We can review your applications with you, support you in presenting yourself to potential employers, tailor your applications to a particular role and help you stand out from your competition.
• Practice interviews: Work on the content, structure, and delivery of your answers, whether that’s motivation questions, competency questions, role-specific questions or Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI).
• Interactive workshops: Our career education workshops are tailored and delivered within courses. Topics may include understanding the graduate job market, learning through reflection on career decision-making, making successful applications and making an impact at interviews.
• Careers fairs: These are opportunities to explore career paths in different areas and specialities, meet with employers, and have valuable conversations to inform your career thinking.
• Online support: We offer specific information tailored to each course, plus general careers support and resources relevant to whatever your career choices and direction via our Canvas Virtual Learning Environment.

Disability support

If you require reasonable adjustments or disability services, you can find information on our disability information for students pages. For any further information please contact the disability adviser.

Mental health support

St George’s has a confidential, free and impartial counselling service available to all students. You can also access services through our Student Life Centre and our online resources. This includes links to NHS resources, apps, podcasts and websites dedicated to mental health and wellbeing.

Personal academic tutor

When you start your course, we’ll allocate you a personal tutor. This is a member of the academic team who you’ll see regularly to monitor your progress and pick up any problems, both academic and personal. Even if they don’t have the answer, they’ll point you in the right direction towards the support you need.

Students with children

Juggling study and parenthood can be difficult, particularly if you’re taking a demanding medical or healthcare degree. Our Student Parents and Carers Empowered (SPACE) society is a group run by studying parents that meets monthly to support each other and discuss how to balance family life with studying. For more information, email the SPACE society.

Student Life Centre

Our Student Life Centre team can help you with every aspect of student life including:

• Finances
• Accommodation
• Exams and assessment
• Academic procedures
• Admissions
• Disability and wellbeing
• Confidential counselling service

Your personal tutor can also signpost you to relevant support.

Students’ Union

St George's Students' Union (SU) is an independent organisation run by students for students. While many of their societies and events take place in person, the team also provides welfare support for all students, with an open-door policy.

Study+

We’re here to help you develop the academic skills you need to succeed and make the most of our library collections.

• Sessions and tutorials on literature searches, keyword searches and using databases
• Training materials for academic planning, reading and writing to develop key transferable skills
• 1:1 meetings for a tailored approach to your academic support needs

Careers

Genomics is an area of rapid change. This course will upskill healthcare workers so they can apply and understand the relevance of genomic medicine to their work and enhance their career opportunities.

The course will also provide relevant knowledge and understanding applicable to careers in the pharmaceutical industry and academia.

Students can choose to upgrade the online PgCert to the in-person PgDip or MSc Genomic Medicine following successful completion of the course.

Fees and funding

In this tab you will find the financial information for this course of study, including details of financial support.

Tuition fees

2025 entry

• PgCert: £4,500
• Standalone Genomic Medicine module: £1,400

Additional costs

We do not expect students to incur any extra costs over and above those that we have advertised on the course page. To get the most from your studies, you will need your personal computer or laptop (Windows 10 or macOS) and an internet connection in your home. Find out more about technology requirements associated with online learning.

Funding

If you work for the NHS then you may be eligible for funding from NHS England for up to four taught modules. Applications for NHSE funding are now closed - please register your interest to be notified when more NHSE funding is released.

If you have any questions related to funding applications, please liaise with Dr George Wardley or visit the Genomics Education Programme website for more information.

How to apply

Before beginning your application please check the entry criteria of the course you wish to study to ensure you meet the required standards.

If you work for the NHS and wish to be considered for NHSE funding, please make this clear on your application.

Guidance on submitting an application can be found on our how to apply webpage.

Access our online application system

Select the relevant application link and create an account:

• PG Certificate Genomic Medicine – Part Time (Online/Distance Learning)

1. Once you have created your account, you will be able to complete an application form and upload any relevant documents. You can save a partly completed form and return to it later. Please make sure you complete all sections. Please make sure that the information you provide is accurate, including the options you select in menus.
2. Add pgadmissions@sgul.ac.uk to your address book to ensure you do not miss any important emails from us.
3. When you have checked that your application is complete and accurate, click ‘submit’.

You can track your application through your online account.

If you are applying to study a module please note the following:

Applications for all modules close one month before the module start date.

If you wish to do more than one module, please use the application link for the module which occurs first.  Please state in your personal statement exactly which modules you wish to do.  

Current students on a Genomic Medicine standalone module at St George's should contact genomics@sgul.ac.uk to enquire into studying further modules. Please do not use the above links.

Find out more about our outstanding faculty of academics and clinicians.

Course director and admissions tutor

Dr Kate Everett

Reader in Human Genetics at St George’s, University of London

Dr Kate Everett read Biology at the University of York before moving to Cambridge University to pursue an MPhil in Biological Anthropology. After a year working in industry, she started her PhD at Cambridge University, funded by Cancer Research UK. The aim of this work was to elucidate the genetic basis of cutaneous malignant melanoma by using melanocytic naevi as a proxy risk measure. This was followed by a move to UCL where she stayed for 7 years before moving to St George's in 2010. Dr Everett's research now focuses primarily on neurogenetics, with an emphasis on identifying the genetic cause of neurodevelopmental disorders.

Since joining St George's in 2010, she has established research links with the clinical genetics team at St George's University Hospital NHS Trust. Her education portfolio spans many undergraduate and postgraduate courses at St George's. She has been involved in the in-person MSc Genomic Medicine since it's inception in 2015 and is currently Deputy head of the Graduate School with oversight of all taught postgraduate programmes at the Tooting campus.

Deputy course director

Dr Clara Cieza-Borrella

Senior Lecturer in Molecular Biology at St George’s, University of London

Dr Clara Cieza-Borrella is Senior Lecturer in Molecular Biology and Principal Investigator of the Prostate Cancer Biology Lab at St George's, University of London.

She graduated from University of Salamanca (Spain) with BSc Biology to later complete her master’s in Clinic and Biology of Cancer at the Centro de Investigacion del Cancer (Salamanca). She obtained her PhD in Molecular Medicine at the University of Salamanca and moved to London to carry out her postdoctoral studies on prostate cancer genetics at the Institute of Cancer Research (ICR, London). During her time there, Clara specialised in the functional validation of novel genes and variants in prostate cancer and novel technologies.

In 2019, Clara moved to St George's where she started to get involved in the St George's Genomic Medicine course, and since 2021 has been the course director of the in-person Genomic Medicine MSc.

Clara is also involved in public engagement, especially addressed to children and youth groups as part of her UK STEM Ambassador role.

Talk to Clara about: Genomic medicine, Cancer genetics, 3D Cell culture models, Targeted therapies, Liquid biopsies, Genome editing, and public engagement.