Cancer Sciences MSci (Hons) | University of Nottingham

International student

Course overview

Are you passionate about ground-breaking cancer research and the latest developments in cancer sciences? This internationally supported and research-extensive course is designed to give you clinical understanding of the causes of cancer, the molecular basis of new and established cancer treatments, as well as its translation into therapeutics and drug development. You’ll train across areas including cell and molecular biology, immunology, and human physiology.

This Msci programme guarantees a nine-month placement in industry or in a research laboratory during your fourth year. You'll be prepared for a career in cancer-related areas, including research in academia or industry, clinical trials management, science communication and graduate entry medicine, as well as a range of other graduate level careers.

How you will learn

Teaching will be delivered in the Medical School and the Biodiscovery Institute, and at other sites on the University Park campus, by both clinical and academic staff, and will follow a normal university academic year.

Teaching methods

Students will be taught using a diverse range of teaching and learning methods, including:

Case-based learning
eLearning
Lab sessions
Lectures
Practical classes
Problem-based learning
Self-study
Seminars
Small group learning
Tutorials
Workshops

Students will be taught by an experienced teaching team whose expertise and knowledge are closely matched to the content of the modules on the programme. The team includes senior academics, junior academics, demonstrators, and technical officers. Postgraduate research students may also contribute to the teaching of tutorials under the supervision of a module leader.

How you will be assessed

Assessment methods

Case studies
Coursework
Dissertation
Examinations
Lab reports
Literature review
Portfolio (written/digital)
Poster presentation
Practical write-ups
Presentation

Contact time and study hours

You'll have around 10 hours of contact time per week covering lectures, practicals, workshops, tutorials and seminars.

You're expected to spend around 20 to 30 hours per week on self-study.

Class sizes are two to three for personal tutorials, around 20 to 60 for seminars and workshops, and between 30 and 300 for lectures depending on the module.

Modules

5 modules

Causes and Consequences of Cancer

What is cancer? This module aims to build your foundational knowledge of the causes of cancer, as well as cancer diagnosis and treatment and the epidemiology of cancer. You’ll examine what happens when someone gets cancer, from detection, through diagnosis, treatment, recovery and survivorship.

Human Cellular and Molecular Biology

In this module, you’ll explore the fascinating world of cellular and molecular biology. You’ll delve into topics such as the intricate structure and function of cells and their organelles, the workings of proteins and enzymes, and the essential roles of DNA, transcription, and translation. You’ll also examine how genes are organised and regulated, alongside the metabolism of macromolecules and the architecture of cell membranes. 

To deepen your understanding, practical classes will complement the theoretical content, giving you the chance to apply what you’ve learned in a hands-on setting. This combination of detailed study and experiential learning will equip you with a solid foundation in cellular and molecular biology. 

Genetics, Molecular Evolution and Diversity

This module invites you to uncover the fascinating principles of genetics, molecular evolution, and diversity. You’ll explore foundational concepts such as inheritance, gene structure and function, and the molecular mechanisms that drive genetic variation. Through the lens of molecular evolutionary processes, you’ll investigate the forces shaping genetic diversity, including natural selection, mutation, and random genetic drift. 

In addition, you’ll examine the diversity of life, from microorganisms to eukaryotes, and delve into the unique biochemical processes of animals and plants. By integrating molecular biology with evolutionary theory, this module provides a holistic understanding of how life’s genetic and biochemical foundations connect across all organisms. 

Hallmarks of Cancer

A study of the ten fundamental processes that make cancers form, grow, invade and spread.

Human Physiology and Anatomy

This module provides an overview of the structure and function of the major systems of the human body in health and disease. This will give you a comprehensive introduction to human anatomy and physiology.

Practical classes will apply your learning to dynamic processes of some key body systems.

2 modules

Chemistry of Life

This module provides a foundational understanding of organic chemistry with a focus on biomolecules essential to life, such as amino acids, lipids, carbohydrates, and nucleotides. You’ll explore how biological systems synthesise and utilise these molecules, examining key chemical reactions, pathways, and the critical role of stereochemistry in biological processes.

Additionally, the module introduces the chemical principles underlying therapeutically relevant drug molecules, including their design, structure, and interactions with biological targets. By bridging biochemistry and organic chemistry, this module equips you with the essential knowledge needed for advanced studies in the life sciences.

Introduction to Human Nutrition and Metabolism

In this module, you’ll explore how the human body processes the nutrients it needs to function. From obtaining and digesting to absorbing and metabolising macronutrients and micronutrients, you’ll gain a solid understanding of these essential processes. You’ll also examine the intricate relationship between nutrition and energy metabolism, delving into their effects on energy balance, body weight regulation, and body composition.

The module further investigates the tissue-specific regulation of macronutrient metabolism, giving you deeper insights into the complexities of the human body. By building this foundation, you’ll be better equipped to understand the science behind nutrition and its role in maintaining health and well-being.

6 modules

Angiogenesis and Tumour-Host Interactions

This module looks at angiogenesis, the formation of new blood vessels, and how the blood supply and immune system interact when there is a tumour present. You’ll examine the process of neo-angiogenesis in tumour biology and the approaches that have been used to target this process. You’ll study how cancers interact with their host, co-opt and corrupt normal cell processes, and evade detection by the immune system.

Cancer Cell Genetics: How and Why Cancer Cells are Different from Normal Cells

This module considers:

Genetic polymorphisms and genome-wide association studies
Chemical, viral, and radiation induced DNA damage and tumourigenesis
Cancer cell genomics and the 100,000 genome project
Cancer cell transcriptomics and epigenomics
Precision medicine in cancer treatment

Colorectal Cancer and Ovarian Cancer

How do cancers become genetically unstable, so that they can spread around the body (metastaisize), using bowel and ovarian cancer as examples.

20 credits in the Autumn Semester.

Epidemiology of Cancer and Population Genetics

This module looks at the ways we study the incidence of cancer in specific populations and areas, and how we determine the causes and risk factors associated with cancer. You’ll explore the global cancer burden and the regional variations in cancer incidence and cancer risk factors. As well as the methods used to address cancer prevention, and the importance of public health policy in cancer prevention.

Lung Cancer, Breast Cancer and Prostate Cancer

This module studies three of the most common cancers. You’ll examine tobacco-induced mutations in the lung and the role of oncogenes and tumour suppressor genes in this disease.

You will gain an understanding of growth factor signalling in breast cancer, treatment and the evolution of drug resistance and examine the importance of hormones and the role of oestrogen and the use of anti-oestrogens. All the while comparing breast cancer and prostate cancer.

Patient-centred Library Project (cause, diagnosis and treatments)

Find out what happens to someone when they get cancer, the journey they go through, and what doctors, nurses, scientists and other health care professionals do to treat the patient.

2 modules

Patient Portfolio

Take an in-depth look at the patient’s journey with cancer. From discovery to treatment, recovery and/or palliative care. Through an in-depth case study, you’ll build knowledge of the skills needed to be able to diagnose, and identify treatment options and you’ll see the importance of clinical trials and evidence-based medicine.

Practical Project

This module provides you with hands-on experience of research in cancer sciences and develops the practical skills required to conduct a research project. You’ll design, plan, and perform a research project under the guidance of an academic supervisor. As part of the project, you will:

read and critically analyse scientific literature
collect, analyse, and interpret data of many different types including in some cases bioinformatic data or other types of non-laboratory data
write a dissertation based on your reading of the literature and the data that you have collected and/or analysed
produce a poster that summarises the results of your work and present in a conference-type setting

5 modules

Advanced Cancer Models and Approaches in Preclinical Research

This module considers advanced methodologies, approaches, and technologies at the forefront of current cancer research including:

Innovative technologies
Discovery biology (phenotype analysis) - genetic screening using CRISPR, shRNA, and siRNA
Transcriptomics - RNA seq, spatial transcriptomics, and single cell sequencing
Epigenomics - ChIP seq, RIME, Proteomics, Metabolomics including spatial metabolomics
Artificial Intelligence/imaging
Databases/platforms and their use.In vivo tumour models: transgenesis and in vivo assays (intra-spleen injections, tail vein injections, orthotopic models, subcutaneous tumour models, and other approaches that model primary tumour growth and metastasis)
3D in vitro tissue culture approaches: organoids, patient tissue explants, and tumour spheroids
Bioengineering in 3D cancer models and description of synthetic niches mimicking the tumour microenvironment
Drug screening using in vitro models and consideration of pharmacokinetics (including for drug-resistant cells)
Translation of new models into the clinic and in-depth consideration of preclinical approaches in the development of novel treatment strategies
Phase I and Phase II clinical trials

Cancer Biology and Molecular Therapeutics

Building on the skills you gained in Year two, this module continues to analyse cancer biology but in the context of molecular therapeutics. You’ll do this by examining emerging research, in solid tumours and also in blood cancers, from diverse areas such as DNA repair, cell cycle control, growth factor signaling, hypoxia, apoptotic and autophagic mechanisms, epigenetic mechanisms, cancer stem cell properties, bioelectrical signalling. Therapeutics currently used in the clinic as well as novel therapeutics being developed pre-clinically will be a particular focus.

Cancer Immunology and Novel Therapies

Students who choose this module will receive a thorough grounding in the foundations of immunology pertaining to T-cell responses. The essential models of T-cell activation will be taught with key lectures on dendritic cells, T-cell responses to infectious (pathogens) and sterile antigens (ie cancer), and immune escape. These form the foundations of understanding later lectures on cutting edge immunotherapies including immune checkpoint blockade and CAR-T therapies. This module’s teaching team comprises research specialist scientists and consultant oncologists.

Paediatric Cancer

This module considers:

The spectrum of cancers that occur in childhood and how types of cancer and drivers are different to adult cancers
Current treatments and outcomes for a range of paediatric cancers
The principles behind chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and surgery in childhood cancer
How improved understanding of the underlying biology is driving novel treatment strategies
An in-depth consideration of preclinical approaches to developing novel treatment strategies
Issues with translating findings in the laboratory to clinical trials and finally standard of care
The broader effects of paediatric cancer on families and independent living for survivors

A key objective will be to understand that the consequences of treatment are lifelong for survivors.

Tumour Microenvironment: How the Tumour Environment Influences Cancer Cells

How the cancer cell shapes its environment, and how the environment affects the cancer cell, from blood vessel growth and drainage by lymphatics to the host cells that interact with the cancer cells.

3 modules

Current Advances in Oncology (Online)

Hear from experts in cancer research on cutting-edge technologies. You'll complement this with your own research through review articles and primary papers from the current scientific literature related to the research seminars.

Industrial / Research Placement Dissertation

This module will see you complete your placement and then write a dissertation about your research placement.

Placement Proposal

In this module, you’ll conduct in-depth research into your placement in order to plan a research project. You’ll use the information you gain to produce a grant application. This should explain the aims of the project, its background, the methods you’ll use, the expected outcomes, the value of the research, and the safety and ethical considerations of the project.

Language study as part of this degree

Our Language Centre offers many languages, and you may start as a beginner or at a more advanced level and you may be able to choose to study a language as part of this degree.

Learning another language can open career opportunities around the globe and enriches your CV. It could also help you in your studies by being able to access learning materials in other languages. If you are planning to travel or work abroad it will help you to broaden your cultural understanding.

Find out more about learning a language as part of your degree.

Select student type

Quick glance

All candidates are considered on an individual basis and we accept a broad range of qualifications. The entrance requirements listed apply to 2026 entry.

A levels

AAA

34 points overall

A level and GCSE requirements

A levels

AAA / A*AB

Required subjects

Must include one of biology or chemistry and a second science subject from the following; physics, maths, further maths, geography, engineering, psychology, geology, environmental science or statistics.

A pass is normally required in science practical tests, where these are assessed separately.

Excluded subjects

General studies, critical thinking, citizenship studies, global perspectives.

GCSEs (or equivalent)

Grade 4 (C) in English
Grade 4 (C) in maths

IB requirements

IB score

34 points overall or 6,6,6 in three HL certificates

IB requirements

HL6, HL6 in biology or chemistry and a second science in any order

Alternative qualifications

We recognise that applicants have a wealth of different experiences and follow a variety of pathways into higher education.

Consequently we treat all applicants with alternative qualifications (besides A levels and the International Baccalaureate) on an individual basis, and we gladly accept students with a whole range of less conventional qualifications including:

Access to HE Diploma
Advanced Diploma
BTEC HND/HNC
BTEC Extended Diploma

This list is not exhaustive. The entry requirements for alternative qualifications can be quite specific; for example you may need to take certain modules and achieve a specified grade in those modules. Please contact us to discuss the transferability of your qualification. Please see the alternative qualifications page for more information.

RQF BTEC Nationals

RQF Level 3 BTEC National Extended Diploma at D*DD
RQF Level 3 BTEC National Diploma at D*D plus one A level at A
RQF BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma at D plus two A levels at AA

All BTEC's considered on case by case basis.

Access to HE Diploma

Access to HE Diploma with a minimum of 36 Level 3 graded credits at Distinction and 9 at Merit. Considered on a case by case basis.

Contextual offers

We make contextual offers to students who may have experienced barriers that have restricted progress at school or college. Our standard contextual offer is usually one grade lower than the advertised entry requirements, and our enhanced contextual offer is usually two grades lower than the advertised entry requirements. To qualify for a contextual offer, you must have Home/UK fee status and meet specific criteria – check if you’re eligible.

Foundation progression options

If you are a Home applicant and do not meet the entry requirements for direct entry to this course, you may be interested in researching our Science with Foundation Year BSc or Science with Foundation Year MSci course. Students successfully completing and meeting the specific progression requirements of the Science with a Foundation Year course are guaranteed progression on to a selection of undergraduate courses. Please note progression to some courses may require meeting additional criteria such as a successful interview.

You can view all pathways and progression criteria in our progression table.

Mature students

At the University of Nottingham, we have a valuable community of mature students and we appreciate their contribution to the wider student population. You can find lots of useful information on the mature students webpage.

Notes for applicants

Interview

If you apply to study the MSci, you will be required to have an interview.

Placements

In year four, students undertake a full-time research placement in the pharmaceutical or biotechnology industries, or in a research institute/university laboratory, either in the UK or overseas. During this time, you’ll produce a written project proposal, a report on their full-time research placement in the form of a short oral presentation, and a dissertation.

Please note

In order to undertake a placement, you will need to achieve the relevant academic requirements as set by the university and meet any requirements specified by the placement host. There is no guarantee that you will be able to undertake a placement as part of your course.

Tuition fees

2026/27 (UK undergraduate students)

This is the UK undergraduate tuition fee for the academic year 25/26. It may increase for the academic year 26/27 and we will update our information once we have received confirmation of the fee from the UK Government.

For full details including fees for part-time students and reduced fees during your time studying abroad or on placement (where applicable), see our fees page.

Additional costs

As a student on this course, you should factor some additional costs into your budget, alongside your tuition fees and living expenses such as travel and accommodation.

You should be able to access most of the books you'll need for the course through our libraries, however you may wish to buy your own copies or get more specific titles which may cost up to £80 each.

Scholarships and bursaries

The University of Nottingham offers a wide range of bursaries and scholarships. These funds can provide you with an additional source of non-repayable financial help. For up to date information regarding tuition fees, visit our fees and finance pages.

Home students

Over one third of our UK students receive our means-tested core bursary. Full details can be found on our financial support pages.

A 'home' student is one who meets certain UK residence criteria. These are the same criteria as apply to eligibility for home funding from Student Finance.

Quick glance

All candidates are considered on an individual basis and we accept a broad range of qualifications. The entrance requirements listed apply to 2026 entry.

34 points overall

A levels

AAA

IB requirements

IB score

34 points overall or 6,6,6 in three HL certificates

IB requirements

HL6, HL6 in biology or chemistry and a second science in any order

A level and GCSE requirements

A levels

AAA / A*AB

Required subjects

A pass is normally required in science practical tests, where these are assessed separately.

Excluded subjects

General studies, critical thinking, citizenship studies, global perspectives.

GCSEs (or equivalent)

Grade 4 (C) in English
Grade 4 (C) in maths

Alternative qualifications

We recognise that applicants have a wealth of different experiences and follow a variety of pathways into higher education.

Access to HE Diploma
Advanced Diploma
BTEC HND/HNC
BTEC Extended Diploma

RQF BTEC Nationals

RQF Level 3 BTEC National Extended Diploma at D*DD
RQF Level 3 BTEC National Diploma at D*D plus one A level at A
RQF BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma at D plus two A levels at AA

All BTEC's considered on case by case basis.

Access to HE Diploma

Access to HE Diploma with a minimum of 36 Level 3 graded credits at Distinction and 9 at Merit. Considered on a case by case basis.

IELTS/English requirements

IELTS

6.5 (no less than 6.0 in any element)

English language requirements

As well as IELTS (listed above), we also accept other English language qualifications. This includes TOEFL iBT, Pearson PTE, GCSE, IB and O level English. Check our English language policies and equivalencies for further details.

For presessional English or one-year foundation courses, you must take IELTS for UKVI to meet visa regulations.

If you need support to meet the required level, you may be able to attend a Presessional English for Academic Purposes (PEAP) course. Our Centre for English Language Education is accredited by the British Council for the teaching of English in the UK.

If you successfully complete your presessional course to the required level, you can then progress to your degree course. This means that you won't need to retake IELTS or equivalent.

High school qualifications

Check our country-specific information for guidance on qualifications from your country.

Visa restrictions

International students must have valid UK immigration permissions for any courses or study period where teaching takes place in the UK. Student route visas can be issued for eligible students studying full-time courses. The University of Nottingham does not sponsor a student visa for students studying part-time courses. The Standard Visitor visa route is not appropriate in all cases. Please contact the university’s Visa and Immigration team if you need advice about your visa options.

Mature students

Notes for applicants

Interview

If you apply to study the MSci, you will be required to have an interview.

Placements

Please note

Tuition fees

If you are a student from the EU, EEA or Switzerland, you may be asked to complete a fee status questionnaire and your answers will be assessed using guidance issued by the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA).

For full details including fees for part-time students and reduced fees during your time studying abroad or on placement (where applicable), see our fees page.

Additional costs

As a student on this course, you should factor some additional costs into your budget, alongside your tuition fees and living expenses such as travel and accommodation.

Scholarships and bursaries

International students

We offer a range of international undergraduate scholarships for high-achieving international scholars who can put their Nottingham degree to great use in their careers.

I was looking for a very specific course and knew I wanted to go into either genetics or cancer, and this course is everything in one that I was looking at doing so it seemed like a no brainer. On the course, it’s professionals in the field giving you the information on the topics we’re learning and you always come out of lectures and seminars with something. Plus, the uni campus is definitely up there with my favourite campuses too."

Rowan Hill

Cancer Sciences

Careers overview

Studying cancer sciences at Nottingham gives you the perfect grounding to pursue further research through studying a masters or a PhD.

The course also provides you with broader knowledge of biochemistry, immunology, genetics, physiology, pharmacology, pathology, and more. These skills could lead you into jobs in biotechnology, pharmaceutical industries, and other biomedical areas.

Job prospects

Average starting salary and career progression

95% of School of Medicine undergraduates secured graduate level employment or further study within 15 months of graduation. The average annual starting salary for these graduates was £37,060 (HESA Graduate Outcomes 2022/23).

Careers advice

Studying for a degree at the University of Nottingham will provide you with the type of skills and experiences that will prove invaluable in any career, whichever direction you decide to take.

Throughout your time with us, our Careers and Employability Service can work with you to improve your employability skills even further; assisting with job or course applications, searching for appropriate work experience placements and hosting events to bring you closer to a wide range of prospective employers.

Have a look at our careers page for an overview of all the employability support and opportunities that we provide to current students.

The University of Nottingham is consistently named as one of the most targeted universities by Britain's leading graduate employers (Ranked in the top 10 in The Graduate Market in 2013-2024, High Fliers Research).

Welcome to your campus

Located at Queen’s Medical Centre, one of the UK's largest and busiest hospitals, the Medical School offers an exceptional learning environment. You’ll have access to cutting-edge facilities and learn from leading clinicians and researchers, enjoying easy access to University Park for a full campus experience.

Cancer Sciences - U7UCNRSC

Course overview

Teaching and learning

Modules

Core modules

5 modules

Causes and Consequences of Cancer

Human Cellular and Molecular Biology

Genetics, Molecular Evolution and Diversity

Hallmarks of Cancer

Human Physiology and Anatomy

Optional modules

Core modules

6 modules

Angiogenesis and Tumour-Host Interactions

Cancer Cell Genetics: How and Why Cancer Cells are Different from Normal Cells

Colorectal Cancer and Ovarian Cancer

Epidemiology of Cancer and Population Genetics

Lung Cancer, Breast Cancer and Prostate Cancer

Patient-centred Library Project (cause, diagnosis and treatments)

Core modules

2 modules

Patient Portfolio

Practical Project

Optional modules

Core modules

3 modules

Current Advances in Oncology (Online)

Industrial / Research Placement Dissertation

Placement Proposal

Language study as part of this degree

Select student type

Entry requirements

4 years full-time

£9,535 per year

Entry requirements

4 years full-time

£33,000 per year

Careers

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