MABIO4810 Molecular Pathology Course description

The course forms a theoretical and practical basis for being able to assess choices and perform molecular analyses of genetic changes in cancer cells, both in diagnostics and research. This comprises advanced immunological, biochemical, cell and molecular biology methods. A selection of these methods are used in the practical work.

The course builds on MABIO4110 Molecular Cell Biology. This course or equivalent knowledge is recommended.

Students must have been admitted to the Master’s Programme in Health and Technology - Specialisation in Biomedicine. The course is also offered as an individual course, with the same admission requirements as for the specialisation.

After completing the course, the student should have the following learning outcomes defined in terms of knowledge, skills and general competence: 

Knowledge 

The student 

• can critically assess the choice of material and method for molecular diagnostics
• can account for possibilities and limitations associated with the use of advanced molecular analyses
• can discuss results of molecular analyses against clinical relevance

Skills 

The student 

• can use and critically interpret results from selected methods in molecular pathology in an independent manner
• can work on the basis of knowledge of their own area of diagnostics and research
• can independently assess the suitability of molecular pathology methods in a clinical context

General competence

The student 

• can critically assess relevant molecular pathology methods in biomedical research and diagnostics 
• can critically assess, discuss and disseminate advanced research literature 
• can help to implement molecular pathology methods in their own field

The course is largely web-based and includes digital lectures, digital group assignments and self-study. The course also comprises a compulsory three-day session at OsloMet that includes skills training in the form of laboratory courses. The group assignments include oral presentations where students receive feedback on their work from fellow students and the lecturer.

The following must have been approved in order for the student to take the exam: 

• minimum attendance of 80% at scheduled digital lectures
• minimum attendance of 80% at campus-based session

Individual written home exam over 3 days, 2,000 words (+/- 20%).

The paper can be written in English or a Scandinavian language.

All aids are permitted, as long as the rules for source referencing are complied with.

Grade scale A-F.

All papers will be assessed by two examiners, one of whom must be external.

The course is offered as an individual course. Admission requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent degree in medical laboratory sciences, pharmacy, biotechnology, chemical engineering or molecular biology.

None.