Current concern with community spread of viral infections such as HIV, the causative agent of AIDS, viral gastroenteritis particularly in children and respiratory infections, requires well-trained individuals with the knowledge enabling them to contribute to and enhance existing microbiological services and research. Viruses are being developed or explored for novel applications including gene therapy and recombinant vaccines. The course covers all aspects of viral infections through to disease and exploits how this knowledge can be applied to the control, treatment and prevention of viral infections. It attracts those with microbiology experience, but is open to suitably qualified individuals who wish to specialise in virology. Graduates from this course go into health-associated professions, research careers in academia, hospitals or the pharmaceutical industry as well as associated teaching professions.
Many graduates proceed to study for a PhD degree.
A typical selection of units is given below, not all units will be available in any one year. Students choose one unit from each timetable slot. Some units can be taken only after consultation with the Course Organiser. Project Report Students complete a research project which may be based on a critical review of an approved topic, analysis of a collection of results or a laboratory study. Duration of the Course Full-time for one calendar year.