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Huddersfield University Campus

Medical Genetics with Research Placement BSc(Hons)

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Start Dates

21 September 2026

Duration

4 years inc. placement year

UCAS Tariff

112-120

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About this course

Overview

Why choose Huddersfield for this course?

  • Learn from expert academics at a TEF Gold-rated university, ranked top three in England for staff doctorates.
  • Core modules include Molecular and Cellular Biology, Biochemistry 2 and Immunology and Infection.
  • Gain real-world experience by participating in a compulsory and supervised research placement in your area of interest.

Accreditation and Professional Links

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Genetics is at the heart of modern biological sciences. The drive to understand more about the processes behind inherited diseases has led to huge advances in many fields, including embryology, stem cell biology and cancer research.

Why study Medical Genetics with Research Placement BSc(Hons)

On this course, you’ll learn about genetics across the board, from the foundations right up to the most recent breakthroughs. It’s a course designed to help you kickstart your career in a wide range of healthcare and scientific professions, pharmaceuticals, genetic counselling, or medical research.

You’ll gain a firm foundational knowledge on the application of genetics to medical and biological sciences research. In addition to learning theory, you’ll gain practical hands-on experience in the labs in our new £18.2 million Applied Sciences facilities.

You’ll also be gaining real-world experience by participating in a compulsory and supervised research placement in your area of interest, available after your second year, allowing you to put your skills to the test at sites in the UK or abroad.

Career opportunities after the course *

Laboratory Technicians

Medical Laboratory Assistants

Laboratory Assistants

Biology Technicians

Biological Science Technicians

*Lightcast

Who can apply?

Entry Requirements

BBB-BBC at A Level including a minimum grade B in Chemistry and one of the following relevant Science subjects: Biology, Physics, Mathematics or Psychology. The endorsement for practical work is an essential part of Science A Level study and is a requirement for entry to our degree course.
120-112 UCAS tariff points from a combination of Level 3 qualifications including a minimum grade B in A Level Chemistry and one of the following relevant Science subjects: Biology, Physics, Mathematics or Psychology. The endorsement for practical work is an essential part of Science A Level study and is a requirement for entry to our degree course.
In addition you must have GCSE English Language and Maths at grade 4 or above, or grade C or above if awarded under the previous GCSE grading scheme.
Merit at T Level in Science including a grade B in A Level Chemistry and one other relevant Science subject.

If you do not have the appropriate qualifications for direct entry to this degree you may be able to apply to our Science Extended Degree (BCF0).

If your first language is not English, you will need to meet the minimum requirements of an English Language qualification. The minimum for IELTS is 6.0 overall with no element lower than 5.5, or equivalent. Read more about the University’s entry requirements for students outside of the UK on our International Entry Requirements page.

Other suitable experience or qualifications will be considered. For further information please see the University's minimum entry requirements.

What will you learn?

Course Details

The module considers genetic analyses in a number of systems. Mendelian genetics is considered together with linkage and pedigree analysis and their uses in identifying genes. The genetic systems of microbes are introduced with examples of the strategies employed to make use of these systems. Allele inheritance is considered at the population level, along with the concept of evolution. The Tree of Life is also discussed. Finally, the module contains an introduction to basic cytology, the cellular basis of life is considered and a comparison between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells performed. The concept of 'compartmentalisation' is dealt with, where organelles are dealt with individually. Cell culture techniques are introduced and the problems associated with packaging DNA in a eukaryotic chromosome discussed.

​Biochemistry 1 gives a basic account of the structure and function of biological macromolecules, particularly proteins and is illustrated by reference to such molecules as haemoglobin. A firm grounding in enzyme action is provided and this is supported by a number of practical classes. The relationship between genes and proteins and the Central Dogma of Molecular Biology are emphasised. A foundation in the study of metabolism is provided, directing you towards an understanding of the underlying principles rather than rote learning of metabolic pathways. The subject provides the basis for further studies in subjects such as Cell Structure and Pharmacology. The subject is delivered by formal lectures and in laboratory classes. However your learning is supported by tutorial classes, the provision of web-based material and, where necessary, a limited amount of individual tuition.

This module covers all the major organs of the body together with models of normal and abnormal bodily function. Emphasis will be directed to the concept of homeostasis and the integration of dynamic processes involved in the maintenance of health.

This module aims to introduce students from diverse backgrounds to the range of skills required in modern analytical science and illustrate how analytical methodology underpins scientific investigation across the conventional discipline boundaries. The module will build on and develop your prior knowledge of analysis whilst not assuming any particular area of expertise and will also endeavour to improve your numerical, IT and communication skills by illustrating analytical methodology in the context of these key skill areas. This module also aims to develop your ability to obtain and interpret a wide range of spectroscopic data in a systematic and logical fashion. In this way you'll be taught to apply your knowledge to a wide range of new problems and in so doing develop your general problem solving skills. The module will be taught primarily by lectures and tutorials with illustrative practical work to highlight salient points from the lecture material.

This module aims to introduce you to the full range of microbial life and the techniques used to study microorganisms and begins by introducing the diversity and countless activities of microbes. Subsequently, the structural and functional components of the cell and the similarities and differences of prokaryotes and eukaryotes are highlighted. Control of microbial growth, nutritional categories of microbes and environmental factors influencing the growth and viability of microbes are also investigated. The module then examines the biology of eukaryotes (fungi, algae and protozoa) by exploring classification, growth, asexual and sexual reproduction and nutritional adaptations. Finally, the classification of microorganisms using the Whittaker five kingdom system and the Woese three domain system is reviewed, as well as criteria for the identification of microbes. The associated practical classes are designed to develop your laboratory skills and familiarity with the basic microbiological methods.

Research in science ranges from finding out what is already known to carrying out investigations to add to our store of knowledge. This module provides the requisite background skills for successful completion of an Honours Degree in Biology. Basic generic skills involving literacy, numeracy and use of IT are applied to summarising, understanding, interpreting and presenting data generated by laboratory investigations. Throughout the module the emphasis is on learning the skills that will be used in various parts of the degree course. Acquisition of learning skills takes precedence over memorising facts. Learning about current topics in science involves finding peer-reviewed scientific literature (using library facilities and database searches), and summarising it with source attribution as a report using correct scientific style. Basic statistics is taught using spreadsheet and statistics programs. You'll also have the opportunity to build up a portfolio of evidence relating to your skills for Personal Development Planning.

This module further develops general research skills including writing, presentations, using statistical analysis and elements relevant to your final year research projects. Teamwork skills are promoted in a group data analysis project, including statistical analysis of the data and group presentation in one term. In the other term, you'll have an opportunity to research a biological topic in depth and, building on the skills learned in year one, to write an essay on the topic. Personal tutorial meetings promote employability skills including further development of the CV and personal development planning as well as a continuation of enterprise and employability skills through the tutorial programme. Research ethics and health and safety aspects are also considered in preparation for your final year capstone project.

This module seeks to give you an understanding of the essential processes involved in information storage and use in living cells together with the modern methods of molecular biology used to analyse genes and their expression. The essential properties of DNA and RNA together with their replication, transcription and translation into protein are discussed in some depth for both eukaryotic and prokaryotic organisms. The large variety of recently developed methods, which allow the identification, isolation and the characterisation of genes from potentially any living organism is introduced. The major enzymes used for DNA manipulation are discussed together with strategies for cloning the genes in different hosts. Analytical techniques such as DNA sequencing and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) are dealt with in some depth. In addition, the utilisation of the isolated genes both in genetically modifying organisms and in analytical techniques are introduced. Here particular emphasis will be given to what has been learned about the way in which the expression of genes is controlled. Lectures each week are supplemented with tutorials to help build up your confidence with the material. Sessions include restriction mapping, model building in gene expression strategies and the experimental methodologies from the lectures. There is a major practical element involving the isolation of DNA from bacteria, analysis by gel electrophoresis and bacterial transformation etc.

This module considers protein structure in relation to function, in particular enzyme action and membrane mediated metabolic processes. The various types of post-translational modifications of proteins are discussed in detail, followed by an account of protein folding. Protein mis-folding, aggregation and intrinsic disorder are also discussed using prion proteins, amyloid and FnBPA as examples. Various globular and fibrous proteins illustrate regulatory strategies. Channels, pumps and cytoskeletal components illustrate higher levels of organisation of proteins. The techniques of X-ray crystallography and Cryo-EM for protein structure determination are introduced. Advantages and limitations are discussed. Lectures will discuss various techniques for analysing protein structure, folding and protein-protein interactions (isothermal titration calorimetry, near and far UV circular dichroism). The structure and function of mitochondria and chloroplasts is also covered including respiration and photosynthesis pathways, focusing on electron transport chains. Mechanisms of enzyme catalysis are discussed with numerous examples (acid-base, covalent, nucleophilic, metal ion etc). In lectures, practicals and problem based tutorials you'll have the opportunity to develop the skills required for determining kinetic and inhibition constants (kcat, catalytic efficiency, Ki). Practicals will also allow you to isolate a pure protein from egg white, assess product quality and consider the commercial value of this purified material.

The module builds on the basic physiology that was studied in the first year. The organisation and regulatory roles of the nervous system are considered and their interaction investigated. The central nervous system (CNS) will be investigated and the functions associated with its anatomical regions. Interactions such as sensory and motor integration, sleep-wake cycles and higher mental functions (consciousness and memory) will also be introduced. Endocrine physiology and hormonal control will also be considered with integration of activities of the nervous and endocrine systems.

You will also choose two optional modules in this year. The current optional modules are:

​This module will extend and develop your understanding and knowledge of cell biology with a particular focus on how cells communicate and the importance of this for multicellularity. Key themes include regulation of the passage of molecules across the cell membrane, intracellular and cell surface receptors, signal transduction pathways and second messengers. The role of the cytoskeleton, the extracellular matrix and selective cell adhesion in formation of tissues are also considered. You will gain an understanding of different techniques that are used to study cell biology. The practical component of this module will help you to develop your laboratory practical skills and ability to analyse and present acquired data.

This module introduces you to the underpinning biophysical pharmaceutics for the formulation and compounding of medicines valuable for understanding of extemporaneous preparation, but also for the rational design of existing drug formulations. The theory outlining the formulation of drugs for improved absorption, metabolism and biological targeting provides the opportunity to gain a practical understanding of efficient pharmaceutical design.

The aims of this module are to introduce you to a range of pathogens responsible for major and emerging infectious diseases globally. To outline how pathogen biology not only influences pathology and transmission of disease, but is also the target for therapeutic intervention. We'll provide you with an overview of the drug discovery pipeline and other factors involved in the control of infectious diseases. This module also covers the mechanisms of action of existing and potential new therapies and discusses the significance of infectious diseases in the context of 21st century life. It also introduces the emerging importance of the commensal microflora and the concept of dysbiosis in the aetiology of a range of pathologies. The bases of pathogenicity and virulence for a range of bacterial, eukaryotic and viral pathogens will be addressed alongside discussion of current and prospective treatments for the diseases caused by these micro-organisms. The emerging importance of commensal microflora and the concept of dysbiosis in the aetiology of a range of human pathologies and antibiotic/drug-resistance are also important themes in this medical microbiology-themed module. Infectious diseases significant in a UK context and more widely in a global context will both be addressed. Lectures and assessment will cover bacterial, viral, and eukaryotic pathogens, which are the aetiological agents of human disease in tropical and temperate countries. Lecture content will include discussion of leading causes of mortality globally: e.g. cholera, malaria, tuberculosis, and HIV-AIDS. Threats posed by antibiotic resistance, challenges and opportunities associated with new medicine development, and the significance of emerging diseases against a backdrop of climate change will all be addressed.

For more information on when and how we update our modules please see the ‘Legal Information’ section below.

The Research Placement allows you to experience working in an active research environment and to undertake your own independent supervised research project. The placement can be undertaken in a research lab within the University, another Institute or within industry in the UK or internationally and gives you the opportunity to experience employment within organizations related to your chosen course. You can engage the knowledge, skills and techniques gained during the first two years of your degree and apply them, and techniques learned in situ, to your own supervised research project in a professional research environment. The placement also encourages you to develop contacts with potential employers and to construct work experience profiles commensurate with the demands of future scientific careers. The placement is normally 34 weeks of laboratory work for the research project plus any additional work required by the institution for training and health and safety. This will vary significantly according to the type of placement and the Institutional requirements and working practices. You'll be allocated a workplace mentor, which may be the supervisor, who will ease your integration into the organization and take responsibility for your research project supervision.

The aim is to give students experience in conducting a piece of independent, hypothesis-driven, biological research, or research into biology education. Under the supervision of a member of academic staff, students undertake practical experimentation in the laboratory/field. Supervisors outline the aims of the project and direct students to the most recent literature. Prior to experimentation, students will be expected to undertake a comprehensive review of the literature related to their project and will be given guidance on appropriate experimental methods. The project is generally fluid in nature, with the direction of the investigation being dictated by results obtained, or problems encountered. Results are presented in a written report and through presentations to student peers and academic staff. Module-specific tutorials will run in conjunction with personal academic tutorials. Tutorials will be given on Health and Safety, Intellectual Property, research ethics and project planning and management.

This module introduces and explores contemporary methods used in molecular life sciences. It investigates technical aspects underpinning genome engineering and large-scale “omics” projects and presents applications and challenges of “omics” research using examples from a variety of model systems and approaches. The methods and challenges of investigating phylogenetic relationships between sequences and organisms are explored. The personal, societal, and ethical impacts of these developments and their effects on our understanding of genomes and evolutionary processes are considered. The computer practical parts of the module engage students with investigation of protein structure, phylogenetic techniques, and analysis of high–throughput data using publicly available datasets and resources.

This module covers the use of molecular genetic and cytogenetic techniques to delineate the cause and treatment of disease and illnesses and delivers an introduction to genetic counselling. The module begins with an account of the aetiology of human genetic disease and how DNA technology has aided disease gene mapping, cloning and sequencing and gives you an overview of gene and mutation databases. The latest methods used for disease diagnosis are then discussed, including fluorescence in situ hybridisation and high-throughput DNA sequencing. Prenatal diagnosis, population screening and ethics in medical genetics are discussed. You'll also be introduced to the concepts and tools for the study of complex diseases. The current state of gene therapy and animal models for human disease are also considered. The module highlights two particular diseases of interest – the diagnosis, molecular pathology and treatment of cystic fibrosis and the genetics and epigenetics of diabetes.

This module provides a comprehensive overview of adaptive and innate immunity. Detailed discussion is also provided for a broad range of parasites, bacterial pathogens and viruses and the dynamic interaction occurring after infection of a susceptible host: the host’s immune response; the evasion, inactivation, and/or manipulation strategies deployed by the microbial invader. Key experimental techniques commonly used in immunology research and in the diagnosis/monitoring of disease are also discussed.

This module provides the opportunity for you to learn about a range of different chronic diseases that can affect human health and quality of life. The underlying biology associated with some of these chronic diseases will be studied, the mechanism(s) by which they arise or develop and current treatments. There will be a particular focus on cancer as an example of a complex chronic disease. Other chronic diseases to be studied will be chosen to reflect recent advances in knowledge or treatment of a disease.

Teaching and Assessment

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Global Professional Award

At Huddersfield, you’ll study the award-winning Global Professional Award (GPA) alongside your degree* — so you’re ready for the career you want, whatever subject you choose.

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Interested in a placement?

Placements

In the third year of this course, you’ll get the chance to step out of the classroom and into the real world on a compulsory placement year in an organisation related to your areas of interest. This is when you’ll really be able to see your knowledge in action, pick up invaluable skills for your future career and boost your employability to help you hit the ground running after graduation.

You could stay to do your placement in the UK or experience a new culture and work abroad for one year. Where could this year take you?

Previous students in the Biological Sciences subject area have undertaken placements with ALS Laboratories (UK) Ltd, GAMA Healthcare, Leeds Institute of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine (LICAMM), Merck, Sharp & Dohme (MSD), Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, University of Huddersfield and University of Huddersfield IPOS.

Placement information
Going on placement meant I learnt new skills and techniques and had my findings reported back to local coroners to identify causes of death.

- Isabel Gatenby
Medical Biology BSc(Hons), placement with West Yorkshire Analytical Services, Morley

Where could this lead you?

Your Career

Graduates from our Biological Sciences courses can consider a wide range of career options in areas such as medical research, the NHS, molecular sciences, medical genetics, pharmaceuticals, developing scientific patents, medical sales or marketing, medical writing and teaching.

Previous graduates have gone on to work in roles such as Clinical Bioinformatician at Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Laboratory Technician at ALS, Microbiology Medical Laboratory Technician at IDEXX Laboratories and Nuclear Medicine Sales Executive at Bartec Technologies.**

**LinkedIn and University of Huddersfield

80%
80% of students from this subject area were in work or further study 15 months after graduation.

* HESA Graduate Outcomes 2021/22, UK Domiciled

89.6%
89.6% of participants from the School of Applied Sciences agreed learning resources were high quality.

* National Student Survey (NSS), 2025

I love working in a fast-paced laboratory specialising in animal health. The University of Huddersfield has provided me with in-depth content and hands-on labs, broadening my knowledge and organisational skills to kick start my microbiology career.

- Tina Waring
Medical Biology BSc(Hons) graduate with Research Placement, now Microbiology Lab Technician at IDEXX Laboratories.

How much will it cost?

Fees and Finance

£9,790 per year

This information is for Home students applying to study at the University of Huddersfield in the academic year 2026/27.

Please note that tuition fees for subsequent years may rise in line with inflation (RPI-X) and/or Government policy. 

From January 2027 the UK government is launching a new student funding system for people starting university education. Read more about the Lifelong Learning Entitlement (LLE).

For detailed information please visit https://www.hud.ac.uk/study/fees/

£17,600 per year

This information is for international students applying to study at the University of Huddersfield in the academic year 2026/27.

Please note that tuition fees for subsequent years may rise in line with inflation (RPI-X) and/or Government policy. 

For detailed information please visit https://www.hud.ac.uk/international/fees-and-funding/

Home

The tuition fee for a placement year is £1000. If you go on work experience or work placement, you will need to fund your own travel and/or accommodation costs to and from the placement.  Please be aware that if your placement is outside of the UK, you will still be responsible for your travel and living expenses and may need to consider issues like health care and insurance costs.

International

The tuition fee for a placement year is £3,300. If you go on work experience or work placement, you will need to fund your own travel and/or accommodation costs to and from the placement.  Please be aware that if your placement is outside of the UK, you will still be responsible for your travel and living expenses and may need to consider issues like health care and insurance costs.

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If you have any questions about Fees and Finance, please email the Student Finance Team.

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Gallery

See below for a glimpse at some of our facilities.

Applied Sciences Joseph Priestley building

Applied Sciences Joseph Priestley building

Biological Sciences laboratory

Biological Sciences laboratory

Applied Sciences Students' Hub

Applied Sciences students' hub

Biological Sciences student in the laboratory

Biological Sciences student in the laboratory

Biological Sciences students using microscope

Biological Sciences students using a microscope

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Meet our students

Covadonga is studying Medical Genetics BSc(Hons), watch her film to learn more about the modules she studies, her placement experience and the help she gets from her tutors.

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Make Huddersfield your home. A Yorkshire town, surrounded by beautiful countryside, with easy access to neighbouring cities; Leeds, Manchester and Sheffield. You’ll find plenty of places to eat, drink, shop and socialise, there’s ambitious plans for future development. Our campus is situated next to the town centre - making your commute a breeze.

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Budget Friendly

Huddersfield is not only one of the friendliest towns, it also offers you a lower cost of living than most big cities. This means you could have more money to spend, making your uni experience even better. On campus you’ll also find plenty of facilities and services to help you budget and make your money go further.

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We know you’re coming to university to study on your chosen subject, meet new people and broaden your horizons. However, we also help you to focus on life after you have graduated to ensure that your hard work pays off and you achieve your ambition.

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At the University of Huddersfield, you’ll find support networks and services to help you get ahead in your studies and social life. Whether you study at undergraduate or postgraduate level, you’ll soon discover that you’re never far away from our dedicated staff and resources to help you to navigate through your personal student journey.

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Inspiring Academics

Our researchers carry out world-leading work that makes a real difference to people’s lives. Staff within the Department of Physical and Life Sciences may teach you on this course.

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Research Excellence

You’ll be taught by staff who want to support your learning and share the latest knowledge and research.

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Accommodation

Looking for student accommodation? Huddersfield has you covered. HudLets has a variety of accommodation types to choose from, no matter what your preference. HudLets is the University’s approved accommodation service, run by Huddersfield Students’ Union.

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Further Study

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Legal information

When you enrol as a student of the University, your study and time with us will be governed by our terms and conditions, Handbook of Regulations and associated policies. It is important that you familiarise yourself with these as you will be asked to agree to them when you join us as a student. You will find a guide to the key terms here, along with the Student Protection Plan.

Although we always try and ensure we deliver our courses as described, sometimes we may have to make changes for the following reasons:

Changes to a course you have applied for but are not yet enrolled on

If we propose to make a major change to a course that you are holding an offer for, then we will tell you as soon as possible so that you can decide whether to withdraw your application prior to enrolment. We may occasionally have to withdraw a course you have applied for or combine your programme with another programme if we consider this reasonably necessary to ensure a good student experience, for example if there are not enough applicants. Where this is the case we will notify you as soon as reasonably possible and if you are unhappy with the change we will discuss with you other suitable courses we can transfer your application to. If you do not wish to transfer to another course with us, you may cancel your application and we will refund you any deposits or fees you have paid to us.

Changes to your course after you enrol as a student

Changes to option modules

Where your course allows you to choose modules from a range of options, we will review these each year and change them to reflect the expertise of our staff, current trends in research and as a result of student feedback or demand for certain modules. We will always ensure that you have an equivalent range of options to that advertised for the course. We will let you know in good time the options available for you to choose for the following year.

Major changes

We will only make major changes to non-optional modules on a course if it is necessary for us to do so and provided such changes are reasonable. A major change is a change that substantially changes the outcomes, or a significant part of your course, such as the nature of the award or a substantial change to module content, teaching days (part time provision), type of delivery or assessment of the core curriculum. For example, it may be necessary to make a major change to reflect changes in the law or the requirements of the University’s regulators or a commissioning or accrediting body. We may also make changes to improve the course in response to student, examiners’ or other course evaluators’ feedback or to ensure you are being taught current best practice. Major changes may also be necessary because of circumstances outside our reasonable control, such as a key member of staff being unable to teach due to illness, where they have a particular specialism that can’t be adequately covered by other members of staff; or due to pandemics, other disasters (such as fire, flood or war) or changes made by the government.

Major changes would usually be made with effect from the next academic year, but may happen sooner in an emergency. We will notify you as soon as possible should we need to make a major change and will consult with affected groups of students and any changes would only be made in accordance with our regulations. If you reasonably believe that the proposed change will cause you detriment or hardship we will, if appropriate, work with you to try to reduce the adverse effect on you or find an appropriate solution. Where an appropriate solution cannot be found and you let us know before the change takes effect you can cancel your registration and withdraw from the University without liability to the University for any additional tuition fees. We will provide reasonable support to assist you with transferring to another university if you wish to do so and you may be eligible for an exit award depending on how far through your course you are.

In exceptional circumstances, we may, for reasons outside of our control, be forced to discontinue or suspend your course. Where this is the case, a formal exit strategy will be followed in accordance with the student protection plan.

The Office for Students (OfS) is the principal regulator for the University.

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