Masters applications for 2023 entry are now closed.
Applications for September 2024 will open on Monday 25 September. Applications are now open for programmes with a January 2024 start. View our programmes »
| UCAS code |
|
| Duration |
1 year full time |
| Entry year |
September 2025 |
| Campus |
Streatham Campus and St Luke’s Campus
|
| Discipline |
Biosciences
|
| Contact |
|
Overview
- Study at the cutting edge of biomedical science with an MSc in Immunology, a field essential for breakthroughs on innovative treatments (including vaccines) for hard-to-treat diseases such as cancer.
- Develop an advanced understanding of immunology along with key essential technical skills through hands-on lab work and a significant research project within one of our active research teams.
- Learn from experts in the field based in our world leading Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology and The Exeter Centre of Excellence for Diabetes Research (EXCEED).
- Gain the skills and training necessary for a successful career in industry or further academic study.
Top 20 in the UK for world-leading research in Biological Sciences
90% of our Biological Sciences research is internationally excellent
Advance laboratory skills with specialist techniques training
Substantial research project within one of our active research teams
Top 20 in the UK for world-leading research in Biological Sciences
90% of our Biological Sciences research is internationally excellent
Advance laboratory skills with specialist techniques training
Substantial research project within one of our active research teams
Entry requirements
Minimum 2:1 in a relevant biological science/biomedical degree that has provided instruction in some of the following: Biochemistry, Cell Biology, Immunology, Microbiology or Molecular Biology.
While we normally only accept students who meet this criterion, if you have a mid-2:2 or relevant work experience, we will consider your application.
Helping you to apply
We are looking for motivated graduates with a passion to understand and investigate the immune system. A previous background in immunology is not essential, but desirable. However, an undergraduate degree in a related discipline is essential.
Entry requirements for international students
Please visit our entry requirements section for equivalencies from your country and further information on English language requirements.
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Entry requirements for international students
English language requirements
International students need to show they have the required level of English language to study this course. The required test scores for this course fall under Profile B2. Please visit our English language requirements page to view the required test scores and equivalencies from your country.
Course content
Immunology is a vital field in biomedical science that underpins protection from infection. It is applied to generate powerful treatments (such as vaccines against infection) and to innovative therapies for diseases like cancer (e.g. through monoclonal antibody therapy). While the immune response is essential to control infection, inappropriate immunity contributes to many pathologies such as autoimmunity and allergies. Therefore, immunology is crucial to develop new treatments against a range of current and future health challenges.
In the first two terms of the MSc you'll deepen your understanding of immunology through advanced taught courses in immunology (Cellular Basis of Immunology, Immunology of Infection and Advanced Immunopathology) as well as a practical laboratory training module. You will also undertake training in the more generic skills essential to scientific research (Professional Skills). This will build your essential research and professional competencies. In your final term, you'll join one of our active research teams to undertake a significant research project. Here you will apply what you've learnt to tackle a novel research question.
The modules we outline here provide examples of what you can expect to learn on this degree course based on recent academic teaching. The precise modules available to you in future years may vary depending on staff availability and research interests, new topics of study, timetabling and student demand.
Stage 1: 180 credits of compulsory modules
Compulsory modules
| Code | Module |
Credits |
|---|
| BIOM509 |
Professional Skills | 15 |
| BIOM515 |
Cellular Basis of Immunity | 15 |
| BIOM109 |
Practical Immunology | 30 |
| BIOM110 |
Immunology of Infection | 15 |
| HPDM193 |
Advanced Immunopathology | 15 |
| BIOM111 |
Research Project | 90 |
Fees
2025/26 entry
UK fees per year:
£14,900 full-time
International fees per year:
£30,900 full-time
Please contact the programme director (w.horsnell@exeter.ac.uk) for information on funding opportunities available.
Scholarships
The University of Exeter has many different scholarships available to support your education, including £5 million in scholarships for international students applying to study with us in the 2025/26 academic year, such as our Exeter Excellence Scholarships*.
For more information on scholarships and other financial support, please visit our scholarships and bursaries page.
*Terms and conditions apply. See online for details.
Teaching and research
How will I learn?
You’ll engage in a blend of lectures, seminars and hands-on laboratory work. Group discussions and independent study will deepen your understanding and critical thinking skills. These activities will prepare you for a research project in your final term.
Research project
You’ll join an active research group to undertake a significant project, with options for either laboratory-based or data-based work. Laboratory projects will involve generating and acquiring new data, while data-based projects require processing and interpreting existing data.
The project will provide experience in data generation, analysis, interpretation and science communication through a scientific journal write-up and a presentation of results. During your research project, you will be supported by your research supervisor and other members of the research group to ensure you produce your best work.
All projects will be addressing a genuine knowledge gap in our understanding of immunity.
Assessment
Your learning will be assessed through a range of methods including your examinations, reports, presentations and essays. A core component of assessment will be your research project, which constitutes 90 credits.
Facilities
The University of Exeter has world class platforms to undertake high impact immunology research. This includes the Exeter Centre for Cytomics, the Exeter Sequencing Facility, the Centre for Medical Mycology, the Bioimaging Centre and being home to an NIHR Biomedical Research Centre.
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William Horsnell
Professor
Adilia Warris
Professor of Paediatric Infectious Diseases
Raif Yuecel
Head of the Exeter Centre for Cytomics (EXCC) at the University of Exeter
William Horsnell
Professor
I am an immunologist with over 20 years of experience studying host immunity to infectious and non-infectious diseases. I have undertaken my research in South Africa, Kenya, Togo, France, Norway and the UK. This has allowed me to gain a breadth of experience in training students from a diverse range of backgrounds. With my fantastic colleagues at Exeter we look forward to welcoming here. We are confident you will find our understanding of immunology and the world class research platforms we will provide you with access to as ideal for you to begin your journey in advanced immunology.
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Adilia Warris
Professor of Paediatric Infectious Diseases
I am a Professor in Paediatric Infectious Diseases Specialist and a Co-Director of the MRC Centre for Medical Mycology at the University of Exeter. My research profile has a strong translational focus and specific areas of interest include antifungal resistance, antifungal stewardship, and host-fungus interactions.
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Raif Yuecel
Head of the Exeter Centre for Cytomics (EXCC) at the University of Exeter
I have spent over two decades in the exciting field of cytometry, driven by a passion for advancing scientific discovery and exploring new technological frontiers. Flow cytometry is a powerful tool that helps us uncover the complexities of cellular systems, offering invaluable insights into immune responses and disease mechanisms. My passion lies in harnessing these technologies to push the boundaries of what we know in biology, which began during my PhD at the University of Duisburg-Essen (Germany).
Today, as the Head of the Exeter Centre for Cytomics (EXCC), I lead a dynamic team focused on cutting-edge cytometry research and education. At EXCC, we specialise in innovative single-cell cytomics approaches, critical for advancing immunology and life sciences. We are dedicated to introducing these advancements to students, giving them a solid understanding of the latest cytometry tools and technologies in the field. By combining high-resolution cytomics data analysis with biological insights, we aim to foster the next generation of scientists in immunology and life sciences, empowering them to make meaningful contributions to the field.
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Careers
Employer-valued skills
Our MSc Immunology course is designed to equip you with a range of skills highly valued by employers. You will gain a deep understanding of the science and techniques needed to undertake research in immunology.
You will enhance your ability to communicate complex scientific concepts clearly and effectively, both in written reports and oral presentations. Essential skills such as advocacy, public engagement and research integrity are central to the course, ensuring you are equipped to excel in various professional settings.
Additionally, you will acquire advanced training in generic technical, data management and problem-solving skills.
Career paths
Upon graduation, you will have the skills and knowledge needed to explore various career options. Whether you continue your academic journey with a PhD or transition directly into industry, this course provides a strong foundation for your future. The combination of practical experience and advanced expertise you gain will prepare you for a range of roles. Graduates may find themselves contributing to cutting-edge developments in pharmaceutical companies, working as clinical scientists, or translating complex scientific discoveries into accessible information.
Career support
As a University of Exeter student, you will also have access to the Career Zone. Whatever stage you’re at, the Career Zone can help you prepare for life after university, offering quality assistance and advice throughout your course, and after graduation.
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