Master of Genomics and Health

Rapid advances in genomics in the last decade are expected to bring about benefits and challenges in health care. These advances require a workforce able to incorporate new ways of thinking about and applying genomics knowledge in clinical practice and policy.

The Master of Genomics and Health provides advanced training in genomics, and in the current and potential impact on health and medicine brought about by genomics and related technologies. Variant curation training prepares students to use analytic approaches to interpret human genome variation. Offering both a research program and an internship program, this course prepares students through experiential learning to work at the forefront of genomic medicine in healthcare.

The Master of Genomics and Health is a 200 point nested award with exit points at the Graduate Certificate and Graduate Diploma level.

Can be applied to a range of future careers

Designed for a broad audience, the graduate programs in Genomics and Health will prepare you for a future within a wide range of genomics-related careers including roles in variant curation, project management, policy, research, data science and education.

Relevant to recent undergraduates who have studied genetics, and want to explore genomics and careers beyond the laboratory. Or, medical and allied health professionals who wish to upskill in the area of genomics and medicine. It will also be relevant to those with a health or science background who seek careers in clinical trials, education, community-based organisations such as genetic support groups, government or those seeking an entry point into a graduate research degree.

First of its kind in Australia

The University of Melbourne has long been at the forefront of delivering genetics education and training the genomics workforce. The Master of Genomics and Health is the first course of its kind to be offered in Australia, beginning in 2018. Graduates of the program are now working alongside genomic leaders to deliver genomic change into healthcare.

A flexible and personalised learning experience

The program adopts a blended learning approach, utilising both self-paced online learning, and face-to-face tutorials and workshops that allows you to apply your knowledge in a problem-based learning environment. Variant curation is taught with two coursework subjects in first year using case-based learning of increasing genomic complexity. Students may then build these foundational skills with hands on experience in an internship and/or research project. Societal and ethical genomic issues that arise in real world implementation of genomics are presented to students to grapple with to drive thinking about policies, education and safety of adoption of genomic medicine into healthcare.

Taught by research and education leaders in genomics

Led by research and education leaders within the Melbourne Children's Campus, incorporating expertise from the Royal Children's Hospital, the Murdoch Children's Institute for Research and The University of Melbourne Department of Paediatrics. Internship providers and research supervisors represent the breadth of roles in genomics and include: policy leaders, project managers, variant curation scientists, genomic researchers, support and advocacy groups, genomic educators, clinical genomics departments.

Indigenous Genomics Practitioner Scholarship

The Victorian Indigenous Genomics Scholarship Program is available for indigenous applicants which will support you to become a genetic health storyteller and help Victorian individuals, families and communities access the health benefits of this rapidly evolving science. Indigenous students with an interest in genetics and genomics are encouraged to apply to study the Master of Genomics and Health.

Pathway to a PhD

As a Masters student you will be assisted with organising relevant internships and research projects. Successful completion of the research stream will satisfy the 25 point research pathway to PhD admission.

Prospective students can view the program flyer and contact MGC-MGH@unimelb.edu.au for all enquiries.

Upcoming information session

Master of Genomics and Health Information Session: 2025 Intake

When: Wednesday 4 September, 5.30-6.30pm AEST

Dr Sharon Lewis and A/Prof Belinda McClaren will introduce you to the program. You will also hear from current students and graduates. There will be an opportunity for Q&A during the session.

Register here

Don't meet the prerequisite subject requirements?

You may have the option to enrol in specific single subjects through the University's Community Access Program, even if you are not enrolled in a course. Completing these prerequisite subjects may qualify you for entry into this course. This option is not available to student visa holders or applicants. Learn more about single subject study.

English language requirements

All applicants to the University of Melbourne must satisfy the English language requirements. This may be achieved in a number of ways, including recognised previous study taught and assessed entirely in English or an approved English language test. If you are from a non-English speaking background, the required standard of English for this degree is one of the following English proficiency test scores:

• English language test score requirements

• If you need to undertake an English language test, you must meet one of the scores* below:

  IELTS

  7.0

  ---

  with written 7.0 and no band less than 6.5

  TOEFL

  94+

  ---

  with writing 27; speaking 20; reading 19; listening 20

  PEARSON

  72+

  ---

  with written communicative skill of 75 and no other communicative skill below 64

  CAMBRIDGE

  185+

  ---

  with no less than 185 in writing and no less than 176 in each other skill

  *Accepted tests: IELTS (Academic English Only); TOEFL Internet-based test; Pearson Test of English Academic; Cambridge English: Advanced/Certificate of Advanced English (CAE). If a test displays N/A, it means it is not accepted for this course.

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