S6005 Master of Genome Analytics

The course is structured in four parts. Part A. Genomics foundation studies, Part B. Core studies in genomics, Part C. Specialist studies and Part D. Advanced practice. Each part is 24 points.

All students complete Parts B and C. Depending upon prior qualifications, you may receive credit for specific units in Part A and/or Part D for relevant qualifications at undergraduate or graduate levels, respectively. 

PART A. Genomics foundation studies

In these studies you will develop an understanding of cell biology, genome structure and function, the genetic basis of disease, and the use of genetics in medicine in preparation for Part B.

PART B. Core studies in genomics   

These studies will develop your understanding of sequence function within the genome, the technology of genome sequencing and the assessment of sequence quality, the analysis of genomic data, and introduce and develop expertise in the bioinformatics approaches used in genome analysis.

PART C.  Specialist studies

In this specialisation you will develop competency in the use of bioinformatics software used for variant interpretation in diagnostic genomics. You will gain training in variant classification, examine the ethical issues relevant to genomic information, and an understanding of the accreditation requirements for a career in the field. You will examine diagnostic datasets, developing the expertise necessary for a career in genome curation.

PART D.  Advanced practice

In this part you will undertake either a research thesis or professional development and application that will permit advanced practice of knowledge. The first option is a research thesis based in the field of genomics. Students wishing to use this master’s course as a pathway to a higher degree by research should take this option. The second option consists of coursework focused on the application of genomic approaches to the study of cancer, disease surveillance, and the microbiome together with advanced case studies or an internship in a commercial or hospital based laboratory applying genomics approaches.

Master's entry points

Depending on prior qualifications you may receive entry level credit (a form of block credit) which determines your point of entry to the course:

• If you are admitted at entry level 1 you complete 96 points, comprising Part A, Part B, Part C, and Part D.
• If you are admitted at entry level 2 you complete 72 points, comprising Part B, Part C, and Part D. 

Note: If you are eligible for credit for prior studies you may elect not to receive the credit.

Course progression map

The course progression map provides guidance on unit enrolment for each semester of study.

The course is structured in four parts. Part A. Genomics foundation studies (24 points), Part B. Core studies in genomics (24 points), Part C. Specialist studies (24 points) and Part D. Advanced specialist studies(24 points).

Units are 6 points unless otherwise stated.

PART A.  Genomics foundation studies (24 points)

You must complete:

• GNA2042 Human genetics
• GNA2022 The dynamic cell 
• GNA5051 Medical and forensic genetics 
• GNA5010 Advanced genetics and biotechnology

PART B.  Core studies in genomics (24 points)

You must complete:

• GNA5040 Genomics and its applications
• GNA5011 Genome function
• GNA5012 Applied bioinformatics
• GNA5022 Sequencing technologies

PART C. Specialist studies (24 points)

You must complete:

• GNA5120 Bioinformatics in genome curation and sequencing technologies (12 points)
• GNA5200 Case studies in genomics (12 points)

PART D. Advanced practice (24 points)

You complete either a), b), or c) below:

a) Research thesis unit 

• GNA5900 Genomics research thesis (24 points)

b) Coursework and advanced case studies: 

• GNA5031 Disease surveillance and the microbiome
• GNA5041 Cancer genomics
• GNA5920 Advanced case studies (12 points)

c) Coursework and internship

• GNA5031 Disease surveillance and the microbiome
• GNA5041 Cancer genomics 
• GNA5930 Internship (12 points)