Ozoda Azimova
Cardiovascular Science and Diabetes, MSc
Introduction
Cardiovascular disease is one of the leading causes of death globally, accounting for more than 30%, and is set to increase over the next few decades, due to an ageing population and a steep rise in metabolic syndromes. Our MSc programme, taught by scientists and clinicians who are leaders in their field, will equip you with knowledge of the epidemiology, genetics, pathological and molecular mechanisms underpinning cardiovascular disease, its diagnosis, risk factors and pharmacological management.
Study Information
At a Glance
- Learning Mode
- On Campus Learning
- Degree Qualification
- MSc
- Duration
- 12 months
- Study Mode
- Full Time
- Start Month
- September
- Location of Study
- Aberdeen
Our programme will deliver a cutting-edge view of cardiovascular and metabolic science which have been identified as priority areas of the Scottish and UK Governments and funding bodies. This modular-based programme comprises research-led teaching experience including tutorials, workshops and a laboratory research project supervised by leading internationally recognised cardiovascular, diabetes and nutritional scientists.
Why study with us?
- You will acquire a solid knowledge base in the cardiovascular system and predisposing risk factors such as diabetes and obesity.
- You will be based within the Institute of Medical Sciences and the Rowett Institute, providing a unique learning experience integrating elements of cardiovascular and metabolic science.
- You will have access to excellent cardiovascular laboratory facilities and you will undertake a research project tailored to your expertise and interests.
- The clinical relevance of the programme is strengthened by the location of the teaching, with Aberdeen Royal Infirmary on site, and through input of cardiovascular and diabetes clinicians into the MSc training and research projects.
The combination of internationally recognised cardiovascular laboratory research, input of clinicians to the teaching and the established excellence in nutrition research at the Rowett Institute provides a unique experience for students. You will be equipped with knowledge and skills needed to secure subsequent PhD training in academia, or employment in the pharmaceutical, biotechnology, healthcare or educational sectors. Students will study core courses in molecular medicine, genome-enabled medicine and bioinformatics, alongside cardiovascular and metabolic sciences taught in the context of health and disease.
What You'll Study
The taught part of our MSc programme extends over two semesters. Over the last four months of the programme, students will undertake an individual research project.
Compulsory Courses
- Getting Started at the University of Aberdeen (PD5006)
- Cardiovascular Health and Disease (BM5003)
- Molecular Pharmacology (MT5024)
Optional Courses
Students select two elective courses from the following:
We will endeavour to make all course options available. However, these may be subject to change - see our Student Terms and Conditions page.
| Fee category | Cost |
|---|---|
| EU / International students | £26,250 |
| Tuition Fees for 2025/26 Academic Year | |
| Self-funded international students commencing eligible postgraduate programmes in 2025/26 will receive a £8,000 tuition waiver - See full terms and conditions | |
| UK | £12,200 |
| Tuition Fees for 2024/25 Academic Year | |
Fee Information
Additional Fee Information
- In exceptional circumstances there may be additional fees associated with specialist courses, for example field trips. Any additional fees for a course can be found in our Catalogue of Courses.
- For more information about tuition fees for this programme, including payment plans and our refund policy, please visit our Tuition Fees page.
Scholarships
All eligible self-funded international Postgraduate Masters students starting in September 2025 will receive an £8,000 scholarship. Learn more about this Aberdeen Global Scholarship here.
To see our full range of scholarships, visit our Funding Database.
How You'll Study
The teaching on this programme will encompass research-led learning using laboratory practical classes, workshops, clinical demonstrations and tutorials to support the lecture material. Lectures are recorded and can be viewed again when required. The MSc makes the most of hands-on learning to enable repeated exposure to evidence-based practice in cardiovascular and diabetes research using clinical case studies. Some of the teaching methods employed in the programme include:
- Inter-disciplinary and multi-disciplinary learning
- Exposure to leading academic and clinical experts
- Research-led teaching taught by key opinion leaders in cardiovascular and diabetes research
- Literature-driven critical assessment and analyses
- Practical laboratory skills and state-of-the-art techniques
- Individual laboratory or literature based project within the research centre
On-going support is provided by the University’s dedicated, interdisciplinary team of experienced researchers within the Aberdeen Cardiovascular and Diabetes Centre (both laboratory and clinical), who will be tutoring you. Peer support will develop throughout the course(s) as engagement with students from other countries and disciplines is actively encouraged. Much of the teaching on this course is participatory and you are expected to consolidate all taught content by completing related tasks and activities and engaging in independent study in your own time.
Learning Methods
- Clinical Learning
- E-learning
- Group Projects
- Lab Work
- Peer Learning
- Research
- Seminars
- Tutorials
- Workshops
Assessment Methods
Taught courses are assessed by a combination of written assignments and reports, oral presentations, and by examination. All students undertake a research project, which is submitted for assessment in the form of a short research thesis. Students also present an oral and poster presentation on their project.
Why Study Cardiovascular Science and Diabetes?
- We offer a truly research-led teaching experience for students within the Aberdeen Cardiovascular and Diabetes Centre, which has been awarded more than £3m in British Heart Foundation and Diabetes UK funding within the past 5 years alone.
- The programme uniquely integrates elements of cardiovascular and metabolic health which have been identified as priority areas in the post-COVID-19 arena.
- You will have the opportunity to carry-out a research project supervised by internationally recognised experts in cardiovascular and metabolic health. Projects can be tailored to suit students individual skills and interests.
- Upon graduation you will be well-equipped for career destinations in cardiovascular, diabetes and nutrition research in industry, academia, healthcare, education and beyond.
- This MSc will equip you with skills and knowledge in a priority area identified by the Scottish Government as part of the Heart Disease Action Plan (2021), the UK government, as part of Health Matters: preventing cardiovascular disease and major research funders such as MRC, BHF and Wellcome.
- The programme is run from the Foresterhill Health Campus, one of the largest health campuses in Europe and includes a large teaching hospital, Institute of Medical Sciences and the Rowett Institute.
- You will benefit from skills training to help with scientific writing, analytical skills, CV writing, interview skills and reading scientific literature.
- Our small class sizes give you the opportunity to participate in class discussions, peer learning and ample access to the teaching and research staff.
What Our Students Say
Entry Requirements
Qualifications
The information below is provided as a guide only and does not guarantee entry to the University of Aberdeen.
A second class Honours degree (2:1 or above) or equivalent qualification in biological science degree is required for entry onto this programme. Other degree classes (2.2 is a minimum) and subjects may be considered as long as the applicant demonstrates experience in biological subjects.
Please check the In My Country or Territory pages to find out if your degree is equivalent.
Please enter your country or territory to view relevant entry requirements.
English Language Requirements
To study for a Postgraduate Taught degree at the University of Aberdeen it is essential that you can speak, understand, read, and write English fluently. The minimum requirements for this degree are as follows:
IELTS Academic:
OVERALL - 6.5 with: Listening - 5.5; Reading - 6.0; Speaking - 5.5; Writing - 6.0
TOEFL iBT:
OVERALL - 90 with: Listening - 17; Reading - 21; Speaking - 20; Writing - 21
PTE Academic:
OVERALL - 62 with: Listening - 59; Reading - 59; Speaking - 59; Writing - 59
Cambridge English B2 First, C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency:
OVERALL - 176 with: Listening - 162; Reading - 169; Speaking - 162; Writing - 169
Read more about specific English Language requirements here.
Document Requirements
You will be required to supply the following documentation with your application as proof you meet the entry requirements of this degree programme. If you have not yet completed your current programme of study, then you can still apply and you can provide your Degree Certificate at a later date.
- CV
- an up-to-date CV/Resumé
- Degree Certificate
- a degree certificate showing your qualifications
- Degree Transcript
- a full transcript showing all the subjects you studied and the marks you have achieved in your degree(s) (original & official English translation)
- Reference
- a reference letter from your university discussing your academic ability. If you have been out of education for a long time you may wish to use your current or most recent employer, or another professional person
Aberdeen Global Scholarship
Eligible self-funded Postgraduate Taught (PGT) students will receive the Aberdeen Global Scholarship. Eligibility details and further information are available on our dedicated page.
Aberdeen Global ScholarshipCareers
The MSc in Cardiovascular Science and Diabetes will provide you with the academic, analytical and practical skills to equip you for further research or a career in industry, healthcare or beyond. Many of our graduates choose to continue in research careers and begin PhDs or become research scientists (research assistants or technicians). Our scientists have obtained posts in Universities, industry, biotechnology and hospital diagnostic and pathology laboratories.
More generally, cardiovascular and diabetes researchers can use their training in education, working in schools, colleges of further education and in Universities. Further opportunities are available to apply your training in scientific publishing, in patent offices working on biological patents, in science outreach and contributing to the public understanding of biological issues.
What our Alumni Say
Joshua Baillie
Our Experts
- Programme Coordinator
- Dr Nimesh Mody
- Other Experts
- Professor Mirela Delibegovic
- Dr Justin Rochford
- Dr Frank Thies
- Professor Alex Johnstone
- Dr Heather Wilson
- Dr Mary Macleod
- Dr Fiona Murray
- Professor Stefan Hoppler
- Dr Sam Philip
- Dr Dana Dawson
- Dr Nicola Mutch
- Professor Graeme Nixon
Information About Staff Changes
You will be taught by a range of experts including professors, lecturers, teaching fellows and postgraduate tutors. However, these may be subject to change - see our Student Terms and Conditions page.
Facilities
The Institute of Medical Sciences
Focused on developing future effective therapies, the Institute of Medical Sciences houses nearly 400 researchers and support staff working on cutting-edge biomedical subjects aimed at understanding the human body's response to infection and disease.
Rowett Institute
The purpose built Rowett Institute, on the Foresterhill Health Campus, is equipped with state-of the-art laboratory facilities, write-up areas and a specialist Human Nutrition Unit.
Science Teaching Hub
Our state-of-the-art Science Teaching Hub provides students with a digitally focussed environment including advanced analytical tools, research-grade equipment and flexible laboratory spaces.
Find out moreGet in Touch
Contact Details
- Address
-
Student Recruitment & Admissions
University of Aberdeen
University Office
Regent Walk
Aberdeen
AB24 3FX