Masters of Science (Medical Biochemistry)
Introduction
The course encompasses investigations on biochemical basis of diseases in humans. It involves the study of biochemical interactions like in cancer and diabetes and cardiovascular disorders, drug interactions during treatments and investigation of alterations of biochemical parameters like those in the liver. It equips the graduates with the skills and knowledge to deal with complex biochemical challenges affecting human health.
Rationale
Medical biochemistry builds on the foundation of basic biochemistry in inter-disciplinary approach and allowing greater and deeper understanding of the biochemical mechanisms behind various pathological disorders including cancer, diabetes, Alzheimer diseases among others. Using medical biochemistry skills and knowledge, the biochemical mechanisms of virtually every disease can be studies and interventions developed through innovations including but not limited to various changes in drug designs alterations.
Objectives
The goal of the programme is to produce graduates with requisite competence to assume responsibilities in the field of medical biochemistry research and innovations.
By the end of the programme, the graduate shall be able to effectively;
- Demonstrate a clear understanding of how to design a workable research that elucidates the biochemical mechanisms that govern human health and disease
- Design research that enables disruptions of the particular biochemical mechanism process that ultimately lead to a particular pathological condition.
- To apply biochemistry in developing biochemical techniques and methods for diagnosis, treatment and management of a particular disease.
- Employ biochemistry skills and knowledge in developing diagnostic and therapeutic tools
Admissions Requirements
The general regulations for master’s degree in the School of Pure and Applied Sciences shall apply. The following shall be eligible for enrolment /registration in Medical Biochemistry programme:
- A holder of a Bachelor of Science degree with at least an upper second-class Honour’s with Medical Biochemistry as a single subject or as one of the two science subjects.
- A holder of a Bachelor of Science degree who has studied Biochemistry units to degree level and has attained at least an upper second-class Honour’s degree.
- A holder of a Bachelor’s degree in any other relevant areas of study such as Biology, molecular biology, medical laboratory science, Biochemistry, Medicine among other biological science degree courses with at least an upper second Honour’s degree and has taken units related to medical biochemistry.
- A holder of Bachelor’s degree with a lower second class may be considered with grade C in the area of specialization.
International Students
All international students will apply to the Commission for University Education (CUE) for assessment of their graduate qualifications for recognition and equation of foreign qualifications before enrolling for postgraduate studies.
Mode of Delivery and Programme Structure
The programme is offered by coursework and thesis. The course work is offered in the first year on a Full Time basis and Continuous Education programme (CEP) through face to face blended with E-learning. A student registered for M.Sc. Medical Biochemistry will take a total of 11 course units, with one of which will be a thesis. All the units are core. Ten units will be done in year one of study, where a student will take five units per semester. Year two of study the student will develop a proposal, carry out experiments in the laboratory and field, and write a thesis. These shall account for a minimum of 1050 hours.
Curriculum Highlights
The programme offers units molecular basis of health, biochemical pathology i, biochemistry of protozoans among others.
Fee Structure
Year 1 regular – Ksh. 295 800 (Ksh 147,900 per semester)
Year 2 regular – Ksh. 295 800 (Ksh 147,900 per semester)
CEP
Year 1 regular – Ksh. 295 800 (Ksh 98 600 per semester)
Year 2 regular – Ksh. 295 800 (Ksh 98 600 per semester)
Career Opportunities
Graduates from this course can pursue any of these specific career paths or fields
-Biomedical research
-Alternative therapeutic products designs
-Development of medical diagnostic tools
-Pharmaceutical industrial manufacturing and research
-Lecturing in institutions of higher learning.
Why choose this programme at KU
At KU you will find highly trained and experienced faculty to provide training and research supervision. Kenyatta University has a well-equipped research laboratory and animal house with relevant animals for medical research. The graduate school process is organized in a manner that facilitates timely completion of our graduate students.