Practical answers to help you prepare for the MPhil or MRes in Genomic Medicine. Start with the public learning pages, then use the course’s registered-student channels for your individual arrangements.
Learning before arrival
How much should I know before I begin?
Students bring different strengths. The suggested preparation pathway helps you identify gaps and develop a shared vocabulary. Aim to understand the main ideas and collect questions; you do not need to complete every resource. Its time estimates are a planning aid, not a statement of assessed workload or entry requirements.
Can I use this site before my University account is active?
Yes. The learning pages here are public and require no University login. You can read the knowledgebase, work through the examples and follow the openly accessible paper activity. Some further-reading links and University services require institutional access. If a resource asks you to sign in, continue with the public material and return to it later.
Do I submit the self-checks or record a score?
No. These are self-directed practice activities with explanations to help you learn. There is no answer-submission form on this site. You can keep notes in your own notebook or document and revisit any topic you find difficult.
Devices, software and accounts
Do I need a particular laptop or software before starting?
You can read these preparation pages in a web browser. The knowledgebase’s browser activities use an external web application; a larger screen can make detailed tracks easier to explore. These activities do not require you to install a desktop genome browser.
For equipment intended for taught practicals, check with the programme team before buying equipment or software specifically for the course. Follow module-specific installation instructions when they are provided. The University offers access to software and computing training; current information is available through IT guidance for new students.
How do I get my University account and course access?
Follow the registration and account instructions sent to you by the University. The handbooks explain that University account setup follows student registration, and that course access is arranged through the relevant learning platforms. Use the University IT Help and Support site for current account guidance. If course access is missing, contact the programme team rather than creating a replacement personal account.
Course information and support
Where are my handbook, timetable, assessments and supervision details?
Registered students should use the current handbook and information supplied through the course VLE/Moodle and programme communications. Teaching material, assessment instructions and timetables are provided through the course VLE; Moodle also supports research and supervision information. This public site is a preparation resource. If details conflict or you cannot find something, ask the programme team which instruction applies to you.
Where can I find library and reading support?
The University Library and Medical Library provide information about collections, access and support. Library training is listed in the Cambridge University Libraries training timetable. Access to subscribed books and journals depends on your entitlement and account; use the open resources here while you wait for access.
Who can help with accessibility or a learning adjustment?
Contact the Accessibility and Disability Resource Centre for information about support, and speak with the programme team about course access or materials. You can raise an access need before an activity becomes a barrier. Send personal information through the appropriate private University channel.
What if a link or teaching example is unclear?
Let the programme team know the page title, the link or section concerned, and what happened. For an IT account problem, use University IT support. Keep any passwords, patient information and identifiable research data out of screenshots or examples you send.
Updated September 2026.