Genomic Technologies in Clinical Diagnostics: Next Generation Sequencing from FutureLearn

Most FutureLearn courses run multiple times. Every run of a course has a set start date but you can join it and work through it after it starts. Find out more This course is designed for scientists and healthcare professionals with an interest in obtaining a postgraduate-level understanding of genomic sequencing technologies. If you are completing both Genomic Technologies in Clinical Diagnostics courses, we recommend that you complete Genomic Technologies in Clinical Diagnostics: Molecular Techniques first. And if you are new to the field, we recommend that before you start either course, you complete The Genomics Era: the Future of Genetics in Medicine – the first in the Genomics in Healthcare program from St George’s. You can use the hashtag #FLgentechNGS to talk about this course on social media.

Topics Covered

The changing landscape of genomics: From Sanger sequencing to Next Generation Sequencing
Overview of Next Generation Sequencing platforms and their methodology
Targeted resequencing
Alignment, variant calling and annotation
Other applications of Next Generation Sequencing beyond DNA sequencing
Next Generation Sequencing in gene discovery
Gene discovery in the research and diagnostics
Next Generation Sequencing in clinical diagnostics: Single gene, gene panel sequencing, exome and genome sequencing
How to design a gene panel
The 100 000 Genomes project
The transforming NHS: Genomics in mainstream practice

Reviews summary

In-depth genomics for clinical diagnostics

According to learners, this course provides an in-depth and relevant exploration of Genomic Technologies in Clinical Diagnostics, focusing heavily on Next Generation Sequencing (NGS). Many appreciate its comprehensive coverage of topics from NGS platforms to variant calling and gene panel design. Students find the content highly relevant for healthcare professionals and scientists aiming for a postgraduate-level understanding. However, some learners note the course's demanding nature and the crucial need for strong prerequisites, emphasizing that prior knowledge in molecular techniques is highly beneficial to fully grasp the complex subjects presented.

Focuses on the theoretical underpinnings of genomic technologies.

"The course provides a solid theoretical background, which is essential for understanding the nuances of NGS."

"I appreciated the deep dive into the methodology behind various sequencing platforms."

"While comprehensive, I felt it could benefit from more hands-on or practical examples."

Highly relevant for professionals in clinical diagnostics.

"The content directly applies to my work in clinical diagnostics, especially gene panel design."

"I found the discussions on the transforming NHS and clinical utility invaluable."

"It effectively bridges the gap between theoretical genomic science and real-world clinical application."

Offers a deep dive into genomic technologies & applications.

"I really gained a comprehensive understanding of Next Generation Sequencing and its clinical applications."

"The course covers a broad range of genomic technologies, from fundamental platforms to advanced variant analysis."

"It provides an excellent overview of current genomic projects like the 100,000 Genomes project."

Requires strong prior knowledge for optimal understanding.

"I found the course challenging without having completed the recommended prerequisite molecular techniques course."

"It assumes a significant level of existing knowledge in genetics and molecular biology."

"To truly benefit, I recommend having a solid foundation before diving into this advanced material."

Career center

Learners who complete Genomic Technologies in Clinical Diagnostics: Next Generation Sequencing will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers: