Studying MSc Precision Cancer Medicine as a Haematology Pharmacist

The Department of Oncology offers a diverse range of graduate programmes aimed at fostering the next generation of experts in cancer research and treatment. The MSc in Precision Cancer Medicine is a two-year, part-time course tailored for healthcare professionals and researchers eager to explore cutting-edge approaches in precision oncology, from genomics to health economics and beyond.

In this interview, 2024 graduate Wen Yuen Lim reflects on her time in the MSc programme, sharing how the experience enhanced her expertise as a lead haematology pharmacist, and inspired her to push the boundaries of personalised cancer care.

Can you tell us about your background?

I completed my pharmacy degree (MPharm) at the University of Nottingham. I chose to specialise in hospital clinical pharmacy, completing my pre-registration training in Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust where I completed a postgraduate diploma and independent prescribing certificate. During this time, I took the scenic route by rotating through many specialties, before finally discovering a genuine passion and interest in the field of haemato-oncology, where I have been working for nearly five years. I have recently completed a secondment as the lead clinical commissioning pharmacist within the trust working with NHS England, and I am now the lead haematology pharmacist in the Oxford Cancer & Haematology Centre.

How did you hear about the MSc Precision Cancer Medicine course and what made you decide to apply?

I was planning to pursue further study for some time, but just never found the right course. Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic delayed my ability to enrol on any courses. Whilst working in the cancer & haematology team and practising as a pharmacist prescriber in chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) clinic in Oxford, I heard of the course through colleagues in the department. The field of cancer medicine is ever moving so I was keen to update my knowledge in a way that was interesting and challenging, so I spoke to a previous student who kindly shared her experience. The more I found out about the course, I realised that it ticked all the boxes for me, to the point that I didn’t consider any others! An added bonus was being a University of Oxford student affiliated with a college – I found that I was able to take some opportunities as I was based in the city; while not having a full-time education commitment so I was able to continue working at the hospital.

What did you enjoy most about the course?

I enjoyed the interactive elements of the course, such as the tutorials, group work and especially the residential week. I was particularly excited to learn from renowned experts in the field, as well as meet my course mates from all over the world – our cohort had representation from 5 out of 7 continents which was amazing. The residential week was a particular highlight for me, as it was the first time we all got to meet face to face and got to properly experience life as a student!

What were/are your next career steps after completing the MSc in Precision Cancer Medicine?

It hasn’t been too long since I finished the course, so I’m excited to see where it takes me. I feel much more equipped in my role as the lead haematology pharmacist in a tertiary teaching hospital and will likely pursue credentialling with the Royal Pharmaceutical Society to become a Consultant Pharmacist in future. In terms of my short-term goals, I would like to publish the dissertation I completed with Dr Niamh Appleby and Professor Sarah Wordsworth, which combined my key interests of chronic conditions, specifically CLL, and the health economics impact of precision medicine treatment options in the first-line setting. I would like to continue pursuing research in this area, alongside maintaining my clinical expertise.

How has the MSc in Precision Cancer Medicine helped you to achieve your career goals?

The MSc in Precision Cancer Medicine has been tough but rewarding in equal measure. It has pushed me out of my comfort zone which I needed at this point in my career and empowered me to continue to challenge myself professionally. I have taken the learning I have gained in the field of genomics, health economics, ethics, and even machine learning and applied these to real-world clinical scenarios. I have also gained other research skills through completing my dissertation, particularly in literature searching, data & statistical analysis and time management.

Would you recommend the course?

I would recommend this course wholeheartedly as it suited my needs and covered a breadth of topics in precision cancer medicine which is a huge selling point. I would encourage any interested prospective candidates to really do your research to find out what the course entails and ensure you have enough time to dedicate towards getting the most out of it.

What is your top tip for students wanting to study here?

I could give you a bunch of practical tips to get through the course, but being a postgraduate degree, I’m sure most people coming to this already have some key study strategies that work for them, and everyone is different. So my top tip is: enjoy each moment, as two years will fly by (even if it doesn’t feel like it sometimes!). Make the most of the opportunities and connections you will gain throughout the course.

Anything else you want to add?

I am so grateful for the opportunity to have been accepted on this course and to be a University of Oxford student, learning from people who are so passionate about their respective fields. This was the hardest educational challenge I’ve taken on, so completing it was such an amazing personal achievement for me and also my fellow course mates – a huge well done to us all; we made it!

The MSc in Precision Cancer Medicine at the Department of Oncology offers unparalleled access to the cutting edge in precision medicine for professionals from a wide variety of backgrounds. During her studies, Yen gained knowledge and skills applicable to her daily pharmacy practice and discovered research interests she will continue to pursue in her career. With its focus on both research and practical applications, the course provides a unique platform for graduates to innovate in the rapidly advancing field of oncology.

For more information and application details, please visit the Graduate Admissions webpage.