The development of an International M.Sc. in Biomedical Diagnostics utilising a blended teaching and learning approach.

This poster describes an exciting new education partnership between the Biomedical Diagnostics Institute, Dublin City University and Arizona State University. This partnership has led to the development of the first International School in Biomedical Diagnostics. The first degree being offered by the school is an international M.Sc. in Biomedical Diagnostics with shared curriculum and courses offered by both universities. The academic programs will attract students from a mix of recent college graduates and those working in industry wanting to further their careers. The first classes begin in Autumn 2014 and the program will employ a blended teaching and learning approach adopting online and face-to-face elements. Students will also be offered the opportunity to be involved in research or industry immersion programs, as well as internship experiences at both sites. The International program has received strong support from Ventana Medical Systems, a global diagnostics company. Work is currently underway in both institutions in the development of course curricula. The programme builds upon the existing M.Sc. in Biomedical Diagnostics, an award winning M.Sc. course which has been delivered in DCU since 2006 with over 100 graduates. This poster will highlight three current areas of development for the International M.Sc.; 1. The migration of a DCU module Principles of Immunology online with e-assessment for ASU students. 2. The migration of an ASU module online Bioinformatics with e-assessment for DCU students. 3. The development and piloting of a shared International module Advances in Diagnostic Technology being delivered through the global classroom model for both DCU and ASU students. Diagnostics are at the centre of healthcare innovation. They are involved in over 60 percent of clinical decision-making and the industry employs more than 3.5 million people worldwide. This international program will enhance the learning experience for students, creating highly qualified graduates for the global diagnostics industry