Advanced Metabolic Disease MED5690

• Academic Session: 2026-27
• School: School of Cardiovascular & Metabolic Health
• Credits: 10
• Level: Level 5 (SCQF level 11)
• Typically Offered: Semester 2
• Available to Visiting Students: No

Short Description

This advanced module explores the molecular mechanisms and epidemiological data underpinning key risk factors for obesity, diabetes, and chronic kidney disease. This course will foster a deep understanding of disease-specific pathophysiology, engage with complex clinical case studies, and critically examine emerging and novel therapeutic strategies. Emphasis is placed on integrating clinical insights with current research to support evidence-based approaches to diagnosis, management, and prevention.

Timetable

This course is made up of lectures (approx. 1-2 hours in length) and tutorials (approx. 1-2 hours in length).

Excluded Courses

Co-requisites

Assessment

Portfolio (100%). The assessment will include:

• Pre-recorded oral presentation on the epidemiology of a selected metabolic disease (25%, 10 mins) (ILO1).
• Proposed clinical research aim informed by engagement with relevant, evidence-based literature (75%, 1000 words) (ILO2, ILO3).

Course Aims

The specific aims of this course are to:

• Develop a comprehensive understanding of the epidemiological, pathophysiological and therapeutic foundations of human metabolic diseases, with a focus on obesity, diabetes, and chronic kidney disease.
• Encourage critical engagement with clinical and research evidence, fostering the ability to explore and reflect on emerging therapeutic strategies and interventions.
• Support independent research inquiry, enabling students to identify gaps in current knowledge and develop well-founded perspectives that advance understanding and innovation in metabolic health.

Minimum Requirement for Award of Credits

Students must submit at least 75% by weight of the components (including examinations) of the course’s summative assessment.