Bioinformatics

Entry requirements

You will typically need an upper second-class honours degree or an international equivalent in a degree related to Life Sciences, such as Biochemistry, Bioinformatics, Biological Science, Ecology, or Zoology.

OR

If your degree subject is not listed above, you will typically need an upper second-class honours degree or an international equivalent in a Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics subject. You will also need to have scored 60% or above (or an international equivalent) in a genetics, genomics, biochemistry, or molecular biology module unit.

If you are currently completing a degree, we understand that your final grade may be higher than the interim grades or module/unit grades you have achieved during your studies to date.

We will consider your application if your interim grades are currently slightly lower than the programme's entry requirements and may make you an aspirational offer. This offer would be at the standard level, so you would need to achieve the standard entry requirements by the end of your degree. Specific module requirements would still apply.

We will also consider your application if your final overall achieved grade is slightly lower than the programme's entry requirement. Please include your CV (curriculum vitae / résumé) when you apply, showing details of a relevant postgraduate qualification in Life Sciences, such as Biochemistry, Bioinformatics, Biological Science, Ecology, Zoology, Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics subject.

Specific module requirements would still apply.

See international equivalent qualifications on the International Office website.

Months of entry

September

Course content

The MSc Bioinformatics covers a diverse range of areas in bioinformatics and is suitable for students from a variety of academic backgrounds related to the life sciences (biology, biochemistry, genetics, medicine, and other biosciences). Students will learn and work together with world-leading experts.

In the age of big data, conservation biology, biodiversity, genetics, and evolutionary biology involve the study of large amounts of data that increase in volume and variety at a high speed. The use of computational tools is essential to analyse such large datasets, which have shaken the foundations of many scientific disciplines. The advent of these technologies is also central to many companies and the public sector and has driven the emergence of innovative start-ups. The job market for graduates proficient in bioinformatics is expanding rapidly and will keep growing.

You will learn about topics including programming, machine learning, genomics, protein structure, evolutionary biology, as well as professional and entrepreneurial skills. You will undertake a scientific research project supervised by the experts of the Faculty of Health and Life Sciences and will leave with highly transferable skills that will help to boost your future career and employability. Moreover, you will learn how to capitalise on your innovative ideas in a fast-moving entrepreneurial environment.

Information for international students

See international equivalent qualifications on the International Office website.

Fees and funding

Further information on funding for prospective UK and international postgraduate students.