MSc Bioinformatics

Program Overview

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MSc Bioinformatics

Overview

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.

Key Information

• Programme duration: One year full-time
• Start date: September 2025
• Application deadline:
  • Overseas applicants: 25 July 2025
  • Home applicants: 8 August 2025
• Delivery method: On-Campus
• Location: Clifton
• Awards available: MSc

Programme Structure

The programme comprises two main components: taught units that cover core bioinformatics skills and applications across two terms, and a research project from May to September.

World-Leading Research

• The University of Bristol is ranked fifth for research in the UK (Times Higher Education)
• 94% of our research assessed as world-leading or internationally excellent

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

Fees and Funding

• Home: full-time £14,500 per year
• Overseas: full-time £28,200 per year
• Fees are subject to an annual review
• Bench fees: £540
• Alumni discount: University of Bristol students and graduates can benefit from a 25% reduction in tuition fees for postgraduate study

Career Prospects

Bioinformatic skills are essential for future life scientists, not only to molecular sciences, but also in fields such as climate change, biodiversity, metagenomics, or conservation. Outside academia, many sectors are also reliant on Big Data, social media analytics, and other computer-based methodologies such as artificial intelligence or deep learning.

Program Outline

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Degree Overview:

The MSc Bioinformatics program at the University of Bristol provides students with a comprehensive understanding of bioinformatics, covering a wide range of topics such as programming, machine learning, genomics, protein structure, evolutionary biology, professional skills, and entrepreneurial skills. The program is designed for students with backgrounds in life sciences, including biology, biochemistry, genetics, medicine, and other biosciences. Students will have the opportunity to work with world-leading experts in the field and undertake a scientific research project supervised by faculty members. The program aims to equip students with highly transferable skills that will enhance their future career prospects and employability.

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Outline:

The MSc Bioinformatics program comprises three components:

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Mandatory taught units (first term):

These units provide a foundation in the core concepts of bioinformatics, including:

• Programming
• Machine learning
• Genomics
• Protein structure
• Evolutionary biology
• Professional and entrepreneurial skills

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Optional units (second term):

Students can choose from a range of optional units to tailor their studies to their specific interests. These units may cover topics such as:

• Advanced programming
• Data analysis
• Bioinformatics applications
• Bioinformatics research methods

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Research project (Easter to September):

Students will undertake a research project under the supervision of a faculty member.

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Teaching:

The MSc Bioinformatics program is taught by world-leading experts in the field. The program utilizes a variety of teaching methods, including lectures, tutorials, workshops, and laboratory sessions. Students will also have access to state-of-the-art research facilities.

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Careers:

Graduates of the MSc Bioinformatics program will be well-prepared for a wide range of careers in the life sciences industry, including:

• Bioinformatics research
• Data analysis
• Software development
• Consulting
• Science writing
• Education

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Other:

• The program is offered on a full-time basis and takes one year to complete.
• The program is highly competitive, and early applications are encouraged.
• The University of Bristol is ranked fifth for research in the UK (Times Higher Education).
• 94% of the university's research is assessed as world-leading or internationally excellent.

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£14,000 per year Overseas: full-time £27,200 per year For programmes that last longer than one year, please budget for up to an 8% increase in fees each year.