Program Overview

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Bioinformatics MSc

Overview

Bioinformatics combines knowledge from a variety of disciplines such as biology, computer science, mathematics and statistics to analyse and interpret biological data on a large scale.

The Bioinformatics programme at Bradford includes training in experimental techniques that complements commonly used data acquisition methods in a broad range of investigative scenarios. This is designed to provide a basic training in the principles of bioinformatics, followed by coverage of the advanced level of knowledge and training required relevant to large-scale data mining and processing, including programming and scripting via command line and the Galaxy interface.

A key feature of the MSc programme at Bradford is that students are able to learn the theoretical knowledge of bioinformatics with a practical training in experimental techniques that are commonly used in biomedical sciences. This is designed to enable students to become knowledgeable in genomics, proteomics transcriptomics and metagenomics so that they can apply bioinformatics approaches in a broad range of real world employment scenarios aimed at improving human health, both in industry as well as in healthcare organisations.

Entry Requirements

• 2:2 or above in any aspect of the Biological Sciences or Biosciences or related Life Sciences courses.
• A medical degree would also be appropriate.
• English language requirements:
  • For students whose first language is not English a minimum International English Language Testing System (IELTS) score at 6.0 or the equivalent is required, with a minimum score of 5.5 in any sub-unit.

Curriculum

First Year

Core

• Research Project
• ’Omics’ Techniques in Biology and Healthcare
• Principles of Bioinformatics
• Practical Skills in Research
• Research Project Preparation and Plan
• Advanced Bioinformatics
• Practical Molecular Biology

Teaching, Learning and Assessment

The programme content is taught using conventional teaching methods that include lectures, seminars, tutorials, laboratory classes, workshops and a research project.

In addition, independent self-directed or problem-based learning may include interactive research case studies, peer and collaborative sessions, reflective practice and portfolio building. These may be supplemented with interactions with science professionals and tasks that are either work-based or linked to other placements.

Assessments use a combination of unseen written examinations and a wide range of coursework elements such as laboratory reports, essays, online and computer-based assessments, data interpretation and analysis. This is also supplemented with assessment of communication skills in oral and poster communications during peer-reviewed and collaborative sessions.

Fees and Finance

Tuition Fee

• Home: £9,698
• International: £25,389

Additional Course Costs

While there are no compulsory additional costs associated with this course, there may be general additional costs that you may incur as a student. A list of the sort of costs you might expect can be found on our fees and finance section.

Funding Your Studies

It can be hard to know what financial help is available to you as a student.

Further information about the variety of options that can help fund your studies and maximise the money available to you is available on our funding your studies section.

Postgraduate Master's Loan

If you live in England you may be able to apply for a special Government-funded Master's Loan to help pay your tuition fees and living costs. You don't have to pay the loan back until you're earning a certain amount of money.

Scholarships

Every year we award numerous non-repayable scholarships to UK, EU and international students on the basis of academic excellence, personal circumstances or economic hardship. For full details, visit our scholarships section.

Career Prospects

Employability is a key focus of the programmes here at Bradford. We collaborate with industry partners through our Industry Advisory Board and their input shapes the curriculum, ensuring you gain the skills employers in the sector value and that are currently in short supply. You’ll have the opportunity to work on and contribute to real life research projects whilst you’re studying.

Career Opportunities

The University is committed to helping students develop and enhance employability and this is an integral part of many programmes. Specialist support is available throughout the course from Career and Employability Services including help to find part-time work while studying, placements, vacation work and graduate vacancies. Students are encouraged to access this support at an early stage and to use the extensive resources on the Careers website.

Support for Your Studies

At Bradford, we’re committed to supporting your success, well-being and future ambitions.

We’re here to provide everything you need to make the most of your time with us, ensuring you not only excel in your studies, but also step confidently into the world of graduate employment.

In addition to the support you receive from your academic tutors, our Student Support Services are here for you throughout your journey - before, during, and after your studies.

Research

The programme encourages cutting-edge cross-disciplinary research. It offers an opportunity for students to become global leaders in the biomedical industry.

There is a rapid and exponential rise in the amount of genomics sequence data (in all its forms), and UK research councils have identified the bioinformatics sector as a key driver for growth in the industrial and medical biotechnology, pharmaceutical and health markets, and have made it a key priority area for investment.

Our staff are research active and embed outcomes of their world leading research into the design of our courses, ensuring that you are equipped not just for the job market today, but are well prepared for the future.