Program Overview

MSc Bioinformatics with Bioenterprise

The MSc Bioinformatics with Bioenterprise is a postgraduate program that combines biology, computation, and entrepreneurship to tackle global challenges. This program is designed for bioscientists with little or no programming experience and aims to train students to transform raw data into meaningful discoveries.

Overview

• The program starts with modules in Bioinformatics, Data Analysis and Programming, and Research Skills.
• Students then work on a collaborative group project, engage with York scientists in interactive research seminars, and finally complete an independent research project in a specialist area of bioinformatics.
• The program prepares students for a PhD with a computational focus or a career in biotechnology, healthcare, or environmental industries.

Course Content

• The program consists of research- and practitioner-led modules, comprising evaluation of contemporary research literature and seminars that highlight the research of bioinformaticians in the department.
• Students complete three 20-credit modules in Semester 1 and Semester 2, and a 60-credit module in Semester 3.
• Modules include:
  • Data Analysis & Programming in the Biosciences
  • Research, Professional & Team Skills
  • Advanced Research Topics in Bioinformatics
  • Bioenterprise
  • Group Research Project
  • Research Seminars in Bioinformatics

Research Project

• The independent study module is designed to give students experience in managing and completing a project in a cutting-edge research context.
• Students can choose to complete a project in collaboration with an academic supervisor within the University or as an external placement.
• The project allows students to further develop and apply their skills to a current research question and specialize in a particular area or research technique.

Learning Outcomes

• Construct critical evaluations and summaries of scientific literature that demonstrate a deep understanding of the concepts and approaches at the forefront of research in Bioinformatics with relevance to Bioenterprise.
• Competently undertake the design of experiments for the collection, analysis, and modeling of data, and carry out research tasks in Bioinformatics with autonomy and independence.
• Evaluate state-of-the-art experimental and analytical approaches in Bioinformatics, drawing upon first-hand practical experience working in research laboratories.
• Work with a minimum of guidance and supervision as an individual, collaborative team member, or leader to identify stakeholder needs and develop ethical and commercially viable research-based solutions.
• Critically evaluate and communicate aspects of the innovation and translation of research in Bioinformatics and its application in a variety of written and spoken formats.
• Apply technical expertise, practical experience, and other transferable skills to a wide range of working environments, including research laboratories, industries, and enterprises relating to Bioinformatics.

Fees and Funding

• Annual tuition fees for 2026/27:
  • UK (home): £13,900
  • International and EU: £32,900
• Fees information: The level of fee that students will be asked to pay depends on whether they are classed as a UK (home) or international student.
• Funding information: Discover funding options to help with tuition fees and living costs.
• Funding opportunities:
  • UK government Masters loans
  • Funding for UK students
  • Funding for international students
  • Chevening Scholarships

Teaching and Assessment

• The program is taught through a combination of lectures, seminars, and small group teaching.
• Students will have the opportunity to work closely with academics and bioenterprise practitioners.
• Assessment methods include:
  • Written reports
  • Data analysis reports
  • Oral presentations
  • Group project work
  • Posters
  • Written business plans

Careers and Skills

• The program is an essential step into further research or a career in Bioinformatics.
• Graduates will be commercially aware of the opportunities in innovation and translation with their discipline.
• Transferable skills include:
  • Critical thinking
  • Reproducible data analysis visualization and interpretation
  • Statistics and programming
  • Written, oral, and graphical presentation of scientific ideas and data
  • Teamwork and collaboration

Entry Requirements

• Qualification: 2:2 or equivalent in bioscience, or substantial industry experience.
• International pre-masters program: Pre-masters from the International Pathway College.
• Other international qualifications: Equivalent qualifications from the student's country.
• English language requirements:
  • IELTS (Academic and Indicator): 6.5, minimum 6.0 in each component
  • Cambridge CEFR: B2 First: 176, with 169 in each component
  • Oxford ELLT: 7, minimum 6 in each component
  • Oxford Test of English Advanced: 136, minimum 126 in each component
  • Duolingo: 120, minimum 105 in all other components
  • LanguageCert SELT: B2 with 33/50 in each component
  • LanguageCert Academic: 70 with a minimum of 65 in each component
  • Kaplan Test of English Language: 478-509, with 444-477 in all other components
  • Skills for English: B2: Merit overall, with Pass with Merit in each component
  • PTE Academic: 61, minimum 55 in each component
  • TOEFL: 87, minimum 21 in each component
  • Trinity ISE III: Merit in all requirements

Applying

• Students can apply and send all their documentation online.
• The application process can be started, saved, and finished later.
• International students should check the minimum requirements for their country or region.