MSc Bioinformatics
- MSc
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, some of 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 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 your innovative ideas in a fast-moving entrepreneurial environment.
Programme structure
The programme comprises three components: mandatory taught units (in the first term), optional units (in the second term), and a research project from Easter to September.
Please visit our programme catalogue for full details of the structure and unit content.
Entry requirements
An upper second-class honours degree or international equivalent in a degrees related to life sciences (for example; biological sciences, biochemistry, zoology, ecology, bioinformatics, etc).
For applicants who are currently completing a degree, we understand that their final grade may be higher than the interim grades or module/unit grades they achieve during their studies.
We will consider applicants whose interim grades are currently slightly lower than the programme's entry requirements. We may make these applicants an aspirational offer. This offer would be at the standard level, so the applicant would need to achieve the standard entry requirements by the end of their degree. Specific module requirements may still apply.
We will consider applicants whose grades are slightly lower than the programme's entry requirements, if they have a relevant postgraduate qualification. If this is the case, applicants should include their CV (curriculum vitae / résumé) when they apply, showing details of their relevant qualifications.
See international equivalent qualifications on the International Office website.
Read the programme admissions statement for important information on entry requirements, the application process and supporting documents required.
Go to admissions statementIf English is not your first language, you will need to reach the requirements outlined in our profile level B.
Further information about English language requirements and profile levels.
Fees and funding
- UK: full-time
- £14,000 per year
- Overseas: full-time
- £27,200 per year
Fees are subject to an annual review. For programmes that last longer than one year, please budget for up to an 8% increase in fees each year.
More about tuition fees, living costs and financial support.
Bench fees
£540. Further information about bench fees can be found on our webpages. Confirmation of bench fees will be stated in the offer letter sent to applicants.
Alumni discount
University of Bristol students and graduates can benefit from a 25% reduction in tuition fees for postgraduate study. Check your eligibility for an alumni discount.
Funding for 2024/25
Further information on funding for prospective UK and international postgraduate students.
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. Examples in the UK are public projects including Genomics England (Department of Health and Social Care), and the Darwin Tree of Life (Wellcome Trust). Consequently, the job market for graduates proficient in bioinformatics is expanding rapidly and will keep growing.
Contact us
- Contact
- Enquiries Team
- Phone
- +44 (0) 117 394 1649
- choosebristol-pg@bristol.ac.uk
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