Bioinformatics, MSc

KU Leuven, Belgium

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Study options for this course

The award	How you will study	Study duration	Course start	Domestic course fees	International course fees
MSc	Full-time	2 years	September	find out	find out

About Bioinformatics, MSc - at KU Leuven

In modern biology, large and complex data sets are being generated at an incredible pace. The types of data include DNA sequences, protein structures, mass spectrometry and large-scale networks. Bioinformatics combines biology, computer science, mathematics and statistics to analyse and interpret this big data. Due to the data avalanche in biology, ecology, biotechnology, genetics, pharmacy and medicine, bioinformatics experts are in high demand.

What is the programme all about?

The programme provides you with a strong theoretical background in each of the disciplines. In addition, you will use computer programming and machine learning as well as existing bioinformatics pipelines to study biological, biomedical and biotechnological systems under the guidance of top researchers in bioinformatics. The combination of theoretical background and applied skills allows you to make informed choices for data analysis methodologies.

Structure

This interdisciplinary two-year programme focuses on acquiring

basic background knowledge in diverse disciplines belonging to the field of bioinformatics, including statistics, molecular biology and computer science
expert knowledge in the field of bioinformatics
programming skills
engineering skills

The 120-credit programme consists of a reorientation package (one semester), a common package (two semesters) and a thesis.

The Master of Bioinformatics is embedded in a strong bioinformatics research community in KU Leuven, who monthly meet at the Bioinformatics Interest Group. Bioinformatics research groups are spread over the Arenberg and Gasthuisberg campus and are located in the research departments of Microbial and Molecular Systems (M2S), Electrical Engineering (ESAT), Human Genetics, Microbiology and Immunology (REGA), Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Chemistry and Biology. Several of these bioinformatics research groups are also associated with the Flemish Institute for Biotechnology (VIB).

Strengths

The programme is truly multidisciplinary. On the one hand, students obtain detailed theoretical knowledge of quantitative methods and on the other hand become familiar with the molecular techniques that are used in modern biology.
The input from teaching staff from different faculties provides a broad view on the application areas of bioinformatics, from basic science to plant breeding and medical applications.
We offer high academic level and have high expectations of our students. Students appreciate that they learn a lot during the two-year programme

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Learn more about Bioinformatics, MSc - at KU Leuven

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