| The award | How you will study | Study duration | Course start | Domestic course fees | International course fees |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| MSc | Full-time | 12 months | find out | find out | find out |
The Bioinformatics MSc combines foundational skills in bioinformatics with specialist skills in computing programming, molecular biology and research methods. Our unique, interdisciplinary course draws together highly-rated teaching and research expertise from across the University, equipping you for a successful career in the bioinformatics industry or academia.
This interdisciplinary course is based in the School of Computing. It is designed for students from both biological science and computational backgrounds. Prior experience with computer programming is not needed and we welcome applications from those with mathematical, engineering or other scientific backgrounds.
What you'll learn
Our course structure is highly flexible and you can tailor it to your own skills and interests. Half of the course is taught and the remainder is dedicated to a research project.
As research is a large component of this course, our emphasis is on delivering the research training you will need to meet the demands of industry and academia now and in the future. Our research in bioinformatics, life sciences, computing and mathematics is internationally recognised. We have an active research community, comprising several research groups and three research centres.
Our staff
You will be taught by academics who are successful researchers in their field and publish regularly in highly-ranked bioinformatics journals. Our experienced and helpful staff will be happy to offer support with all aspects of your course from admissions to graduation and developing your career.
The course is part of a suite of related programmes that include:
All four courses share core modules. This creates a tight-knit cohort that has encouraged collaborations on projects undertaking interdisciplinary research.
Accreditation
We have a policy of seeking British Computer Society (BCS) accreditation for all of our degrees, so you can be assured that you will graduate with a degree that meets the standards set out by the IT industry. Studying a BCS-accredited degree provides the foundation for professional membership of the BCS on graduation and is the first step to becoming a chartered IT professional.
The School of Computing at Newcastle University is an accredited and a recognised Partner in the Network of Teaching Excellence in Computer Science.
Delivery
Semester one combines bioinformatics theory and application with the computational and modelling skills necessary to undertake more specialist modules in semester two. We provide training in mathematics and statistics and, for those without a biological first degree, we will also provide molecular biology training. Some of these modules are examined in January at the end of semester one.
Semester two begins with two modules that focus heavily on introducing subject-specific research skills. These two modules run sequentially, in a short but intensive mode that allows you time to focus on a single topic in depth. In the first of the second semester modules you learn how to analyse data arising from post-genomic studies such as microarray analysis, proteomic analysis and RNAseq. All of the semester two modules are examined by in-course assessment - there are no formal examinations in these modules.
Project work
Your five month project gives you an opportunity to develop your knowledge and skills in depth, and to work in a research or development team. You will have one-to-one supervision from an experienced member of staff, supported with supervision from industry partners as required.
The project can be carried out:
Placements
You will have a unique opportunity to complete a work placement with one of our industrial partners as part of your project. Previous students have found placements with organisations including:
Facilities
You will have dedicated computing facilities in the School of Computing. You will have access to the latest tools for system analysis and development. For certain projects, special facilities for networking can be set up.
You will enjoy access to specialist IT facilities to support your studies, including:
You will have access to a Linux based website that you can customise with PHP hosting services.
We have moved to the new £58m purpose-built Urban Sciences Building. Our new building offers fantastic new facilities for our students and academic community. The building is part of Newcastle Helix, a £350 million project bringing together:
See our course fees and funding webpage in our online Prospectus.
A 2:2 honours degree, or international equivalent, in any biological science-based discipline, such as:
A 2:1 honours degree, international equivalent, in a computing science or maths based subject.
We will also consider applicants on an individual basis with non-standard qualifications and significant industrial or professional experience in biological or computer science related areas.
International Students
To study this course you need to meet our Band 2 English Language requirements:
Direct Entry : IELTS 6.5 overall (with a minimum of 5.5 in all sub-skills)
If you have lower English Language scores, you may be accepted onto a pre-sessional English course.
Our typical English Language requirements are listed as IELTS scores but we also accept a wide range of English Language tests.
The equivalent academic qualifications that we accept are listed on our country pages.
Pre-sessional English Course Requirements
You can study a pre-sessional English course at our INTO Newcastle Centre.
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