Course summary
The Master of Data Science (Bioinformatics and Biological Modelling) will provide graduates with quantitative skills in bioinformatics and modelling in molecular biology. It shares a common core with the other Master of Data Science programmes. In addition to the Data Science core, students also take a core module named “Bioinformatics”. There is also an optional module available, “Modelling in Molecular Biology”. The Bioinformatics module explores quantitative tools and methods used to work with biological data, and Modelling in Molecular Biology module explores quantitative modelling tools and methods for exploring metabolic and signalling networks in molecular biology. In your project, you will apply the techniques you have learned from your Data Science modules to a research problem. This course will be equally suitable for those who intend to employ quantitative analysis in their research in molecular biology, or for physical or biological graduates who wish to learn transferrable data and modelling analysis skills in order to enhance their employability in an increasingly competitive job market. All around us, massive amounts of increasingly complex data are being generated and collected, for instance, from mobile devices, cameras, cars, houses, offices, cities, and satellites. Business, research, government, communities, and families can use that data to make informed and rational decisions that lead to better outcomes. It is impossible for any one individual or group of individuals to keep on top of all the relevant data: there is simply far too much. Data science enables us to analyse large amounts of data effectively and efficiently and as a result has become one of the fastest growing career areas. Previously, data science was the province of experts in maths and computer science, but the advent of new techniques and increases in computing power mean that it is now viable for non-experts to learn how to access, clean, analyse, and visualize complex data. There is thus a growing opportunity for those already in possession of knowledge about a particular subject or discipline, and who are therefore able to grasp the full meaning and significance of data in their area, to be able to undertake data analysis intelligently themselves. The combination of primary domain knowledge with an expertise in extracting relevant information from data will give those with this ‘double-threat’ a significant employment advantage. The Master of Data Science suite of programmes is a course with a hard-core of data science, intended to provide Masters-level education rich in the substance of data science for students who hold a first degree that is not highly quantitative, including those in social sciences, the arts and humanities. Introductory modules are designed to bring students with non-technical degrees up to speed with the background necessary for data science. This is done on a need-to-know basis, focusing on understanding in practice rather than abstract theory. Core modules then introduce students to the full range of data science methods, building from elementary techniques to advanced modern methods such as neural networks and deep learning. Optional modules allow students to focus on an area of interest.
Modules
Core modules The Master of Data Science (Bioinformatics and Biological Modelling) programme is comprised of the following core modules: Introduction to Computer Science (optional under certain conditions) Introduction to Statistics for Data Science Ethics and Bias in Data Analytics Machine Learning Programming for Data Science Introduction to Mathematics for Data Science (optional under certain conditions) Bioinformatics Research Project. Examples of optional modules: Modelling in Molecular Biology Text Mining and Language Analytics Data Exploration, Visualization, and Unsupervised Learning Strategic Leadership.
Assessment method
The Master of Data Science suite of programmes is research-oriented. Data Science is a driving force behind many subject specialisations today and aspects are delivered within the context of an active and varied research culture as is demonstrated via the associated academics and researchers within the Institute for Data Science. Students are also encouraged, through a range of modules, to develop research methods, skills and ethics reflecting the wide range of methods used by the research active staff. Research methodologies are actively taught through many other modules and assessments. They are also developed through innovative teaching practices such as simulations. Overall students are encouraged and guided to be ‘research minded’ in all modules, and to develop these critical skills for the future. All modules taught on this programme are underpinned by research, and embed elements of research training both in the delivery and in the assessment.
How to apply
International applicants
If you are an international student who does not meet the requirements for direct entry to this degree, you may be eligible to take a pre-Masters pathway programme at the Durham University International Study Centre.
Entry requirements
A UK first or upper second class honours degree or equivalent in a degree in biological or physical sciences.
English language requirements
Durham University welcomes applications from all students irrespective of background. We encourage the recruitment of academically well-qualified and highly motivated students, who are non-native speakers of English, whose full potential can be realised with a limited amount of English Language training either prior to entry or through pre-sessional and/or in-sessional courses. It is the normal expectation that candidates for admission should be able to demonstrate satisfactory English proficiency before the start of a programme of study, whether via the submission of an appropriate English language qualification or by attendance on an appropriate pre-sessional course. Acceptable evidence and levels required can be viewed by following the link provided.
English language requirements
https://www.durham.ac.uk/study/international/entry-requirements/english-language-requirements/
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
England | £13500 | Year 1 |
Northern Ireland | £13500 | Year 1 |
Scotland | £13500 | Year 1 |
Wales | £13500 | Year 1 |
Channel Islands | £13500 | Year 1 |
EU | £31500 | Year 1 |
International | £31500 | Year 1 |
Republic of Ireland | £31500 | Year 1 |
Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website .
Additional fee information
Sponsorship information
For further information see the course listing.
Provider information
Durham University
The Palatine Centre
Stockton Road
Durham
DH1 3LE