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Bioinformatics at Birkbeck, University of London - UCAS

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2024 - 20252025 - 2026
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There are other course options available which may have a different vacancy status or entry requirements – view the full list of options

Course summary

Our MSc Bioinformatics provides you with high-quality online training in bioinformatics. It is a distance learning only course run in parallel with an MRes course that includes a larger research component. This specialist, online postgraduate degree is ideal if you are from a scientific background and want to pursue research training in bioinformatics and systems biology, or if you are seeking a future career in both academia and industry. Bioinformatics and systems biology have grown dramatically in the last two decades and this course has been designed to meet the needs of the pharmaceutical, chemical and biotechnology industries for research and development. It covers the core concepts and statistical fundamentals underpinning bioinformatics, most notably in the area of sequence analysis. You will learn how to program in Python and design and query databases using SQL, and gain experience in more advanced programming practices such as software testing and application development. You will also explore:

  • core biological concepts such as genes and genomes, protein structure and function
  • growth areas such as Next Generation Sequencing and systems modelling.
Our research areas include:
  • computational structural bioinformatics, with a focus on the characterisation of macromolecular assemblies relevant to disease
  • analysis of next-generation sequencing data, both genomic and transcriptomic
  • immunoinformatics, in particular virus-host interactions and immune responses to protein therapeutics
  • developing bioinformatics and chemoinformatics methods to analyse metabolic pathways
  • structure-thermodynamic relationships, molecular simulation and inhibitor design
  • developing new computational methods that exploit data produced using various experimental techniques (e.g. cryo-EM, mass spectrometry, NMR and tomography).
Highlights
  • We are part of the Institute of Structural and Molecular Biology, a joint initiative with University College London and a major biology research hub in the heart of London.
  • In the 2021 Research Excellence Framework (REF), in a joint submission with UCL, Biological Sciences at Birkbeck were ranked 11th in the UK, with a research environment supporting world-leading and internationally excellent research.
Careers and employability Graduates can pursue career paths in the biotechnology, chemical and pharmaceutical sectors, as well as academia. Possible professions include:
  • healthcare scientist (genetics)
  • research scientist
  • higher education lecturer
  • science writer
  • software developer.
We offer a comprehensive careers service - Careers and Enterprise - your career partner during your time at Birkbeck and beyond. At every stage of your career journey, we empower you to take ownership of your future, helping you to make the connection between your experience, education and future ambitions.

Modules

For information about course structure and the modules you will be studying, please visit Birkbeck’s online prospectus.

Assessment method

Depending on the module, assessment methods include: quizzes; in-class, open-book examinations in programming; essays; oral presentations; problem-based learning, for example, group programming projects. Also a project thesis and viva voce.

How to apply

International applicants

If English is not your first language or you have not previously studied in English, our usual requirement is the equivalent of an International English Language Testing System (IELTS Academic Test) score of 6.5, with not less than 6.0 in each of the sub-tests. If you don't meet the minimum IELTS requirement, we offer pre-sessional English courses, foundation programmes and language support services to help you improve your English language skills and get your place at Birkbeck.

Entry requirements

The MRes is a challenging, interdisciplinary course. We recommend initial entry to the MSc Bioinformatics course until November (full-time) or February (part-time) so that your skills and knowledge can be thoroughly assessed. Occasionally, direct entry to the MRes is possible, when there is very strong prior evidence that the student will perform well on the course. You must have a second-class honours degree (2:2) or above. Some practical knowledge of one programming language would be a distinct advantage. Mathematics to A-level or equivalent desirable, but GCSE/O-level considered. Applications are reviewed on their individual merits and your professional qualifications and/or relevant work experience will be taken into consideration positively. We actively support and encourage applications from mature learners.

English language requirements

Fees and funding

Tuition fees

England £6225 Year 1
Northern Ireland £6225 Year 1
Scotland £6225 Year 1
Wales £6225 Year 1
International £10170 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

Students are charged a tuition fee in each year of their course. Tuition fees for students continuing on their course in following years may be subject to annual inflationary increases.
Bioinformatics at Birkbeck, University of London - UCAS