MSc Bioinformatics in UK

The amalgamation of computer technology and biology created Bioinformatics and subsequent programs such as MSc in Bioinformatics. With a focus on genetics and genomics, this discipline involves collecting, storing, analyzing and disseminating biological data. The acquired data improves medical care by creating a better understanding of health and diseases.

Bioinformatics has few dedicated undergraduate courses. Hence, entry-level positions are accessible to students with a degree in computational biology, life sciences, computer science or statistics. However, students looking to pursue research in the field to build their knowledge can do so with an MSc in Bioinformatics in the UK.

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Why choose the UK?

The presence of modern state-of-the-art research facilities and dedicated research-based programs make the UK a lucrative option for Bioinformatics. Furthermore, the country boasts a dedicated institution, UK Research and Innovation, that produces ground-breaking insights into research areas like cancer and HIV.

 

Eligibility for MSc in Bioinformatics in the UK

MSc in Bioinformatics in the UK is a competitive degree with significant international attention. Each institution has its own set of essential criteria that candidates must fulfill to be eligible for admission.

The standard requirement for eligibility for MSc in Bioinformatics in the UK is completing an honors degree or equivalent with 60% and above. Additionally, students must have completed a degree in one of the following disciplines.

• Computer science
• Mathematics
• Medical sciences
• Physical sciences
• Mathematics

Certain institutions may also consider students with less than 60%, provided they possess relevant research or professional experience.

To gauge their verbal and written English proficiency, the requirement for MSc Bioinformatics in UK universities includes a TOEFL or IELTS scorecard.

How to Apply

Universities accepting applications for MSc Bioinformatics in the UK usually ask the entrants to fill out an application form released on their official website. The registration form consists of spaces for personal, educational and professional details and supporting documents. After filling out the application form, candidates receive a confirmation email on their registered email address.

The next step is to wait for the admission committee to review the candidate’s profile and accept or deny their admission request.

Top Universities for an MSc in Bioinformatics in the UK

The universities offering an MSc Bioinformatics in the UK combine a robust research program with relevant modules like systems biology. The course is usually brief, with a duration of 12 months, depending on the university.

With the popularity of Bioinformatics increasing, numerous universities throughout the UK have incorporated it into their curriculum. However, the top five universities with MSc in Bioinformatics in the UK are as follows.

Name of University	Annual Tuition Fee	QS Subject 2022 – Biological Sciences	Program and Specialization	Duration
Imperial College, London	GBP 35,000	11	MSc in Bioinformatics and Theoretical Systems Biology	1 year
The University of Edinburgh	GBP 38,500	22	MSc Bioinformatics	1 year
The University of Manchester	GBP 26,000	47	MSc Bioinformatics and Systems Biology	1 year
The University of Glasgow	GBP 27,930	57	MSc Bioinformatics	1 year
The University of Bristol	GBP 24,100	64	MSc Bioinformatics	1 year

Specializations in Bioinformatics

Bioinformatics is an expansive and multidisciplinary domain. The subjects in MSc Bioinformatics in the UK consist of molecular genetics, biotechnology and structural bioinformatics, among others. Studying these subjects allows students completing their MSc Bioinformatics in the UK to pursue multiple specializations like:

• Data Mining
• Genetic Circuits
• Genomic Architecture
• Metabolic Computing

Post completion, students have access to diverse roles within the confines of Bioinformatics and the flexibility to change specializations.

Academic Cycle

Universities in the United Kingdom strictly follow a bi-yearly admission process for admission to postgraduate courses. Similarly, the MSc Bioinformatics in UK course accepts candidates for two sessions – autumn and spring. The former begins in January, while the latter starts in September.

The process of admission for MSc Bioinformatics in the UK begins well in advance, approximately a few months before the target intake. Applying early is better since the universities stop accepting admissions once the seats are full.

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Buckinghamshire New University	Leeds Trinity University	Ulster University UK
Glasgow Caledonian University	University of Southampton	Brunel University London
Architecture colleges	Liberal Arts	University of Suffolk
Newman University	University College Birmingham	University of the Highlands and Islands

 

Cost of Attendance

The one-year MSc Bioinformatics course in the UK from top universities could cost candidates anywhere from GBP 24,100 to GBP 38,500. The fees for MSc Bioinformatics in the UK are decided at the discretion of individual universities, based on factors like:

• The duration of the program
• The type of program (research or theoretical)

Cost of Living

In combination with the cost of attendance, the cost of living provides a perfect estimate of the expected expenditure in the UK.

Students planning to study MSc Bioinformatics in the UK will incur GBP 140 per week on average if they choose university dorms for accommodation. On the other hand, outside accommodation in an affordable city like Manchester will cost GBP 148.66 per week.

Furthermore, students residing in shared housing with families or flatmates will also encounter the following costs (per month).

• Standard utilities like electricity, water, heating and cooling – GBP 181.29
• Internet connection with 60 Mbps or above speed – GBP 30.20
• Monthly transportation pass – GBP 65.22

The cost of living will be the highest in cities like London, York and Cambridge, while Sheffield and Cranfield are known to be less expensive.

Top Recruiters for Students Pursuing an MSc Bioinformatics in the UK

The Bioinformatics domain is in significant demand, especially since postgraduate studies expose students to practical and theoretical aspects of the subject. Hence, the graduates are recruited by top pharmaceutical and technological companies.

Some notable names include:

• AstraZeneca
• Google
• GlaxoSmithKline (GSK)
• Aridhia
• Amro Partners
• European Bioinformatics Institute

The curriculum of MSc Bioinformatics prepares students for these roles, and the companies provide further training.

Career Prospects

Job Title	Average annual salary
Global Bioinformatics Manager	GBP 45,632
Research Associate	GBP 38,598
Computational Biologist	GBP 44,037
Data Scientist in Healthcare	GBP 44,292
Clinical Scientist	GBP 46,067

Graduates can also secure research assistant roles at notable universities in the UK and amass experience before shifting to industrial positions.

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