Bioinformatics

Program Overview

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Birkbeck's online Bioinformatics MSc and MRes programs provide comprehensive training in bioinformatics, equipping students with the skills and knowledge for careers in academia or industry. The programs emphasize active online learning, covering core concepts, programming, and research methods. Graduates are prepared for roles in healthcare, research, education, and software development in the biotechnology, chemical, and pharmaceutical sectors.

Program Outline

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Degree Overview:

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Program:

Bioinformatics MSc, MRes

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Offered by:

Birkbeck, University of London

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Mode of study:

Online

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Entry requirements:

• MSc: Second-class honours degree (2:2) or above in a relevant subject.
• MRes: Direct entry is possible with strong prior evidence of academic performance.

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Duration:

• MSc: 1 year full-time or 2 years part-time
• MRes: 1 year full-time or 2 years part-time

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Objectives:

• To equip students with high-quality online training in bioinformatics.
• To prepare students for research training in bioinformatics and systems biology.
• To provide students with the skills and knowledge needed for a career in academia or industry related to bioinformatics.

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Benefits:

• Flexible online learning allows students to study from anywhere in the world.
• The program covers the core concepts and statistical fundamentals underpinning bioinformatics.
• Students will learn how to program in Python and design and query databases using SQL.
• Students will also explore core biological concepts, growth areas such as Next Generation Sequencing, and systems modelling.

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Outline:

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Program structure:

• The program consists of four compulsory modules (30 credits each) and a research project (60 credits).
• The research project can be completed in four months full-time or 16 months part-time.
• Research areas include genome analysis, analysis of next-generation sequencing data, immunoinformatics, microarray analysis, molecular modelling, biological database design, structural data analysis, and biomedical text mining.

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Compulsory modules:

• Biocomputing
• Sequence Analysis and Omics
• Statistics and Data Science
• The Molecular Basis of Life

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Optional modules (MRes only):

• Bioinformatics Applications
• Structural Bioinformatics
• Scientific Computation
• Systems Modelling

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Assessment:

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Assessment methods:

• Quizzes
• In-class, open-book examinations in programming
• Essays
• Oral presentations
• Problem-based learning, for example, group programming projects
• Project thesis and viva voce

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Assessment criteria:

• Depth of understanding of the subject matter
• Communication and presentation skills
• Originality and creativity
• Critical thinking skills

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Teaching:

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Teaching methods:

• Practical sessions and online videos complemented by quizzes and programming exercises.
• Interactive online classes.
• Online, practical classes in programming, data analysis, or use of computing tools.
• Tutorials reviewing or expanding on online materials or covering topics in career or academic skills development.

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Faculty:

• The program is taught by experienced academics and researchers in the field of bioinformatics.
• Some of the faculty members are also involved in leading research projects.

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Unique approaches:

• The program emphasizes active, online learning.
• The program includes contributions from specialists at other universities and research institutions.

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Careers:

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Potential career paths:

• Healthcare scientist (genetics)
• Research scientist
• Higher education lecturer
• Science writer
• Software developer

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Opportunities:

• The program equips students with the skills and knowledge needed for a wide range of careers in the biotechnology, chemical, and pharmaceutical sectors, as well as academia.

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Outcomes:

• Graduates of the program have gone on to work in a variety of roles in industry and academia.

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Other:

• The program is ideal for students from a scientific background who want to pursue research training in bioinformatics and systems biology.
• The program is also suitable for students seeking a future career in both academia and industry.
• The program is fully approved by the University of London.
• Birkbeck offers a comprehensive careers service to help students find employment after graduation.

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• Part-time home students: £6,075 per year
• Part-time international students: £9,915 per year
• Full-time home students: £12,150 per year
• Full-time international students: £19,830 per year