Statistics for Computational Biology

Program Overview

The MSc in Statistics for Computational Biology equips students with practical skills to design experiments, evaluate statistical methods, and interpret results in this interdisciplinary field. This 12-month full-time or 24-month part-time program, taught by experts from Computer Science, Maths, and Biological Sciences departments, provides a strong foundation for careers in pharmaceuticals, advanced agriculture, and public health.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

This MSc in Statistics for Computational Biology is designed to equip students with practical skills in statistics for application in the field of Computational Biology. The program aims to:

• Contribute knowledge to the design of biological experiments: Students will learn how to ensure that appropriate statistical analysis of experimental data is possible.
• Critically evaluate the application of statistical techniques: Students will develop the ability to assess the suitability of specific statistical methods for research problems in Computational Biology.
• Interpret and report results effectively: Students will learn to communicate the findings of their analyses clearly and concisely.
This program is ideal for students seeking the minimum entry-level qualification for careers in pharmaceuticals, advanced agriculture, and public health. It is a collaborative effort between the departments of Computer Science, Maths, and the Institute of Biological Environmental and Rural Science, providing students with expertise from these specialized departments.

Outline:

The program is structured as follows:

• Duration: Twelve months full-time or 24 months part-time.
• Academic Year: Divided into three semesters: September to January; January to June; June to September.
• Course Availability: Available as a postgraduate certificate or diploma and can be taken part-time.
• Contact Time: Approximately 10-14 hours a week in the first two semesters.
During semester three, students arrange their contact time with their assigned supervisor.
• Assessment: The program comprises 180 credits.
120 credits are earned through taught modules completed during Semester 1 and Semester 2. The remaining 60 credits are earned through a research dissertation in semester 3.

Modules:

Year 1

• Core Modules:
• Biotechnology for Business (BRM0520):
20 credits
• Frontiers in the Biosciences (BRM4920):
20 credits
• Machine Learning for Intelligent Systems (CSM6420):
20 credits
• Programming for Scientists (CSM0120):
20 credits
• Statistical Concepts, Methods and Tools (MAM5120):
20 credits
• Statistical Techniques for Computational Scientists (MAM5220):
20 credits
• Dissertation (CSM9060):
60 credits

Careers:

This degree is suitable for individuals with a background in biology, maths, or computing who wish to enhance their skills in this interdisciplinary field. It is also suitable for those with a high 2:2 degree or higher in a related discipline. Potential career paths include:

• Statistics for Computational Biology: Opportunities in pharmaceuticals, advanced agriculture, and public health.

Other:

• The program is research-led and benefits from the expertise of the participating departments.
• In the most recent Research Excellence Framework assessment (2014), 95% of the university's research was of an internationally recognized standard or higher.
• The program is available partially or entirely through the medium of Welsh.