Bioinformatics
MSc
University of West London

Key Course Facts
Course Description
This bioinformatics Masters bridges the interfaces between genomics, computing and healthcare and aims to equip you with the skills to analyse, interpret and use biological data to inform and improve healthcare and health outcomes.
You will consider biological data generated by technologies such as genome and next-generation sequencing and microarray expression technology. You will also learn how the results of analysis can be applied to improve health outcomes.
Throughout your studies you will be encouraged to reflect on the ethical, legal and social implications of using genomics data.
We welcome students and professionals from a range of academic and work backgrounds, including:
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biomedical sciences
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forensic science
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nursing
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public health
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psychology
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healthcare science
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pharmaceutical.
The course covers core principles, as well as statistical, computing and knowledge management skills. In addition, it will equip you with the technical ability you need to analyse genetics and genomics data and the underlying health associations between gene variants, disease susceptibility and drug response.
In the Bioinformatics and Advanced Bioinformatics modules you will work in interdisciplinary teams as much as possible. Together, and individually, you will:
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undertake core practice in sequence and structure analysis techniques and provide you with a strong foundation in omics and NGS analysis. R, Python, Linux, and the user-friendly Chipster software provided by ELIXIR-Finland at CSC are used in the NGS exercises
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problem-solve in real healthcare or industry scenarios using bioinformatics and computational analysis
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learn research design and methodologies in bioinformatics
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apply your understanding of genetic variation to disease modelling
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develop an analysis strategy for a new service that builds on your knowledge of genomics, bioinformatics and programming
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apply the relevant statistical and analytical methods to generate new information.
You will learn from experts in computing, healthcare, mathematics and statistics, whose current practice and research will enhance your postgraduate experience.
Entry Requirements / Admissions
Requirements for international students / English requirements
IELTS academic test score (similar tests may be accepted as well)
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- 6.5
- Graduate Degrees
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- 5.5
- Undergraduate Degrees
Get advice on which foundation courses are best for you to still study Bioinformatics, MSc, if you do not meet the minimum requirements in terms of UCAS score, A levels, or English language requirements.
You must have a first degree (2:2) or equivalent in healthcare science, forensic science, biology, physics, chemistry, pharmacology, statistics, computing and relevant health-related subjects including medicine, nursing, podiatry, physiotherapy, psychology and pathology. If you do not meet the minimum entry criteria, you may still be considered through interviews and assessment to ascertain that you are able to study at Masters Level. The evidence would normally include: a relevant professional qualification at a suitable level several years' relevant post-qualifying professional experience
Costs
Average student cost of living in the UK
Rent | £518 |
Water, gas electricity, internet (at home) | £50 |
Supermarket shopping | £81 |
Clothing | £35 |
Eating out | £33 |
Alcohol | £27 |
Takeaways / food deliveries | £30 |
Going out / entertainment (excl.alcohol, food) | £24 |
Holidays and weekend trips | £78 |
Transport within city | £17 |
Self-care / sports | £20 |
Stationary / books | £13 |
Mobile phone / internet | £13 |
Cable TV / streaming | £7 |
Insurance | £51 |
Other | £95 |
Average student cost of living | £1092 |
London costs approx 34% more than average, mainly due to rent being 67% higher than average of other cities. For students staying in student halls, costs of water, gas, electricity, wifi are generally included in the rental. Students in smaller cities where accommodation is in walking/biking distance transport costs tend to be significantly smaller.
University Rankings
Positions of University of West London in top UK and global rankings.
See all 8 university rankings of University of West London
About University of West London
The University of West London (UWL) is a government funded university in England. West London is made up of eight distinct schools: Claude Littner Business School, London Geller College of Hospitality and Tourism, the School of Computing and Engineering, the College of Nursing, London College of Music, the School of Law and Criminology, the School of Human and Social Sciences, and the London School of Film.
Student composition of University of West London
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Students by level of study Academic year 2020/21 - Full-time equivalent student enrollments published by Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA) on 10 February 2022
- undergraduates:
- 10495
- postgraduates:
- 1615
- Total:
- 12110
Where is this programme taught



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