Next start date: Contact the Student Recruitment Office (01382 308080) for advice
Degree type: MSc/PGDip
UCAS Code: Apply directly to the University
Duration: 12 months (full-time)
Please note that this course is not available for entry in September 2013. If you are interested in this course, please contact us for advice.
There is a growing demand for scientists with the ability to analyse biological data by means of state-of-the-art information technology and this course presents the cutting edge of this new discipline. The course brings together modern quantitative and computer-aided techniques to the study of biological processes. Whether you are interested in drug design, gene expression profiling, microarrays, manipulation of databases, analysis of genome data or gaining expertise in an essential skill of the modern bioscientist, then this course is for you.
The taught stage of the course is followed by a four-month full-time bioinformatics research project leading to the MSc Bioinformatics award.
Those exiting the course after successful completion of the taught component (i.e. Postgraduate Diploma) would be eligible for the award of Postgraduate Diploma (PGDip) Bioinformatics.
The study programme is designed for graduates in the biological sciences. The core themes of the course are molecular biology, bioinformatics and information technology. The topics covered include: genomics; proteomics; structural and functional bioinformatics; database management; and programming & computational techniques for biological data analysis.
How you learn
An integrated programme of lectures, tutorials, seminars and guided studies are used to enhance your knowledge and understanding and enable you to make rapid progress in gaining effective skills in bioinformatics. The research project is designed to allow you to apply the theoretical and practical knowledge gained in the taught modules to a particular biological problem.
How you are assessed
A combination of coursework assignments, presentations, information assignments and formal examinations are used throughout the course with the most appropriate form of assessment being chosen for the topics being assessed.
Applicants should normally have an Honours degree in a bioscience discipline. Applicants holding an acceptable equivalent qualification, substantial relevant experience or membership of a relevant professional body are also encouraged to seek entry to this course.
Overseas/EU
All applicants are required to provide certified proof of competence in English Language and the University's minimum requirements are listed here
As students on this course will discover, Dundee is the perfect place to study a subject that combines information technology and biosciences because the city is a centre for world renowned medical research, and a thriving base for new industries.
Taking the wider view, the field of Bioinformatics is expanding all the time both within industry and public research centres. And this course perfectly equips students to translate scientific research data into manageable, accessible information that can help advance the field of biosciences.
Having completed the course, students will have the skills to go on to make a significant contribution to one of many sectors: developing software support systems for the biological sciences, working within pharmaceutical companies, biotechnology companies and contract research centres. All of these sectors offer an exciting and fulfilling career. And each of them is recruiting graduates in Bioinformatics.
As the science-based work of industry and public research centres increases, these is a growing demand for graduates who are skilled in both science and information technology. All of these sectors are actively recruiting graduates in Bioinformatics and the sector continues to expand.
For further information on career opportunities, please email the University's careers office: careers@abertay.ac.uk
Specialist facilities
A range of well equipped and modern laboratories are available for use by Biological Science students. In addition the Scottish Informatics Mathematics Biology & Statistics (SIMBIOS) research facility at Abertay provides students with access to top class researchers working in the exciting field of biology and computing.
More information
MSc Bioinformatics
| Fee Category | September 2013 Fees |
Scholarships & Bursaries |
| Scottish and other EU students |
£3,400 |
Other forms of support |
| English, Welsh and Northern Irish students |
£7,000 |
Bursaries & Scholarships |
| Overseas (non EU) students |
£10,250 |
Overseas Scholarships |
Fee quoted is the total cost providing that the MSc follows on immediately after the PG Dip element and is completed within the same academic year as started. Fees may be subject to increase.
