MSc Bioinformatics at University of Glasgow

Programme overview

A programme at the interface of biology, computing and statistics, using computers to gain insight from DNA, RNA and protein sequence data through data storage, mining, analysis and graphical presentation.

Duration: 12 months full-time | Intake: September | Location: Glasgow, Scotland, United Kingdom

What you will study

Core courses include Biological Computing in Python, Foundations of Bioinformatics, Programming and Databases for Biologists and Statistics and Data Analysis for Bioinformatics, with optional courses such as Clinical Genomics, RNA-seq and Next Generation Transcriptomics and Pathogen Polyomics. The MSc adds a 60-credit research project.

Career pathways

Graduates mostly enter university or institute research careers, often via PhD studentships, or work in biotechnology, pharma, scientific publishing, education or computing.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

2.2 Hons (or non-UK equivalent) in a Life Sciences subject, with modules in Genetics and Molecular Biology at an average grade of 2.2 or non-UK equivalent; degrees in Computing Science, IT, Maths, Statistics and Life Science subjects not meeting core module requirements may also be accepted. Significant relevant work experience may be accepted in lieu of some qualifications (CV required). For applicants from non-majority English-speaking countries: IELTS Academic 6.5 overall with no subtest below 6.0 (TOEFL iBT and other tests accepted; test must be within 2 years 5 months of programme start; requirement must be met in a single test). Applications: international and EU applicants apply in rounds, the last round closing 8 July 2027 (September 2027 entry); UK applicants by 24 August 2027.

Domestic applicants: GBP 11,481 a year (2027/28). Home & RUK. Source

International applicants: GBP 34,815 a year (2027/28). International & EU. Source

Intake: September

Duration: 12 months full-time

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