University of York

What you'll study

This MSc integrates core concepts from molecular biology with the computational and statistical methods needed to process and interpret high-throughput biological data. Teaching combines lectures, practical laboratory and computing classes, group work and an independent research project.

• Core computational modules – programming for bioinformatics (commonly Python and R), algorithms for sequence analysis, database design and management, and software tools used in genomics and proteomics.
• Statistical and data science modules – applied statistics for biological data, multivariate analysis, machine learning approaches for classification and clustering of omics data, and reproducible workflows.
• Molecular and genomics modules – genome biology, transcriptomics and functional genomics, comparative genomics, and experimental methods that underpin sequencing technologies.
• Practical work – hands-on sessions using real datasets, pipeline development, use of high-performance computing environments and best practice in data handling and visualisation.
• Research project – an extended independent research project or dissertation supervised by academic staff or industry partners, allowing students to apply their skills to an original problem and present written and oral outcomes.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a UK bachelor’s degree at 2:1 level or international equivalent in a relevant discipline such as biology, biochemistry, molecular biology, computer science, mathematics, statistics or a closely related subject. Candidates with a 2:2 and significant relevant professional experience or evidence of quantitative and computing skills may be considered.

Applicants should demonstrate numeracy and some programming experience (for example familiarity with Python, R or similar), or be prepared to take preparatory material before or at the start of the course. A personal statement, academic references and transcripts are required. International applicants must meet the University of York's English language requirements as detailed on the university website.

Career prospects

Graduates from this programme move into a broad range of roles across academia, industry and the public sector. Typical career paths include:

• Bioinformatics scientist or computational biologist in pharmaceutical, biotechnology or diagnostics companies.
• Genomic or data analyst roles in clinical and healthcare settings, including NHS-related projects and clinical genomics labs.
• Research assistant or doctoral study (PhD) in bioinformatics, systems biology or related disciplines.
• Data science and computational roles in agriculture, environmental genomics, or public health agencies.
• Software development and bioinformatics pipeline engineering for commercial providers and start-ups.

The programme provides practical experience, a substantial research project and links to research groups and industry, all of which support employability and onward study.

Why study at University of York

The University of York offers an interdisciplinary environment with active research groups in genomics, systems biology and computational biology. Students benefit from access to molecular biology and sequencing facilities, high-performance computing resources and supervisors with expertise in both wet-lab and computational research.

Teaching emphasises transferable skills — programming, statistical analysis, data management and scientific communication — and is complemented by opportunities to engage with external partners through project work. The university’s career and enterprise services provide dedicated support for CVs, interview preparation and networking with employers in the life sciences sector.