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Bioinformatics MSc
- CampusDubaiDelivery formatIn person
- Start dateSeptemberDuration1 year (full-time) / 2 years (part-time)
- AwardMaster of Science
- Entry requirements2:1 Honours degree in Biology, Mathematics, Computer Science or a related subject.
- FeesSeptember 2025: AED 150,225 (full-time) / AED 75,113 (part-time)
Course overview
The future of biology is bioinformatics. Learn to work with the world’s most advanced biological and clinical datasets and develop your career in omics-enabled biosciences.
Bioinformatics is one of the fastest-growing fields in industry and academia.
Our course will place you at the forefront of the recent genomics and bioinformatics revolution as you’ll develop the sought-after skills in statistics, computer programming and molecular biology.
This programme is accredited by the United Arab Emirates Ministry of Education.
Through coursework, research projects, and collaborative assignments, I’m gaining proficiency in programming languages, data analysis techniques, and biological database management. These skills are highly sought-after in industries such as biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and academic research, positioning me as a competitive candidate in the job market.
Course structure
This course will run over 12 months in a full-time-mode. There is also scope to undertake the programme on a part-time basis. While the exact content may change, here’s what you can expect to study each semester. This is based on a full time Masters course.
In this term, you'll study Essentials of Maths and Statistics, Genomics and Next Generation Sequencing, and Data Analytics and Statistical Machine Learning. You'll also learn basic programming and biology needed for the course.
Course highlights
Biology is now driven by data.
You’ll learn to analyse different types of omics data, including next generation sequencing, mass spectrometry, emerging single molecule techniques, genome engineering, imaging and integrative analysis toolsets.
You’ll also explore the frontiers of bioscience, from precision medicine to precision agriculture, and emerging fields such as molecular ecosystems biology and topological data analysis.
- Gain a foundation in statistical machine learning to prepare you for a career in the life sciences.
- Learn from lead researchers in the field.
- Discover new opportunities in one of the fastest-growing industrial and academic fields.
- Experience the same world-class education in Dubai as at our UK campus, with a high-quality curriculum and rigorous quality assurance.
- 68th
in the world for Life Sciences and Medicine
(2024 QS World Rankings)
- 1st
choice for leading graduate employers.
Course delivery
Our Bioinformatics masters degree includes a in a combination of taught lectures, tutorials, practicals, and projects.
You’ll learn from world-leading academics and researchers at a top 100 UK university. From the outset we’ll encourage you to become an independent and self-motivated learner.
We offer a combination of evening and weekend classes which are designed to accommodate working professionals and those who choose to study full-time.
Classes are typically from 18:00-21:00 on selected days during the week (Monday - Friday) and on Saturdays and Sundays from 10:00-17:00. Each module is block taught over three weeks. Full-time students can enrol in four modules per semester, and part-time can enrol in two modules per semester.
Module information
The modules listed for this programme are regularly reviewed to ensure they are up-to-date and informed by the latest research and teaching methods.
Any optional module information listed for this programme is intended to be indicative, and the availability of optional modules may vary from year to year. Where a module is no longer available we will let you know as soon as we can and help you to make other choices.
The course comprises 120 credits of taught material. There is also a 20 credit group project and a 60 credit individual project.
2025/26 Session
The following must be taken:
| Module Title | Credits | Semester |
|---|---|---|
| Computational Biology for Complex Systems | 20 | Semester 2 |
| Data Analytics & Statistical Machine Learning | 20 | Semester 1 |
| Essentials of Mathematics and Statistics | 20 | Semester 1 |
| Genomics & Next Generation Sequencing | 20 | Semester 1 |
| Individual Project | 60 | |
| Introduction to Biology and Programming | 10 | Semester 1 |
| Metabolomics and advanced (omics) technologies | 20 | Semester 2 |
| Scientific Communication | 10 | Semester 2 |
Entry requirements
To secure your place at the University of Birmingham Dubai, you must meet both our general entry requirements and the specific criteria for your chosen course. Your application will be carefully reviewed by the course’s Admissions Tutor, who will determine if you will receive an offer.
For international students there is an English language requirement to have an IELTS 6.5 with no less than 6.0 in any band.If you're made an offer of a place to study and you don't already meet the language requirement, you have the option to enrol on our English for Academic Purposes Presessional Course. If you successfully complete this, you'll be able to fulfil the language requirement without needing to take a further qualification.
English language requirements
In order to undertake a programme of study here at the University, you will need to demonstrate that you have a good level of written and spoken English. You can demonstrate your level of English with IELTS/TOEFL/PTE or alternative qualifications.
Fees and scholarships
The University tuition fee covers the cost of your tuition, examination and graduation.
- AED 150,225
Full-time (September 2025)
- AED 75,113
Part-time (September 2025)
Application process
To apply for a postgraduate programme, you will need to submit your application and supporting documents online.
Career opportunities
Lead the future of health services innovation.
Our MSc Bioinformatics degree prepares wet-bench biologists and clinicians interested in data analysis, as well as statisticians or computer scientists wishing to work in biology.
After graduation, you could purse PhD studies or research roles in pharmaceutical companies, government institutions and medical publications. Other career options include bioinformatician, pharmaceutical scientist, biostatistician, medical data scientist, and medical AI architect.
Careers Network
In a competitive global market, you need to be ready for work before you graduate. At the University of Birmingham Dubai, our careers services will help you plan and achieve your ambitions. Whatever you plan to do after your degree, the Careers Network Dubai information, advice, and guidance service offers support to help you identify your options, develop your skills and gain access to opportunities that propel you towards your career goal.
Student experience
At Birmingham, your university experience isn’t just about studying. You will have the opportunity to discover new experiences, develop different skills and make friends for life at our Dubai campus.
Our state-of-the-art Dubai campus, with its iconic buildings overlooking stunning parkland and friendly community, will quickly make you feel at home in the UAE's second city. Expect plenty of exciting activities to get involved in outside of your studies, as well as all the support and advice you need.
Accommodation
Coming to the University of Birmingham Dubai to study might be your first time living away from home. Our student accommodation partners allow you to enjoy your independence in safe, welcoming, and sociable surroundings.
Living in Dubai
Enrich your life with endless attractions, entertainment and lifestyle opportunities. In just over 50 years, Dubai has transformed itself from a tiny settlement to a glistening city and world-class destination. It’s no wonder our students fall in love with the city.
Campus life
Our state-of-the-art Dubai campus is where our diverse community comes together, providing a home for up to 3,000 students to learn, relax, and socialise.
Student support
Whoever you are and wherever you come from, we are committed to providing the best possible support to all of our students, both before you start and throughout your time on campus, so that you can get the most out of your university experience.
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