Bioinformatics is an integration of various disciplines- Computer science, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biology, Statistics, Mathematics, and Engineering. This course has managed to gain quite momentum in this fast-paced world. Bioinformatics encompasses the technical process for extracting, collecting, storing, analyzing, and interpreting biological data with the application of information technology. This is done through computation and analysis tools. Numerous discoveries and developments in the field of pharmaceuticals and genetics along with breeding and farming can be attributed to the study of Bioinformatics.
Specializations
Students can opt for the following specializations in the top universities for MS in Bioinformatics:
Genomics
Molecular modeling
Genetics
Proteomics
Transcriptomics
Computational Biology Pathway analysis
Metagenomics
Phylogenetic Systems Biology Metabolomics
Job prospects after completion
There are enormous options students can explore after pursuing MS in Bioinformatics, especially after the recent pandemic. Some career opportunities that students with MS in Bioinformatics can discover are:
Research Scientist
Bioinformatics Scientist
Microbiologist
Biostatistician
Zoologist
Bioinformatician
Molecular Biologist
Top Universities
The increasing popularity of pursuing Bioinformatics as a career is a reason why top universities around the globe are focussing and investing in the subject. Various universities in the world have gained popularity for offering Bioinformatics, which has also made students choose from the plethora of options. Based on parameters such as career prospects, quality of faculty, structure, and design of curriculum, here are some top universities for MS in Bioinformatics.
United States of America (USA)
Top Universities for MS in Bioinformatics provide a spectrum of subjects expanding your learning. They invest in student’s all-round personality and not just academics. The living expenses in the USA range anywhere from $20,000 to $50,000 and it depends largely on your choices of accommodation, travel, and habits.
The US colleges/universities boasts of notable alumni in the field of Bioinformatics:
Brock, Kelly, MS (2016)-Associate Research Director-MIT
Haomin Peng, MS (2019)- Research Engineer, at Plus AI-Stanford University
Mary Piper- Research consultant at Pfizer- from T. Chan School, Harvard University
Michael Cuoco- Research Associate at Institute of MIT and Harvard-University of California, San Diego
Intake: Three intakes for the MS course are available for admission. However, this may vary with the University/College.
Spring: Begins in January and deadlines vary with the university
Summer: May; however it is available for only a few programs
Fall: August and September
Application Process: Documents needed are:
All Transcripts ( 10th, 12th, UG, Diploma)
Personal Statement
Certificate of Graduation
Certificate validating your English Proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, GRE)
Resume
Reference Letters
Canada
Canada is a cost effective country with a wonderful academic curriculum. The living expenses for students in Canada range between $12,000 to $16,000 per annum.
Intake: With most universities having flexible intake, it is best to apply during September. The MS course in Australia is maximum for 24 months and a minimum of 18 months.
Application process: The documents needed are:
Statement of Purpose
Letter of Recommendation
Medical Insurance
All transcripts
Proof of Funds
Internships
Work experience (If any)
English Proficiency test (TOEFL, GRE)
Europe
With Bioinformatics courses being the foundation of many career opportunities, Europe provides excellent technical and biological faculties. The living expense for Europe ranges between 10000 Euros to 20000 Euro Annually.
Some alumni from European Universities are as follows:
Prof. Dr. Yana Bromberg- VP at International Society for Computational Biology- Technical University of Munich
Lars Rønn Olsen- Associate Professor -Bioinformatics at DTU-University of Copenhagen
Intake: The fall intake for universities in Europe will end by 15th August 2022. It’s best to apply six months before the course begins.
Application Process: In Europe, courses are offered in various languages. However, if you prefer English as the teaching medium, it is important to have an International Certificate in English at the B2 level. Other than that you need the following:
All previous certificates, including 10th, and 12th mark sheets
Entrance test scorecard
Previous work experience letter
Internship letter
Letter of motivation
Bachelor’s degree Diploma/Diploma in Health or Social Sciences
Additional Research Work/Publications
Resume
TOEFL Score
IELTS Score
FAQs
Is Computer Science knowledge for Bioinformatics?
Knowledge of Computer Science is a must for pursuing Bioinformatics. The course entails programming and data mining, and hence, it is vital. Bioinformatics is alternatively called Computational Biology
What is the duration of the MS in Bioinformatics programs abroad?
Duration for MS in Bioinformatics is one to two years. Some universities in the UK offer courses of 18 months duration as well.
Are MS in Bioinformatics and MS in Biotechnology different courses? If yes, which is having a wider scope?
Yes, both are different courses. Biotechnology encompasses Bioinformatics and many other courses. Bioinformatics is a specialization course.
Which country is best to pursue MS in bioinformatics?
The scope of Bioinformatics is almost the same in all the developed countries. Besides the US, and UK, European countries like France, Germany and Switzerland are the best in the field.
upGrad Abroad Editorial Team |4682 articles published
We are a dedicated team of study-abroad experts, ensuring intensive research and comprehensive information in each of our blogs. With every piece written, we aim at simplifying the overseas education ...
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