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Expand all Contract allBiological Science is being transformed by a range of high-throughput technologies that generate vast amounts of data. These technologies include high-throughput genomic sequencing, imaging, screening and proteomics.
The result of this is that skills that equip scientists and researchers with the expertise to extract biological meaning from this data are in high demand.
This programme uses concepts from data science to train students in a generic set of skills that can be adapted to solve problems in a flexible way across different types of data. The intention is to complement and extend existing approaches, especially those from bioinformatics, with data science, to build highly adaptable skill sets for modern biological research.
The University of Edinburgh has a thriving data science community, which you would become part of. Based in the School of Biological Sciences, ranked in the top 5 for the UK for research power (REF 2022), you will be deeply focused on applying data science concepts within the domain of biological sciences.
On completion of this programme you will be well equipped to undertake further studies, or to work in industry.
The MSc comprises two semesters of taught courses followed by a research project and dissertation.
Semesters 1 and 2 include 60 credits each of a mixture of compulsory and optional courses.
The research project and dissertation is also worth 60 credits, giving a total of 180 credits for the year.
The programme is designed to provide training in statistics, Python, R programming and data analysis, all tailored specifically to biological examples. Teaching is through lectures, tutorials, seminars, computer practicals and lab demonstrations.
Available recommended and optional courses include:
Your research project, is a key element in deciding how your career should develop further, and is carried out independently during the summer.
Working under the guidance of a supervisor from one of our world leading laboratories you will present your results in a dissertation.
A wide range of projects is available through both the School of Biological Sciences and from other University of Edinburgh schools and they may also be available from industry.
We link to the latest information available. Please note that this may be for a previous academic year and should be considered indicative.
| Award | Title | Duration | Study mode | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MSc | Data Science for Biology | 1 Year | Full-time | Programme structure 2024/25 |
By completing this programme, you will:
This programme will equip you with the quantitative skills that employers are looking for in:
The programme will also give you the skills to work within the developing area of data science. Alongside data science, you will have a mixed portfolio of skills from established fields such as systems biology, bioinformatics and genomics.
As a Data Science for Biology MSc graduate, you will have a wide range of career options. You might work in:
Equally, you will be well-prepared for a career in academic research and we expect many of our students to continue to PhD level.
Our Careers Service will support you throughout your time studying with us and for 2 years after graduation. They can provide:
We invest in your future beyond the end of your degree. Studying at the University of Edinburgh will lay the foundations for your future success, whatever shape that takes.
These entry requirements are for the 2024/25 academic year and requirements for future academic years may differ. Entry requirements for the 2025/26 academic year will be published on 1 Oct 2024.
A UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent, in an area of biological sciences. You must have a strong background in molecular biology, biochemistry or related sciences and some experience of computer science, including programming (Python, Perl, C/C++, Java or R.), and statistics. This programme is aimed primarily at biological science graduates.
We may also consider your application if you have a background in physics, computing, mathematics or engineering and some experience of biological sciences. Your application must show that you are keen to learn data science from a biological perspective.
This degree is Band C.
Check whether your international qualifications meet our general entry requirements:
Regardless of your nationality or country of residence, you must demonstrate a level of English language competency at a level that will enable you to succeed in your studies.
We accept the following English language qualifications at the grades specified:
Your English language qualification must be no more than three and a half years old from the start date of the programme you are applying to study, unless you are using IELTS , TOEFL, Trinity ISE or PTE , in which case it must be no more than two years old.
We also accept an undergraduate or postgraduate degree that has been taught and assessed in English in a majority English speaking country, as defined by UK Visas and Immigration:
We also accept a degree that has been taught and assessed in English from a university on our list of approved universities in non-majority English speaking countries (non-MESC).
If you are not a national of a majority English speaking country, then your degree must be no more than five years old* at the beginning of your programme of study. (*Revised 05 March 2024 to extend degree validity to five years.)
Find out more about our language requirements:
If you receive an offer of admission (either unconditional or conditional), you will need to pay a deposit to secure your place.
Find out more about tuition fee deposits:
| Award | Title | Duration | Study mode | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MSc | Data Science for Biology | 1 Year | Full-time | Tuition fees |