ObjectivesDue to the variety and depth of this course, students are able to find work in a number of fields such as IT, biotechnology, medicine, and pharmacy.
Entry requirementsGood Honours degree in a relevant discipline (biology, medicine, computer science, mathematics, engineering) Students without academic qualifications but with extensive industrial experience will be considered on an individual basis.
Academic titleMSc/PG Dip/PG Cert Bioinformatics
Course descriptionProgramme
The aim of the programme is to give students knowledge of the various types of problems within bioinformatics. Modules include:
-Sequence Information and Analysis: This module covers the basic theory and practical techniques of bioinformatics, focusing on problem solving and experimental design.
-Genome Analysis: This module provides an overview and analysis of the theory and practice of genome sequence analysis and the expression of the genome.
-Three-dimensional Structure and Visualisation: This module details programming techniques required for the development of graphical data, their interfaces and visualisation.
-Programming Tools: This module introduces object-oriented programming, enabling students to design, implement and test programs of moderate complexity. Fundamental programming techniques are also examined.
-Database Construction and Information Retrieval: This module examines relational databases via Oracle.
-Statistics in Genetics: This module details modern statistical computing and graphics environments. Students will gain skills in implementation, application and interpretation of statistical methods
-Current Research Topics in Bioinformatics: The module explains how to carry out bioinformatics research, highlighting current research areas both at De Montfort University and globally.
-Research Methods: The module introduces and develops the concepts, organisational structure and deliverables of a research project using qualitative and quantitative methods.
-Individual Project: The topic of the project should be in a relevant area and can be either theoretical or practical. The students are supervised by staffs from both computing and biology.
Teaching/assessment
Teaching is delivered through a variety of methods. Students will be expected to undertake self-directed study. The programme consists of eight modules and an individual project. The modules run from late September. In full-time mode, the summer is devoted to work on the project, while in part-time mode the final year is devoted to the project. Assessment is via examinations and coursework.