Study bioinformatics abroad

Bioinformatics is a fascinating and relatively new area of scientific study that blends biology with computing, statistics, and software programming. Bioinformaticians use information technology to process, analyze, and interpret biological data.

As the world becomes more technologically-driven and data-dependent, there’s never been a better time to study bioinformatics. You’ll learn how to condense huge biological datasets into meaningful information that can be used by researchers. Your work will be vital in the discovery of new biological characteristics, processes, and functions.

Studying abroad is a priceless opportunity to see how bioinformatics is transforming biological research and informing patient care across the world. You’ll contribute to exciting projects and will have the chance to work alongside international experts.

You can study a BSc in bioinformatics over a minimum of three years. However, students who take an industry sandwich year will add an extra 12 months onto their program.

Those choosing to pursue an undergraduate education in the US will also study for four years. In line with the liberal arts model of education, you’ll take two years of general education classes before majoring in bioinformatics.

Most qualified bioinformaticians are expected to have a master’s degree, so one or two-year MSc programs are widely available. If you’re hoping to embark on a career in research, you might consider enrolling in a PhD program. This will add at least a further three years to your studies.

A mixture of lectures, seminars, tutorials, computer laboratories, and hands-on workshops will provide you with a sound theoretical and practical understanding of the field.

Although each university offers a different selection of elective modules, most make it mandatory for students to study core topics like these:

• Introduction to bioinformatics
• Essentials of biology
• Statistics for bioinformatics
• Computational approaches to biology
• Genomics and gene sequencing
• Coding for scientists
• Programming skills
• Experimental design and analytics

As biological research projects and discoveries continue to gather momentum, your data-handling skills and technical expertise will be in high demand.

With a bioinformatics degree you’ll have a range of career paths to choose from. Graduates typically work across industry, research, education, and healthcare in roles including:

• Bioinformatician
• Bioinformatics software developer
• Bioinformatics engineer
• Research scientist
• Bioinformatics manager
• Computational biologist
• Secondary school teacher

If working out what to do after graduation feels overwhelming, most universities have a careers office you can speak to. The professional staff can help you with career direction, work experience, and interview preparation.