BSc (Hons) Biology and Computer Science

Keele University campus

 

INTAKE: September

Program Overview

The BSc (Hons) Biology and Computer Science program at Keele University is designed for students interested in leveraging computational methods to advance biological research and innovation. This interdisciplinary degree combines fundamental concepts from biology with cutting-edge techniques from computer science, providing students with a comprehensive skill set to address complex biological questions using computational approaches. The curriculum covers a range of topics, including genetics, molecular biology, algorithms, database management, machine learning, and bioinformatics. Students learn how to apply programming languages such as Python, R, and Java to analyze biological datasets, model biological processes, and develop software tools for biological research. The program emphasizes problem-solving, data analysis, and algorithm design, preparing graduates for roles that bridge the gap between biology and technology in various industries.

1. Interdisciplinary Curriculum: The BSc (Hons) Biology and Computer Science program offers a unique blend of biology and computer science coursework. Students study fundamental biological principles alongside computational techniques, gaining insights into how data-driven approaches are transforming biological research and applications. This interdisciplinary approach equips graduates with a broad skill set to tackle interdisciplinary challenges in biotechnology, healthcare informatics, and bioinformatics.

2. Bioinformatics and Computational Biology: Students delve into bioinformatics and computational biology, learning how to analyze biological data using computational tools and techniques. They explore genome sequencing, protein structure prediction, phylogenetic analysis, and systems biology, applying algorithms and statistical methods to extract meaningful insights from large-scale biological datasets.

3. Hands-on Coding Projects: The program emphasizes hands-on learning through coding projects and laboratory exercises. Students develop proficiency in programming languages commonly used in bioinformatics and computational biology, such as Python and R. They apply their coding skills to solve biological problems, develop software tools, and visualize biological data.

4. Data Science and Machine Learning in Biology: Students gain expertise in data science and machine learning concepts relevant to biology. They learn how to apply machine learning algorithms to analyze biological data, predict biological phenomena, and discover patterns in complex biological systems. This skill set is valuable for roles in biomedical research, drug discovery, and personalized medicine.

5. Career Pathways: Graduates of the BSc (Hons) Biology and Computer Science program are well-prepared for diverse career pathways at the intersection of biology and technology. They can pursue roles as bioinformaticians, computational biologists, biomedical data scientists, or software developers in research institutions, pharmaceutical companies, healthcare organizations, and biotechnology startups. The program's emphasis on computational skills, problem-solving, and interdisciplinary collaboration ensures that graduates are equipped to drive innovation in biomedical sciences and contribute to the development of cutting-edge technologies in biology.

Pollster Education

Location

Keele University campus

Pollster Education

Score

IELTS: 6.5

Pollster Education

Tuition Fee

£ 17900

Undergraduate Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed their secondary education or equivalent with a minimum overall average of 60% or above.  

English Language Proficiency: 

  • IELTS: Overall score of 6.5, with no sub-score below 6.0.
  • TOEFL: Overall score of 87, with a minimum score of 21 in each section.
  • PTE Academic: Overall score of 64, with no sub-score below 58.

Students must provide:

  • academic marksheets & transcripts
  • letters of recommendation
  • a personal statement - SOP
  • passport
  • other supporting documents as required by the university.

It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as availability of places and competition for the program. Additionally, some courses may have higher entry requirements or additional selection criteria, such as interviews or portfolio submissions.

Keele University offers a range of scholarships and financial support options to attract and assist international students in pursuing their studies. These scholarships are designed to recognize academic excellence, promote diversity, and provide financial assistance to deserving students.

International Excellence Scholarship: The International Excellence Scholarship is awarded to high-achieving international undergraduate students. The scholarship provides a tuition fee discount of up to £2,500 per year for the duration of the undergraduate program. Eligibility is based on academic merit and applicants are automatically considered when they submit their application for admission.

Keele International Student Scholarship: The Keele International Student Scholarship is available to international students enrolling in a postgraduate taught master's degree program. The scholarship provides a tuition fee discount of up to £3,000. Eligibility is based on academic achievement, and applicants are automatically considered when they apply for their chosen postgraduate program.

Commonwealth Shared Scholarship Scheme: Keele University participates in the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship Scheme, which is funded by the UK government. The scheme provides full tuition fees, airfare, and living expenses for students from developing Commonwealth countries. The scholarship is available for selected master's degree programs in specific fields of study.

Global Excellence Scholarship: The Global Excellence Scholarship is awarded to international students who have demonstrated outstanding academic achievement and contribute to the global community. The scholarship provides a tuition fee discount of up to £5,000 for the first year of study. Eligibility is based on academic merit, and applicants are automatically considered when they apply for an eligible undergraduate or postgraduate program.

Country-Specific Scholarships: Keele University also offers scholarships specifically tailored to students from certain countries or regions. These scholarships may vary in terms of eligibility criteria and funding amounts. Examples include the Keele Nigeria Scholarship and the Keele ASEAN Scholarships, which provide financial support to students from Nigeria and Southeast Asia, respectively.

It's important to note that scholarship availability and eligibility criteria may vary each year.

Graduates of the BSc (Hons) Biology and Computer Science program at Keele University are well-prepared for diverse and exciting career opportunities at the intersection of biological sciences and technology. This interdisciplinary degree equips graduates with a unique skill set that is in high demand across various industries, including biomedical research, healthcare informatics, biotechnology, data science, and software development.

1. Bioinformatics Specialist: Graduates can pursue careers as bioinformatics specialists, applying computational techniques to analyze biological data, such as DNA sequences, protein structures, and gene expression patterns. They play critical roles in genomics research, personalized medicine, and drug discovery, using algorithms and statistical methods to derive insights from large datasets.

2. Computational Biologist: As computational biologists, graduates utilize their expertise in biology and computer science to model biological processes, simulate complex systems, and develop computational tools for biological research. They collaborate with biologists and researchers to solve biological problems using advanced computational approaches.

3. Biomedical Data Scientist: With a background in biology and computer science, graduates can work as biomedical data scientists, analyzing healthcare data to inform clinical decisions, optimize treatment strategies, and improve patient outcomes. They apply machine learning and data mining techniques to extract valuable insights from medical datasets.

4. Software Developer in Biotechnology: Graduates can pursue roles as software developers in the biotechnology industry, designing and implementing software solutions for data management, laboratory automation, and scientific visualization. They contribute to developing innovative technologies that accelerate research and development processes in biotech companies.

5. Healthcare Informatics Specialist: In healthcare informatics, graduates leverage their knowledge of biology and computer science to design and implement information systems that enhance healthcare delivery, patient monitoring, and disease management. They collaborate with healthcare professionals to integrate biological data into clinical workflows and decision-making processes.

6. Research Scientist in Genomics or Proteomics: Graduates can work as research scientists specializing in genomics or proteomics, studying the structure, function, and interactions of genes and proteins. They use computational tools to analyze sequencing data, identify genetic variations, and unravel molecular mechanisms underlying diseases.

7. Data Analyst in Pharmaceutical Research: In pharmaceutical research, graduates analyze large datasets generated from drug trials, identifying potential drug targets, predicting drug efficacy, and optimizing drug development processes. Their expertise in both biology and computer science is instrumental in advancing drug discovery and development.

8. Academic or Industry Researcher: Some graduates choose to pursue further studies through master's or doctoral programs, leading to careers as academic or industry researchers. They conduct independent research, publish scientific papers, and contribute to advancing knowledge in fields such as bioinformatics, computational biology, or systems biology.

9. Entrepreneurship and Startups: With their interdisciplinary background, graduates may venture into entrepreneurship by starting their own biotech startups or tech companies focused on developing innovative solutions for biological and healthcare challenges. They leverage their expertise to drive technological innovation and commercialize scientific discoveries.

10. Consulting and Advisory Roles: Graduates can work in consulting firms or advisory roles, providing expertise in bioinformatics, healthcare informatics, or biotechnology to organizations seeking strategic guidance on technology adoption, research initiatives, or data-driven decision-making.


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