MSc Enterprise and Innovation
MSc Enterprise and Innovation: The MSc Enterprise and Innovation program at Keele Unive...
BSc (Hons) Biology and Computer Science (International or Placement Year)
Keele University campus
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The BSc (Hons) Biology and Computer Science program at Keele University offers a dynamic interdisciplinary curriculum that combines principles from biological sciences with advanced computational techniques. This innovative degree equips students with a comprehensive understanding of biological systems and the computational tools necessary to analyze and model complex biological data. Students explore a wide range of topics, including genetics, molecular biology, bioinformatics, algorithms, programming languages, and data science. The program emphasizes hands-on learning through laboratory experiments, coding projects, and bioinformatics analyses, providing students with practical skills to address real-world challenges at the interface of biology and computer science. With options for an international year abroad or a professional placement year, students can gain valuable global experience and industry insights, enhancing their employability and preparing them for successful careers in scientific research, healthcare informatics, biotechnology, and beyond.
1. Interdisciplinary Curriculum: The BSc (Hons) Biology and Computer Science program offers a well-rounded curriculum that integrates fundamental concepts from both biology and computer science. Students study biological principles alongside computational techniques, gaining insights into how computational approaches are transforming biological research and applications. This interdisciplinary approach prepares graduates to address complex challenges at the intersection of biology and technology.
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. Programming Skills Development: The program emphasizes the development of programming skills essential for computational biology. Students learn languages such as Python, R, Java, and SQL, applying these skills to write algorithms, analyze biological datasets, and develop software tools for biological research and data visualization.
4. Hands-on Laboratory Experience: Laboratory work is central to the program, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge to practical experiments. Students gain proficiency in molecular biology techniques, bioinformatics software, and data analysis methods. The program's well-equipped laboratories and experienced faculty provide a stimulating environment for hands-on learning and skill development.
5. Research Opportunities: Keele University emphasizes research-led teaching, offering students opportunities to engage in independent or collaborative research projects. Under the guidance of faculty mentors, students can explore topics such as genomics, computational modeling of biological systems, drug discovery, or personalized medicine. Participating in research enhances students' analytical skills, scientific rigor, and readiness for postgraduate studies or professional careers.
Location
Keele University campus
Score
IELTS: 6.5
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-positioned for diverse and rewarding career opportunities at the intersection of biological sciences and technology. This interdisciplinary degree equips graduates with a unique skill set that is highly sought after across various industries, including biomedical research, healthcare informatics, biotechnology, data science, and software development.
1. Bioinformatics Specialist: With expertise in both biology and computer science, graduates can pursue careers as bioinformatics specialists. They apply computational techniques to analyze biological data, such as DNA sequences and protein structures, to gain insights into genetic variations, disease mechanisms, and drug targets. Bioinformatics specialists play key roles in genomics research, personalized medicine, and pharmaceutical development.
2. Computational Biologist: Graduates can work as computational biologists, using computational methods to model biological processes, simulate complex systems, and develop algorithms for biological research. They collaborate with biologists and researchers to analyze large datasets, predict biological phenomena, and discover patterns in biological systems.
3. Biomedical Data Scientist: In the field of healthcare informatics, graduates leverage their knowledge of biology and computer science to analyze medical data, optimize treatment strategies, and improve patient outcomes. Biomedical data scientists apply machine learning and data mining techniques to extract valuable insights from healthcare 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. Data Scientist 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 biology and computer science is instrumental in advancing drug discovery and personalized medicine.
6. Research Scientist in Genomics or Proteomics: Graduates may 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 associated with diseases, and develop targeted therapies.
7. Healthcare IT Specialist: Graduates can pursue careers as healthcare IT specialists, managing and implementing information systems that support clinical workflows, electronic health records, and healthcare analytics. They collaborate with healthcare professionals to integrate biological data into medical decision-making processes.
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.
