MSc Applied Bioinformatics and Genomics

Postgraduate Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution with a minimum overall score of 60% or equivalent.

English language proficiency:

• IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.5 or 7.0 with no individual component below 6.
• TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 100.
• PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 76.
• Some postgraduate programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.

Cardiff University offers a range of scholarships to support international students pursuing undergraduate and postgraduate studies. These scholarships are designed to attract high-achieving students from around the world, easing the financial burden and recognizing academic excellence. 

Vice-Chancellor’s International Scholarship: Cardiff University’s Vice-Chancellor’s International Scholarship is a merit-based award that provides partial funding for exceptional international undergraduate and postgraduate students. This scholarship rewards high academic achievement and study, making it ideal for students with strong academic backgrounds.

Global Wales Postgraduate Scholarship: This scholarship offers substantial funding to international postgraduate students from certain countries, including the USA, India, Vietnam, and EU nations. The scholarship covers part of the tuition fees and is awarded based on academic merit and potential for success.

Chevening Scholarship: Offered in collaboration with the UK government, the prestigious Chevening Scholarship is available to international students who demonstrate leadership potential and academic excellence. The award covers tuition fees, living expenses, travel costs, and other allowances, supporting future leaders and influencers in various fields.

Commonwealth Master’s Scholarships: For students from Commonwealth countries, the Commonwealth Master’s Scholarships provide funding for postgraduate students who would otherwise be unable to study in the UK. The scholarship includes full tuition, living expenses, and airfare, ensuring accessibility for students from developing nations.

British Council GREAT Scholarships: Cardiff University partners with the British Council to offer the GREAT Scholarships for students from specific countries, including China, India, Malaysia, and Thailand. These scholarships provide financial assistance for tuition fees and are intended to encourage bright students to pursue postgraduate studies in the UK.

Subject-Specific Scholarships: Certain academic departments at Cardiff University offer additional scholarships tailored to specific fields of study, such as engineering, business, and life sciences. These scholarships provide partial funding and are aimed at attracting talented students to specific programs.

Financial Aid and External Scholarships: In addition to Cardiff University scholarships, students can explore external funding options such as loans, grants, and scholarships provided by their home countries or private organizations. The university’s financial aid office offers guidance to help students find external financial support.

MSc in Applied Bioinformatics and Genomics at Cardiff University prepares graduates for a wide range of career opportunities in bioinformatics, genomics research, healthcare, and biotechnology. With skills in data analysis, computational biology, and genetic research, graduates are equipped to make significant contributions to the fields of medical research, healthcare innovation, and global health.

Bioinformatics Analyst: Graduates of the MSc in Applied Bioinformatics and Genomics can work as bioinformatics analysts, using their expertise in computational tools and data analysis to interpret complex biological data. They may work in academic research, biotechnology companies, or clinical laboratories, supporting research projects and developing solutions for genomic data management and analysis.

Genomics Data Scientist: As a genomics data scientist, graduates apply their knowledge of bioinformatics and genomics to analyze large-scale genomic datasets, identifying patterns, and making sense of genetic variations. This role is critical in areas like personalized medicine, where understanding an individual's genetic makeup is key to tailoring medical treatments.

Clinical Bioinformatician: Many graduates choose to pursue careers as clinical bioinformaticians, analyzing genomic data to help diagnose genetic disorders and inform clinical decisions. These professionals collaborate with healthcare teams to integrate genomic data into patient care, assisting in personalized treatment plans, especially in oncology and rare genetic diseases.

Genomics Researcher: In research settings, graduates may take on the role of a genomics researcher, studying the genetic basis of diseases and health conditions. These researchers contribute to advancements in healthcare by identifying genetic risk factors and potential therapeutic targets for conditions such as cancer, diabetes, or cardiovascular diseases.

Biotechnology Scientist: Graduates with expertise in genomics and bioinformatics can work as biotechnology scientists, contributing to the development of new biotechnology products, including diagnostic tools, gene therapies, and genomic technologies. These professionals may be employed in pharmaceutical companies, research institutions, or healthcare startups.

Pharmaceutical Scientist: Graduates can pursue careers in the pharmaceutical industry, where they apply bioinformatics and genomics to drug discovery and development. They might work on identifying genetic targets for new drugs, optimizing clinical trial designs, or analyzing the genetic data of trial participants to improve treatment efficacy.

Medical Genomicist: Medical genomicists specialize in using genomic data to understand the genetic underpinnings of diseases and to develop strategies for diagnosis, prevention, and treatment. They often work in clinical settings, providing genetic counseling and interpreting genetic tests for patients, particularly in oncology and rare genetic disorders.

Public Health Genomics Specialist: With a focus on population health, graduates can work as public health genomics specialists, using genomic data to understand health trends and inform public health strategies. They may work for government agencies, non-profit organizations, or global health institutions, contributing to research on how genetics impacts health at a population level.

Genetic Counselor: In some cases, graduates may choose to work as genetic counselors, where they interpret genetic test results and provide advice to individuals and families on genetic conditions. They work in hospitals, clinics, or private practice, helping patients understand their genetic risks and make informed healthcare decisions.

Regulatory Affairs Specialist in Genomics: Graduates can work in regulatory affairs within the genomics field, ensuring that bioinformatics and genomic technologies meet necessary health regulations. They are involved in ensuring that genetic testing kits, genomic therapies, and other related products are compliant with industry standards and legal requirements.