MSc Data Science for Biology

These entry requirements are for the 2026-27 academic year and requirements for future academic years may differ. Entry requirements for the 2027-28 academic year will be published on 1 Oct 2026.

A UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent, in an area of biological sciences. You must have a strong background in molecular biology, biochemistry or related sciences and some experience of computer science, including programming (Python, Perl, C/C++, Java or R.), and statistics. This programme is aimed primarily at biological science graduates.

We may also consider your application if you have a background in physics, computing, mathematics or engineering and some experience of biological sciences. Your application must show that you are keen to learn data science from a biological perspective.

International qualifications

To find international equivalent qualifications, select where you studied from the country or region list.

See our website for destinations

The programme is designed to provide training in statistics, Python, R programming and data analysis, all tailored specifically to biological examples.

Semester 1
Biological Databases (10 credits)
Statistics and Data Analysis (20 credits)
Using R for Data Science (10 credits)
Introduction to Python Programming for Data Science (10 credits)
Semester 2
Research Proposal (Data Science for Biology) (20 credits)
Dissertation
MSc Dissertation (Data Science for Biology) (60 credits)
Option courses
There are a variety of option courses available. If you are interested in a specific course not listed in the Degree Programme Table, please get in touch with the programme director to discuss your options.

Some option courses are compulsory for other MSc programmes, and these students will have priority for places.