Master of Applied Science (Bioinformatics)
Bioinformatics brings together the fields of life science, computer science and statistics. Bioinformaticians strive to understand medical and biological systems by the creative application of statistics and computer analysis. They may write computer programs that analyse data in a new way, they may apply existing analysis tools to new data sets, they may introduce novel statistical methodologies into the analysis of data and they may extend existing analysis capabilities to genome-sized data sets. The most recognised application of bioinformatics has been the mapping of the human genome sequence.
Overview
Over recent years there has been a
surge of interest in bioinformatics that has been fed by major advances in areas such as genome sequencing projects, molecular modelling, genomics and proteomics. Two streams of study are offered in the postgraduate program in bioinformatics. Stream A is for students with an information technology background and Stream B is for students with a strong background in molecular biology.
This course will be of interest to graduates in computer science wanting to extend their skills to the computer analysis of biological data and problems. Biology graduates wanting to understand bioinformatics and the computer science and statistical background to bioinformatics will also be attracted to the course.
University of Sydney Advantage
The University of Sydney has a vast breadth of expertise in bioinformatics covering the disciplines of statistics, computer science, genetics, biochemistry, veterinary science, medicine and agriculture. Bioinformatics research has been concentrated within the Sydney Bioinformatics Centre and into the Medical Foundation Building, which houses bioinformatics and functional genomics groups. The University has hosted the Australian Genomic Information Centre since 1991.
Researchers also contribute to ABnet, the Australian Bioinformatics Network, which serves as a mechanism for uniting all groups across Australia that have an interest in bioinformatics. ABnet provides a forum for discussion, collaboration, exchange of ideas, conference organisation, and as a means of bringing like-minded individuals together.
Course Expectations
The coursework program will provide students with a coordinated approach to bioinformatics, thus developing expertise to perform and develop the analysis of biological data with underlying competencies in the life sciences, computer science and statistics. Upon completion of the Graduate Certificate, Graduate Diploma or Masters, graduates will have a specialist knowledge and understanding of the topic of bioinformatics.
Research Path
For students seeking a career in Bioinformatics research, the masters course provides an option known as the Research Path. This option permits a significant component of the Masters to be taken as a Bioinformatics research project and training in research related skills is provided. Completion of this option allows students to apply for admission to a research degree. Eligibility to the Research Path is conditional on academic performance.
Mode of Delivery
The course is run from the Camperdown campus with the majority of classes being held from 9am to 5pm, although IT classes are conducted in the evening.
Admission Requirements
Stream A (IT background)
GradCertApplSc (Bioinf)
– a Bachelor’s degree in science
(Information Technology)
GradDipApplSc (Bioinf)
– a Bachelor’s degree in science
(Information Technology); or
GradCertApplSc (Bioinf); or
equivalent qualifications and experience
MApplSc(Bioinf)
– a Bachelor’s degree in science
(Information Technology); or GradDipApplSc (Bioinf); or
equivalent qualifications and experience
Stream B (Life Sciences background)
GradCertApplSc(Bioinf)
– a Bachelor’s degree in Life Science
GradDipApplSc(Bioinf)
– a Bachelor’s degree in Life Science; or
GradCertApplSc(Bioinf); or
equivalent qualifications and experience
MAppSc(Bioinf)
– a Bachelor’s degree in Life Science; or
GradDipApplSc(Bioinf); or
equivalent qualifications and experience
Course Requirements
Stream A (IT background)
GradCertApplSc(Bioinf)
– Satisfactory completion of 24 credit points
GradDipApplSc(Bioinf)
– Satisfactory completion of 36 credit points
MApplSc(Bioinf)
– Satisfactory completion of 48 credit points
Stream B (Life Sciences background)
GradCertApplSc(Bioinf)
– Satisfactory completion of 24 credit points
GradDipApplSc(Bioinf)
– Satisfactory completion of 36 credit points
MApplSc(Bioinf)
– Satisfactory completion of 48 credit points
Units of Study
For an up to date list of the units of study available, please visit the
Bioinformatics Website
After Graduation
Bioinformaticians work in hospitals, at universities and in industry in a range of areas such as medicine, pharmacology, veterinary science, ecology, genetics, agriculture, molecular modelling, phylogenetics, genomics, proteomics, biochemistry, molecular biotechnology, computer science and statistics. The Australian Government, along with a number of other governments, has recognised the value of many of these
areas in their nation’s future.
Credit for Previous Study
Credit is not available in this program unless it is for units of study undertaken within embedded programs at the University of Sydney within the past two years, except at the discretion of the Dean.
Annual intake
30
Minimum Course Duration – Full Time
GradCertApplSc(Bioinf) - not available full time
GradDipApplSc(Bioinf) – 1 year
MApplSc(Bioinf) – 1 year
Minimum Course Duration – Part Time
GradCertApplSc(Bioinf) – 1 year
GradDipApplSc(Bioinf) – 1.5 years
MApplSc(Bioinf) – 2 years
Is Mid-Year Entry Available?
No
Application Information
Application information for Local Students
Application information for International Students
English Language Requirements
