Education and Training Resources

Master of Science in Bioinformatics

The key strength of this program is that students with different backgrounds are integrated in one program, from computer science to biology students. The first semester is dedicated to reorientation, giving biology students a chance to learn maths and computer science and reversely give computer science a chance to learn biology. The rest of the courses are mandatory bioinformatics, biology and statistics. The input from teaching staff from different faculties provides students with a broad view on application areas of bioinformatics, from basic science to plant breeding and medical applications. There is an international student population. The academic level is very high; we have high expectations from our students. The students learn theoretical background and practical bioinformatics skills through a combination of different education methods including computer practicals, project work, seminars.

Graduates of the program are expected to possess advanced knowledge of the core methods of computational biology and broad knowledge of molecular biology and basic mathematical disciplines. They will master the concepts and techniques from information technology, machine learning and Bayesian and frequentist statistics. They will have advanced interdisciplinary skills to communicate with different experts, can design complex experiments and analyze data from those. The students will be able to independently collect and manage data to solve complex research problems and demonstrate critical reflection on known and new theories. The student will be able to present research both written and orally and execute original scientific research. They will understand ethical, social and scientific integrity issues and responsibilities and are able to understand the global impact of bioinformatics on individuals, organizations and society.

Year Program Established: 2001
Scholarships/assistanceships may be available: Yes
Type of academic terms: Semester

Average number of applicants per year: 60
Average number of applicants accepted per year: 45
Average number of incoming students per year: 23
Average number of graduates per year: 15

Program URL: https://onderwijsaanbod.kuleuven.be/opleidingen/e/CQ_50269018.htm
Syllabus URL: https://onderwijsaanbod.kuleuven.be/opleidingen/e/SC_51016883.htm

Contact Person: Vera van Noort (vera.vannoort@kuleuven.be)