Why choose the School of Life Sciences
In the Postgraduate Taught Experience Survey 2025, the ÌìÃÀ´«Ã½ ranks UK 29th overall; it ranks in the top 10 for skills development and in the top 15 for teaching and learning, assessment and feedback, and sense of community.
The course includes data analytics units designed to help non-computing graduates apply IT to their current role or change career direction.
Our Life Sciences Liaison Board features representatives from organisations such as Glaxo Smith Kline, the NHS and the Medicines & Healthcare products Regulatory Agency.
About the course
Specifically designed for graduates without a background in computing, this two-year MSc prepares you to combine ground-breaking biological discoveries with data and IT skills to tackle some of our planet’s most urgent challenges. You study the technologies at the forefront of molecular, microbial and computational biology while gaining a solid foundation in data analytics. With employment-focused skill development, hands-on laboratory experience and opportunities for real-world research, you graduate ready to succeed in a range of roles within this rapidly progressing field.
Facilities and specialist equipment
- Modern STEM building with purpose-built facilities and bespoke study spaces
- State-of-the-art cell culture lab and analytical science suite
- Industry-standard equipment, including high-tech HPLC, FTIR and GC-MS machines and specialised facilities for qPCR and protein analysis
Industry links
Our Life Sciences Liaison Board works in close collaboration with industry-wide professionals such as Glaxo Smith Kline, Life Science Group, the NHS and GrowPura, providing you with invaluable opportunities for work experience and building contacts.
Student experience
Our faculty’s strong links to industry partners and active involvement in cutting-edge research and consultancy feeds directly into course delivery, ensuring you’re up-to-date with the latest advances in the field.
Gain a thorough understanding of the IT-based tools and techniques needed to solve complex problems through integrated data analytics units.
Benefit from practical laboratory sessions and research-based projects, equipping you with both technical knowledge and hands-on experience.
Get involved in subject-relevant field trips to sites including Biogen, Rothamsted Research, and MSD-Merck.
Immerse yourself in interactive seminars and masterclasses from guests such as the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), Ministry of Defence and GSK.
Take part in our annual STEM Careers Expo, which brings together employers and students through presentations, workshops and networking sessions
Develop your transferable skills, including sought-after competencies such as scientific communication, statistical analysis, problem solving, and effective leadership.
Fulfil your potential with guidance from your own personal academic tutor.
Course Leader - Dr Noorjahan Jagalur Basheer
I joined the School of Life Sciences in October 2017. I obtained my PhD from Erasmus ÌìÃÀ´«Ã½ Medical Centre from the lab of Professor Dies Meijer in Rotterdam, The Netherlands. My PhD research was focussed on deciphering the role of various transcription factors in Peripheral Nerve Myelination.
Course Leader - Dr Noorjahan Jagalur Basheer
I joined the School of Life Sciences in October 2017. I obtained my PhD from Erasmus ÌìÃÀ´«Ã½ Medical Centre from the lab of Professor Dies Meijer in Rotterdam, The Netherlands. My PhD research was focussed on deciphering the role of various transcription factors in Peripheral Nerve Myelination.
Molecular biology – Explore how molecular biology is used in biotechnology, with a focus on DNA and proteins including synthesis, sequencing and manipulation.
Analytical methods – Develop skills in using different analytical methods and techniques such as optical, electrochemical, mass spectrometry and nuclear magnetic resonance.
Applied microbiology – Understand the potential and limits of using microorganisms in industry and biotechnology, including the role of genomics.
Biomaterials – ÌìÃÀ´«Ã½ how biomaterials - like implants, artificial organs and bone reconstruction - are used to treat disease and injury.
Computational and systems biology – Apply computational methods to problems in biology using bioinformatics and systems biology software.
Developing independent research – Learn what goes into a research proposal and application plus the rudiments of good research design at Master’s level.
Laboratory-based research project – Formulate a research question of personal interest then plan, research and present your findings in a professional format.
Data modelling, management and governance – Consider how data should be managed, using tools and techniques for data capture, modelling, storing and retrieval.
Computer networks and security – Gain a foundation in how computer networks operate, with a defence-in-depth approach to cybersecurity.
Personal professional development – Create a personal development plan and build your professional image, bearing in mind your goals for the future.
For an at-a-glance list of modules for this course, download the course specification.
Assessment is undertaken in all units of the course to check that you have met the threshold standards expected of all students. Most units have two summative assessment points and you will be provided with feedback that is designed to show you where you are meeting/exceeding the standards and where/how you can/should make further improvement.The final assessment in most of the taught units is a formal written examination. Elsewhere a range of assessment methods are used. These include not only scientific laboratory reports but others that develop a range of transferable skills including research proposals and poster/oral presentations. These are is designed to build upon and extend what is expected of students with an undergraduate degree.
Careers
This course will support you to seek a career in the biotechnology industries; pharmaceutical and food companies; academic institutions; health-related industries including the NHS; and other public-sector organisations.
Entry Requirements
2.2 honours degree or equivalent in related area
Entry Requirements
Fees for this course
UK
The total fee for a 2-year taught Master's degree for the Academic Year 2025/26 is £13,000. You can apply for a loan from the Government to help pay for your tuition fees and living costs. Visit
Alternatively if you have any questions around fees and funding, please email [email protected]
International
The total international fee for a 2-year taught Master's degree for the Academic Year 2025/26 is £19,900.
If you have any questions around fees and funding, please email [email protected]
Please note that this course is two years in duration. International students enrolling on this programme will not be permitted to switch to a one-year programme once they have been issued with their Certificate of Acceptance of Studies (CAS) unless requested by the ÌìÃÀ´«Ã½ to do so.
Fees for this course
UK
The total fee for a 2-year taught Master's degree for the Academic Year 2025/26 is £13,000. You can apply for a loan from the Government to help pay for your tuition fees and living costs. Visit
Alternatively if you have any questions around fees and funding, please email [email protected]
International
The total international fee for a 2-year taught Master's degree for the Academic Year 2025/26 is £19,900.
If you have any questions around fees and funding, please email [email protected]
Please note that this course is two years in duration. International students enrolling on this programme will not be permitted to switch to a one-year programme once they have been issued with their Certificate of Acceptance of Studies (CAS) unless requested by the ÌìÃÀ´«Ã½ to do so.
