Bioinformatics

This interdisciplinary two-year programme focuses on acquiring

• basic background knowledge in diverse disciplines belonging to the field of bioinformatics, including statistics, molecular biology and computer science
• expert knowledge in the field of bioinformatics
• programming skills
• engineering skills

The 120-credit programme consists of a reorientation package (one semester), a common package (two semesters) and a thesis.

The Master of Bioinformatics is embedded in a strong bioinformatics research community in KU Leuven, who monthly meet at theBioinformatics Interest Group. Bioinformatics research groups are spread over the Arenberg and Gasthuisberg campus and are located in the research departments of Microbial and Molecular Systems (M2S), Electrical Engineering (ESAT), Human Genetics, Microbiology and Immunology (REGA), Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Chemistry and Biology. Several of these bioinformatics research groups are also associated with the Flemish Institute for Biotechnology (VIB).

Reorientation Package

The student takes maximum 26 ECTS from this group.

The Reorientation gives students the additional basis in disciplines in which they had no training during their Bachelor's programme. The complete basis is essential to follow further courses in this master. The Permanent Education Committee (POC) determines a specific programme for every student, based on their previous education. Following approval, these courses are mandatory for the student to finish the master.
Students in the track Engineering only choose courses from the Reorientation Package Biology. In addition they choose mathematically or statistically oriented optional courses, to be selected from a limited list.
Students in the track Bioscience Engineering choose only courses from the Reorientation Packages Information Technology and Biology. In addition they choose mathematically or statistically oriented optional courses, to be selected from a limited list.
Students in the track Science may choose courses from all Reorientation Packages up to 26 ECTS. If the student needs less than 26 ECTS, remaining credits can be chosen from a list of optional courses.

Reorientation Package Biology

• Structure, Synthesis and Cellular Function of Macromolecules
• Basics of Biological Chemistry
• Basic Concepts of Cell Biology
• Introduction to Genetics
• Gene Technology

Reorientation Package Statistics

• Univariate Data and Modelling

Reorientation Package Mathematics

• Linear Algebra
• Calculus

Reorientation Package Information Technology

• Object Oriented Programming
• Basic Programming
• Database Management

Reorientation Package: Optional Courses

The student supplements his reorientation package up to 26 ECTS with courses from this group. The suggested package is presented to the POC.

This group consists of a number of courses related to Bioinformatics which are selected by the POC of the MSc in Bioinformatics from other English study programmes organized at KU Leuven.
Students in the tracks Engineering and Bioscience Engineering choose at least 5 ECTS in mathematically or statistically oriented courses.

Common Package

Biology Module

• Molecular Interactions: Theories and Methods
• Bio-Molecular Model Building
• Model Organisms

Statistics Module

• Dynamical Systems
• Statistical Methods for Bioinformatics
• Machine Learning and Inductive Inference
• Applied Multivariate Statistical Analysis
• Support Vector Machines: Methods and Applications

Bioinformatics Module

• Practical Computing for Bioinformatics
• Omics Techniques and Data Analysis
• Management of Large-Scale Omics Data
• Bayesian Modelling for Biological Data Analysis
• Evolutionary and Quantitative Genetics
• Comparative and Regulatory Genomics
• Integrated Bioinformatics Project

Master's Thesis 

Requirements

• With the exception of native English speakers or holders of accredited degrees taught in English, students should present results of a test of English proficiency (TOEFL / IELTS) at or exceeding the following scores: TOEFL (Computer-based test 213 pt., Internetbased test 79 - 80 pt., Paper-based test 550 pt.) or IELTS (6.5 - 7 pt.)
• Bachelor's degree
• All applicants (EEA and non-EEA) will have to pay an application fee of 50 € to process their file.
• PDF scans of your diplomas and transcripts of academic records
• PDF scan of the translation of your diploma and official transcripts
• The PDF scans of the TOEFL or IELTS certificates have to be uploaded in the web application Applicant. The original TOEFL or IELTS certificates have to be sent directly by ETS or by the official IELTS test centre administered by The British Council or IDP Education to International Admissions and Mobility at KU Leuven. Alternatively, you can also request ETS or the British Council to make your test result available to KU Leuven online, so we can verify your result via the online verification tool.
• If you still have to take the test by the time you want to submit your application file, upload a proof of registration for the TOEFL or IELTS test in the meantime. The proof of registration should mention the date when you will be taking the test.
• PDF of the proof of payment of the application fee made either via bank transfer or via credit card
• PDF scan of the identity page of your passport
• PDF of your motivation letter (recommended size: one A4 page)
• PDF of your CV

Scholarships

• Master Mind Scholarships