Systems Biology and Bioinformatics

The master's degree programme in Systems Biology and Bioinformatics at the Technical University of Denmark offers a comprehensive education at the intersection of biology, computer science, and mathematics. This interdisciplinary programme is designed to equip students with the skills necessary to analyze and interpret complex biological data, develop computational models, and contribute to advances in biotechnology, medicine, and life sciences. Throughout the programme, students will gain a solid foundation in molecular biology, systems biology, bioinformatics, and computational methods, enabling them to tackle contemporary challenges in biological research and industry.

The curriculum combines theoretical courses with practical laboratory work and computational projects, fostering a hands-on approach to learning. Core courses cover topics such as biological data analysis, algorithms for bioinformatics, systems biology modeling, and data management. Students also have the opportunity to specialize in areas like microbial systems biology, regenerative medicine, or biomedical data analysis, tailoring their education to their career aspirations. In addition to coursework, students participate in research projects, collaborating with industry partners and research institutes, which provides valuable real-world experience.

The programme emphasizes innovation, critical thinking, and interdisciplinary collaboration, preparing graduates for careers in academia, biotechnology companies, pharmaceutical industries, healthcare, and agricultural sciences. The teaching faculty comprises internationally recognized researchers and industry experts who bring cutting-edge knowledge and real-world insights into the classroom. Students will also develop skills in scientific communication, teamwork, and project management, essential for successful careers in the rapidly evolving field of systems biology and bioinformatics.

Graduates of the programme will be well-equipped to analyze biological data using advanced computational tools, develop personalized medicine solutions, optimize biotechnological processes, and contribute to scientific discoveries. The programme also provides a solid foundation for those interested in pursuing further research through PhD studies. With DTU's strong industry connections and focus on innovative research, students are positioned at the forefront of developments in biological data science and computational biology. Upon completion, graduates will hold a master’s degree recognized for its high academic standards and relevance to current and future challenges in biological and medical sciences.

The MSc programme in Systems Biology and Bioinformatics contains no predefined study lines or recommended programmes. Instead, you can put together your own study plan and your own tailored profile through your choice of courses from within the general program competences, the technological specialization courses, the elective courses at DTU, and other universities, and project work in Denmark or abroad.

General admission requirements

Only applicants holding either a Bachelor of Science in Engineering, a Bachelor in Engineering or a Bachelor of Natural Science degree can be admitted to a Master of Science in Engineering programme. From September 2017 the bachelor degree must be less than 10 years old.

The individual MSc Eng programme states in detail which bachelor programmes qualify and whether applicants have to complete supplementary educational activities.

Requirements for supplementary educational activities can equate to up to 30 ECTS credits and are specified in the form of a list of courses under the individual MSc Eng programmes.

The specific requirements must be met before graduating from the bachelor programme or in connection with conditional admission to a particular MSc Eng programme. The courses must be passed prior to the commencement of studies within one year from the conditional admission.

Supplementary educational activities in connection with conditional admission to an MSc Eng programme do not form part of the MSc Eng programme, and partial tuition fees are charged. If the supplementary courses have not been passed within the deadlines specified, the conditional admission to the programme is withdrawn.

The Master of Science in Engineering programmes are offered in English. Therefore applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English (B-level, IELTS, TOEFL- or Pearson test).

Academic requirements for this programme

Regardless of your background, basic knowledge of biochemistry and molecular biology is essential in order to understand the biological problems that are addressed in Systems Biology. It is also an advantage to know basic computer programming. We therefore very strongly recommend that all prospective students should make sure to build competences in these fields, for instance by taking elective courses during your BSc, or perhaps by self-study. We suggest courses corresponding to a minimum of 5 ECTS in molecular biology, and 5 ECTS in computer programming (any programming language will be fine).

National students

Prerequisites,Bachelor of Science in Engineering from DTU

Students holding a bachelor of Science in Engineering in:

• Biotechnology
• Chemistry and Technology
• Medicine and Technology
• Environmental Engineering
• Human Life Science Engineering
• Software Technology
• Physics and Nanotechnology
• Mathematics and Technology

are entitled to admission to the MSc Eng. programme in Bioinformatics and Systems Biology.

Prerequisites, other Bachelors of Science in Engineering

Students with a BSc Eng. degree in other fields may also apply. However we strongly recommend that all prospective students should make sure to build competences in the fields of molecular biology and biochemistry. The competencies and qualifications of the applicants will be considered individually based on the material submitted together with the application form.  

Prerequisites, Bachelors of Natural Science from other universities

Students holding a BSc in natural science may be admitted. The competencies and qualifications of the applicants will be considered individually based on the material submitted together with the application form. In general it is an advantage that students have a solid knowledge of biochemistry and molecular biology. As an example BSc in Biology from the University of the Faroe Islands are admitted if they – as a minimum - have passed the following:

• At least 5 ECTS points basic molecular biology (for example course 27002 Life Science)
• At least 5 ECTS poins basic programming (for example course 27624 Python for Bioinformatics)

Students should however expect to supplement their knowledge within the molecular area and maybe with in mathematics and physics.

Prerequisites, Bachelors in Engineering from DTU

Students holding a bachelor in Engineering in:

• Chemical and Biochemical Engineering
• Chemistry and Business Economy

are entitled to be admitted to the MSc Eng. in Bioinformatics and Systems Biology.

International students

Prerequisites, Bachelors from other universities

Students holding a BSc in natural may be admitted. The competencies and qualifications of the applicants will be considered individually based on the material submitted together with the application form. In general it is an advantage that students have a solid knowledge of biochemistry and molecular biology. As an example BSc in Biology from the University of the Faroe Islands are admitted if they – as a minimum - have passed the following:

• At least 5 ECTS points basic molecular biology (for example course 27002 Life Science)
• At least 5 ECTS points basic programming (for example course 27624 Python for Bioinformatics)

Students should however expect to supplement their knowledge within the molecular area and maybe with in mathematics and physics.

Tuition fees for the MSc in Systems Biology and Bioinformatics at the Technical University of Denmark vary depending on the student’s nationality. For non-EU/EEA students, the annual tuition fee is approximately 15,000 EUR. EU/EEA students do not pay tuition fees for this master’s program, as the Danish government offers free education to residents of these countries. There are multiple funding options available for students enrolled in this program. Scholarships are offered both by the university and external organizations to support talented students financially. The Danish government, as well as various private foundations, provide scholarships based on academic merit and financial need. Students can also apply for EU-funded programs and grants, which are accessible for certain nationalities and under specific conditions. Additionally, students are encouraged to seek external funding opportunities, such as national scholarships, employer sponsorships, and international research grants. The university offers guidance and resources to assist students in finding and applying for financial aid. Part-time work opportunities are generally limited due to the demanding nature of the program, but students may find part-time employment on or near campus, subject to Danish labor regulations. Living expenses such as accommodation, food, transportation, and study materials should be budgeted for, with average estimated costs of around 12,000 to 15,000 EUR per year for international students. The university also provides extensive information on financial planning, including options for loans and stipend support. It is highly recommended that prospective students explore all possible funding sources prior to applying, as well as ensure compliance with visa and residence permit requirements if they are non-EU/EEA citizens. Overall, financing a master’s degree at the Technical University of Denmark involves a combination of tuition fee considerations, scholarship opportunities, external funding, and personal financial planning to ensure that students can fully focus on their academic and research activities without undue financial stress.

Systems Biology and Bioinformatics at the Technical University of Denmark offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach to understanding complex biological systems through computational and experimental methods. The program emphasizes the integration of biology, mathematics, computer science, and engineering to analyze and interpret vast amounts of biological data. Students are trained to develop and apply computational models, algorithms, and software tools to study molecular mechanisms, cellular processes, and entire biological systems. The curriculum combines coursework in systems biology, bioinformatics, data analysis, molecular biology, and programming, fostering both theoretical knowledge and practical skills.

The program aims to prepare students for research and development roles in academia, industry, and healthcare, where computational skills are essential for advancing precision medicine, drug development, genomics, and personalized treatment strategies. Throughout the program, students undertake projects that involve handling large datasets, designing algorithms, and interpreting biological data, enabling them to address real-world challenges in biological research and biotechnology.

The teaching is characterized by a strong emphasis on laboratory work, project-based learning, and collaboration with ongoing research at the university’s associated research centers and laboratories. Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities, including bioinformatics software, genomic and proteomic analysis tools, and high-performance computing resources. The program fosters an international learning environment, welcoming students from diverse backgrounds and offering opportunities for exchange and collaboration with leading research institutions worldwide.

Graduates of the program will have a solid foundation in both theoretical and applied aspects of systems biology and bioinformatics, enabling them to pursue careers in research institutions, pharmaceutical companies, biotech firms, and healthcare organizations. They will be equipped with skills to address complex biological questions, contribute to scientific innovation, and develop new computational tools and techniques to expand our understanding of life processes at the systems level.