Big Data Biology (MSc) 12 months Postgraduate Program By Cardiff University |Top Universities
Subject Ranking

# 151-200QS Subject Rankings

Program Duration

12 monthsProgram duration

Scholarship

YesScholarships

Main Subject Area

Biological SciencesMain Subject Area

Program overview

Main Subject

Biological Sciences

Degree

MSc

Study Level

Masters

Study Mode

On Campus

From microbiomes, phenomes and genomes to whole ecosystems, modern biology generates a vast amount of data. The scale and nature of this information requires a new generation of scientists with the skills to harvest, analyse, manipulate and interpret big data, and to link this analysis to underlying mechanisms through mathematical and computational modelling.

As a student on our innovative MSc Big Data Biology, you will have the opportunity to explore the cutting-edge platforms used in modern biological analysis. You will learn about the statistical and computational approaches required to analyse the big data generated, and mine the growing repositories of ‘omics data that now exist within biology.

A core distinguishing feature of our programme is that it will enable you to interface your big data analysis to dynamical systems and network theory, rather than relying solely on performing pattern analysis and/or AI-methods to data. This unique big data modelling approach will allow you to test hypotheses and analyse models to uncover biological mechanisms from high-throughput data sets. You will explore how big data can be better interpreted and mined using biological understanding and conversely, how it can generate novel biological insights.

The course is designed to equip you with the skills to work on “real-life” data problems. You will become proficient at using core tools and approaches for big data analysis and build confidence in critically selecting and applying these approaches to address a wide scope of biological questions. After completing the first core modules, you will apply the skills gained to solve a big data scenario for a “client” – a real-life problem faced by a research group within a university, industry or government organisation.

The structure of the course provides a broad overview of systems biology, as well as enabling you to specialise in an area of your interest through an extensive range of research opportunities. You will complete the programme with  a solid grounding in both systems biology and bioinformatics. Furthermore, you will be able to improve your transferable skills, such as working in interdisciplinary teams, learning how to master new software in a structured manner, writing reports or grants writing, and delivering science presentations – all important skills for an early career researcher.

Big Data Biology is a progressive and exciting area of science. Advancing our understanding of living systems depends on unlocking the potential of big data, from molecules to the biosphere. This programme has been specifically designed to ensure that you are fully prepared for a career in industry or academic research, and that your skills closely reflect those currently sought by employers. Crucially, you will also learn how to keep pace with future developments in the field of big data biology by learning how to effectively absorb and employ new strategies and technology.

Program overview

Main Subject

Biological Sciences

Degree

MSc

Study Level

Masters

Study Mode

On Campus

From microbiomes, phenomes and genomes to whole ecosystems, modern biology generates a vast amount of data. The scale and nature of this information requires a new generation of scientists with the skills to harvest, analyse, manipulate and interpret big data, and to link this analysis to underlying mechanisms through mathematical and computational modelling.

As a student on our innovative MSc Big Data Biology, you will have the opportunity to explore the cutting-edge platforms used in modern biological analysis. You will learn about the statistical and computational approaches required to analyse the big data generated, and mine the growing repositories of ‘omics data that now exist within biology.

A core distinguishing feature of our programme is that it will enable you to interface your big data analysis to dynamical systems and network theory, rather than relying solely on performing pattern analysis and/or AI-methods to data. This unique big data modelling approach will allow you to test hypotheses and analyse models to uncover biological mechanisms from high-throughput data sets. You will explore how big data can be better interpreted and mined using biological understanding and conversely, how it can generate novel biological insights.

The course is designed to equip you with the skills to work on “real-life” data problems. You will become proficient at using core tools and approaches for big data analysis and build confidence in critically selecting and applying these approaches to address a wide scope of biological questions. After completing the first core modules, you will apply the skills gained to solve a big data scenario for a “client” – a real-life problem faced by a research group within a university, industry or government organisation.

The structure of the course provides a broad overview of systems biology, as well as enabling you to specialise in an area of your interest through an extensive range of research opportunities. You will complete the programme with  a solid grounding in both systems biology and bioinformatics. Furthermore, you will be able to improve your transferable skills, such as working in interdisciplinary teams, learning how to master new software in a structured manner, writing reports or grants writing, and delivering science presentations – all important skills for an early career researcher.

Big Data Biology is a progressive and exciting area of science. Advancing our understanding of living systems depends on unlocking the potential of big data, from molecules to the biosphere. This programme has been specifically designed to ensure that you are fully prepared for a career in industry or academic research, and that your skills closely reflect those currently sought by employers. Crucially, you will also learn how to keep pace with future developments in the field of big data biology by learning how to effectively absorb and employ new strategies and technology.

Admission requirements

1 Year
Sep

Tuition fee and scholarships

One of the important factors when considering a master's degree is the cost of study. Luckily, there are many options available to help students fund their master's programme. Download your copy of the Scholarship Guide to find out which scholarships from around the world could be available to you, and how to apply for them.

In this guide you will find:
opportunities

Where to look for scholarship opportunities

how_to

How to apply to scholarships relevant to you

list

A list of available scholarships around the world

checklist

A scholarship application checklist

banner
download_icon Download Scholarship Guide

More programs from the university

Cardiff University offers 350 degree programmes offering choice and flexibility. Our range of modules mean that you can effectively tailor your degree programme to suit your particular interests and career ambitions.

Our courses rank #40 in the world for Communication & Media Studies, #43 for Dentistry, in addition to Architecture/Built Environment, English Language & Literature, Psychology, GeographyNursing and Pharmacy & Pharmacology all ranking in the top 100 according to the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025. 

Cardiff University’s undergraduate teaching has been recognised as excellent in the UK, with Electrical & Electronic Engineering as #1, Architecture recognised as #2, Midwifery as #3, Physics as #10, and Psychology as #12 by the The Guardian University Guide 2024. Cardiff's Optometry, Ophthalmics & Orthoptics ranked #3, Dentistry as #4 and Pharmacology & Pharmacy ranked #5 in The Complete University Guide 2024, and Nursing as #4, Communication & Media Studies as #9 by The Times University Guide 2024. Many of the University’s degree schemes are accredited by professional bodies and provide partial or complete exemption from relevant professional examinations.

Cardiff offers unique opportunities for its students during their undergraduate studies. Students can undertake international study, volunteering and work placements through the Global Opportunities Team. Students can also learn a language for free as part of the Languages for All initiative – Welsh lessons are also offered to help students get a flavour for the unique cultural environment Cardiff provides. These extra services, as well as a dedicated Students’ Union (voted 2nd best in the UK two years in a row), ensure that students at Cardiff University thoroughly enjoy their experience. In the National Student Survey 2023, 72% of final-year undergraduate students reported that they were satisfied with their course.

Undergraduate students at Cardiff University are supported throughout their courses, right from day one up until graduation. In addition to having access to facilities supporting student wellbeing, such as the dedicated International Student Support team, Cardiff University students also have access to excellent careers and employability services. 95% of our graduates were in employment and/or further study, due to start a new job or course, 15 months after the end of their course.

A place in one of the University’s 5,543 student rooms is guaranteed to all first-year undergraduates entering the normal admissions cycle. The vast majority of student residences are single en-suite study bedrooms in self-catered flats. Students enjoy some of the lowest rents in the UK as Cardiff is the most affordable university city in the UK.

Archaeology (BA)

::type_cta_button:: View Details

Archaeology (BSc)

::type_cta_button:: View Details

Chinese (BA)

::type_cta_button:: View Details

French (BA)

::type_cta_button:: View Details

German (BA)

::type_cta_button:: View Details

History (BA)

::type_cta_button:: View Details

Italian (BA)

::type_cta_button:: View Details

Music (BA)

::type_cta_button:: View Details

Music (BMus)

::type_cta_button:: View Details

Spanish (BA)

::type_cta_button:: View Details

Translation (BA)

::type_cta_button:: View Details

Accounting (BSc)

::type_cta_button:: View Details

Medicine (MBBCh)

::type_cta_button:: View Details

Midwifery (BMid)

::type_cta_button:: View Details

Optometry (BSc)

::type_cta_button:: View Details

Pharmacy (MPharm)

::type_cta_button:: View Details

Psychology (BSc)

::type_cta_button:: View Details

Chemistry (BSc)

::type_cta_button:: View Details

Chemistry (MChem)

::type_cta_button:: View Details

Geology (BSc)

::type_cta_button:: View Details

Mathematics (BSc)

::type_cta_button:: View Details

Physics (BSc)

::type_cta_button:: View Details

Physics (MPhys)

::type_cta_button:: View Details

Criminology (BSc)

::type_cta_button:: View Details

Education (BSc)

::type_cta_button:: View Details

Law (LLB)

::type_cta_button:: View Details

Sociology (BSc)

::type_cta_button:: View Details

Study with us at Cardiff University and you’ll join a thriving community of 10,000 postgraduate students from more than 115 countries. We have more than 300 postgraduate study options for you to choose from, including full-time, part-time, blended learning and distance learning courses for balancing study with professional, financial or family commitments.. 

90% of research at Cardiff University is officially world-leading or internationally excellent according to the latest independent assessment of research quality across UK higher education institutions (REF 2021). 

We have a long history of providing outstanding research-led teaching. Our staff are experts in their fields, working at the forefront of their academic discipline – which means that you will too.

Bursting with culture, cuisine, architecture, entertainment and history, where beyond the buzz of the city, you will find incredible beaches, countryside and mountains. Cardiff was ranked the best city in the UK by Condé Nast Traveller in 2023. The city is also budget-friendly: Cardiff was recently ranked as the second UK’s most affordable university city (Natwest Student Living Index 2023).

We have a number of funding opportunities available, including our Master’s Excellence Scholarship scheme. Many courses are also eligible for government postgraduate loans for master’s programmes for UK and EU students. We want to help you make the most of your postgraduate experience, by ensuring you can access any additional help you may need. From money advice and confidential counselling to disability services and award-winning childcare, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Our Students' Union is the 2nd best in the UK (Whatuni Choice Awards 2024). Home to over 200 student societies and 60 sports clubs, a free employment service and a number of social spaces, the Students' Union caters to every student's needs.

Our Languages for All programme gives you the chance to improve your language skills alongside your studies – for free. Our flexible choice of study options allows you to learn in a way that suits you, through weekly classes, intensive sessions or independent learning.


Archaeology (MA)

::type_cta_button:: View Details

History (MA)

::type_cta_button:: View Details

Music (MA)

::type_cta_button:: View Details

Philosophy (MA)

::type_cta_button:: View Details

Urban Design (MA)

::type_cta_button:: View Details

Computing (MSc)

::type_cta_button:: View Details

Psychiatry (MSc)

::type_cta_button:: View Details

Psychology (MSc)

::type_cta_button:: View Details

Radiography (MSc)

::type_cta_button:: View Details

Canon Law (LLM)

::type_cta_button:: View Details

Economics (MSc)

::type_cta_button:: View Details

Education (MSc)

::type_cta_button:: View Details

Law (LLM)

::type_cta_button:: View Details

Social Work (MA)

::type_cta_button:: View Details

Theology (MTh)

::type_cta_button:: View Details
Postgrad programs