IX. Graduate Programs
Bioinformatics
Master of Science Program
Admission Requirements
Students may be admitted to the MSc in Bioinformatics program from a range of undergraduate programs, including biology, statistics, mathematics, engineering or computer science. To be considered for admission, applicants should meet the minimum requirements of a four-year degree from a recognized post-secondary institution with a minimum 75% average over the last two years of full-time equivalent study and students must have taken at least one course in three or more of the following areas:
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Statistics
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Computer Programming
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Biology
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Mathematics
Applicants should briefly indicate their research interests and, if possible, their preferred advisors.
There is no application deadline, but space in the program is limited. Most spaces are filled in March for entry the following September. Prospective students should check the program website for admission procedures and apply as early as possible.
English Proficiency
Students whose first language is not English must provide certification of English proficiency as explained in the Graduate Calendar, Section II. General Regulations, Subsection: Application for Admission.
Degree Requirements
A total of 2.0 credits are required, which must include:
| BINF*6110 | [0.50] | Genomic Methods for Bioinformatics |
| BINF*6210 | [0.50] | Software Tools for Biological Data Analysis and Organization |
The advisory committee may require additional courses. An average of 70% or better must be obtained in the prescribed courses. When the course work is satisfactorily completed, the submission and successful defence of an appropriate thesis on an approved topic completes the requirements for the MSc in Bioinformatics. Further information may be obtained from the Director.
Advisory Committee
Students taking the MSc in Bioinformatics will have an advisory committee of at least two graduate faculty members. The advisory committee will either:
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Have two advisors: a member of graduate faculty from CPES and a member of graduate faculty from a College other than CPES; or
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Have one advisor that is a member of graduate faculty from CPES and an advisory committee member
Duration of the Program
Students normally take 2 courses per term for two terms (2.0 credits) while developing their thesis topic. Then they complete the Bioinformatics Master’s Thesis subsequent terms. The program typically takes 12-20 months of full-time study.