Master of Science in Bioinformatics

This is a 2-year MSc programme with course work in the first year and research in the second year. Field specialization is done in the second year based one’s research project. The programme is suitable for applicants with sciences background such as Computer Science, Mathematics, Biological Sciences, Laboratory Sciences, Medical Sciences, Statistics, Physics, Chemistry and any other relevant mathematical sciences discipline. MSc Bioinformatics graduates become experts to pursue careers in use and development of bioinformatics tools for storage and analysis large molecular biology datasets in research and medical institutions. Bioinformaticians also make excellent systems administrators or managers in an ICT environment. The programme is divided into coursework and research dissertation. Both parts of the programme must be passed for the degree to be awarded. Coursework will comprise eight (8) core modules and ten (12) optional modules. The optional elective modules will be offered based on availability of teaching expertise. Each student must complete all eight core (84 credits) modules and two electives (24 credits) for their specialty to obtain at least 108 credit points, to fulfil the coursework requirements for the programme. The two elective modules will be offered in the first or second semester of the second year. Students will be required to submit a research proposal at the end of the first year and a dissertation at the end of the second year. Research project will accumulate 60 credits. The programme allows for credit transfer from other institutions recognized by the university of Malawi. Students must submit written applications where they want credits earned outside the University of Malawi to be considered under this programme. One (1) credit point, under the MSc Bioinformatics programme, represents notional 10 hours of learning time which is everything a learner has to do to achieve the intended learning outcomes.