Master of Science Biochemistry Specialization in Bioinformatics

Summary

• Degrees offered: Master of Science (MSc)
• Registration status option: Full-time
• Language of instruction: English
• Primary program: MSc in Biochemistry
• Collaborative specialization: Bioinformatics
• Program option (expected duration of the program):
  • with thesis (6 full-time terms; 24 consecutive months)
• Academic units: Faculty of Medicine, Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology.

Program Description

The programs prepare candidates for a variety of careers in teaching and research both within and outside of academia.

Graduate students are actively involved in laboratory research, course work, and presentation of research seminars. Thus, they acquire autonomy in conducting research and in preparing publications.

The programs create a stimulating and challenging environment which will allow students to achieve excellence in research. Graduates of the programs must demonstrate research skills and credibility as professionals in their area of research.

The Department is a participating unit in the Bioinformatics collaborative program.

Collaborative Program Description

Bioinformatics is an emerging and increasingly important scientific discipline dedicated to the pursuit of fundamental questions about the structure, function and evolution of biological entities through the design and application of computational approaches. Fundamental research in these areas is expected to increase our understanding of human health and disease which translates into innovation in industry. Bioinformaticians today must be able to appreciate significant research in other fields and therefore require an understanding of the basic principles of other disciplines.

The degree awarded specifies the primary program and indicates

Main Areas of Research

• General biochemistry
• Molecular biology
• Nutrition and metabolism

Other Programs Offered Within the Same Discipline or in a Related Area

• Master of Science Biochemistry (MSc)
• Master of Science Biochemistry Specialization in Human and Molecular Genetics (MSc)
• Master of Science Biochemistry Specialization in Pathology and Experimental Medicine (MSc)
• Doctorate in Philosophy Biochemistry (PhD)
• Doctorate in Philosophy Biochemistry Specialization in Human and Molecular Genetics (PhD)
• Doctorate in Philosophy Biochemistry Specialization in Pathology and Experimental Medicine (PhD)
• Master of Science Biology Specialization in Bioinformatics (MSc)
• Master of Science Cellular and Molecular Medicine Specialization in Bioinformatics (MSc)
• Master of Computer Science Specialization in Bioinformatics (MSc)
• Master of Science Microbiology and Immunology Specialization in Bioinformatics (MSc)
• Master of Applied Science Biomedical Engineering Specialization in Bioinformatics (MSc)
• Master of Science Mathematics and Statistics Specialization in Bioinformatics (MSc)

Fees and Funding

• Program fees:

The estimated amount for university fees associated with this program are available under the section Finance your studies.

International students enrolled in a French-language program of study may be eligible for a differential tuition fee exemption.

• To learn about possibilities for financing your graduate studies, consult the Awards and financial support section.

Notes

• Programs are governed by the general regulations in effect for graduate studies.
• In accordance with the University of Ottawa regulation, students have the right to complete their assignments, examinations, research papers, and theses in French or in English.

Program Contact Information

For the most accurate and up to date information on application deadlines, language tests and other admission requirements, please visit the specific requirements webpage.

To be eligible, candidates must:

• Have one of the following:
  • A bachelor’s degree with a specialization or a major (or equivalent) in science with a minimum average of 75% (B+).
  • An MD (Doctor of Medicine) degree with a minimum average of 75% (B+).
  • A DVM (Doctor of Veterinary Medicine) degree with a minimum average of 75% (B+).

Note: International candidates must check the admission equivalencies for the diploma they received in their country of origin.

• Demonstrate a good academic performance in previous studies as shown by official transcripts, research reports, abstracts or any other documents demonstrating research skills.
• Identify at least one professor who is willing to supervise your research and thesis.
  • We recommend that you contact potential thesis supervisors as soon as possible.
  • To register, you need to have been accepted by a thesis supervisor.
  • The supervisor’s name is required at the time of application.
  • The thesis supervisor must be a member of the collaborative program.
• Be sponsored into the collaborative specialization by a faculty member of the collaborative program, normally the thesis supervisor, who must be appointed, cross-appointed or stand as an adjunct at the primary program.

Language Requirements

Applicants must be able to understand and fluently speak the language of instruction in the program to which they are applying. Proof of linguistic proficiency may be required.

Applicants whose first language is neither French nor English must provide proof of proficiency in the language of instruction.

Note: Candidates are responsible for any fees associated with the language tests.

Notes

• The admission requirements listed above are minimum requirements and do not guarantee admission to the program.
• Admissions are governed by the general regulations in effect for graduate studies.
• Students must indicate in their initial application for admission to the master’s program in Biochemistry that they wish to be accepted into the collaborative program in Bioinformatics. Students must be admitted in one of the primary programs participating in the collaborative program. Students will normally be informed about their acceptance into the collaborative program at the same time as being informed about their admission into the primary program.
• Research activities can be conducted either in English, French or both, depending on the language used by the professor and the members of his or her research group.

• Apply online through the Ontario Universities’ Application Centre (OUAC), by completing form 105.
• Declare all your current and previous postsecondary studies, completed or not, even if they are not related to your application. Failure to do so may lead to the cancellation of your application or the withdrawal of your offer of admission at any time.
• Enter your email address, making sure it is accurate. We will use this address to communicate with you for all matters. Also, check your inbox (and junk mail folder) regularly for messages from the University of Ottawa.
• Pay the application fees for all your admission applications. Applications are forwarded to the University of Ottawa only after fees are paid in full and the payment has cleared. Learn more about application fees.
• Note that OUAC is not part of the University of Ottawa. It handles applications to all Ontario universities and is responsible for transferring your application to our admission office.