Master of Science Mathematics and Statistics Specialization in Bioinformatics

Summary

• Degree offered: Master of Science (MSc)
• Registration status options: Full-time; Part-time
• Language of instruction: English
• Primary program: MSc in Mathematics and Statistics
• Collaborative specialization: Bioinformatics
• Program option (expected duration of the program):
  • with thesis (6 full-time terms; 24 consecutive months)
• Academic units: Faculty of Science, Department of Mathematics and Statistics, Ottawa-Carleton Institute of Mathematics and Statistics (OCIMS).

Program Description

Ottawa-Carleton Joint Program

The University of Ottawa offers a rich academic environment to study mathematics and statistics under the supervision of professors who have gained an international reputation for their research. Most major fields of research in mathematics and statistics are represented within the Department of mathematics and Statistics. Moreover, the Department is a participating unit in the master's level collaborative programs in bioinformatics and in biostatistics. Additional information about the Department and its programs is posted on the departmental website at www.mathstat.uottawa.ca.

Since 1984, the graduate programs in mathematics and statistics have been under the umbrella of the Ottawa-Carleton Institute of Mathematics and Statistics (OCIMS). The OCIMS consists of the School of Mathematics and Statistics at Carleton University and the Department of Mathematics and Statistics at the University of Ottawa. The two units have pooled together their resources to offer each year a large selection of graduate courses.

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. To meet this challenge, Carleton University and the University of Ottawa offer a collaborative program leading to a master of science degree in the primary program with specialization in bioinformatics or, in the case of computer science, a master of computer science degree with specialization in bioinformatics.

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

• Master of Science Mathematics and Statistics Concentration in Mathematics (MSc)
• Master of Science Mathematics and Statistics Concentration in Statistics (MSc)
• Master of Science Mathematics and Statistics Specialization in Biostatistics (MSc)
• Doctorate in Philosophy Mathematics and Statistics (PhD)
• Doctorate in Mathematics and Statistics Specialization in in Bioinformatics (PhD)

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 at both universities.
• 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.
• Research activities can be conducted in English or French or both depending on the language used by the professor and the members of the research group.

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 a bachelor’s degree with a specialization or a major in mathematics and statistics (or equivalent) 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.
• Meet the funding requirements.

Note: International students must provide proof of financial support: i.e., a stipend provided by a supervisor as well as a combination of awards and/or trust funds.

• 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 choice of supervisor will determine the primary campus location of the student. It will also determine which university awards the degree.
• 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, write and fluently speak the language of instruction (French or English) 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 and by the general regulations of the Ottawa-Carleton Institute of Mathematics and Statistics (OCIMS).
• Students must indicate in their initial application for admission to the master’s program in mathematics and statistics 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.

• 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.