Master of Bioinformatics

At the end of the program, students of the Master of Bioinformatics can:

1. Reflect critically on a complex body of specialist knowledge and understanding of recent developments and methods applicable to the field of Bioinformatics and related disciplines.
2. Investigate, analyse and synthesise complex ideas, concepts and theories in Bioinformatics.
3. Apply communication skills to design innovative contributions to professional practice in Bioinformatics.
4. Use high level self-management skills to initiate, plan and execute a substantial project or contribution to professional practice in Bioinformatics.

This course provides students with skills and experience in bioinformatics, focusing on omics science, computer programming, applied mathematics and statistics.

It provides work experience in relevant organisations within the industry, allowing students to gain an understanding of the application of bioinformatics in a real world context. It also focuses on practical skills for researchers and industry professionals in bioinformatics, and offers flexible study options through on-campus and off-campus study.

Open Universities Australia is a not-for-profit organisation. You will not pay any fees for using our services.

Indicative total fee $53,700

The amount shown here is indicative for an Australian citizen studying full-time, which is typically 8 subjects per year.

Fees may vary depending on:

• the subjects you choose
• credit from previous work experience
• your eligibility for government funding loans or subsidies such as HECS-HELP or a Commonwealth supported place.

To learn more, go to Fees or contact a student advisor.

ECU is ranked one of the world’s best young universities and Australia’s best public university for teaching quality. That quality extends to more than 30,000 students, many studying online through Open Universities Australia. ECU offers the same quality of teaching to you, regardless of where you’re studying in the world. Their flexible study solutions include a huge range of online courses, recognising your need to juggle work, family or other commitments.

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QS World University Ranking 2025, within Australia:

29

Times Higher Education World University Ranking 2025, within Australia:

24

The following course-specific admission requirements are mandatory and must be satisfied by all applicants. These requirements are in addition to or supersede the minimum requirements outlined within the Academic admission requirements band section below.

Special entry may be considered for students with a cognate first degree (or with appropriate experience) who can apply for a reduced course duration:

1.5 years full time (3 years part time) – 180 credit points

Admission is based on:

Bachelor degree in a related discipline*, or

Bachelor degree in any discipline, plus five years relevant work experience^, or

Graduate Certificate of Bioinformatics (or equivalent), or

Evidence of academic capability judged to be equivalent.

*Related discipline refers to any chemistry/biology discipline

^Relevant work experience constitutes Senior/Managerial positions to be approved by the Course Coordinator.

Academic admission requirements (Band 6) may be satisfied through completion of one of the following:

• Bachelor degree; or
• Equivalent prior learning including at least five years relevant professional experience.

Alternatively, applicants can apply with at least five years of appropriate professional experience.

Students can satisfy English competency requirements by showing any of the following: 

• An IELTS Academic Overall band minimum score of 6.5 (no individual band less than 6.0). 

• Completion of a Bachelor degree from a country specified by ECU. 

• Completion of 0.375 EFTSL of study at postgraduate level or higher at an Australian higher education provider (or equivalent). 

• Equivalent prior learning courses including at least five years relevant professional experience – as accepted by ECU. 

• Completion of other tests, courses or programs as accepted by ECU.

Reduce the time it takes to finish your degree. For eligible students, ECU offers credit and recognition of prior learning (CRPL). There are 2 CRPL options: 

• Credit transfer to acknowledge students’ formal learning at uni or TAFE. 

• Recognition of students’ informal learning gained outside of the education system (for example workplace experience or volunteer training.)

Work Experience requirement

In the final semester of the course, students will complete a project involving integrated learning with a company, agency, or university academic in their discipline area.

Attendance requirements

Students will be expected to participate in a minimum of 456 hours working with an organisation on a project and produce a report on activities. International students (FPON) can only enrol on campus and so can only complete the WIL unit as a research project or as a placement with a host organisation.

Professional practice rules

Students undertaking a work placement will demonstrate discipline knowledge, communication and collaboration skills, in addition to a proven professional work ethic whilst undertaking projects in an industry or university setting.