Sci-bioinformatics
Welcome to Stellenbosch University

Degree programmes

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Registration for post-graduate degrees in 2024

Applications are invited for admission to the BSc Hons, MSc or PhD degrees in Bioinformatics and Computational Biology in 2024 

Applications to register for a BSc Hons, MSc or PhD degree in Bioinformatics and Computational Biology in 2024 are now accepted.  Please visit the online portal to apply.  Candidates who wish to apply to register for an MSc or PhD degree in Bioinformatics and Computational Biology are encouraged to contact potential supervisors before applying.  A list of potential supervisors and their research fields can be viewed here.  Please direct all queries regarding applications for post-graduate programmes in Bioinformatics and Computational Biology​ to Janice Williams

BSc Hons applications for 2024 has closed.

The closing date for the MSc applications is 27 Feb 2024.

More information on bursaries and scholarships can be obtained from Research Development

Please contact Janice Williams (send a​n e-mail) at the CBCB for information on any of the degree programmes listed below

 

Inter-disciplinary BSc (Stream Bioinformatics and Computational Biology)

Entrance Requirements
A NSC with university exemption, 65% average (excluding Life Orientation), and the following minimum symbols:
  • Mathematics - 6
  • English or Afrikaans as Home Language or First Additional Language - 4
  • Physical Science – 4

Course Description

A 3-year degree combining training in Computer Science, Mathematics, Statistics, Biochemistry, Genetics and Bioinformatics.

​1st Year
  • Biology 124(16)
  • Computer Science 114(16), Computer Science 144(16)
  • Probability Theory and Statistics 144(16)
  • Mathematics 114(16), Mathematics 144(16)
  • Chemistry 124(16), Chemistry 144(16)
  • Science in Context 178(12)
​2nd Year
  • Biochemistry 214(16), Biochemistry 244(16)
  • Genetics 214(16), Genetics 244(16)
  • Computer Science 214(16), Computer Science 244(16)
  • Mathematics 214(16)
  • Biometry 212 (8), Biometry 242 (8)​

​3rd Year
  • Bioinformatics 312(8), Bioinformatics 322(8)
  • Biochemistry 315(16), Biochemistry 345(16)
  • Genetics 314(16), Genetics 344(16)
  • Computer Science 334(16), Computer Science 344(16), Computer Science 354(16)


BSc Hons (Bioinformatics and Computational Biology)

A 1-year degree that includes lectures on advanced concepts in Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, discussion of important scientific publications, a seminar and a research project performed under supervision.

Entrance Requirements
An inter-disciplinary BSc degree (stream Bioinformatics and Computational Biology) or a BSc degree with majors in Bioinformatics, Genetics, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Computer Science, Mathematics or another related field, with an average of 60% for the modules in the final year of the prescribed curriculum.  Applications are considered by the Post-Graduate Committee of the CBCB, and students selected on academic merit.

 
Course Description
Effective coding in Python*
​Cell biology in bioinformatics*
​Current topics in bioinformatics
​Seminar
Advanced Bioinformatics
  • Introduction to Probability and Statistics
  • Database theory
  • Next Generation Sequencing technologies
  • Genomics and Functional Genomics
  • Sequence analysis
  • Biological Databases and Ontologies
  • Evolution and Phylogenetics
  • Population genetics and GWAS
  • Structural bioinformatics
  • Proteomics
  • Networks and pathways
  • Microbiomes
​Algorithms in bioinformatics
​Machine learning in bioinformatics
​Research project
*Students must choose one of the two modules


MSc (Bioinformatics and Computational Biology)

Entrance Requirements

A minimum of 65% in a BScHons degree in Bioinformatics and Computational Biology or a related field.

Course Description

  • A full-time, research degree on a topic agreed to by your supervisor
  • Submission of a thesis is required.
  • Depending on your background, some coursework may be prescribed by the Post-Graduate Committee of the CBCB
  • We prefer that MSc students start their degrees in January.  Please register timeously to allow a January starting date. 


Coursework MSc in Bioinformatics of Infectious Diseases or Pathogen Genomics

This is a new programme that has been submitted for approval to the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) and accreditation by the Council on Higher Education (CHE). This programme will be offered only after it has been registered with the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA), probably in 2025.  For more information on this programme, please contact Prof. Patterton.
 

PhD (Bioinformatics and Computational Biology)

Entrance Requirements

MSc. degree in Bioinformatics and Computational Biology or a related field

Course Description

  • A full-time, research degree on a topic agreed to by your supervisor
  • Submission of a dissertation is required
  • Depending on your background, some coursework may be prescribed by the Post-Graduate Committee of the CBCB
  • We prefer that PhD students start their degrees in January.  Please register timeously to allow a January starting date. ​​