Overview

High-throughput methods like massively parallel sequencing and mass spectrometry generate more raw data than conventional computer models can handle efficiently.

To process and analyse this data, computational techniques from Bioinformatics – such as sequence alignment, sequence assembly, biostatistics and machine learning – are required in order to make predictions about health outcome and to decide on a personalized treatment for the patient. Both Bioinformatics and Systems Biology are strongly interdisciplinary fields.

The Bioinformatics and Systems Biology MSc programme offered at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam combines molecular and cell biology, computer science and mathematical modelling to integrate vast amounts of biological data into fundamental knowledge. You will develop a strong feel for scientific research and high levels of abstraction, and learn to combine the rapid developments in these fields.

You can choose from two tracks:

Bioinformatics

Systems Biology

Career prospects

Our graduates are in great demand: every student has immediately found employment in industry or the academic world. The vast majority go on to work within the field (40%) and find a suitable job in the biotechnology, finance, banking or insurance industry.

More than half of our students (60%) continues scientific research as a PhD student. Thanks to technological advances such as next generation sequencing and the development of personalized medicine career prospects will only improve.

Promotion alumni sessions Master’s day

During the Master’s day, you can also meet our (international) alumni during several workshops. In these sessions they will tell you more about career opportunities after finishing your Master’s degree.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Algorithms in Sequence Analysis
Structural Bioinformatics

Bioinformatics for Translational

Biology
Microbiology

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 24 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-09-01 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-06-01 00:00:00 , EEA/EU
- Apply before 2026-04-01 00:00:00 , International

Language

English

TOEFL^® IBT

92

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Credits

120 ECTS

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Disciplines

Biology Bioinformatics & Biostatistics View 12 other Masters in Bioinformatics & Biostatistics in Netherlands

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Academic requirements

GRE^®

Required

GMAT

Required

English requirements

TOEFL^® IBT

92

Schedule TOEFL®

Other requirements

General requirements

A Bachelor’s degree from an accredited research university, with at least three full years of academic study amounting to a minimum of 180 ECTS or equivalent.
The programme is aimed at science Bachelor's graduates (chemistry, biology, biotechnology, biomedical sciences, artificial intelligence, computer science, mathematics, physics)
The Master's requires proficiency in three key subjects: Mathematics, Programming, and (Molecular) Biology. If you have had prior training in all three subjects, you are directly admissible, if in two, your GPA should be 6.5 on the dutch 10 point scale (the VU international office will translate your grades); if in one key subject, your GPA needs to be 7.0.
Create an enrollment application in Studielink
Complete your application in Vuweb
CV
1 or 2 Letters of recommendation
Letter of Motivation
Transcript of records
Thesis
A description of the relevant courses followed and literature used during your previous higher education

Student insurance

Make sure to cover your health, travel, and stay while studying abroad. Even global coverages can miss important items, so make sure your student insurance ticks all the following:

Additional medical costs (i.e. dental)
Repatriation, if something happens to you or your family
Liability
Home contents and baggage
Accidents
Legal aid

We partnered with Aon to provide you with the best affordable student insurance, for a carefree experience away from home.

Get your student insurance now

Starting from €0.53/day, free cancellation any time.

Remember, countries and universities may have specific insurance requirements. To learn more about how student insurance work at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam and/or in Netherlands, please visit Student Insurance Portal.

Tuition Fee

To always see correct tuition fees

International

23490 EUR/year

Tuition Fee

Based on the tuition of 23490 EUR per year during 24 months.
EU/EEA

2601 EUR/year

Tuition Fee

Based on the tuition of 2601 EUR per year during 24 months.

Living costs for Amsterdam

1000 - 1500 EUR /month

Living costs

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

In order for us to give you accurate scholarship information, we ask that you please confirm a few details and create an account with us.

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for Bioinformatics and Systems Biology.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

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