Overview

The Biology - Bioinformatics M.Sc. at the University of Ottawa provides an advanced interdisciplinary platform for students to explore the intersection of biological sciences and computational technology. This collaborative programme is designed to address fundamental questions regarding the function and evolution of biological entities through sophisticated data analysis. Students benefit from a rigorous academic environment that combines the expertise of multiple departments to foster innovation in health and industry.

Why Biology - Bioinformatics at the University of Ottawa?

This programme is part of the Ottawa-Carleton Institute of Biology, a historic partnership established in 1984 that unites the research strengths of the University of Ottawa and Carleton University. Students gain unparalleled access to the combined facilities, faculty expertise, and diverse course offerings of both institutions. The university ranks among Canada’s top 10 research universities, providing a vibrant community that thrives in strategic areas such as lifelong health, wellness, and the digital world.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: CAD 9721 per semester
National fee: CAD 2844 per semester

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

Modules may include:

Research and Communication in Biology
Bioinformatics
MSc Seminar
Next-Generation Sequence Data
Molecular Methods
Applied Biostatistics
Molecular Genetics
Evolutionary Biology
Aquatic Sciences

Careers with Biology - Bioinformatics

Graduates of this programme are equipped for diverse roles in sectors where biological data and computational analysis intersect. The training provided supports career paths in biotechnology, pharmaceutical research, and environmental consultancy. By understanding the basic principles of multiple disciplines, alumni are prepared to contribute to innovations in human health and disease management within both industrial and academic settings. The programme also offers a fast-track option for eligible students to transition directly into doctoral studies, facilitating a path toward high-level research and leadership roles.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Biotechnology

Ecology

Biochemistry

Applied Biochemistry

Neuroethology

Bioinformatics

Biophysical Techniques

Advances in Protein Engineering

Molecular Methods

Ethnobotany and Ethnopharmacology

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 24 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-01-11 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-09-01 00:00:00
Starting 2027-05-04 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-02-01 00:00:00
Starting 2027-09-09 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-02-01 00:00:00

Language

English

TOEFL^® IBT

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IELTS

6.5

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Credits

60 alternative credits

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Ottawa, Canada

Disciplines

Biology Bioinformatics & Biostatistics Genetics View 20 other Masters in Genetics in Canada

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Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

TOEFL^® IBT

Schedule TOEFL®

PTE Academic

Schedule a PTE test!

IELTS

6.5

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

Have a bachelor’s degree in with a specialization, or a major in Biology (or equivalent) with a minimum average of 70% (B).

Demonstrate a good academic performance in previous studies as shown by official transcripts, research reports, abstracts or any other documents demonstrating research skills.

2 Recommendation letters

Transcripts

Resume

Letter of intent outlining your career goals and proposed research area.

We recommend that you contact potential thesis supervisors early. To register, you need to be accepted by a thesis supervisor.

International students must show proof of funding in the form of a supervisor stipend and a combination of scholarships and/or in-trust accounts.

A good knowledge of either English or French and good ability to write in English is required.

Student Insurance via Studyportals Partner

Make sure to cover your health, travel, and stay while studying abroad. Even global coverages can miss important items like Additional medical costs, Repatriation, Liability etc. Make sure your student insurance covers your needs.

Studyportals 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 University of Ottawa and/or in Canada, please visit Student Insurance Portal.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

19442 CAD / year

≈ 19442 CAD / year
Domestic Applies to you

Applies to you

Citizens or residents

5688 CAD / year

≈ 5688 CAD / year

Additional Details

Ontario residents: $2,456.70/ semester

Living costs

Ottawa

Canada

1168 - 1925 CAD / month

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.

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Scholarships Information

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

Available Scholarships

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

On this page

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Student Insurance via Studyportals Partner

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic Applies to you

Additional Details

Living costs

Ottawa

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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