Degree Apprenticeship Undergraduate: BSc (Hons) Data Scientist (Bioinformatics) Data Scientist (Bioinformatics)

Introduction

Develop and enhance a unique skillset to help answer some of the biggest scientific questions we have left to answer with our Data Scientist (Bioinformatics) Degree Apprenticeship. Study for an honours degree in Bioinformatics while you work, with no tuition fees.

Course highlights

  • Developed in partnership with the world-renowned Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute
  • You’ll work alongside industry experts in some of the world’s most advanced scientific companies
  • Course materials have been co-written by renowned bioinformaticians and scientists

This course will focus on the development of a unique skillset that brings data science together with software engineering, computational biology and mathematics. It’s ideal if you’re passionate about coding, programming and algorithms and want to use your knowledge to help answer some of the biggest scientific questions left to answer.

Key facts

A new and exciting career path: hear from the experts

How to build your career in Bioinformatics

Want to know more about this new and exciting career path? Our video demystifies bioinformatics and explains how you could build a fulfilling career with the UK’s first Data Scientist Degree Apprenticeship for the bioinformatics profession.

An apprenticeship is a job with training, combining practical experience with academic learning.


At least 20% of your contracted working hours will be classed as 'off-the-job'. This time will be dedicated to developing the knowledge and skills needed to meet the requirements of the apprenticeship, and therefore is not part of your usual work duties.


The off-the-job learning will be delivered through online University-led learning sessions and activities, one-day workshops, and practical learning experiences in your usual work setting.


The Data Scientist (Bioinformatics) Degree Apprenticeship is taught via a blended format combining weekly teaching on our Cambridge campus, together with online resources.


Assessment

You will be assessed at the end of each module you undertake (on-programme assessments) which will contribute towards the final award of your qualification.


You will also undertake an End Point Assessment (EPA) to complete your apprenticeship.


The EPA for this apprenticeship is integrated into the on-programme assessments. Therefore, on successful completion of your degree, you will also complete the apprenticeship.

An academic and industry partnership

Developed with Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute

We've worked with the world-renowned Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute to develop the BSc (Hons) Bioinformatics degree. It is the UK’s first Data Science Degree Apprenticeship for the bioinformatics profession, and a pioneering initiative to develop trained early career bioinformaticians.

Careers

There's a wide range of career opportunities available in the emerging, exciting field of bioinformatics. Plant science, marine bioinformatics, human health, wearable technologies and home genetics testing are just some of the fields you could work in.

Entry requirements

In addition to the person specifications that have been set out by your employer, these are the entry requirements for the course.

  • Employment in a suitable role on a permanent contract exceeding 30 hours per week
  • Employer support to undertake this course, with a confirmed, assigned Clinical Designated Facilitator
  • Confirmed eligibility to be funded as an apprentice as set out within the ESFA’s Funding Rules
  • A completed Initial Needs Assessment Form
  • Evidence of Level 2 qualifications in 4 subjects including Maths and English e.g. GCSEs at Grade B/5 or above, Functional Skills, or ESFA-approved equivalents*
  • Evidence of at least 112 UCAS Tariff points at Level 3 including grade B/5 in at least one STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Maths) subject, Maths desirable. e.g. A Levels (or equivalent)**
  • If English is not your first language, you will be expected to demonstrate a certificated level of proficiency of at least IELTS 6.5 or equivalent English language qualification, as recognised by ARU.

Apply now

How to apply

To apply for an apprenticeship, you need to have the support of your employer. If you already have the support of your employer or have any questions before talking to them, please do not hesitate to contact one of our apprenticeship experts who will be happy to help.

For employers

If you have any questions or would like to discuss any aspect of degree apprenticeships, then our dedicated Degrees at Work team are here to help. Get in touch today on the details above or take a look at our information for employers.

Current vacancies

Apprenticeship vacancies

To be eligible to apply for one of our degree apprenticeships, you'll first need to be in a full-time position with one of our partner employers. Follow the links below to view our current vacancies and sign up to receive email alerts when new vacancies become available.

Browse current vacancies

Register your interest

to keep up to date with vacancies from our partner employers

Find out more about apprenticeships at an Open Day

20 Jan 24

Book now