BSc (hons) Bioinformatics Genomics (Foundation Year)

The BSc (Hons) Bioinformatics & Genomics with Foundation Year at the University of West London is designed to help you build confidence in science and data from the ground up, before progressing into the exciting world of genomics and bioinformatics. It’s ideal for students who are interested in biology and technology but want extra preparation before starting degree-level study, combining supportive teaching with a clear pathway into a fast-growing scientific field.

Curriculum structure:
This four-year programme begins with a foundation year to strengthen your scientific knowledge and academic skills, followed by three years of undergraduate study focused on genomics, bioinformatics, and applied research.

Foundation Year:
You’ll start by developing essential scientific understanding and study skills needed for success at university level. This year focuses on core biological science, introductory chemistry, and academic and laboratory skills, helping you gain confidence with scientific concepts, data handling, and practical work in a supportive learning environment.

Year 1:
In your first year of the honours degree, you’ll move into key life science subjects through modules such as Cell Biology and Molecular Structures, where you explore how cells function at a molecular level, alongside Fundamentals of Genetics and Genomics, introducing you to how genetic information is organised and expressed. You’ll also begin developing analytical and digital skills that underpin bioinformatics.

Year 2:
The second year focuses on applying biological knowledge to real data. You’ll study Genomics and Bioinformatics, learning how DNA sequence data is generated, analysed, and interpreted, and develop computational skills for handling biological datasets. This year strengthens your ability to combine laboratory understanding with data analysis and problem-solving.

Final Year:
In your final year, you’ll tackle more advanced topics and complete an independent research project in bioinformatics or genomics. This project allows you to investigate a topic that interests you, work with real biological data, and demonstrate your ability to apply both scientific and analytical skills at graduate level.

Focus areas:
Foundation science and academic skills, molecular and cell biology, genetics and genomics, bioinformatics and data analysis, computational biology, independent research.

Learning outcomes:
Graduates will be able to understand and analyse biological and genomic data, apply bioinformatics tools and computational methods, integrate laboratory and digital approaches, carry out independent research, and communicate scientific findings effectively.

Professional alignment (accreditation):
The course is designed with strong industry relevance, combining biological science and data analysis skills that align with careers in genomics research, healthcare science, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and data-driven life sciences.

Reputation (employability rankings):
The University of West London is recognised for its strong focus on employability and applied learning, and this programme reflects growing employer demand for graduates who can work confidently across biology, data, and technology.