BSc Hons Data Scientist (Bioinformatics) Degree Apprenticeship

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Anglia Ruskin University Cambridge Campus

Program Overview

This degree apprenticeship combines bioinformatics and data science, equipping students with the skills to analyze complex biological data and solve real-world scientific problems. The program blends academic study with workplace experience, allowing students to apply computational methods, statistical analysis, and bioinformatics tools in professional settings.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1
Students gain foundational knowledge in biological sciences, programming, mathematics, and statistics. Laboratory and computer-based practicals introduce core bioinformatics techniques and data handling skills, providing a base for more advanced study.

Year 2
The second year focuses on intermediate bioinformatics and computational biology, including modules in molecular biology, genomics, data analytics, and software tools for biological research. Practical exercises emphasize independent data analysis and computational problem-solving.

Year 3
Students study advanced bioinformatics topics, including machine learning applications, systems biology, and computational modeling. Workplace projects and applied research exercises allow students to integrate academic knowledge with practical bioinformatics applications in industry settings.

Year 4
The final year is dedicated to an extended research or industry-based project, providing students with the opportunity to conduct independent investigations and develop professional competencies. Optional modules further enhance skills in data science, bioinformatics programming, and applied computational biology.

Focus Areas
The program emphasizes bioinformatics, computational biology, data science, genomics, and statistical analysis applied to biological and biomedical research.

Learning Outcomes
Graduates develop expertise in computational biology, bioinformatics tools, data analysis, and problem-solving. They are prepared for careers in biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, healthcare analytics, or further postgraduate study.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)
The program aligns with professional standards for bioinformatics and data science, ensuring graduates are workplace-ready and meet industry expectations.

Reputation (Employability & Graduate Outcomes)
Anglia Ruskin University is recognized for its applied science and industry-linked programs. Graduates benefit from the apprenticeship structure, gaining practical experience alongside academic study, making them highly employable in bioinformatics, data science, biotechnology, and healthcare sectors.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

This unique degree apprenticeship combines bioinformatics, data science, and real-world industry experience. Students learn to analyse complex biological datasets using computational and statistical techniques, gaining skills in programming, machine learning, and data visualisation, while simultaneously working within a partner organisation. The programme integrates academic learning with practical industry projects, preparing students for careers in bioinformatics, biotechnology, healthcare analytics, or further postgraduate study.

Experiential Learning Highlights:

  • Industry Placement: Structured apprenticeship component where students work with partner organisations, applying classroom knowledge to real-world bioinformatics and data science problems.
  • Laboratory and Computational Training: Hands-on experience with molecular biology techniques, genomics datasets, and bioinformatics software.
  • Independent Research Project: Final-year research project allowing students to design experiments, analyse large biological datasets, and present findings.
  • Programming & Data Analysis: Training in Python, R, SQL, and other programming languages for data handling, statistical analysis, and modelling.
  • Collaborative Projects: Team-based projects integrating biology, computing, and data analytics to solve complex scientific questions.
  • Digital Tools & Software: Use of bioinformatics platforms, computational biology tools, and data visualisation software.
  • Professional Skills Development: Focus on scientific communication, project management, teamwork, and problem-solving within an industry context.
  • Access to Facilities: Modern laboratories, computing suites, and library resources support both academic and practical learning.

Why This Programme Stands Out:
This degree apprenticeship uniquely combines in-depth bioinformatics training with hands-on industry experience. Graduates gain practical skills, professional competencies, and research experience, making them highly employable in biotechnology, healthcare analytics, and bioinformatics sectors, while also qualifying for potential postgraduate study.

 

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates gain expertise in bioinformatics, data analysis, computational biology, and machine learning applied to life sciences, preparing them for careers in biotechnology, healthcare data science, pharmaceutical research, and computational biology consultancy. Typical roles include Bioinformatics Analyst, Computational Biologist, Data Scientist, Genomics Researcher, and Clinical Data Analyst. Graduates are also well-prepared for postgraduate study in related fields.

  • University Services That Support Your Career
    • Anglia Ruskin Careers & Employability Service offers CV reviews, interview preparation, mentoring, and employer networking.
    • Opportunities for industry placements, research projects, and degree apprenticeship integration.
    • Support for enterprise initiatives and data-driven project development.
  • Employment Stats & Salary Figures
    • High employability due to the apprenticeship model, combining academic learning with practical industry experience.
    • Starting salaries typically range from £28,000–£38,000, often higher due to apprenticeship industry connections.
  • University–Industry Partnerships
    • Close collaboration with biotech, pharmaceutical, and healthcare organizations for apprenticeship placements.
    • Hands-on experience through industry-led projects and applied research.
  • Accreditation & Long-Term Value
    • Degree recognized by professional bodies in computational biology and bioinformatics.
    • Provides strong foundations for careers in data-driven life sciences and biotechnology sectors.
  • Graduation Outcomes
    • Alumni pursue careers in bioinformatics, computational biology, biotech analytics, and pharmaceutical research.
    • Many continue to MSc or PhD programs in bioinformatics, computational biology, or data science.

Further Academic Progression

  • MSc degrees in Bioinformatics, Computational Biology, Data Science, or Biotechnology Analytics
  • PhD research in computational genomics, systems biology, or machine learning applications in life sciences
  • Professional pathways in biotech data consultancy, clinical research analytics, or biotech innovation management

Program Key Stats

£N/A (Annual cost)
£ 29
Sept Intake : 15th Jan


Eligibility Criteria

CCC
N/A
N/A
N/A

N/A
N/A
6.5
80

Additional Information & Requirements

Career Options

  • Bioinformatician – analyze biological data using computational and statistical tools
  • Genomic Data Analyst – interpret DNA RNA and protein sequence data for research and healthcare
  • Computational Biologist – model biological processes and systems using software and algorithms
  • Data Scientist in Life Sciences – apply data analytics to large scale biological datasets
  • Biomedical Research Assistant – support laboratory and computational research projects
  • Software Developer for Biomedicine – design tools and pipelines for biological data analysis
  • Genetic Technologist – combine genetics and computational methods for research
  • Clinical Data Analyst – manage and interpret clinical trial data
  • Research Assistant – contribute to academic or industrial bioinformatics projects
  • Further Study Candidate – progress to postgraduate degrees or professional research qualifications

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