Studying bioinformatics in Canada will give you the knowledge to combine computers and biology to manage biological information through computer tools. Canada has the best resources and leading-edge technology to prepare students for a successful career in this in-demand field.
Studying bioinformatics in Canada also offers excellent career opportunities for graduates as well as opportunities for students to gain hands-on experience. However, you need to have the right qualifications and requirements before you can get admitted to study bioinformatics in Canada.
In this piece, I will walk you through the steps and requirements needed for studying bioinformatics in Canada.
Requirements Needed for Studying Bioinformatics in Canada
-
Complete your Secondary Education
You must have a high school degree before you can study bioinformatics in Canada. Additionally, you should have a strong foundation in science subjects such as mathematics, physics, biology, Chemistry, and English in your high school results. A good knowledge of computer science is also recommended. Therefore, you must have completed 12 years of education or equivalent. However, this can differ across universities in Canada.
-
Meet the Aggregate Score
The minimum aggregate required for your 12th-grade result is from 75% to 85%. Additionally, your grades should be a minimum of a B average.
-
English Proficiency Test
You will be required to write an English Language proficiency test if English is not your first language. Additionally, you must show proof of your English proficiency test. It can be tests such as IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE. This test can vary based on the university you apply to. Additionally, each school will have the minimum score that you should have in the English test.
-
Have Academic Transcripts
You must submit an academic transcript of your previous education. This transcript must contain all your courses and grades that you have studied. Additionally, this transcript must be an official one and it must be written in English.
-
Have Reference Letters
You must submit at least two reference letters during your application. This reference letter should be from a teacher or an employer. Therefore, reference letters from friends or family will be rejected.
-
Statement of Purpose
Some schools in Canada may require you to write a statement of purpose. This is an essay that will explain why you want to study bioinformatics in Canada and your career plans. Additionally, you should check the school’s website to know the amount of words that you are required to write in your statement of purpose.
Requirements to Obtain a Master’s Degree in Bioinformatics
-
Obtain a Bachelor’s Degree
You must have a bachelor’s degree before you can study master’s in bioinformatics in Canada. This bachelor’s degree must be a 4-year program from a recognized university. Additionally, this bachelor’s degree must be in life science or a related field. Additionally, you must submit your academic transcript showing all the grades and courses you offered.
-
English Proficiency Test
You will be required to write an English Language proficiency test if English is not your first language. Additionally, you must show proof of your English proficiency test. The minimum test scores can vary depending on the country and the university you are applying to.
-
Write a Statement of Purpose
You must write a statement of purpose explaining your qualifications, your plans as well and the reason why you are choosing to study bioinformatics in Canada. Additionally, this essay must be 1-2 pages long.
-
Letters of Recommendation
You must submit at least three recommendation letters during your application. These letters must be obtained from an employer or a previous lecturer. Therefore, recommendation letters from a friend or family will be rejected.
-
Submit your CV
Your CV should contain all the relevant work experiences you have in this field. Additionally, you can include all the projects you have carried out in this field.
How to Apply
You can apply to study bioinformatics through the university’s website. Additionally, some universities might require you to pay an application fee while making your application. You should also make sure you submit all the required documents that are needed.
Duration
The duration of studying bioinformatics in Canada varies based on the degree you want to acquire. A bachelor’s degree in bioinformatics lasts for four years. However, a master’s degree lasts for about one to two years.
Tuition Fees
The tuition fees for studying bioinformatics in Canada vary based on the university you study in. Additionally, International students pay higher tuition fees. Generally, the tuition fee for studying bioinformatics in Canada is between CA$14,000 – CA$65,000.
Universities in Canada that offer Bioinformatics
- University of Toronto, Ontario
- University of British Columbia, Vancouver
- McGill University, Quebec State
- University of Alberta, Edmonton
- McMaster University, Ontario
- University of Montreal, Quebec State
- University of Ottawa, Ontario
- Laval University, Quebec State
- University of Calgary, Alberta
- Western University, Ontario
- Dalhousie University, Nova Scotia
- University of Manitoba, Winnipeg
- Queen’s University, Ontario
- University of Guelph, Ontario
- Simon Fraser University, British Columbia
- University of Waterloo, Ontario
- University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon
- York University, Ontario
- University of Sherbrooke, Quebec State
- University of Victoria, British Columbia
- Memorial University of Newfoundland, Newfoundland and Labrador
- Concordia University, Quebec State
- University of Quebec in Montreal, Quebec State
- University of New Brunswick, New Brunswick
- Carleton University, Ontario
- University of Windsor, Ontario
- Wilfrid Laurier University, Ontario
- University of Lethbridge, Alberta
- Brock University, Ontario
- Polytechnic School of Montreal, Quebec State
- Trent University, Ontario
- Laurentian University, Ontario
- Ryerson University, Ontario
- University of Quebec, Trois-Rivieres, Quebec State
- University of Regina, Saskatchewan
- Lakehead University, Ontario
- University of Prince Edward Island, Prince Edward Island
- Saint Mary’s University, Nova Scotia
- University of Moncton, New Brunswick
- University of Winnipeg, Manitoba
In Conclusion, studying bioinformatics in Canada can bring tremendous growth to your career journey. However, you need to have the required foundation and qualifications to be able to study bioinformatics in Canada. Additionally, you need to make sure that you make your applications early enough before the deadline. You can reach out to us for further inquiries and assistance.
Good luck!
Related Articles
- A Career in Bioinformatics
- Studying Bioinformatics in Germany
- Studying Bioinformatics in the USA
- Studying Bioinformatics in the United Kingdom
- Studying Bioinformatics in Australia