At the intersection of biology, mathematics and computer science sits computational biology.

This unique discipline requires a unique qualification, and the Master of Computational Biology, the first of its kind in Australia, builds specialist skills in bioinformatics, systems biology, and biological and ecological modelling.

You'll also develop complementary skills in business, communications and general scientific acumen.

In demand globally

Computational biology is a growing, in-demand discipline, and jobs requiring these skills are constantly emerging and evolving.

We are already using computational biology to track and control the outbreak of disease, to improve our environmental practices and manage animal populations, and to understand the role of genomes in defining our appearance.

Imagine what we'll be doing next.

A course tailored for you

You'll take a customised first year based on your academic background, followed by a combination of core, elective and project subjects to suit your interests during your second and third years.

If you already have a background in computational biology, you can gain up to 1 year of advanced standing towards your Master of Computational Biology.

Located in the heart of the Melbourne Biomedical Precinct

You’ll benefit from our close connections to the 30 hospitals, medical research organisations and biotechnology institutes that make up the Melbourne Biomedical Precinct – all within a short walk of the University of Melbourne.

Develop your skills with real-world problems

You’ll leave the course with a major project to feature in your CV. You’ll apply your computational biology knowledge to real-world problems with a project in either industry or research (or both).

If you’d like to gain even more real-world experience, you can choose to complete an internship in a science or technology-related workplace for course credit.

More than just technical skills

We know that soft skills are important too, which is why you can choose subjects on scientific communication, leadership and business tools so you’ll be ready to start your career in computational biology with confidence.

Our graduates go on to work as bioinformaticians, computational biologists, academic researchers (in biology, applied mathematics and computational science), data scientists, business analysts, public health consultants and software engineers.

Employers in this field include:

• Medical research institutes such as the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute, the Garvan Institute of Medical Research and the Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute
• Government departments of defence, health, innovation, agriculture, environment and economic development
• Research hospitals such as Murdoch Children’s Research Institute and the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre
• Research-focused companies such as CSL, GSK and IBM
• Universities and public research institutions.