Undergraduate: BSc (Hons) Data Scientist Data Scientist (bioinformatics route)
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 Degree Apprenticeship. Study for an honours degree in Data Science, specialising in bioinformatics, while you work, with no tuition fees.
Course highlights
- Developed in partnership with recognised industry leaders
- 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
An apprenticeship is a job with training, combining practical experience with academic learning.
A proportion of your contracted hours will be classed as ‘off the job’. This time will be dedicated to developing the knowledge and skills needed to develop occupational competence and meet the requirements of the apprenticeship.
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 Degree Apprenticeship is taught via a blended format combining occasional 'block' 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 and Industrial partners in the bioinformatics and drug discovery sector to develop this degree apprenticeship. It is the UK’s first Data Science Degree Apprenticeship for the bioinformatics profession, and a pioneering initiative to develop trained early career bioinformaticians.
What our apprentices say
Charlie
"I chose the apprenticeship route because I believe it is a more engaging, more effective and more reliable way to learn the skills and knowledge in this field.”
CharlieData Scientist (Bioinformatics) Degree Apprentice
Beth
"I’m so happy that I chose this route. I’m very lucky to be getting a degree without the student debt, while earning and gaining valuable experience.”
BethData Scientist (Bioinformatics) Degree Apprentice
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
- Confirmed eligibility to be funded as an apprentice as set out within the ESFA’s Funding Rules
- A completed Skills Scan and Initial Assessment discussion
The minimum academic entry requirements are as follows:
- 96 UCAS tariff points
- 3 A levels at grade CCC with at least one STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering or Maths) subject; Maths desirable
- BTEC National Diploma DMM (Distinction, Merit, Merit) in a STEM subject
- Access to HE Qualification
- All appropriate and equivalent, UK and international, Level 3 (and above) qualifications will be considered.
- In addition, applicants will need to have 5 GCSEs at grades C / 4 or above (or equivalent) including English and Maths
Applicants who do not meet the above requirements will be considered on a case-by-case basis and may require an interview.
There is a government requirement for apprenticeship candidates to present suitable GCSE/ Level 2 Maths and English (or equivalent) certificates to complete an apprenticeship.
If you have a candidate who will not meet the Level 2 Literacy and Numeracy requirements, at the point of entry to the course, please contact your Degrees at Work Consultant to discuss implications and options. The offer of a place cannot be assured for applicants who have not yet completed these foundational qualifications.
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.
