Masters in Life Science Informatics

Entry requirements

You can apply to the Master’s Programme in Life Science Informatics if you meet the following criteria:

1. You have completed a first-cycle (bachelor’s) degree at a higher education institution in Finland or abroad, or will do so by 31 August 2026.
2. You have sufficient skills in Finnish, Swedish or English.
3. You have completed a sufficient amount of studies applicable to the master’s programme.

Months of entry

September

Course content

Master’s Programme in Life Science Informatics (LSI)

The Master’s Programme in Life Science Informatics (LSI) is intended for students with a background in mathematics, computer science, or statistics, as well as for life science students with sufficient quantitative training. Admission requires at least 25 credits in one and 15 credits in another of the three fields: mathematics, computer science, and statistics.

How the programme is structured

1. Introductory courses across different study tracks provide a broad foundation and help you choose your specialisation.
2. During the first autumn semester, each specialisation area offers an introductory course. By the beginning of the spring semester, you are expected to have selected your study direction. The available study tracks are:
   • Bioinformatics and Systems Medicine
   • Biostatistics
   • Mathematical and Statistical Ecology
3. You can combine advanced studies in your chosen track with courses from other tracks or programmes (such as biology, medicine, computer science, mathematics, and others) according to your personal study plan.
4. Academic mentors are available to support you in planning your studies.
5. You may complete a Master’s thesis based on cutting-edge research, working closely with an experienced researcher as your supervisor.

Why study Life Science Informatics?

Graduates of the Life Science Informatics programme will:

• Gain strong expertise for careers in life science research and specialist roles in both public and private sectors
• Understand key principles of mathematical modelling, computational methods, probability, and statistical analysis of biological data, with advanced expertise in one chosen specialisation
• Develop the ability to apply scientific reasoning and critically evaluate research-based information
• Gain experience in conducting scientific research and producing new knowledge
• Learn to communicate and report scientific findings effectively
• Acquire transferable skills relevant to fields where informatics and quantitative data analysis are essential
• Be well prepared for continued academic studies at the doctoral level

Information for international students

https://www.instagram.com/universityofhelsinki/

Fees and funding