The Bioinformatics teaching/training initiatives in the University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur was initiated in 1998 through collaboration among academics from various disciplines in the university.

Before that, in late 1980s , several academics in the biological departments have been teaching various IT related biology courses within biology programmes such as:-

1989 - Student project "Computer analysis of chromosome morphology in the Commelinaceae"

1995 - Student project "Image analysis of polytene chromosome banding patterns"

1994 - SN334 Instrumentation and Computer Programming

1996 - SNES3102 Biocomputing

1998 - STES3104 Computing and Bioinformation

1998 - STES3102 Electronics in Biology

The University Senate approved the introduction of a new and innovative BSc (Bioinformatics) degree programme on 7 April 1999, followed by the Ministry of Education on the 22nd. October 1999.

The programme started with 15 undergraduates majoring in Bioinformatics in 1999.

Career prospects

• Bioinformatics Researcher
• Laboratory Facilities Manager
• Pharmaceutical Research Technician
• Research Data Technician
• Teacher / Professor

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

LOCAL STUDENTS

A Malaysian candidate who wishes to pursue a programme of study at the University of Malaya must fulfill the University's entry requirements as follows:
(1) Pass the Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) with a credit (Grade C) in Bahasa Melayu/Bahasa Malaysia subject
or
a credit (Grade C) in Bahasa Melayu/Bahasa Malaysia July papers and pass in History (SPM 2013 and above);
and
(2) Achieve a minimum Band in the Malaysian University English Test (MUET) as required in special requirements of the programme.
and
(3) Have fulfilled all special requirements of the programme as may be prescribed by the Senate

INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS

 National Higher School Certificate (or an Advanced Level equivalent) with the percentage of 80% and above
or
• A Diploma from recognized Institutions with at least a CGPA of 3.00.
• Applicant may be required to undergo an interview session for certain selected programmes before being accepted by the respective faculties.

ENGLISH LANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS

Students must obtain:
• TOEFL score of 500 (PBT), 173 (CBT) or 60 (IBT) and above
or
• IELTS Band 5.0 - 6.5 and above Without any of the above English proficiency certificates, students that have been accepted would be issued with a conditional offer letter for subsequent fulfillment of the English language requirements.
Applications must be submitted online at apply.um.edu.my
• For the latest English Language Requirements please refer here