The rapid development in the field of Bioinformatics in current decade have made it possible to deal with enormously big and complicated data coming from NGS and other related technologies. One of the biggest implications of post genomic age is that now there is a gradual shift from focusing on a single gene or single protein or single type of interaction to study the entire Biological systems instead. To keep up with this revolution in the field of computational life sciences, we are introducing the one-year diploma program, namely Diploma in Bioinformatics. The program will comprise two semesters with five courses in each semester. Those courses are chosen for this diploma which will strengthen the theoretical as well as experimental grip of students. As the focus of the diploma will be a system level approach in Bioinformatics, students in the second semester will have the opportunity to choose any of the two major tracks of System Biology namely, Genomics and Proteomics track respectively. This diploma will be of great value for students having background in Biological sciences, medical sciences, agricultural sciences and computer sciences as they can apply the knowledge they would gain from this diploma to enhance a whole spectrum of applications in their own field.

The objectives of Diploma in Bioinformatics program are:

1. To enhance Leaner’s knowledge of modern molecular biology approaches.
2. To make him more skilled in computational analysis.
3. To introduce the students to software development tools.
4. To train the students in dealing with web based genomic databases.
5. To produce professionals who have good grip in the field of System Biology and Bioinformatics.
6. They will be able to understand basic concepts in the field of system Biology and Bioinformatics.
7. They will be able to analyze Biological data and interpreted it in proper scientific way.
8. This diploma will reinforce and strengthen their previous credentials.

Minimum bachelor’s degree (14 years) from a recognized university/ institute in relevant fields of computer Science/ Biological/ Life Sciences with at least 45% marks or CGPA 2.00 out of 4. No additional prerequisite will be required.

Note:

• “Zero  Semester” is not applicable.

• Seats are available on an open merit basis, exclusively for eligible students within Pakistan.

Course Exemption:

Course(s) exemption is not allowed.

Duration:

It is a one-year duration program that comprises two semesters. Each semester has 18 weeks duration.

The students’ study progress evaluation mechanism is based on continuous assessment throughout the semester by giving assignments, quizzes, Graded discussion board (GDBs), course practical’s (where in applicable), mid-term and final term examinations as per VUP guidelines.

To become eligible for the award of Diploma in bioinformatics, a student is required to complete at least 30 credit hours course work including practical with minimum CGPA of 2.00 out of 4.

Practicals:

Participation in practical classes of a course(s) will be compulsory for a student to qualify respective course(s). Each student will participate in practical classes at the VU designated lab cities which were allocated at the time of admission. List of the VU Lab cities is published on VU website link www.vu.edu.pk >> Home >> Admission Schedule

Note: The University admits students of Biological sciences programs on merit as per the available seats against each lab city during the admission session. Once a student is admitted against a particular lab preference then he/she will not be allowed to change his/her lab city after admission.