Kerala University M.Sc Bioinformatics: Fees 2026, Course Duration, Dates, Eligibility

Ans. Kerala University conducts its own CSS PG entrance examination for admission to the M.Sc Bioinformatics programme and does not list CUET-PG as an accepted criterion. Candidates must appear for the university-conducted exam, which consists of 100 objective-type questions in a 2-hour OMR-based format with 0.25 negative marking for incorrect answers. Admission is based on the PG rank list published by the university after the entrance test.

Ans. Graduates can pursue research roles in genomics, proteomics, and drug discovery at biotechnology companies, pharmaceutical firms, and research institutions. Many graduates appear for CSIR-UGC NET or DBT-JRF examinations to secure research fellowships and pursue PhD programmes. Career paths also include bioinformatics analyst, data scientist in life sciences, and positions at government research bodies such as ICMR, CSIR-funded laboratories, and DBT-supported centres.

Ans. Admission is based on performance in the university-conducted CSS PG entrance examination. Seats are categorised as merit, community, management, and reserved. SC/ST candidates admitted to vacant seats and sponsored candidates are exempt from the entrance exam requirement. Final allotment is done through a centralised process based on the PG rank list, and candidates must complete fee payment within the window specified in the allotment order to confirm the seat.

Ans. Yes, students with a B.Sc in Computer Science or Information Technology are eligible to apply in addition to life science graduates from Bioinformatics, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Microbiology, Zoology, and Botany backgrounds. The relevant bioinformatics or life science subject must have been studied as a main or subsidiary course in the undergraduate programme. A minimum of 50% aggregate marks in the qualifying degree is also required.

Ans. Kerala University’s Kariavattom campus has hostel facilities for postgraduate students. Availability is subject to the university’s internal allotment process and the number of seats available each year. Candidates are advised to contact the university hostel office or the Bioinformatics department directly to enquire about current availability, fees, and how to apply for accommodation for the 2026-27 academic year.

Ans. The curriculum covers a broad range of subjects including genomics and proteomics, structural bioinformatics, sequence analysis, molecular modelling, and computational biology. Students are trained in bioinformatics tools and databases used for sequence alignment, protein structure prediction, and drug-target interaction studies. Practical laboratory components complement the theoretical coursework across the four semesters of the programme.