
MSc Data Science for Drug Discovery
University of East AngliaNorwich Research Park, Norwich
Course overview
The future of drug discovery is data-driven, and this MSc places you at the intersection of computational innovation and biomedical science. As pharmaceutical research increasingly relies on AI, machine learning, and predictive modelling to accelerate the development of new medicines, employers are seeking scientists who can integrate digital tools with deep biological and chemical insight. This programme equips you with exactly those capabilities.
At UEA, you’ll gain advanced training in data science, cheminformatics, bioinformatics and AI‑assisted molecular design, learning how to analyse complex chemical and biological datasets that underpin modern drug discovery. You’ll develop fluency in Python, statistics, machine learning, and data visualisation, whilst also building the ability to model molecular systems, predict properties, and identify promising drug targets in silico before they reach the lab. Drawing on the world-leading expertise of the Norwich Research Park, you’ll explore every stage of the drug discovery pipeline—from target identification and hit discovery, through optimisation, to understanding how medicines progress towards the market.
Through interactive teaching, hands-on computational work, laboratory experience, and case-study-driven learning, you’ll develop both technical depth and practical insight.
Key highlights
- Advanced training in cheminformatics, bioinformatics and AI-assisted molecular design
- Develop skills in Python, statistics, machine learning and data visualisation
- Model molecular systems and predict drug targets in silico
- Covers the full drug discovery pipeline from target identification to market
- Draws on expertise from the Norwich Research Park
- Combines hands-on computational work, laboratory experience and case studies
Entry requirements
- Degree: 2:2 — Typical UK Entry Requirements: Degree classification Bachelors degree - 2.2 Degree Subject Pharmacology, Chemistry (organic or medicinal), pharmacy or related subjects (including Biochemistry and Biomedical Science)
Careers this course leads to
- Computational chemist
- Cheminformatics scientist
- Bioinformatician
- Data scientist (pharmaceutical industry)
- Machine learning scientist in drug discovery
- Drug discovery research scientist
Cost of study
UK/Home: £12,350 per year | International: £25,700 per year
Admission
Applications are made through AHZ at no cost. Share your transcripts, English test scores and personal statement, and your AHZ Counsellor will review your profile, submit your application to University of East Anglia, and guide you through interview, offer, CAS and visa — right up to enrolment.
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