Biological and Life Sciences Division - Programs - MBZUAI

Your Path to
Digital Health Innovation

Your Path to Digital Health Innovation
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Our Programs

M.Sc. in Computational Biology

Build expertise in computational biology, AI, and health data science through research-driven study.

  • 2 years full-time
  • 36 credits
  • Core + elective courses, internship, and thesis
  • Fully funded with competitive stipend
Career paths:
Biotech
Healthcare
Research
AI

Program Structure

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  • 4 Core Courses (16 credits)
    Foundational computational biology curriculum
  • 2 Elective Courses (8 credits)
    Customize your learning path
  • Internship (2 credits)
    Real-world industry experience
  • Research Methods Course (2 credits)
    Essential research skills
  • Master's Research Thesis (8 credits)
    Original research contribution

Career Outcomes

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  • Doctoral degree programs
  • Careers in biotechnology and healthcare industries
  • Research positions in academia
  • AI and data science roles in the life sciences sector

Ph.D. in Computational Biology

Drive innovation in digital health through advanced, original research guided by world-class faculty.

  • 4 years full-time
  • 60 credits
  • Research-intensive with dissertation & publications
  • Fully funded with competitive stipend
Career paths:
Academia
R&D
Biotech Innovation

Program Structure

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  • 4 Core Courses (16 credits)
    Advanced computational biology foundation
  • 2 Elective Courses (8 credits)
    Specialized knowledge areas
  • Internship (2 credits)
    Professional development
  • Research Methods Course (2 credits)
    Advanced research methodology
  • PhD Research Dissertation (32 credits)
    Original, publishable research

Career Outcomes

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  • Academic research and faculty positions
  • Government research institutions
  • Corporate R&D leadership
  • Biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies

Distinctive Features

Designed to prepare future leaders at the intersection of AI, biology, and public health through an education that blends innovation, research, and global impact.

Hands-On Learning

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Hands-On Learning

Gain practical experience through labs and internships

Research Integration

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Research Integration

Engage in cutting-edge research guided by expert faculty

Industry Connections

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Industry Connections

Collaborate with leading partners in AI and biotechnology

Interdisciplinary Focus

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Interdisciplinary Focus

Combine computing, data science, and life sciences to drive innovation

Foundation Courses

Introduction to Single Cell Biology and Bioinformatics, Molecular Biology for Machine Learning, Analyzing Multi-Omics Network Data, Computational Genomics and Epigenomics

Elective Highlights

Machine Learning & Deep Learning, Natural Language Processing, Medical Imaging, Big Data & Data Mining, Specialized AI for Biomedical Data, Generative AI Applications

Scholarships & Funding

All full-time students receive full tuition coverage, monthly stipends, and additional support throughout their studies.

100% Tuition Coverage
Monthly Stipend
UAE Visa Sponsorship
Health Insurance Coverage
On-Campus Housing

MBZUAI grants every full-time admitted student the privilege of completing their studies under a full scholarship. This includes:

  • 100% Tuition Coverage
    All academic fees fully covered for the duration of your program.
  • Continued Eligibility
    Students must maintain good academic standing, follow the Code of Conduct, and meet research progress requirements.
  • Applicable Programs
    Scholarships are available for MSc and PhD students.

A generous monthly stipend supports living expenses for both UAE nationals and international students.

Category
MSc (AED)
PhD (AED)
UAE Nationals
37,500
43,500
International Students
15,500
17,500

Note:

  • Stipend amounts include housing support.
  • Students are responsible for paying housing costs directly.

Non-UAE nationals receive full visa sponsorship for the duration of their studies, including:

  • Student visa application and processing
  • Emirates ID and residency permit supportContinued Eligibility
  • Renewal and administrative assistance throughout the program

This ensures a smooth transition and secure residency for international students studying in Abu Dhabi.

All enrolled students are provided with a comprehensive health insurance plan for the full duration of their studies. The policy includes coverage for:

  • General medical care
  • Emergency treatment
  • Hospitalization and specialist consultations

This ensures students can focus on their education and research without financial or health-related concerns.

MBZUAI offers on-campus housing options designed for comfort, convenience, and community:

  • Eligibility
    Primarily offered to undergraduate and first-year graduate students
  • Monthly Fee
    AED 7,500
  • Payment
    Deducted directly from the monthly stipend

Students may also choose off-campus accommodation using their stipend allowance.

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Who We Look For

Strong academic and quantitative background, interest in AI and digital public health, and passion for research impact.

How to Apply

Application deadline: 27 Feb 2026, 5pm (GST)

Prepare Materials

Prepare CV, transcripts, statement of purpose, and references.

Submit Application

Complete the online application portal with your documents.

Interview

Shortlisted candidates may be invited to an interview with faculty.

Admission Offers

Offers are made on a rolling basis to successful applicants.

Join the Future of Digital Public Health

Apply
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