Skip to main content
  • Program Overview

    M.S. in Bioinformatics (30 Credits)

    For professionals in all STEM disciplines including biology, environmental science, computer science, and health professions, this graduate program will train you to analyze complex biological data sets from genomics and proteomics experiments. You will learn foundational principles in computer science, statistics, and biology to solve complex, multifaceted problems in biology.

    • Curriculum covers computer programming, data acquisition and mining, research methods, and statistical analysis.
    • Collaborative learning environment with opportunities to enhance skills in critical thinking, problem solving, conceptualization of solutions, study design, and communication with biological and computer scientists.
    • Laboratory workshops in genomics and proteomics
    • Personal advising
    • Networking opportunities and job placement support
    • Yellow Ribbon/Military Friendly
    • No GRE required
    • $1,133/credit tuition. Program can be completed in less than a year. 

    Now enrolling for a May 2024 start!

    Learning Outcomes
     

    Upon completion of the program, students will demonstrate:

    • an ability to apply knowledge of computing, biology, statistics, and mathematics appropriate to the discipline
    • an ability to analyze a problem, and identify and define the computing requirements appropriate to its solution
    • an ability to use current techniques, skills, and tools necessary for bioinformatics practice
    • an understanding of professional, ethical, legal, security and social issues and responsibilities
    • an ability to communicate effectively with a range of audiences

    Required Core Courses (18 credits)

    BIN 501 - Introduction to Programming for Bioinformatics (3 cr)
     
    BIN 510 - Probability and Statistics with Programming (3 cr)
     
    BIN 520/520L - Molecular Genetics and Lab (3 cr)
     
    BIN 521/521L - Protein Biochemistry and Lab (3 cr)
     
    BIN 601 - Advanced Programming for Bioinformatics (3 cr)
     
    BIN 602 - Data Mining for Bioinformatics (3 cr)
     

    Elective Courses (12 credits)

    Students must complete twelve credits from the list below:

    BIN 603 - Principles of Software Design and Engineering (3 cr)
     
    BIN 610 - Advanced Statistics and Data Visualization (3 cr)
    BIN 620 - Biological Sequence Analysis (3 cr)
     
    BIN 621 - Cheminformatics and Drug Discovery (3 cr)
     
    BIN 650 - High-Throughput Screening and Image Analysis (3 cr)
     
    BIN 651 - Biological Systems Analysis (3 cr)
     
    BIN 670 - Introduction to Machine Learning and Distributed Computing (3 cr)
    BIN 680 - Bioinformatics Internship (6 cr)
    OR
    BIN 690 - Bioinformatics Thesis (6 cr)
     

    Total Degree Requirements - 30 credits


    student researching in laboratory with machines and white coat on
  • Curriculum

    Program of Study

    Learning Outcomes

    Upon completion of the program, students will demonstrate:

    • an ability to apply knowledge of computing, biology, statistics, and mathematics appropriate to the discipline
    • an ability to analyze a problem, and identify and define the computing requirements appropriate to its solution
    • an ability to design, implement, and evaluate a computer-based system, process, component, or program to meet desired needs in scientific environments
    • an ability to use current techniques, skills, and tools necessary for bioinformatics practice
    • an ability to function effectively on teams to accomplish a common goal
    • an understanding of professional, ethical, legal, security and social issues and responsibilities
    • an ability to communicate effectively with a range of audiences
    • a recognition of the need for, and an ability to engage in continuing professional development
    • detailed understanding of the scientific discovery process and of the role of bioinformatics in it
    • an ability to apply statistical research methods in the contexts of molecular biology, genomics, medical, and population genetics research
    • in-depth knowledge of relevant areas of biology and an understanding of biological data generation techniques

    Required Curriculum

    Required Core Courses (30 credits)

    BIN 501 - Introduction to Programming for Bioinformatics
    BIN 510 - Probability and Statistics with Programming
    BIN 520 - Molecular Genetics and Lab
    BIN 521 - Protein Biochemistry and Lab
    BIN 601 - Advanced Programming for Bioinformatics
    BIN 602 - Data Mining for Bioinformatics
    BIN 620 - Biological Sequence Analysis
    BIN 621 - Cheminformatics and Drug Discovery
    BIN 680 - Bioinformatics Internship
    OR
    BIN 690 - Bioinformatics Thesis

    Elective Courses (6 credits)

    Students must complete two electives (6 credits).

    BIN 603 - Principles of Software Design and Engineering
    BIN 610 - Advanced Statistics and Data Visualization
    BIN 650 - High-Throughput Screening and Image Analysis
    BIN 651 - Biological Systems Analysis
    BIN 670 - Introduction to Machine Learning and Distributed Computing

    Total Degree Requirements - 36 credits


    View academic catalog and learning outcomes