The M.S. in Bioinformatics and Computational Biology
The M.S. degree in Bioinformatics and Computational Biology addresses the growing national and regional demand for trained computational biologists. The degree combines a solid foundation in biotechnology with computational skills required for bioinformatics. The flexibility of the degree structure permits students to custom-design their curriculum under an advisor's guidance, making this especially relevant for students employed in today's diverse biotechnology workplace. Students completing the program are qualified to pursue careers that require knowledge of current bioinformatics methods and the ability to develop new bioinformatics software.
Courses are generally offered in the late afternoon or early evening to accommodate students with full-time employment outside the university. Persons employed at area biotechnology organizations may take up to six credits (out of 31) for bioinformatics work done on the job under the guidance of a faculty member. This work-related project may be applied either as a 3-credit research project or as a 6-credit master's thesis.
Degree Requirements
Candidates must successfully complete 31 credit hours as follows:
- 12 credit hours of bioinformatics core courses: BINF 630, 631, 634 and 734
- 3 credit hours of advanced bioinformatics courses numbered BINF 730 and above
- 9-12 credit hours of electives in bioinformatics, biology and biotechnology, or computational sciences, as approved by the advisor
- 1 credit hour of bioinformatics seminar, BINF 704
- Research component: 3 credit hours of BINF 798 (Research Project) or 6 credit hours of BINF 799 (Masters Thesis); exercise of the thesis option results in a corresponding reduction in the electives requirement.
For courses descriptions, click here.