Bioinformatics Major
Bioinformatics is the combination of biology and computer sciences. This is an emerging field where knowledge of genetics, proteins, database constructions, and search protocols are needed. The combination of these skill sets will be a powerful advantage in the near future. Look at the rise in popularity of consumer based genetic testing has seen in the last 5 years. Vaccine production changed to nucleic acid-based models as opposed to protein or whole virus applications. These are trends that will continue into the foreseeable future
Program Details
Program Overview
This major focuses on the active use of the many databases involving genomics and proteomics to understand a vast array of biological issues including disease resistance, drug efficacy and population genetics. This major combines a deep understanding of biological principles and processes as well as computer programming and data manipulation techniques.
Program Concentrations
This program is made up of the following concentrations. Learn more about concentrations.Concentration Overview
This concentration focuses on data mining and data handling.
Courses in this Concentration
Concentration Overview
From Replication to Translation, the relationship of DNA to cellular behavior is the focus of this concentration. Since the cell is the smallest independent unit of life, any pursuit in the life sciences should include an understanding of these central concepts. Although most of the material covered in this concentration is microscopic, the applications of these concepts are universally applied to all life.
Courses in this Concentration
Concentrations on this page are required for this program. Additional courses or concentrations may need to be added to meet program or credit requirements.
Program Coursework
- Applied Statistics
- Structured Programming
- Introduction to Database Management Systems
- Cyber Security
- Computer Architecture
- Introduction to Data Mining
- General Biology I
- Cell Physiology
- Genetics
- Immunology
The specific degree requirements on the website are for illustrative purposes and may change at any time. Please contact the Registrar's Office, Academic Advising or refer to the course catalog for detailed program requirements.
Liberal Arts Core
LEADERSHIP: 4 credits
- Freshman Seminar (1 cr.)
- Spiritual & Ethical Literacy (3 cr.)
- Personal Branding Communication (3 cr.)
- Writing for the 21st Century (3 cr.)*
- Quantitative Problem Solving (3 cr.)*
- Language & Culture (3 cr.)
CORE LITERACIES: 15 credits – Choose one (1) course from each broad theme. Course options can be found in the course catalog or on the academic advising page. Broad themes are:
- Narratives of Identity (3 cr.)
- Science, Environment & Culture (3 cr.)
- Social Tensions (3 cr.)
- The American Experience (3 cr.)
- Approving the Better Things (3 cr.)
Professional Core
Culminating Experience
- Pre-Internship
- Internship
- Capstone
Limitless Curriculum
Our program combines course concentrations in biology and computer sciences to provide you with the toolbox you will need to effectively enter the workforce in this field.
Cellular Genetics Concentration
A focused dive into biology including courses in cell physiology and genetics will allow you to understand the biological information molecules and their impact on function.
Database & Informational System Sciences Concentration
Computer sciences courses in database management and data mining will give you the skills to navigate the ever-growing digital environment that holds the keys to unlocking a myriad of critical correlations and connections.
8 Jobs You Can Get with a Bioinformatics Degree
- Bioinformatics Scientist
- Research Scientist
- Biostatistician
- Microbiologist
- Data Analyst
- Software Programmer
- Research Assistant
- Computational Biologist
Contact admissions or the program faculty with questions about this program.
Daniel P. Meer
Chair - Natural Sciences|Faculty - Biology