Master of Science in Bioinformatics & Computational Biology (BICB-MS)

Motivation

The thesis-based MS degree prepares students for advanced research. The Computational Sciences Concentration (CS) allows students with strong quantitative sciences background to gain knowledge and research experience in developing computational methods and bioinformatics tools and databases for the study of biological systems. The Life Sciences Concentration (LSC) allows students with strong biological background to gain knowledge and research experience in applying bioinformatics methods, tools and databases as an integral approach to life science research. The BICB-MS graduates will have solid knowledge and research experience to pursue further study towards a PhD or other professional degree such as MD, MBA or law, or a research career in academia, industry, or government agencies.

Degree Requirements (Browse Courses)

The Master of Sciences in Bioinformatics & Computational Biology requires 24 credits of graduate-level coursework, 6 credits of Thesis and 1 credit of Seminars, totaling 31 credits. The 24 credits of coursework must include 15 credits in the Bioinformatics & Computational Biology Core courses and 3 credits in the Ethics Core courses. Attendance in Seminar is required for three semesters for all graduate students.

A Thesis is required for the BICB-MS degree. Unless special permission is granted, students need to complete 12 credit hours prior to the start of their thesis. Students, with the assistance of their Faculty Advisor, will prepare and present a research proposal to their Thesis Committee for review and approval of the proposed research project. Following completion of the research outlined in the proposal, the MS degree candidates will prepare a written thesis according to the guidelines set forth by the Office of Graduate and Professional Education. A thesis defense, preceded by a seminar, will be held. The student’s Faculty Advisor and Thesis Committee will administer and evaluate the thesis defense.