B.S. in Bioinformatics
University of Saint Joseph
Key Information
Campus location
West Hartford, USA
Languages
English
Study format
On-Campus
Duration
4 years
Pace
Full time
Tuition fees
USD 21,025 / per semester **
Application deadline
Request info *
Earliest start date
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* admission to USJ is made on a rolling basis; therefore, you can apply at any time and expect a decision approximately two weeks after the application is complete
** full-time
Scholarships
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Introduction
Study in the only Bioinformatics program in Connecticut and earn a degree that can launch a lucrative career in Biotechnology
USJ has the only Bioinformatics program in Connecticut. By earning a B.S. in Bioinformatics from USJ, students graduate with the skills necessary to meet the growing industry demand.
A degree in bioinformatics provides students with the specific computer and laboratory skills needed for employability in analytical science positions in industry and laboratories. This program provides students with a strong interdisciplinary focus on biology with technology through mathematics, data systems, and computer science so they can assist in solving complex problems in the laboratory in computing and database systems in the biosciences. Students learn about algorithms, database management, data mining, search strategies, and software design, and apply them to analyzing large databases through modeling and experimental design in the biological sciences.
Why Choose a Bachelors Degree in Bioinformatics?
The B.S. in Bioinformatics at USJ instills students with the knowledge, technical skills, and real-world experience required to find success in the rapidly evolving science of collecting and analyzing biological data.
Imagine developing new software that may help eliminate Alzheimer’s for good. Picture yourself cultivating new drought-resistant crops and feeding millions of people around the world. With bioinformatics, this is a possibility. Ideal for young scientist passionate about the intersection of human life and technology, this growing field needs professionals with a solid education in computer science and biology.
Coursework is paired with our robust internship program to ensure students graduate with the practical experience necessary to secure employment in the industry of their choice. Academic advisors work with students throughout their time at USJ to ensure they remain on track and complete all required biological and computer science coursework required for graduation and their careers.
Curriculum
Required Courses (31 credits)
- BIOL 114 - Introduction to Cellular Biology 4 Credits
- BIOL 117 - Introduction to Evolution and Kingdoms 4 Credits
- BIOL 125 - Introduction to Bioinformatics 3 Credits
- BIOL 475 - Genomes to Proteomes 3 Credits
- BIOL 476 - Applied Bioinformatics 3 Credits
- COMP 150 - Computer Programming II 3 Credits
- COMP 250 - Introduction to Data Mining 3 Credits
- MATH 170 - Calculus I 4 Credits
- MATH 180 - Calculus II 4 Credits
Biology Course (4 credits)
Select one course:
- BIOL 301 - Microbiology 4 Credits
- BIOL 350 - Advanced Cellular Biology 4 Credits
Math Courses (6 credits)
Select two courses:
- MATH 120 - Mathematical Modeling 3 Credits
- MATH 165 - Discrete Mathematics I 3 Credits
- MATH 251 - Probability and Statistics I 3 Credits
- MATH 252 - Probability and Statistics II 3 Credits
Computer Courses (6 credits)
Select two courses:
- COMP 220 - Data Structures 3 Credits
- COMP 255 - Data Analysis with R 3 Credits
- COMP 330 - Algorithm Analysis 3 Credits
- COMP 210 - Database Design and Development 3 Credits
Research/Internship (2 credits)
Select one course:
- BIOL 485 - Internship 2 Credits
- BIOL 497 - Advanced Independent Research 2 Credits
Required Supporting Courses (19 Credits)
- BIOL 325 - Genetics 4 Credits
- CHEM 175 - Fundamental Chemical Principles I 4 Credits
- CHEM 176 - Fundamental Chemical Principles II 4 Credits
- COMP 110 - Computer Programming I 4 Credits
- MATH 110 - Elementary Statistics 3 Credits
Program Outcome
- Demonstrate fundamental knowledge of core concepts in biology, mathematics, and computational science;
- Utilize in-depth knowledge of genomes and proteomes and their importance through applied research;
- Apply biological, mathematical, and computer science knowledge within the context of bioinformatics;
- Use current techniques, skills, and tools in biology, mathematics, and computational science to solve bioinformatics problems;
- Properly use the scientific method and discovery process;
- Read, understand, and evaluate current literature in the field of bioinformatics;
- Develop communication skills to include oral and descriptive modes for conveying scientific information to a variety of audience levels.
Career Opportunities
Career paths in Bioinformatics can include roles in research and discovery, the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industry, Information technology, contract research organizations, Insurance companies, healthcare institutions/organizations, engineering, database administration, and more.