BS in Bioinformatics and Computational Biology—Computer Science and Engineering Concentration

Bioinformatics and Computational Biology unites the disparate disciplines of biochemistry, biology, chemistry, computer science, and mathematics.

The Bioinformatics and Computational Biology (BCB) program is an interdisciplinary program that involves the application of mathematics and computing to the study of genes and proteins; computational biology addresses more general questions involving computing applied to cellular and sub-cellular structures.

As such, students in bioinformatics and computational biology integrate topics of applied mathematics, computer science, and biology into specialties as diverse as genetics, computational science, and microbiology. The program prepares students for graduate studies either in a bioinformatics-related field or in a traditional discipline, as well as for immediate entry into the job market. The BCB is a single degree program. Students in the BCB program have the option to select a major from among three concentrations, offered in the Departments of Biological Sciences, Computer Science and Engineering, and Mathematics. Students complete a full major in their area of concentration and also take additional courses important to bioinformatics in disciplines that complement their concentration. All students take courses in calculus, statistics, molecular biology, organic chemistry, and databases, as well as a core course in bioinformatics. In addition, students complete a senior project during their senior year.

The BCB Computer Science and Engineering program concentration is called Bioinformatics—Computer Science (BCS).  

Academics

Program Enrollment

The BS in Bioinformatics—Computer Science (BCS) program currently enrolls 6 students—6 accepted majors and 0 accepted subsequent bachelor's degree majors. (March 28, 2024)