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Introduction to Bioinformatics at Lakehead University

Bioinformatics is the application of information technology to the field of molecular biology. As a relatively new area of study, Lakehead University is one of the few universities in Canada that offer this program from year one. The Department of Bioinformatics integrates tools and theories from several disciplines, including mathematics, computer science, biology, chemistry, and physics.

Program Overview

The Bioinformatics program at Lakehead University is well-rounded and small in size, allowing for one-on-one interaction with educators and many research opportunities. The program maintains close relationships with local knowledge-based businesses and organizations, contributing to unique course content and job opportunities post-graduation.

Key Features of the Program

• The program is multidisciplinary, focusing on the application of knowledge to the field.
• Small class sizes promote hands-on skill development and individual attention from professors and teaching assistants.
• The faculty is readily accessible and always willing to help.
• As an Honours student, there is the opportunity to work closely with a faculty member on an Honours thesis project, contributing to groundbreaking research within this new and evolving field of study.

Admission Requirements

To determine general admission requirements, students must select one of the definitions below:

• Ontario High School Students: Completion of the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD), a minimum of 6 Grade 12U or M courses, or equivalent, including program-specific prerequisite courses, and a minimum 70% overall final average.
• Other Canadian High School Students: Completion of Grade 12 and the Secondary School Diploma, program-specific prerequisite courses, and a minimum 70% overall final average.
• International Secondary School/College or University: Successful graduation from an academic secondary school program or equivalent, program-specific prerequisite courses, and an equivalent of a minimum 70% overall final average (Canadian).

Program-Specific Prerequisite Requirements

Program-specific prerequisite requirements vary by applicant type and last institution attended. For example:

• Ontario High School Students: English (ENG4U), Advanced Functions (MHF4U), Biology (SBI4U), Chemistry (SCH4U).
• Alberta/NWT/Nunavut High School Students: English Language Arts 30-1, Biology 30, Chemistry 30, Math 30-1.
• International Students: English, Biology, Chemistry, Math.

Tuition and Fees

Tuition and fees for the Bioinformatics program at Lakehead University vary by year and campus. For example:

• Science Thunder Bay:
  • Year 1: $5,984.51 (tuition) + $1,473.19 (ancillary fees) = $7,457.70.
  • Year 2: $5,955.86 (tuition) + $1,389.06 (ancillary fees) = $7,344.92.
• International Students:
  • Year 1: $30,236.00 (tuition) + $1,473.19 (ancillary fees) = $31,709.19.

Ancillary Fees

Ancillary fees include:

• Lakehead University Services Fees:
  • Athletic Building Fee (Wolf Den).
  • Student Athletic Fee.
  • Computer Enhancement (Technology) Fee.
  • Health Services Support Fee.
  • Capital Improvements C.J. Sanders Building.
• Lakehead University Student Union (LUSU) Fees:
  • LUSU Capital Fund.
  • LUSU Medical/Dental.
  • LUSU Bus Pass.
  • LUSU Activity Fee.
  • Aboriginal Programming Fee.
  • AFCASA African Caribbean Student Association Fee.
  • Nanabijou Fee.
  • Social Action Fee.
  • Sustainability.
  • WUSC - World University Service of Canada (Sponsor Refugee Students).
  • Canadian Federation of Students (CFS) Fee.
  • LU Radio Fee.

Research Opportunities

The faculty at Lakehead University is progressive in involving undergraduates in research opportunities and developing undergraduate lab-based skills very early on. Working as a research assistant is a great way to find passion within the field and ensure graduation with hands-on Bioinformatics experience to help with job searches.

Future Careers

Graduates of the Bioinformatics program at Lakehead University can pursue various careers, including:

• Medical Imager.
• Geneticist.
• Cellular Biologist.
• Microbiologist.
• Computer Scientist.
• Bioinformatician.
• Database Developer.
• Genome Analysis Technician.
• Computational Biologist.
• Biochemist.

Conclusion

The Bioinformatics program at Lakehead University offers a unique and multidisciplinary approach to the field, providing students with a well-rounded education and many research opportunities. With its small class sizes and accessible faculty, the program is ideal for students looking to pursue a career in this emerging field.