Bioinformatics and Computational Biology

Program Overview

Bioinformatics and Computational Biology

Overview

The Bioinformatics and Computational Biology program is designed for students who want a highly interdisciplinary major, with the freedom to focus on biology, computer science, or informatics (using data to improve health). This program combines the study of genes and proteins using math and computing, technical skills needed to analyze health care data and improve outcomes, and the application of computing to answer questions related to cellular and sub-cellular structures.

What will I learn?

In this major, you'll take core classes in calculus, statistics, molecular biology, organic chemistry, and databases, as well as bioinformatics. From there, your courses will be based on your specific concentration; all students must choose one of the following areas to focus in:

• Biological sciences. Learn how to study genes and proteins using math and computing.
• Biomedical informatics. Gain technical skills needed to analyze health care data and improve outcomes.
• Computer science and engineering. Apply computing to answer questions related to cellular and sub-cellular structures.

What can I do outside of class?

Even as an undergraduate, you may have opportunities to work closely with faculty on research projects, giving you real-world experience and helping you build professional relationships. Some students have even presented their findings at national conferences.

• Internships. Students typically pursue them during the summer or winter.
• Study abroad. Gain a global perspective by living and studying in another country.
• Student groups. Join one of the dozens of science and engineering clubs or try something completely different.

What can I do with a bioinformatics degree?

You'll typically find job opportunities at many different types of organizations, including hospitals, research institutions, government agencies such as the CDC and NIH, and private companies.

• Application programmer.
• Biotech researcher.
• Chief medical information officer.
• Health care analyst.
• Systems analyst.
• University professor.

In addition, many students in this program go to medical school or get a graduate degree in bioinformatics or a related field, which is especially useful if you want to work at a university or in an advanced research field.

Who will I learn from?

Many of our professors have been recognized for their outstanding teaching ability and have received the SUNY Chancellors Award for Excellence in Teaching, the student-nominated Milton Plesur Award, and other honors for teaching and mentoring undergraduate students.

Of course, our faculty are also nationally and internationally known researchers and scholars. They have been named as fellows of professional organizations, earned patents, served on leading editorial boards, and received research funding from some of the top companies in the world.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

• biology, computer science, and informatics
• 3 concentration areas: Biological Sciences, Biomedical Informatics, and Computer Science and Engineering
• science, math, data, and statistics
• Prepares students for careers in various industries, including healthcare, research, government, and private companies

Outline:

• Core classes in calculus, statistics, molecular biology, organic chemistry, databases, and bioinformatics
• Concentration-specific courses:
• Biological Sciences: focuses on applying math and computing to study genes and proteins
• Biomedical Informatics: focuses on analyzing healthcare data to improve outcomes
• Computer Science and Engineering: focuses on using computing to understand cellular and sub-cellular structures
• conduct research with faculty

Assessment:

• Assessment methods and criteria are not explicitly mentioned in the provided text.

Teaching:

• renowned professors
• researchers and scholars
• Teaching methods are not explicitly described in the text.

Careers:

• Potential careers include:
• Application programmer
• Biotech researcher
• Chief medical information officer
• Healthcare analyst
• Systems analyst
• University professor
• Many graduates pursue further education in medicine or graduate programs in bioinformatics or related fields

Other:

• Opportunities for internships, study abroad, and involvement in student groups
• The program website provides additional details about specific concentration areas and extracurricular opportunities