Program Overview

Computational Biology Bachelor's Degree

The Computational Biology Bachelor's Degree is a fusion of biology and information technology. Specialists in this field use computational analyses to study the vast amount of digital information provided by modern molecular biology. The program prepares students to enter a unique and cutting-edge field of biology/medicine and analyze data that may support the creation of new pharmaceuticals, treatments for life-altering diseases, improvements in crop production, or protections for the environment.

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Science in Computational Biology degree is designed to provide students with a strong foundation in biology, mathematics, and computer science. The program includes coursework in genomics, bioinformatics, and computational modeling, as well as research opportunities in the department's state-of-the-art genomics lab.

Career Opportunities

Computational biology majors are in demand, especially as healthcare and research incorporate tools like artificial intelligence. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 26% employment growth between 2023 and 2033 for computer and information research scientists. Some of the jobs open to students with a BS in Computational Biology include:

• Genotyping
• Genomic sequence analysis
• Sequence assembly
• Database administration
• Pharmacogenomics

Program Resources

The program offers a range of resources to support student success, including:

• All Department Courses
• Degree Audit
• Requirements/Curriculum
• Find an Advisor
• Biology Learning Center
• Transfer Course Equivalencies
• Undergraduate Research
• Pavlis Honors College
• Student Stories
• Student Organizations

Faculty and Research

The Department of Biological Sciences has a strong faculty with research expertise in a range of areas, including genomics, bioinformatics, and computational biology. Students have the opportunity to work with faculty members on research projects and gain hands-on experience in the department's state-of-the-art research facilities.

College of Sciences and Arts

The College of Sciences and Arts is a community of faculty, staff, and students committed to excellence and driven by a passion for education, outreach, research, and creativity across the social and natural sciences, humanities, and the arts. The college offers a range of undergraduate and graduate degree programs, including the Bachelor of Science in Computational Biology.

Undergraduate Majors in Biology

The Department of Biological Sciences offers several undergraduate majors, including:

• Biological SciencesBS
• Biochemistry and Molecular BiologyBS (Biology Focus)
• Computational BiologyBS
• Ecology and Evolutionary BiologyBS
• Human BiologyBS
• Medical Laboratory ScienceBS
• NursingBS

Research Areas

The department's research areas include:

• Genomics and bioinformatics
• Computational biology and modeling
• Ecology and evolutionary biology
• Human biology and health sciences
• Medical laboratory science and nursing

Student Testimonials

Students who have graduated from the program have praised the department's faculty and research opportunities. One student noted, "My favorite parts of the Bio Sci department were definitely the people. The professors and graduate students that I got to work with were all very knowledgeable and enthusiastic about their subjects, and my academic advisor was always very helpful and inviting."