Apr 20, 2024  
2020-2021 Undergraduate Catalog 
    
2020-2021 Undergraduate Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Bioinformatics, BS


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Program Description

Bioinformatics is multidisciplinary field, linking biology computer science, chemistry, and mathematics to lead important advances in the biomedical field. The exploration of genetic diseases, and the revolutionary advancements in drug design for the treatment of maladies such as cancer or HIV are just two compelling and important ways bioinformatics is impacting our world. Graduates of the program will have comprehensive skill set in applied science that can be the basis for advanced education and a meaningful career in the fast-paced fields of biotechnology and biomedicine.

Program objectives:

  1. Provide education in the various fields of Bioinformatics that will produce graduates capable of effectively participating in the workforce in the bioinformatics field
  2. Provide a broad knowledge of the structure and function of macromolecules in biological systems
  3. Understand and apply experimental and computational tools developed to understand and model the biology of macromolecules
  4. Identify the role of bioinformatics in biotechnology, medicine, and pharmaceutical development, while recognizing the ethical implications of bioinformatics on society at large
  5. To provide education that will prepare students to seek advanced graduate learning or certification in Bioinformatics or related fields. 

Program Requirements:

To earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Bioinformatics, students must complete a total of 120 credit hours, including 29 credit hours in core biology courses, 19 credit hours in chemistry courses, 18 credit hours in selected Mathematics and 15 credit hours in selected Computer Sciences. Additionally, students complete 11 credits of core electives, along with 32 credits if general education requirements. Students must earn a grade of “C” or better in all required biology, chemistry, and mathematics and computer science courses. As outlined below

General Education And Institutional Requirements


See the full list of University General Education and Institutional Requirements 

Institutional Requirements (6 semester hours)


English Composition (6 semester hours)


Arts and Humanities (6 semester hours from 2 different disciplines)


  • ____ Arts and Humanities Electives 6 Credits

Sciences (7-8 semester hours){Satisfied through Major)


  • ____ ____ Science Electives 

Mathematics (4 semester hours)


Social Sciences (6 semester hours from 2 different disciplines)


Technology Issues (4 semester hours)


Free General Education Electives (9 semester hours)


9 Chosen based on departmental advisement. Students are encouraged to take SUMMER courses and attend MINI-SEMESTER in order to have a manageable semester load. Note: The Department reserves the right to specify suitable general education courses, in keeping with COMAR, for its majors.

Bioinformatics Sample Curriculum


Freshman Year


Sophomore Year


Junior Year


Senior


First Semester


Total: 15

Second Semester


  •  Arts and Humanities Elective  3 Credits
  • Social Sciences Elective 3 Credits
  • BIOL/COSC/CHEM Elective (400 level) 4 Credits
  • BIOL/COSC/CHEM Elective (400 level) 4 Credits
Total: 14

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