Certificates

This certificate program provides a practical, "hands-on" approach to computer applications in molecular biology, and focuses on the major issues concerning representation and analysis of biological sequence and structural information. With a strong foundation of computer science and molecular biology, students will acquire a background in generating, analyzing, and interpreting biological data, as well as the ability to apply such knowledge in biotechnology and medicine.

Prerequisites for the certificate include a baccalaureate degree in science, mathematics or engineering. Additionally, it is expected that the applicants have a significant background in biology, chemistry, computer science, or mathematics. The specific prerequisites are undergraduate molecular biology or biochemistry and college algebra.

The curriculum is designed to accommodate two convergent audiences: molecular biology students with limited experience in computer systems who wish to upgrade their skills and knowledge in the field of bioinformatics, as well as computer science students with existing computational or mathematical skills who wish to learn how to apply those skills to real biological problems. The program gives students a sound theoretical knowledge of informatics, molecular genetics and genomics, together with practical experience of applying informatics to the organization and use of biological and chemical databases.

The curriculum for this certificate includes five courses (a total of 15 credits), which combine computer science, molecular genetics, and bioinformatics.

Required courses