The Bioinformatics and Computational Biology (BINF) degree at UMBC explores the intersectionality between the fields of biology, chemistry, math, and computer science with the intention of using technology to access and understand biological questions.
A Bioinformatics student can expect an equal academic emphasis in life and computational sciences. This program is intended to prepare students for careers and graduate study in technical and research areas of interest.
COURSE REQUIREMENTS
Students interested in this majors will have to complete coursework in biology, chemistry, math, physics, and computer science.
For a more comprehensive idea of what courses students are expected to complete, please view the major requirement worksheet below.
Bioinformatics and Computational Biology Major Requirement Worksheet
A sample graduation plan for students interested in this major can be found here.
GATEWAY REQUIREMENTS
Bioinformatics is the only Life Science major that employs gateway requirements which enforces a policy that students must pass all introductory coursework with a 3.0 grade average. Additional gateway information such as residency, repeat, and overall grading requirements can be found on the department website here and on the major requirement worksheet linked above.
Students who do not immediately meet these gateway requirements have the option of petitioning the steering committee.
Please be sure to discuss these gateway requirements with an advisor as soon as possible to ensure eligibility.
RESEARCH AREAS OF INTEREST
Bioinformatics’ inherent multi-disciplined focus allows for students in this major to explore research opportunities across the life and computational sciences.
Click HERE to see what faculty and students in this field are researching.
CAREER OPTIONS
It is never too early to start connecting the dots between undergraduate studies and a career. UMBC offers life-long career advising support for undergraduates and alumni through our Career Center.
To get a sense of some careers that are available to a students to major in the degree please review the WHAT CAN I DO WITH MY BIOINFORMATICS MAJOR? worksheet and/or feel free to begin consulting with the Life Science Career Center Liaison — Ms. Susan Hindle.