Bioinformatics

Overview

At VCU, we teach bioinformatics by bringing together the expertise and resources of multiple departments of the university. We host two program options in our Master of Science in Bioinformatics degree, as well as supporting bioinformatics at the doctoral level through the Integrative Life Sciences Ph.D. Read the descriptions below to determine which option might be the best fit for you.

Thesis Option: Master of Science

The Bioinformatics program at Virginia Commonwealth University is a traditional research- and thesis-oriented master’s degree. In addition to course work, students complete a substantial, original research project with a VCU faculty mentor and write a thesis describing that work. This degree program prepares students for employment in an academic, industrial, or government environment and for Ph.D. training programs.

Our program mission

The mission of this research-oriented degree program is to prepare students for research careers in university, foundation or industry laboratories; and completion of a thesis provides problem solving skills required for a research career.

Non-thesis Option: Professional Science Masters

The Master of Science in Bioinformatics, (non thesis option) is a Professional Science Master’s degree program that prepares graduate students to work as a bioinformaticist in a professional environment. In addition to course work featuring both bioinformatics and business fundamentals, students participate in a summer externship at an industrial or government setting. This degree program not only prepares students with advanced training in bioinformatics, but also in workplace skills valued by employers.

Our program mission

The Professional Science Masters program in bioinformatics at VCU trains graduates for leadership roles in biotechnology, biomedicine and other sectors of the life sciences by imparting interdisciplinary knowledge, skills and experience in the biological, quantitative and information sciences, and engaging students in the practices of business and entrepreneurship in collaboration with the commercial and public bioscience sectors.

Curriculum

The bioinformatics curriculum includes courses in bioinformatics, molecular biology and computation, as well as credits for thesis research or externship experiences. Core courses teach students the practice and theory of bioinformatics and provide hands-on experience in the field. Students also take elective courses related to their area of interest, such as network biology, genomics and phylogenetics, modeling and biocomplexity, or algorithms.