Genetics Bioinformatics and Computational Biology

The Bachelor of Science in Genetics, Bioinformatics, and Computational Biology at Virginia Tech is an interdisciplinary program designed to prepare students for the rapidly evolving fields of genetic research, data analysis, and computational sciences. This program offers a comprehensive curriculum that combines foundational courses in biology, genetics, and molecular biology with advanced training in bioinformatics, computer programming, and computational modeling. Students will gain a strong understanding of genetic mechanisms, genomics, and systems biology while developing essential skills in data analysis, programming languages such as Python and R, and the use of computational tools for biological research. The program emphasizes hands-on experience through laboratories, research projects, and internships, enabling students to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world problems in medicine, agriculture, environmental science, and biotechnology. Graduates of this program will be well-equipped for careers in biomedical research, personalized medicine, agricultural biotechnology, and bioinformatics industries. Additionally, the curriculum encourages critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaborative work, preparing students for graduate studies or professional pathways in various scientific and technological sectors. The program also offers specialization options and elective courses that allow students to tailor their education according to their interests, whether in computational biology, genomics, systems biology, or data science. With access to state-of-the-art facilities and faculty leading innovative research initiatives, students will have the opportunity to engage in cutting-edge projects that address contemporary biological challenges. Overall, the Genetics, Bioinformatics, and Computational Biology program at Virginia Tech provides a rigorous and versatile education, equipping students with the knowledge and skills necessary to advance health, agriculture, and environmental sustainability through scientific discovery and technological innovation.

GBCB is a Ph.D. program only, it does not offer a Master's degree. The Ph.D. degree requires a minimum of 90 total credit hours beyond the baccalaureate. Additionally, a dissertation must be written and defended before a 4-person committee. The Ph.D. plan of study is due by the end of the fourth semester of study. 
The distribution of the 90 required hours can be: 

• 30-63 credit hours of research (7994 level only)
• 27-60 graded coursework (graduate level)

For the purposes of this program and to insure that students have some breadth of exposure, four specialty tracks are defined: LIFE SCIENCES, COMPUTER SCIENCE, STATISTICS, and MATHEMATICS
A student will select one of the specialty tracks as his/her primary track, which will typically be consistent with the student's undergraduate training. The other tracks will be denoted the secondary tracks for that student. Requirements will differ among the specialty tracks, with some tracks requiring more coursework, with correspondingly fewer credit hours of Research and Dissertation. 
In addition, a core curriculum that is common to all students has been defined:

• GBCB 5874 Problem Solving(3 credits) 
• STS 5444 Issues in Bioethics(3 credits)
• GBCB 5004 Seminar (4 credits)

A sample plan of study will include the following:

• Primary Track: At least 9 credit hours must be from the primary track. For students whose primary track is the Life Science track, 3 of these credit hrs must be a genomics course (e.g., CSES/GBCB 5844 - Plant Genomics) 
• Secondary Track(s)At least 12 credit hours must be taken, with the courses coming from at least two of the three secondary tracks. For students whose primary track is not in Life Sciences, at least 6 of these credit hrs must be in the life sciences track. Students in the Statistics primary track must take CSES/GBCB 5844 or equivalent. 
• General Electives: Choice of at least 6 credit hrs of electives 
• Research & Dissertation: Sufficient to accumulate 90 total credit hours, minimum of 30 hours required. 
• Examinations: All GBCB students must pass a prelim and a final exam.

The preliminary exam, oral and written, is conducted by the student's advisory committee. During the period of time between the end of the third year and end of the fourth year of study, each student must prepare a dissertation research plan and give an oral defense of that plan and the scientific foundations on which it is based. The dissertation research plan is expected to be a refinement of the initial research plan presented presented by the student to his committee at the end of the second year. The proposal is to be prepared in an NIH-style format and should provide a clearly defined description of the research the student plans to complete in order to fulfill the research requirement of the Ph.D. The oral defense of the plan will include questions both directly related to the proposal as well as more general questions that examine the student's knowledge of fundamental principles.
The student may be tested on any aspect of his proposal, the philosophy of science, and research methodology. It is recommended that the student meet with his/her advisory committee prior to preparing for the exam to discuss the nature of the exam and evaluation procedures.
The final exam, oral and written, is primarily a defense of the dissertation, but other areas of science may be included.

• Transcripts. Include a scanned copy of your college transcripts with your online application, then arrange for an official copy to be sent to us after you receive an offer of admission.
• Letters of Recommendation. Check to see whether your department requires letters of recommendation from references. If so, you can include their email addresses in your online application, or have them send paper copies directly to your program’s department.
• Application Fees. Degree-seeking students must include a $75 fee with their application, though check to see if you qualify for a waiver or reduced fee.
• TOEFL Paper 550.0, Computer 213.0, iBT 80.0
• GRE General Test 
• Minimum GPA: 3.0
• Institution code: 5859

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

Scholarships

• University Scholarships
• Global Education
• Assistantships

The Genetics, Bioinformatics, and Computational Biology program at Virginia Tech offers students a comprehensive education in the rapidly advancing fields of genetics, computational biology, and bioinformatics. This interdisciplinary program is designed to equip students with the skills necessary to analyze and interpret biological data using computational tools and techniques. The curriculum integrates coursework from biology, computer science, statistics, and mathematics, providing a well-rounded foundation for understanding genetic mechanisms, data analysis, and computational modeling.

Students engage in coursework that covers genetics, molecular biology, algorithms, programming, and data analysis, preparing them for careers in research, industry, or further academic study. The program often emphasizes the development of programming skills in languages such as Python, R, and Java, alongside training in bioinformatics software and database management systems. Students may participate in research projects that involve genomics, proteomics, systems biology, or personalized medicine, often collaborating with faculty on cutting-edge research initiatives.

Virginia Tech's state-of-the-art laboratories and research facilities support hands-on learning and research, enabling students to work with real biological datasets. The program also encourages internships, cooperative education, and partnerships with industry to provide practical experience and prepare students for employment in biotech firms, healthcare organizations, or government agencies. Graduates of the program are well-prepared for careers as bioinformatics analysts, computational biologists, research scientists, or pursue advanced degrees in graduate or professional schools.

The faculty involved in this program come from diverse backgrounds, including genetics, computer science, and biological sciences, ensuring a multidisciplinary approach to education and research. The program is suitable for students interested in the biological sciences who also have strong interests and skills in computational and analytical methods. Overall, the Genetics, Bioinformatics, and Computational Biology program at Virginia Tech aims to produce innovative scientists who can address complex biological questions with computational solutions, advancing knowledge in genetics and biotechnology, and contributing to medical and scientific breakthroughs.