Bioinformatics

The Bioinformatics Master's Degree Program at Boston University offers students an interdisciplinary education that combines biological sciences, computer science, and mathematics to address complex biological problems through computational techniques. Designed for students with backgrounds in biology, computer science, engineering, or related fields, this program prepares graduates to analyze and interpret large-scale biological data, develop innovative algorithms, and apply computational tools to real-world biomedical challenges. The curriculum integrates coursework in molecular biology, genetics, statistics, data analysis, machine learning, and programming languages such as Python and R, ensuring that students acquire both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Students have opportunities to participate in cutting-edge research projects alongside faculty experts renowned in genomics, systems biology, and personalized medicine. The program emphasizes hands-on experience through laboratory work, data analysis workshops, and collaborative projects, facilitating the development of technical proficiency and critical thinking skills. Graduates of the Bioinformatics Master's Program at Boston University are well-equipped to pursue careers in academia, biotechnology, healthcare industries, and pharmaceutical companies, or to continue their education in Ph.D. programs. The university provides state-of-the-art facilities, a vibrant research environment, and extensive industry connections, offering students valuable networking opportunities and exposure to current advancements in the field. Overall, this program aims to cultivate capable bioinformaticians who can contribute to innovations in biomedical research and healthcare, fostering a new generation of scientists capable of transforming biological data into impactful scientific insights.

The master’s degree requires 32 credits of coursework. In order to receive a master’s degree, students must demonstrate mastery of the required subject matter (no lower than a B in all required courses). Course requirements are as follows:

• CAS BI 552 Molecular Biology I (Students may take CAS BI 553, Molecular Biology II, if approved by their advisor)
• ENG BE 562 Computational Biology: Genomes, Networks, Evolution (Students with no prior experience or exposure to bioinformatics application should take ENG BF 527, Bioinformatics Applications, before taking ENG BE 562)
• ENG BF 768 Biological Database Systems
• ENG BF 778 Physical Chemistry for Systems Biology
• ENG BF 821 Bioinformatics Graduate Seminar (2 cr each; 4 cr total)
• ENG BF 541 Bioinformatics Internship

Fulfillment of required course equivalents will be determined based on documented previous academic and/or work experience. The student and his or her advisor will petition the curriculum committee for such equivalencies. When either past work or an alternate course has been accepted as a core equivalent, the student’s advisor will recommend other courses to fulfill the 20 core credit hours. Advanced elective courses should be taken in place of any waived course requirements.

The remaining credits needed to complete the requirements for the MS degree will consist of electives and/or additional research projects.

Requirements

• Application
• $95 Application fee
• Uploaded Transcripts.  On the application, you will have the opportunity to upload an unofficial copy of your transcript. Please note you will be required to submit official transcripts if you accept our offer of admission..
• Three recommendations, preferably from professors.
• There is an $95 application fee. Applications received without payment of this fee will not be reviewed.
• Official GRE General scores, sent by ETS to institution code 3087.
  Some departments may also require the Subject Test; contact your department for details. Applicants applying to MFA programs are not required to submit GRE scores.
• Official TOEFL scores sent by ETS to institution code 3087.
• Personal Statement
• Resume or CV (highly recommended, not required)

The Boston University Bioinformatics graduate program offers a range of financing options to support students throughout their studies. Financial assistance is available through fellowships, scholarships, teaching and research assistantships, and external funding sources. Many students apply for graduate fellowships offered by the university, which provide full or partial tuition waivers along with a stipend to assist with living expenses. These fellowships are highly competitive and are awarded based on academic merit, research potential, and relevant experience. In addition to institutional scholarships, students are encouraged to seek external funding from government agencies such as the National Science Foundation (NSF) and the National Institutes of Health (NIH), which occasionally offer research grants and fellowships for graduate students engaged in bioinformatics research.

Teaching assistantships (TAs) and research assistantships (RAs) are also available for qualified students. TAs typically assist faculty in teaching undergraduate courses, grading, and laboratory sessions, while RAs work directly on faculty research projects, gaining valuable laboratory and computational experience. These assistantships usually include a tuition waiver and a stipend, which vary depending on the level of commitment and departmental funding. Students may also secure part-time employment opportunities on campus, including tutoring or administrative roles, to supplement their income.

Boston University’s financial aid office provides comprehensive guidance and support for students seeking funding, including information on application procedures, deadlines, and eligibility criteria. International students are encouraged to explore scholarship opportunities specifically designated for them, along with work-study options where permitted. Graduate students are also eligible for federally subsidized loans and private funding sources. The university strives to make bioinformatics education accessible by fostering a supportive financial environment, ensuring that talented students from diverse backgrounds can pursue advanced studies in this interdisciplinary field.

The Boston University Bioinformatics program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the interdisciplinary field that combines biology, computer science, and mathematics. This program aims to equip students with the skills necessary to analyze and interpret complex biological data, such as genomic sequences, protein structures, and biological networks. Students in this program gain proficiency in programming languages such as Python and R, statistical analysis, and data visualization techniques essential for bioinformatics research. The curriculum includes coursework in molecular biology, genomics, computational biology, algorithms, and software development, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for careers in research, healthcare, or biotechnology industries.

Boston University’s program emphasizes practical experience through research projects, internships, and collaborations with industry partners. Students have opportunities to work with advanced bioinformatics tools and databases, participate in seminars led by experts in the field, and contribute to ongoing research initiatives at BU’s leading scientific laboratories. The faculty involves specialists with backgrounds in genetics, computer science, and systems biology, providing mentorship and cutting-edge knowledge.

Graduates of the program are prepared for diverse roles such as bioinformatics analysts, computational biologists, research scientists, or further academic study in graduate or PhD programs. The program also supports interdisciplinary collaboration, encouraging students to develop innovative solutions to biological and medical problems. The degree typically combines coursework with research experiences, culminating in a thesis or final project that demonstrates the student's ability to apply bioinformatics techniques to real-world biological questions. Overall, Boston University’s Bioinformatics program offers a strong foundation for students interested in advancing biomedical science through computational approaches, with the goal of driving innovations in personalized medicine, drug discovery, and systems biology.