Dec 04, 2024

2024-2025 Graduate Catalog

Bioinformatics Data Science (MS)

Demonstrate a mastery of foundational knowledge in bioinformatics data science through the successful completion of a diverse range of coursework encompassing multiple areas of domain and technical expertise, including bioinformatics, data science, computational biology, and statistics.

Apply bioinformatics data science techniques to solve complex problems in omics, biomedicine, and other relevant areas of research through the successful completion of course projects, examinations, and optionally, a master's thesis.

Effectively communicate bioinformatics data science techniques and findings to expert and non-expert audiences through technical writing, oral presentations, and data visualization in the seminars.

Understand and adhere to ethical principles and guidelines in bioinformatics data science research, including issues related to data privacy, intellectual property, and responsible conduct of research.

Demonstrate a deep understanding of the impact of bioinformatics data science and health informatics on biological research, biomedicine, and other relevant disciplines through the successful completion of elective courses or specialized training.

Optionally, obtain hands-on experience in bioinformatics data science by participating in research projects, internships, or industry collaborations to develop skills in workflow management, data analysis, and professional accountability.

If pursuing a thesis option, design and execute an original research project in bioinformatics data science, and effectively communicate the research findings through a written thesis and oral defense.

Program Policy Document:

Please see the Program Policy Document for more information.

Degree Requirements

The Master of Science program in Bioinformatics Data Science has the following curriculum requirements:

Bioinformatics Data Science Core (9)
Ethics Core (3)
Electives (12)
Seminar (1)
Thesis Option (6)
Non-Thesis Option (6)

The Master of Sciences in Bioinformatics Data Science requires 24 credits of graduate-level coursework, and one credit of seminar. An additional 6 credits for Thesis or Non-Thesis Option are required totaling 31 credits. The 24 credits of coursework must include 9 credits in the Bioinformatics Data Science Core courses and three credits in the Ethics Core courses. Attendance in Seminar (BINF 865 ) is required for three semesters including one semester for credit while enrolled as a student.

Thesis Option (6 credits) - A Thesis (BINF 869 ) is required for the Thesis MS degree option. Unless special permission is granted, students need to complete 12 credit hours prior to the start of their thesis. Each student working on a master’s thesis, with the advice of the Thesis Faculty Advisor, needs to establish a Thesis Committee. The Committee should consist of at least three faculty members, the composition of which should be approved by the Bioinformatics Data Science Steering Committee. The Committee Chair should be the Thesis Faculty Advisor and a participating faculty member in the degree program. At least one other member should be a participating faculty member in the program.

Students, with the assistance of their Thesis Faculty Advisor, will prepare and present a research proposal to their Thesis Committee for review and approval of the proposed research project. Following completion of the research outlined in the proposal, the MS degree candidate will prepare a written thesis according to the guidelines set forth by the Graduate College. Upon completion of the master’s thesis, a final oral examination must be passed, consisting of a seminar and a defense of the master’s thesis. The final oral examination will be directed and evaluated by the student’s Thesis Committee.

Non-Thesis Option (6 credits) - Up to six credits of Bioinformatics Data Science Electives or Special Problems can be used to meet the Non-Thesis degree requirements. The Special Problems credits must be related to the program objectives in bioinformatics and approved by the Bioinformatics Data Science Steering Committee.