Bioinformatics, BS - Computing and Statistics Option

What you will study

UCM’s Bioinformatics program curriculum will equip you with deep expertise in biology and chemistry. As a Bioinformatics major in the Computing and Statistics option, you’ll start with core courses in computer programming, biomedical informatics and genetics, followed by specialized courses such as:

• Probability and Statistics
• Regression Analysis
• Data Structures
• Algorithm Design
• Database Theory
• Big Data Analytics

This rigorous sequence of coursework will teach you different answers to the foundational question, what is bioinformatics, as well as how to master statistical software packages. 

UCM’s interdisciplinary curriculum will ensure you’re able to take computational, mathematical and statistical approaches to biological data with a broad set of skills you’ll need in your career. Focusing on computing and statistics, rather than a health sciences discipline, will open various career paths for you with diverse technical skills that apply to a number of industries.

 

 

Unique learning opportunities in bioinformatics

A Bioinformatics degree in Computing and Statistics from the University of Central Missouri offers hands-on learning opportunities and valuable on-the-job experience.

• Undergraduate research: UCM Bioinformatics faculty have worked with students to conduct and present findings from studies in biology and data science at regional and national conferences. For example, undergraduate students have studied how specific diseases occur in certain populations.
• Student resources for success: Bioinformatics majors in Computing and Statistics can gain valuable experience under the mentorship of world-class faculty within UCM’s state-of-the-art facilities.
• Extracurricular activities: Join a student organization to explore your interests outside the classroom while boosting your resume and connecting with different aspects of bioinformatics. For example, you could participate in the UCM Agriculture Club, the Association of Computing Machinery (ACM), the Beta Beta Beta Biology Honors Society and the UCM Statistics Club.

 

What can you do with a Bioinformatics degree from UCM?

Major companies and startups alike in fields like health care and biotech need employees who can harness the power of big data. With UCM’s bachelor’s degree in Bioinformatics, you’ll be well-positioned to bridge the skills gap between biological science and statistical analysis. Developing scientific knowledge, as well as statistical and computational abilities, will empower you to embark on a career in a variety of fields.

Several major Missouri and Midwestern employers, such as Monsanto, MRIGlobal, PRA Health Sciences and Children’s Mercy Hospital and Clinics hire employees with Bioinformatics degrees in Computing and Statistics to take their research and development to the next level. 

It’s no wonder that entry-level bioinformatics jobs can garner six-figure salaries. The comprehensive nature of UCM’s Bioinformatics program curriculum with an emphasis on Computing and Statistics will ensure that your skills are broad, deep and in-demand. You’ll be a competitive applicant for bioinformatician jobs on scientific or statistical research teams in many sectors.

 

 

Financial assistance options for your Bioinformatics degree

A degree from the University of Central Missouri offers high value at a low cost. Our tuition is below the national average, as well as below most institutions in Missouri. That’s why UCM has been nationally ranked by LendEDU for low student debt. Coupled with a low cost of living, UCM’s college costs put earning your Bioinformatics degree in Computing and Statistics well within reach.

Furthermore, UCM is committed to supporting you along your journey to help you discover: What is Bioinformatics? We provide a variety of ways to finance your college degree, including student employment and assistantship opportunities. You can also learn about program-specific scholarships at the UCM Scholarship Finder.