Bachelor of Science in Bioinformatics
Why major in Bioinformatics?
Bioinformatics is an emerging, rapidly expanding scientific discipline that addresses problems related to the collection, processing, and analysis of vast amounts of data describing the structure and function of biological systems. Bioinformatics is a truly interdisciplinary science, combining:
- computer science
- molecular biology
- chemistry
- mathematics
Bioinformatics merges computer and information science with the study of genetic information and biological structures. Bioinformatics allows researchers to open new windows of insight into our genetic makeup, providing pathways to understanding disease processes and creating novel diagnostic and treatment strategies. There is an immense and growing need for experts in this field, in order to capitalize on the growing body of knowledge regarding the genome. A graduate of the UNO Bioinformatics program will gain a solid background in a wide variety of positions in the biomedical and biotechnology industries, for graduate study in bioinformatics or related areas, and with the addition of a few courses, medical school.
Overview
Bioinformatics is an exciting and rapidly-growing field that uses techniques from the computer and information sciences to study biological information and structure. Specifically, it is the science of developing computer databases and algorithms to facilitate and expedite biological research, particularly in the area of genomics. Bioinformatics is an interdisciplinary science, bringing together aspects of computer science, molecular biology, chemistry, and mathematics. In order to capitalize on the growing body of genetic information, there is an immense and growing need for experts in this field.
Program Availability:
Program Summary
| Curriculum | Credits |
|---|---|
| University General Education courses (19 hours of which can be satisfied by courses also required by the degree in the areas below) |
27 |
| College of IS&T Core courses | 24 |
| Bioinformatics courses | 24 |
| Mathematics courses | 11 |
| Biology courses | 16 |
| Chemistry courses | 14 |
| Elective/Prerequisite courses | 4 |
| Total Credits | 120 |
Minor in Bioinformatics
Overview
Bioinformatics is a rapidly expanding interdisciplinary field focused on collecting, processing, and analyzing vast amounts of biological and biomedical data and has become an indispensable component of biomedical research. The Minor in Bioinformatics offers an opportunity for students majoring in other disciplines to acquire the foundations of the field and add in-demand skills to their portfolios.
Program Availability:
Program Summary
| Curriculum | Credits |
|---|---|
| Core Courses | 9 |
| Elective Courses | 9 |
| Total Credits | 18 |
Second Bachelor of Science in Bioinformatics
General Requirements
Students who have satisfied the requirements for their first baccalaureate degree other than Bioinformatics at the University of Nebraska at Omaha must complete a minimum of 30 additional semester hours at the university for a second bachelor’s degree.
Program Availability:
Bioinformatics Requirements
To obtain a second Bachelor’s degree in Bioinformatics, students must consult an academic advisor prior to starting this program, and complete the academic requirements for the degree which include:
| Curriculum | Credits |
|---|---|
| College of IS&T Core | 24 |
| Mathematics | 11 |
| Chemistry | 14 |
| Biology | 16 |
| Bioinformatics | 24 |
| Total Credits | 89 |