Bachelor of Science in Bioinformatics

Students who are interested in both biology and computer science may consider the study of bioinformatics. Bioinformaticians develop ways to gather and analyze data for biology research and other purposes. Advances in biology are often impeded by the glut of ever-expanding datasets and by a lack of dedicated software and algorithms, requiring skilled biologists capable of handling massive amounts of information, performing in-depth statistical analyses, and programming. Bioinformaticians do all of these things. Bioinformatics at Illinois Tech in Chicago includes a strong biology core plus computer science, mathematics and physics. It is more scientifically rigorous, particularly in the physical sciences, compared to other programs. It also provides students with high-demand technology skills. There are two tracks: Applied Bioinformatics has more required and elective courses in computer science (e.g., information retrieval, object-oriented design and programming, operating systems, etc.) and math. Computational Biology has more required and elective courses in biology (e.g., human anatomy, animal physiology, concepts of cancer biology, etc.). The two tracks share a common core for the first two years. After that, students will select the track that best fits their career interests.