Minimum number of credits required to graduate: 124
Minimum cumulative GPA required to graduate: 2.0
Minimum number of credits to complete the major: 64
An undergraduate bioinformatics major equips students with foundational knowledge in biology, computer science, and statistics, providing them with the tools to analyze large biological datasets. They gain interdisciplinary skills, learn how to apply computational methods to biological problems, use common bioinformatics tools, and develop practical research abilities. The major also emphasizes scientific communication, enabling students to write reports and present findings, which will prepare them for collaborative work across fields.
Professionally, bioinformatics majors can pursue careers in healthcare, biotechnology, and data science, where they apply computational techniques to genomic analysis, personalized medicine, and drug discovery. Graduates are well-prepared for advanced degrees and research roles, with strong technical skills in programming and bioinformatics software. They also develop an understanding of ethical considerations in managing biological data, which is crucial in fields like genomics and health data management.