Online Bioinformatics Master's Programs for 2024

Q: What can I do with a Bioinformatics degree?

With a degree in Bioinformatics, one can further advance their studies in a variety of specializations, such as omics, data analytics, health informatics, data analytics, etc., or go on to seek careers as data scientists, computational biologists, bioinformaticians, genomics field applications scientists, etc.

Q: How hard is Bioinformatics?

For those who come from a background of biology, chemistry, computer science, mathematics, and statistics, Bioinformatics is not a hard pursuit. A flare for and an interest in these subjects makes studying Bioinformatics substantially easier.

Q: How long does it take to complete the program?

The duration of a Master's in Bioinformatics varies, typically taking 1.5 to 2 years for full-time students. Part-time options are available, extending the completion time. Factors like program structure, coursework, and research or thesis requirements contribute to the varying lengths, allowing flexibility for students with diverse schedules and commitments.

Q: Can I pursue a master's in Bioinformatics with a non-biological background?

Yes. Many Master's in Bioinformatics programs accept students with non-biological backgrounds. Programs often include foundational courses to bridge knowledge gaps, ensuring students from diverse disciplines, such as computer science, mathematics, or chemistry, can successfully pursue and excel in a Bioinformatics master's, enriching the field's interdisciplinary nature.

Q: Can I work part-time while pursuing a master's in bioinformatics?

The ability to work part-time while pursuing a Master's in Bioinformatics depends on the program's flexibility and the individual's time management skills. Some programs accommodate part-time employment, while others may have intensive schedules. Balancing work and studies require careful planning to ensure success in both academic and professional pursuits.

Q: Are there opportunities for networking or conferences in a master’s in bioinformatics?

Yes, Master's in Bioinformatics programs often provide networking opportunities through conferences, seminars, and collaborations with industry professionals. Students can attend events, connect with experts, and engage in research projects, enhancing their professional network. These interactions contribute to a comprehensive education and open doors to potential career opportunities in the field.

Featured Online Programs

Best Online Bioinformatics Master’s Programs

Download Seal

See Schools

The Best Online Bioinformatics Master’s Programs are identified through thorough evaluation considering factors such as faculty expertise, program quality, and industry relevance. OMC’s teams have extensively researched and identified the best programs, ensuring they adhere to elevated standards in providing quality education. These programs seamlessly integrate biological sciences with cutting-edge technologies like artificial intelligence and data sciences. By prioritizing excellence in both academic and practical aspects, the OMC teams ensure that selected programs equip students with the skills and knowledge needed for successful careers in genomics, functional genomics, and other specialized fields within the dynamic realm of bioinformatics.

To Link to this page, please copy and paste this code into your website

<a href="https://www.onlinemasterscolleges.com/online-bioinformatics-masters/">Bioinformatics</a>

Click me to copy

Code copied successfully!

College Name & Address	Tuition	Graduation Rate
#1 Harvard University Massachusetts Hall, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02138	$49,448	97%
#2 Northeastern University 360 Huntington Ave, Boston, Massachusetts 02115	$25,264	89%
#3 Stanford University Stanford, California 94305	$54,315	95%
#4 Johns Hopkins University 3400 N Charles St, Baltimore, Maryland 21218	$57,010	93%
#5 University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign 601 E John Street, Champaign, Illinois 61820	$15,016	85%
#6 Brandeis University 415 South St, Waltham, Massachusetts 02454	$51,940	87%
#7 New York University 70 Washington Sq South, New York, New York 10012	$34,704	85%
#8 George Washington University 1918 F Street, NW, Washington, District of Columbia 20052	$31,770	82%
#9 The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston 7000 Fannin, Houston, Texas 77030	$7,984	NA
#10 George Mason University 4400 University Dr, Fairfax, Virginia 22030	$12,594	71%
#11 Lewis University One University Parkway, Romeoville, Illinois 60446	$14,580	67%
#12 North Dakota State University 1301 12th Avenue North, Fargo, North Dakota 58108	$7,013	60%
#13 University of Maine 168 College Avenue, Orono, Maine 04469	$8,298	57%
#14 University of Maryland 3501 University Blvd East, Adelphi, Maryland 20783	$8,640	15%

Source – Integrated Post Secondary Education Data System & University Data
*Tuition rates are for in-state and per year. Program specific rates may apply.
**NA – data not available

Most Affordable Online Bioinformatics Master’s Programs

Download Seal

See Schools

Depending on the college, program, and type of tuition (in-state or out-of-state), pursuing a Master’s in Bioinformatics may involve various expenses. This includes factors beyond cost, such as program value, faculty expertise, and curriculum quality. Recognizing the multifaceted considerations, experts at OMC have curated a list of online Bioinformatics Master’s programs that not only offer affordability but also maintain high standards in education and overall excellence.

To Link to this page, please copy and paste this code into your website

<a href="https://www.onlinemasterscolleges.com/online-bioinformatics-masters/">Bioinformatics</a>

Click me to copy

Code copied successfully!

College Name & Address	Tuition	Graduation Rate
#1 North Dakota State University 1301 12th Avenue North, Fargo, North Dakota 58108	$7,013	60%
#2 The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston 7000 Fannin, Houston, Texas 77030	$7,984	N/A
#3 University of Maine 168 College Avenue, Orono, Maine 04469	$8,298	57%
#4 University of Maryland 3501 University Blvd East, Adelphi, Maryland 20783	$8,640	15%
#5 George Mason University 4400 University Dr, Fairfax, Virginia 22030	$12,594	71%
#6 Lewis University One University Parkway, Romeoville, Illinois 60446	$14,580	67%
#7 University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign 601 E John Street, Champaign, Illinois 61820	$15,016	85%
#8 Northeastern University 360 Huntington Ave, Boston, Massachusetts 02115	$25,264	89%
#9 George Washington University 1918 F Street, NW, Washington, District of Columbia 20052	$31,770	82%
#10 New York University 70 Washington Sq South, New York, New York 10012	$34,704	85%
#11 Harvard University Massachusetts Hall, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02138	$49,448	97%
#12 Brandeis University 415 South St, Waltham, Massachusetts 02454	$51,940	87%
#13 Stanford University Stanford, California 94305	$54,315	95%
#14 Johns Hopkins University 3400 N Charles St, Baltimore, Maryland 21218	$57,010	93%

Source – Integrated Post Secondary Education Data System & University Data
*Tuition rates are for in-state and per year. Program specific rates may apply.
**NA – data not available

Understanding Online Bioinformatics Master’s Programs

A Bioinformatics Master’s typically integrates biology, computer science, chemistry, statistics, and mathematics, complemented by practical experience. The program equips students with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to develop, evaluate, and deploy bioinformatics and computational biology applications. This degree prepares individuals for diverse roles in the dynamic field of Bioinformatics, catering to those already working in the sector, seeking career advancement, or pursuing a career change. Armed with a blend of quantitative, computational, and biotechnological skills, graduates can excel in various sectors, including Medical Sciences, Environmental Sciences, Pharmaceuticals, Software Development, Biotechnology, Government, Education, and Consulting, among others.

Curriculum and Skills Gained in Online Bioinformatics Master’s Programs

An online Bioinformatics Master’s curriculum is primarily based on biology, chemistry, mathematics, statistics, and computer science-related subjects. Computational genomics, bioinformatics programming, and database management are usually common to the program. A specific Bioinformatics course can also be unique to a program, and it is wise to read the program guide or prospectus carefully before choosing a program. Examples of the courses that make up a Master’s in Bioinformatics are:

Bioinformatics Computational Methods

This course explores advanced techniques for analyzing biological data. This specialized course equips students with computational skills, including algorithm development and data interpretation, preparing them for impactful roles at the intersection of biology and cutting-edge computational methods within the field of bioinformatics.

Molecular Biology

This course explores the integration of computational methods with the study of DNA, RNA, and proteins. Students gain advanced insights into genetic mechanisms, cell functions, and disease pathways. This course prepares individuals to apply bioinformatics tools for in-depth molecular analysis and research.

Biological Databases and Database Tools

This course uses computational tools to manage and extract insights from biological databases. Students acquire data retrieval, analysis, and interpretation skills essential for effectively utilizing vast biological datasets in various research and industry applications.

Ethics in Biological Research

This course examines ethical considerations in applying computational methods to biological data. Students explore the responsible use of technology, addressing ethical dilemmas and ensuring integrity in genomic research, personalized medicine, and bioinformatics applications. This course equips individuals to navigate ethical challenges in the dynamic field of bioinformatics.

Introduction to Bioinformatics

This course covers foundational principles and techniques in computational biology. Students gain insights into analyzing biological data, using bioinformatics tools, and understanding the intersection of biology and computing. This course serves as a comprehensive entry point into the dynamic field of bioinformatics.

Along with the core courses required in a Bioinformatics Master’s, at least one or two elective courses are mandatory. Some of these elective courses to choose from are:

Representations and Algorithms for Computational Molecular Biology
Data-Driven Medicine
Computational Methods for Biomedical Image Analysis and Interpretation
Statistical Processes for Biotechnology
Data Structures and Algorithms
Systems-Level Approaches in Bioinformatics
Database Design
Biological Sequence Analysis
Numerical Method for Bioinformatics
Stem Cells and Regeneration
Microbial Biotechnology
Cellular Engineering
Legal and Ethical Aspects of Health Informatics
Quality and Outcome Improvement in Healthcare
Standards in Health Informatics
Introduction to Systems Biology
Statistics and Mathematics for Bioinformatics
Economic Dynamics of Change in Biotechnology
Next Generation Sequence Analysis for Bioinformatics
Large-Scale Database Systems
Evolutionary Computation
Foundations of Software Engineering
Rich Internet Applications with Ajax
Principles of Enterprise Web Development
XML Design Paradigms
Data Visualization
Introduction to cGMP Compliance
Marketing Aspects of Biotechnology
Bioscience Communication
Independent Research Project in Bioinformatics
Big Data Processing Using Hadoop
Agile Development with Ruby on Rails
Mobile Application Development for the Android Platform
Software Systems Engineering
Machine Learning
Web Application Development with Java
Bioethics
Ethical, Legal & Regulatory Aspects of the Biotechnology Enterprise
Independent Studies in Biotechnology Enterprise and Entrepreneurship
Social Entrepreneurship in Bioscience
Advanced Cell Biology
Life Science Entrepreneurial Ventures

Graduates of a Master’s in Bioinformatics will acquire a host of skills by the end of their program, such as the ability to:

filter and transform general data;
process and check domain-specific data;
apply statistics, machine learning, and artificial intelligence where applicable and/or possible;
better integrate domain-specific data via the use of APIs, databases, and/or flat files;
effectively use domain-specific statistical tools, reporting tools, and data visualization;
write Python/R packages and/or use Perl;
write reusable, efficient, and documented code with version control for data analysis tasks and
communicate data-driven insights/stories via publications, journals, and presentations.

Bioinformatics Master’s Degree Types

Bioinformatics Master’s programs are offered in two formats: an MBA program and an MS program. While both share fundamental similarities, they cater to distinct personal and professional goals, providing flexibility for individuals seeking diverse educational paths in bioinformatics.

Master of Science (MS) in Bioinformatics

The Master of Science or MS Bioinformatics approaches Bioinformatics from a technical and scientific viewpoint, emphasizing research methodology, genome sequencing, programming and computation, and pharmacogenomics. This degree can also serve as a foundation for medical school, law school, or advanced study in public health.

MBA in Bioinformatics

The Master’s in Business Administration or MBA in Bioinformatics brings managerial, administrative, and commercial aspects to the study of Bioinformatics and caters to those who may already have knowledge and experience in the field but are looking to acquire some business skills as well.

Specializations in Bioinformatics Master’s Programs

Specializations and concentrations in online Bioinformatics Master’s are required for students to dive deeper into one particular aspect of bioinformatics or specialized knowledge and skills to prepare for a certain career path. A few of the many available options include:

Area of Focus	Description	Careers This Concentration Prepares For
Bioinformatics and Chemoinformatics	This specialization focuses on Bioinformatics, and Chemoinformatics combines biology, computational biology, and chemistry. This specialization equips students with advanced skills to analyze biological data and chemical structures, fostering a comprehensive understanding of molecular interactions. Graduates are prepared for roles at the intersection of biology and chemistry in diverse scientific and industrial settings.	• Computational Biologists • Genomic Data Scientists • Bioinformatics Software Developers
Bioinformatics Enterprise	This specialization focuses on the strategic application of computational methods in managing and analyzing biological data on an enterprise scale. Students delve into large-scale data integration, bioinformatics infrastructure, and collaborative approaches, preparing for leadership roles in the dynamic field of bioinformatics.	• Bioinformatics Project Managers • Bioinformatics Consultants • Bioinformatics Researchers
Biotechnology	This specialization involves integrating computational methods with biological data to advance applications in genetic engineering, pharmaceuticals, and industrial processes. This specialization equips students with skills to analyze and leverage biological information, contributing to innovative solutions in the dynamic and interdisciplinary field of biotechnology.	• Biotechnologists • Bioprocess Engineers • Biotechnology Research Scientists
Data Analytics	This specialization uses advanced computational methods to extract meaningful insights from biological data. This specialization equips individuals with the expertise to analyze, interpret, and apply data-driven solutions, contributing to advancements in genomics, personalized medicine, and other bioinformatics-related fields.	• Data Scientists • Business Intelligence Analysts • Data Analysts
Health Informatics	A Master’s in Bioinformatics, specializing in Health Informatics, involves integrating computational methods with healthcare data. Students focus on analyzing and interpreting biological information to enhance medical practices, genomics, and personalized healthcare. This specialization prepares individuals for roles at the intersection of bioinformatics and health information management, fostering advancements in healthcare.	• Health Informatics Specialists • Clinical Informatics Analysts • Health Information Managers

Timeline for graduation from Online Bioinformatics Master’s Programs

Full-time students typically complete an online Bioinformatics Master’s in 16 to 36 months, averaging around 24 months. Part-time students may take longer, with some universities allowing up to five years for program completion. The flexible timeline accommodates varying schedules, ensuring individuals can balance academic pursuits with other commitments while acquiring expertise in the dynamic field of Bioinformatics.

Accelerated Online Bioinformatics Master’s Programs

Accelerated programs offer students a shorter path to academic and professional success by compressing traditional coursework into a shorter timeframe. These programs often emphasize intensive learning, enabling students to graduate earlier and enter the workforce sooner. Benefits include cost savings, as students spend less time in education, and a competitive edge in the job market. Additionally, accelerated programs cater to ambitious individuals seeking a more efficient and streamlined educational experience. Here are examples of universities that offer accelerated master’s in bioinformatics:

John Hopkins Krieger School of Arts and Science¹ -16-24 months

Loyola University Chicago² – 4+1 Bachelor’s to Master’s in Bioinformatics

Online Bioinformatics Master’s Programs Admission Requirements

MS Bioinformatics prerequisites are almost identical to those of other science-related degrees, whereby students are required to have a Bachelor’s Degree, preferably with courses in subjects such as Calculus, Biostatistics, Bio-Organic Chemistry, Biochemistry, and Introduction to Programming using Java. However, Bioinformatics prerequisites vary by college and program, and students must check the program guide for specific requirements. Apart from this eligibility criterion, Bioinformatics Master’s requirements are generally:

An application to the program, with its prescribed application fee;
Official Academic Transcripts for all institutions attended;
A Personal Statement or Statement of Purpose; and
At least 2 Letters of Recommendation.

Most schools do not require a standardized test score such as the GRE score, although it is recommended to submit one. A Grade Point Average (GPA) of at least 3.0 is expected.

Online Bioinformatics Master’s No GRE Programs

The GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is a standardized test often required for graduate school admissions. Recently, some universities are opting to waive the GRE as part of their admission criteria. This shift aims to attract a more diverse pool of applicants, acknowledging that standardized tests may not be the sole predictor of success. Waiving the GRE can enhance accessibility and encourage more qualified students to apply. Here are examples of universities that offer master’s in bioinformatics without the GRE:

Brandies Online³
Northeastern University⁴

Accreditation for Online Bioinformatics Master’s Programs

Accreditation has a huge role to play in Master’s programs. Not only does accreditation endorse the expected high standards and quality of a program, but it also ensures that set standards are currently and constantly met, adding tremendous credibility to the program and/or college. One example of accreditation for an online Bioinformatics Master’s is the Institute for Credentialing Service (ICE)^5, which bestows the N a tional Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA) Accreditation⁶ and the Assessment-based Certificate Accreditation Program (ACAP)⁷. Sometimes, colleges or programs may be endorsed by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI)⁸.

Here are some of the regional accrediting agencies in the United States:

Free Online Bioinformatics Courses

Free online courses in Bioinformatics provide valuable supplementary education for graduate students, offering the chance to enhance skills and stay current with advancements. While not accredited, these courses provide flexibility, enabling students to explore specific topics or gain practical experience. However, they should be viewed as supplementary resources, and formal degree programs remain essential for comprehensive accreditation and recognition in the field. Here are a few free online courses Bioinformatics graduates can explore:

Course	Provided by	Description
Diploma in Bioinformatics⁹	Alison	This free online science course covers the essentials of bioinformatics, exploring diverse algorithms, tools, and procedures. The course explores bioinformatics’ role in drug discovery, design, and development, shedding light on fundamental concepts and their contributions to this expanding field.
Biology Meets Programming: Bioinformatics for Beginners¹⁰	Class Central	This course includes programming challenges and guiding participants through Python implementation. It serves as a gradual entry point to the Bioinformatics Specialization. Each four weeks features two essential components: an interactive textbook presenting Python challenges derived from authentic biological problems.
Python for Genomic Data Science¹¹	Coursera	“Python for Genomic Data Science” is a free course introducing essential Python skills for genomic analysis. Covering topics like data manipulation, visualization, and practical applications in genomics, the course equips learners with programming tools crucial for the evolving field of genomic data science. Ideal for those aspiring to excel in genomic research.

How to Pay for Online Bioinformatics Master’s Programs

Online Bioinformatics Master’s programs in the United States often come with a substantial price tag, ranking among the most expensive Master’s degrees. The consistent upward trajectory in program costs across various disciplines requires exploring reliable funding mechanisms to alleviate the financial strain of pursuing advanced education.

Some such funding mechanisms that can pay for the Bioinformatics course fees include:

Scholarships

Several universities award qualifying students merit-based scholarships, alumnae-funded grants, and fellowships. Private entities often award scholarships based on academic achievement, community service, cultural heritage, religious affiliation, and other criteria. Scholarships for Women, African American Scholarships, and Disability Scholarships are specific types of scholarships. A word of caution – Students must be careful not to get entangled in one of the many Scholarship Scams.

Grants

Grants are an excellent choice for covering student and education-related expenses such as books, study materials, travel, student accommodation, and so on, in addition to tuition fees. Grants are typically awarded based on financial need rather than on academic achievement.

Graduate Assistantships

Graduate Teaching Assistantships or Graduate Research Assistantships may be available at some universities to pursue a Master’s degree. While Graduate Teaching Assistants support classroom function and assist senior teachers with their duties, Graduate Research Assistants do the same in a lab or research environment. Graduate Assistants are paid a stipend that can contribute towards funding the cost of their Master’s program.

Working on Campus

Universities often encourage students to study and work on the same campus. Part-time work can be found with a paycheck, which can help defray some expenses associated with completing a Master’s Degree.

Student Loans

Federal, bank, and private loans can be reasonably easy funding methods for those willing to pay interest on a loan. However, to avoid accruing interest and increasing student debt, students should better manage their finances and repay such loans on time.

FAFSA

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA, determines a student’s eligibility for financial aid and is a common way to fund tuition. More information on FAFSA can be found here.

The best Financial Aid Guide provides a deeper look into funding options and exact information.

Scholarships for Online Bioinformatics Master’s Students

Given the high cost of pursuing an online Bioinformatics Master’s, students frequently seek external funding, with scholarships emerging as the first choice to reduce financial burdens. Universities may offer scholarships from their resources, while external sources like independent donors, private organizations, and corporate entities contribute, providing students with diverse avenues to secure financial support.

Careers and Salary Outlook for Bioinformatics Master’s Graduates

An online Bioinformatics Master’s can lead to several career paths. The data science, pharmaceutical, medical, and biotechnology sectors offer various jobs, most of which promise ample growth and potential. Some such jobs include but are not limited to:

Occupation	Data Scientists¹²
Median Annual Salary	$103,500
Job Growth (up to 2032)	35%(much faster than average)
Job Description	Data scientists analyze and interpret complex datasets, utilizing statistical methods and programming. They gather, clean, and process data, uncovering valuable insights to inform decision-making. Collaborating with teams, they contribute to data-driven strategies and solutions, enhancing organizational outcomes.

Occupation	Data Analysis and Analytics Manager¹³
Median Annual Salary	$137,600
Job Growth (up to 2032)	No Data Available
Job Description	The role of the Data Analysis and Analytics Manager involves establishing data standards and implementing automation tools to acquire and process data from diverse sources. This position offers leadership and oversight in data analytics operations, generating necessary datasets to inform operational and business strategies.

Occupation	Bioinformatics Developer¹⁴
Median Annual Salary	$101,591
Job Growth (up to 2032)	No Data Available
Job Description	The Bioinformatics Developer creates pipelines or Jupyter notebooks for omics and clinical data utilizing emerging technologies. These tools empower ISB-CGC end users to maximize NCI data utilization on the Google Cloud Platform. Application reviews start promptly and will continue until the position is filled. Offer data analysis and visualizations to bolster scientific research efforts.

Occupation	Data Science Manager¹⁵
Median Annual Salary	$156,587
Job Growth (up to 2032)	No Data Available
Job Description	Guiding teams in analyzing extensive datasets, the Data Science Manager identifies trends and anomalies to develop insights. They oversee result interpretation using diverse techniques, including statistical analysis and data mining, contributing to informed decision-making within the organization.

Certifications and Licensing for Bioinformatics Graduates

Certifications and Licensure for a Master’s in Bioinformatics are typically not mandatory in the U.S. but can be valuable for career advancement. While completing a master’s program provides a strong academic foundation, certifications can demonstrate specialized skills and practical expertise. It’s essential to assess industry requirements, job expectations, and personal career goals to determine whether pursuing certifications aligns with individual needs and aspirations.

Additional Resources for Bioinformatics Professionals

Bioinformatics is a challenging area of study and continues to evolve each day. To stay current with the latest practices, students and professionals should actively engage in international communities, connect with peers, share insights, and leverage computational and programming resources. This collaborative approach not only facilitates problem-solving but also opens avenues to explore new possibilities within the dynamic field of Bioinformatics. Some of the various resources that online Bioinformatics Master’s graduates can explore include:

International Society for Computational Biology (ISCB)¹⁶

The International Society for Computational Biology (ISCB) is a leading professional society for computational biology and Bioinformatics, which connects trains and empowers its members worldwide. The society hosts conferences, journals, publications, education, and training resources.

Databio¹⁷

Databio has resources to help students interested in developing foundational skills useful for computational biology. There are basic resources, advanced resources, and complete references to explore in R, Bioconductor, Unix Command Line, Python, etc.

Biostars¹⁸

Biostars is an online community that harbors Bioinformatics students and working professionals, and one in which questions are asked, answers are shared, theories are analyzed, and issues are resolved.

Bioinformatics.org¹⁹

Bioinformatics.org offers many resources, including courses, career guides, online databases, online analysis tools, a forum, and news and commentary.

GitHub²⁰

GitHub is arguably the most popular resource for software programmers and developers. A section of this repository has a curated list of resources for learning Bioinformatics and covers Genomics, Proteomics, Transcriptomics, Metabolomics, and Epigenomics.

FAQs About Online Bioinformatics Master’s Programs

Collapse All

Expand All

What is a Master’s in Bioinformatics?

Bioinformatics is the study and development of databases, algorithms, analytical and mathematical methods, and theory required to solve formal, systematic, and practical problems related to the management and analysis of biological data. In short – the application of information technology to the field of molecular biology is known as Bioinformatics.