UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS URBANA-CHAMPAIGN · UNITED STATES
MS in Bioinformatics with Information Sciences Concentration
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
24 mo
Duration
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IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- 36Credit hours for the program
- InterdisciplinaryEducation across campus units
- Optional thesisFlexibility in program structure
- Renowned facultyExpertise in bioinformatics and related fields
- Career-focusedPreparation for roles like Data Scientist and Bioinformaticist
The Master of Science (MS) in Bioinformatics with an Information Sciences (IS) Concentration prepares you for a career in managing the vast amounts of health, medical, and biological data being generated. This interdisciplinary program allows you to take courses across various campus units, equipping you to work as an analyst or researcher in fields like molecular biology, environmental biology, and biomedicine. You will gain expertise in using technology to organize information, build and evaluate information systems, and develop skills in data stewardship, analytics, and policy.
Curriculum
The program requires 36 credit hours of coursework, including required courses in information science, biology, computer science, informatics, and fundamental bioinformatics. A master's thesis is optional.
- Year 1
- Information Science Courses
- Biology Course
- Computer Science and Informatics Course
- Fundamental Bioinformatics Course
- Year 2
- Electives
- Optional Master's Thesis
Careers
Graduates are prepared for a variety of cutting-edge positions in managing and analyzing biological and health information. The iSchool's expertise in information sciences ensures you are competitive for roles in this rapidly growing field.
- Data scientist
- Bioinformaticist
- Bioinformatics Analyst
- Biomarker Data Specialist
Frequently asked questions
- What are the entry requirements for the MS in Bioinformatics program?
- A bachelor's degree is required for admission. International applicants must also provide proof of financial self-sufficiency for visa processing.
- How much does the MS in Bioinformatics program cost?
- Please contact the department directly for specific international tuition rates. International students must also demonstrate they can cover living costs and prove financial self-sufficiency for visa purposes.
- How long does the MS in Bioinformatics program take to complete?
- The program requires 36 credit hours of coursework. A master's thesis is optional, which may affect the overall duration.
- What are the career prospects after completing the MS in Bioinformatics?
- Graduates are prepared for roles such as Data Scientist, Bioinformaticist, and Bioinformatics Analyst in fields managing biological and health information.
- How do I apply to the MS in Bioinformatics program?
- You need to submit the Graduate Admissions Application and a program-specific application for the MS in Bioinformatics, along with transcripts, letters of recommendation, and proof of financial support if you are an international applicant.
Entry requirements
Bachelor's DegreeA bachelor's degree is required for admission.
International applicants must demonstrate they can fully support themselves financially during their studies to obtain a visa. The Graduate College will not process applications until funding documents are received. Reliance on outside employment for oneself or a spouse is not a sufficient means of support.
Fees
Tuition (international)Contact the department for specific international tuition rates.
Tuition (home)Contact the department for specific domestic tuition rates.
LivingInternational candidates must be prepared to demonstrate full financial support for their studies.
International students must prove financial self-sufficiency to obtain a visa. Funding documents are required for application processing.
How to apply
1. Submit Graduate Admissions ApplicationComplete the application for graduate admissions through the University of Illinois Graduate College.
2. Submit Program-Specific ApplicationApply specifically for the MS in Bioinformatics program, noting the Information Sciences Concentration.
3. Provide Funding DocumentsInternational applicants must submit proof of sufficient financial support to cover tuition, fees, and living expenses. This is a mandatory step for visa processing and application review.
4. Submit TranscriptsProvide academic transcripts from all previous institutions.
5. Submit Test Scores (if applicable)If required, submit standardized test scores (e.g., GRE, English proficiency tests).
6. Provide Letters of RecommendationSubmit letters of recommendation from academic or professional sources.
7. Submit Statement of PurposeInclude a statement outlining your academic and career goals.
Frequently asked questions
What are the entry requirements for the MS in Bioinformatics program?
+
A bachelor's degree is required for admission. International applicants must also provide proof of financial self-sufficiency for visa processing.
How much does the MS in Bioinformatics program cost?
+
Please contact the department directly for specific international tuition rates. International students must also demonstrate they can cover living costs and prove financial self-sufficiency for visa purposes.
How long does the MS in Bioinformatics program take to complete?
+
The program requires 36 credit hours of coursework. A master's thesis is optional, which may affect the overall duration.
What are the career prospects after completing the MS in Bioinformatics?
+
Graduates are prepared for roles such as Data Scientist, Bioinformaticist, and Bioinformatics Analyst in fields managing biological and health information.
How do I apply to the MS in Bioinformatics program?
+
You need to submit the Graduate Admissions Application and a program-specific application for the MS in Bioinformatics, along with transcripts, letters of recommendation, and proof of financial support if you are an international applicant.