Masters
Part-Time or Full-Time
Fall
On-Campus
Masters
Part-Time or Full-Time
Fall, Spring
On-Campus
About the MS in Bioinformatics at Loyola
In today's dynamic, interconnected, and rapidly-evolving global economy, the intersection of technology and the life sciences is becoming more prevalent and being relied upon for answers to emerging challenges in a wide range of fields. The Master of Science (MS) in Bioinformatics program offered through Loyola's Graduate School will prepare you to become a visionary leader.
As a student in the program, you'll gain a solid foundation in biological, computational, chemical, and statistical concepts and theory. You will also gain the essential hands-on and research skills necessary to move bioinformatics study and practice ahead in ways that will benefit the broad spectrum of business and industry.
Program Structure
The MS in Bioinformatics can be pursued full-time or part-time. Classes are held at the Lake Shore Campus, located on Chicago's North Side, right along Lake Michigan, in a diverse and dynamic residential area.
The MS in Bioinformatics is a 30-credit-hour program that includes a required core curriculum (17 credit hours) as well as a non-thesis track and a thesis track (13 credit hours) from which you choose.
To apply for the program, you must have completed coursework or the equivalent in genetics, biostatistics, biochemistry, and data structures/algorithms.
Are you a current Loyola undergrad?
This program is eligible for an Accelerated Bachelor's to Master's degree. Earn a Master’s with only one extra year of study following the completion of your eligible undergraduate degree.
LEARN MOREWhy Choose Loyola for the MS in Bioinformatics?
- An innovative field meeting the most current and pressing needs
- An accelerated path for the BS and MS degrees
- A thesis track for a more research-oriented experience
- A non-thesis track for a more practice-oriented experience
- A vibrant, opportunity-rich setting in the heart of Chicago
- An exceptional tradition and academic legacy
The bioinformatics profession is at the forefront of technology, computing, and the life sciences and will position you for a fulfilling career addressing business and industry's most current and pressing needs.
You have the option of enrolling in Loyola's dual-track program. This allows you to earn both the BS and the MS in Bioinformatics in just five years instead of the six years it would traditionally take to earn them separately.
The program's thesis track offers you powerful preparation in the research aspects of bioinformatics, with a two-day workshop covering Responsible Conduct in Research and Scholarship as well as other research-based courses.
The program's non-thesis track provides a more practice-based experience. You choose four bioinformatics elective courses and engage in an internship experience where you'll apply the knowledge and skills you gain in a real-world setting.
Our location along Lake Michigan in the heart of Chicago offers you an array of academic, internship, and professional opportunities at research institutions, hospitals, biotech companies, government agencies, and labs, among others.
Loyola University Chicago's Graduate School is widely recognized for academic excellence and degree programs that command respect from employers spanning the broad spectrum of business and industry.
Bioinformatics Department
The Department of Bioinformatics houses an exciting field that combines the latest advances in genetics and biochemistry with the powerful tools of computer science and statistical analysis. Find stories showcasing current students and graduates from the Bioinformatics MS program and learn more about why Loyola is right for you.
Department WebsiteDepartment News and StoriesMeet the Faculty
The program's faculty is composed of highly accomplished academicians, researchers, scholars, and practitioners representing the fields of biology, genetics, biostatistics, statistical ecology, cancer biology, evolutionary genetics, developmental biology, biophysics, and computational chemistry, among many others.
FacultyMS in Bioinformatics: Career Connections
As a graduate of the master’s in bioinformatics program you will be prepared to thrive in any number of professional settings, including research institutes, pharmaceutical companies, hospitals, government agencies, private companies, universities, and laboratories, among many others.
Specific job options include:
- Bioinformatics programmer
- Bioinformatics and genome analyst
- Research scientist
- Computational biologist
- Genetic data manager
- Proteomicist
- Software developer
- Sequence and genomic informaticist
- Clinical database specialist
Because Loyola is a member of the Jesuit network of 27 colleges and universities nationwide, our graduates can access career advising services, resume and interviewing assistance, career fairs and events, and employment listings in our Career Services center, as well as at career centers at other U.S. Jesuit colleges and universities.
Job Outlook
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Outlook Handbook is a good place to start exploring the job outlook and pay potential for specific careers and fields that interest you.
Curriculum and Program Outcomes
While courses for the Bioinformatics MS program may vary from semester to semester, Loyola’s extensive Academic Catalog will always house the official listing of courses, programs of study, academic policies, degree requirements, and specialization or concentration options.
Additionally, this resource will provide Bioinformatics MS learning outcomes, showcasing the commitment to specific skills and growth graduates can expect to achieve following completion of the program.
2023-2024 Catalog
Browse Academic CatalogMS in Bioinformatics Results and Skills
In the master's in bioinformatics program you will develop skills, including the ability to:
- Employ statistical and computational methods to investigate and solve problems within the life sciences
- Conduct bioinformatics study in industry and/or the research environment
- Effectively communicate orally and in writing about science-related topics
- Apply quantitative statistical concepts and theories to real-world problems associated with the life sciences
Costs, Scholarships, and Aid
Loyola University Chicago is committed to making your graduate and professional studies a reality. Our Cost & Financial Aid page can help better inform you about the costs and potential funding opportunities through scholarships, loans, and aid for graduate and professional education.
If you are a current Loyola undergraduate or recent alum, you may be eligible for a Returning Rambler discount. Learn more and see if you qualify on our Returning Rambler Scholarship page.
Tuition and Costs
| Program | Credit Hours | Cost Per Credit Hour | Estimated Tuition and Fees |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bioinformatics MS Thesis Track | 30 | $1,125.00 | $33750.00 |
| Bioinformatics MS Non-Thesis Track | 30 | $1,125.00 | $33750.00 |
For more detailed information about tuition and fees, and a breakdown of how these costs are calculated on a yearly basis, please visit Tuition and Fees from the Office of the Bursar.
The Graduate School Scholarships
Information about funding opportunities within The Graduate School can be found on The Graduate School website.
Appointments and Events
Whether you’re just beginning your search, in the midst of the application process, or eager to explore our graduate and professional programs, our admissions staff is here to assist you every step of the way.
Schedule an AppointmentThe Graduate School offers graduate open houses, information sessions, individual appointments, open Zoom and text sessions, and a multitude of other ways to get to know us better.
Attend an EventUpcoming Events
Visit and Connect With Us
With our visit opportunities, you can tour our beautiful Chicago campuses and learn more about Loyola's ties to one of the most prestigious cities in the world.
Application Process
This program has multiple versions you can apply to. Find specific information about the application process for each program below.
Application Deadlines
The available start terms and corresponding application deadlines for the Bioinformatics MS Thesis Track are listed below. We encourage you to apply early for priority review. Please note that decisions may take longer during busy periods.
Fall
Students who wish be considered for a university stipend and tuition scholarship: February 1
All other applicants: March 15
Application Requirements
Application requirements for the Bioinformatics MS Thesis Track include:
Transcripts
2 Letters of Recommendation
3.0 Minimum GPA
Resume/CV
Statement of Purpose
Prerequisite Course Requirements
The following prerequisites provide students with the background for more advanced courses:
Genetics
Biochemistry
Tier 1 and 2 Computer Science
Introduction to Biostatistics
While some applicants have this prior prerequisite coursework, most don't, particularly students coming from other majors and backgrounds. Strong applicants are expected to fulfill at least 2 of these prerequisites before applying. This prerequisite coursework can be fulfilled either here at Loyola or elsewhere.
Statement of Purpose Details
Please write brief (500-1000 word) statement of purpose describing your academic interests and your professional goals. You should also include faculty research labs of interest.
Application Deadlines
The available start terms and corresponding application deadlines for the Bioinformatics MS Non-Thesis Track are listed below. We encourage you to apply early for priority review. Please note that decisions may take longer during busy periods.
Fall
Students who wish be considered for a university stipend and tuition scholarship: February 1
All other applicants: March 15
Spring: October 15
Application Requirements
Application requirements for the Bioinformatics MS Non-Thesis Track include:
Transcripts
2 Letters of Recommendation
3.0 Minimum GPA
Resume/CV
Statement of Purpose
Prerequisite Course Requirements
The following prerequisites provide students with the background for more advanced courses:
Genetics
Biochemistry
Tier 1 and 2 Computer Science
Introduction to Biostatistics
While some applicants have this prior prerequisite coursework, most don't, particularly students coming from other majors and backgrounds. Strong applicants are expected to fulfill at least 2 of these prerequisites before applying. This prerequisite coursework can be fulfilled either here at Loyola or elsewhere.
Statement of Purpose Details
Please write a brief (500-1000 word) statement of purpose describing your academic and research interests as well as your professional goals.
International Student Requirements
Additional information regarding the application process for international students can be found on the International Student Requirements page.
Additional Details
For general information and a step-by-step guide to applying for graduate and professional study, please visit our Admission Process page. There is no fee to apply to graduate programs at Loyola.
Apply Now