School of Computational Sciences

New Professional Studies, M.S.

SCS offers three tracks in the new professional studies program: forensic biosciences, bioinformatics, and biotechnology. The master's degree provides graduate education for professionals working at the interface of information technology and the biological sciences. As such, the program content is geared toward persons employed in science-based organizations that require bioinformatics and bioscience skills and expertise.

The degree incorporates action-oriented group learning as a way to integrate theory and practice. Grouped into teams, candidates are immersed in the practical problems of organizations while engaging with each other through collaborative technologies. By dealing with practical organizational issues, participants gain deeper insight into how complex organizations work and how to affect them. The program produces a tightly integrated learning experience and focuses on building a learning community.

Degree Requirements

Each of the three tracks requires a minimum of 33 credits. Four core courses (MNPS 700, 702, 703, 704) are required of all tracks. In addition to the minimum 33 credits, all students are required to take or to have met the requirements of CHEM 663-664 Biochemistry (6 credits). In addition to the core courses, the following courses are required for each track:

Forensic Biosciences: MBI 530, 531, 533, 534, 537, 538, and 539

Bioinformatics: MBI 530, 531, 532, 533, 536, and six credits from CSI 601-607

Biotechnology: MBI 530, 531, 532, 533, 534, 535, and 536