Turn Biological Data Into Discovery

Bring biology, technology, and data together with a Bioinformatics minor at Westfield State University. Open to students from all majors, including Biology, this interdisciplinary minor prepares you to use computational tools to analyze biological information and approach scientific questions in new ways.

Through coursework in bioinformatics, computer science, statistics, biology, and data visualization, you’ll gain practical experience working with large biological datasets. Apply what you learn to areas such as genomics, molecular biology, human health, biotechnology, and scientific research.

Add a Bioinformatics minor to your major to expand your academic experience and develop skills that can support your future career or graduate study.

Program Highlights

  • Required Courses — 19 to 20 Credits
  • Designed for all majors
  • Interdisciplinary curriculum
  • Programming experience included

Course Requirements

Program Description

This Bioinformatics Minor provides a pathway for students to enter the fields of bioinformatics and computational biology. The minor includes courses in computer science, statistics, biology, bioinformatics, and data visualization, equipping students with foundational knowledge and practical skills in bioinformatics for analyzing large biological datasets to address challenges in human health, genomics, molecular biology, and biotechnology. This minor is intended for students from all majors, including Biology.

Bioinformatics Requirements

Programming Courses (6 or 7 Credits)

Foundational Programming

Students must select one (1) course from the following:

Additional Programming

Students must select one (1) course from the following:

Statistics Course (3 Credits)

Students must select one (1) course from the following:

Biology Lab Course (4 Credits)

Students must select one (1) course from the following:

Bioinformatics Course (3 Credits)

Data Visualization Course (3 Credits)

Note:

In order to receive a Bioinformatics Minor, Biology Majors must take BIOL 0270, which cannot be applied toward the Biology Major.

What Can You Do With a Bioinformatics Minor?

Bioinformatics is helping shape the way scientists understand everything from genes and disease to new medical treatments and biological discoveries. A minor in Bioinformatics can support career paths across biotechnology, healthcare, research, pharmaceuticals, genomics, and data-focused industries. It can also provide a strong foundation for graduate study in bioinformatics, computational biology, and related scientific fields.

Careers and positions may include:

  • Bioinformatics Analyst
  • Biological Data Analyst
  • Biotechnology Research Associate
  • Computational Biology Assistant
  • Genomics Technician
  • Laboratory Data Specialist
  • Research Assistant
  • Scientific Data Analyst
Student in a lab looking through a microscope.

Ready to learn more?

Learn With Support From Experienced Faculty

As a Bioinformatics minor at Westfield State University, you’ll learn from faculty who are committed to your academic growth and success. Ask questions, receive personalized guidance, and benefit from a supportive learning environment as you progress through the program. Faculty mentorship can help you strengthen your skills, build confidence, and make the most of your academic experience. Along the way, you’ll build meaningful connections with professors who can serve as valuable resources throughout your time at Westfield State and beyond.

 

 

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Bioinformatics Minor