Bioinformatics
Bachelor of Science
Turn biological data into scientific breakthroughs
Recent advances in biotechnology have made the generation of large data sets standard in all biological disciplines. A wide-ranging occupation now in high demand, bioinformatics scientists are skilled at utilizing computational tools to process, analyze and interpret these data.
A Bachelor of Science in bioinformatics opens an interdisciplinary field that merges biology, mathematics and computer science. From DNA profiling to drug discovery to biomedical research, this undergraduate degree prepares you with the training and tools to tackle real-world challenges. It also serves as the launching point for graduate programs in bioinformatics or computational biology.
Bioinformatics enables researchers to gain a more profound understanding of evolutionary relationships, genetics and medical science. Develop into a modern biologist capable of generating and utilizing complex data sets to take on our most pressing issues—species conservation, climate change and human health.
Overview
Related Topics
Bio informed
Degree fit
This degree could be a good fit if you:
- Want to help address important biological problems
- Excel in math and computer science
- Are driven by creative problem solving and critical thinking
Career outcomes
Current job openings
1,079 in ID, WA, OR, MT and HIPotential careers and starting salaries
- Web Administrators • GIS Technicians • Document Management Specialists • Penetration Testers • Information Security Engineers • Digital Forensics Analysts • Blockchain Engineers • Computer Systems Engineers/Architects • Information Technology Project Managers
$61,877 - Data Scientists • Business Intelligence Analysts • Clinical Data Managers
$83,644 - Biological Technicians
$38,904 - Computer and Information Scientists
$106,739 - Bioinformatics Technicians
$51,826
* Career data provided by Lightcast.
Financial aid and scholarship opportunities
Financial aid
Paying for college can feel overwhelming, but U of I’s Financial Aid Office is here to help. Our experienced financial aid counselors can assist you in exploring financial aid options, making informed financial decisions and addressing common concerns.
To maximize aid and scholarship possibilities, be sure to complete your FAFSA. For information on FAFSA deadlines and answers to common questions, visit the University of Idaho FAFSA website.
Plan ahead — estimate your cost of attendance with U of I’s Cost Calculator.
Scholarships
Unlock scholarship opportunities at University of Idaho! When you apply to U of I, you're automatically considered for scholarships. We also offer a variety of scholarships based on experience, background and academic programs that student can apply for to help pay for college.
Explore available scholarships on our Scholarships website.
Clubs and involvement opportunities
Hands-on learning
Students in the B.S. in bioinformatics get to work with faculty who are experts in bioinformatics and computational biology. You’ll have the chance to get hands-on experience in collaborative research groups as part of your studies at U of I.
Other hands-on learning opportunities include:
- Undergraduate research in faculty labs
- Undergraduate teaching practica
- Internships
Clubs
- Phi Sigma Honor Society
- College of Science Ambassadors
- Women in Science Society
- Society for Advancement of Chicanos/Hispanics and Native Americans in Science (SACNAS)
- Sigma Xi, The Scientific Research Honor Society
- U of I Pre-Med/Pre-PA Club
- U of I Pre-PT/OT/AT Organization
- U of I Food and Nutrition Club
- Global Medical Brigades
- U of I Environmental Science Club
- Society for Conservation Biology
Application information
Undergraduate applications open each September and admissions are processed on a rolling basis. Qualified students are admitted and considered for scholarships and financial aid as applications are received.
Explore admission requirements and apply on our Admissions website.