Program Description

Application Requirements

Program-Specific Instructions

Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, PhD

Overview

The PhD in Bioinformatics and Computational Biology prepares students to analyze, model, and interpret complex biological data using computational approaches. By integrating biological sciences with high-performance computing, the program addresses challenges across biomedical, agricultural, and environmental fields.

Program Benefits

Students gain interdisciplinary training that combines foundational biosciences with advanced bioinformatics methods. The program prepares graduates for careers in academia, industry, and government, equipping them with the skills to study biological systems and their interactions across multiple levels of complexity.

Curriculum Structure

• Foundational coursework in biosciences and computational methods
• Advanced courses in bioinformatics reflecting current developments in the field
• Completion of coursework, a comprehensive exam, and a dissertation proposal leading to advancement to candidacy
• Independent research culminating in a doctoral dissertation

Program Format

• Designed for both full-time and part-time students
• Flexible delivery options, including fully online, hybrid, and asynchronous formats
• No required campus residency; students may complete the program remotely or in person

English Proficiency Requirements

All Mason students must have a full command of academic English to be successful in their studies. For this reason, Mason requires applicants to demonstrate English proficiency for admission consideration, regardless of citizenship. Click here to view the requirements.

International Transcript Requirements

All transcripts from colleges or universities outside the United States must be translated into English, if applicable, and submitted for evaluation to the Mason Office of Admissions. Mason will provide evaluation service free of charge for all international transcripts, however, some programs may request an outside evaluation be completed. Because of volume, more time may be needed to process applications requiring a Mason evaluation. You should submit your application 6 weeks prior to the deadline if you plan to utilize Mason’s free evaluation service. For expedited service, students may submit their documents to any NACES member organization at their own expense. If you decide to use an external evaluation service or if your program requires an outside evaluation, GPA and Degree equivalences must be included with your course-by-course evaluation. Mason evaluations are used for internal purposes and are not released to applicants. For information on international transcript requirements, go here.