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College of Science

Bioinformatics

Certificate

The Graduate Certificate in Bioinformatics equips students with essential programming and data analysis skills, preparing them for pivotal roles in biotechnology, life sciences, and pharmaceutical industries.

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Program Format
On ground
Time Commitment
Part time, Full time
Duration
8 - 36 Months
Entry Term(s)
Fall, Spring
Meets F1 visa requirements
No

Program overview

Bridging biology and data

The Graduate Certificate in Bioinformatics at Northeastern’s Portland campus provides students with comprehensive training in biology, computer science, and data analytics to meet the evolving needs of the life sciences industry.

Designed for those looking to enhance their skills in genomics, proteomics, personalized medicine, and drug discovery, this certificate comprises four courses that can be completed in as little as eight months or stretched to three years.

The program, delivered through a hybrid model of online and on-site learning, leverages the Roux Institute’s industry connections in Maine to provide students with experiential learning opportunities, such as co-op and virtual Experiential Network projects.

All credits from this certificate can be applied toward the MS in Bioinformatics, offering a seamless path for further study.

  • Hybrid model with online and on-site courses.
  • Adaptable schedule to accommodate both full-time and part-time students.
  • Choose electives to tailor your expertise.
  • Focus on practical skills like bioinformatics programming and computational methods.
  • Courses include Bioinformatics Programming, Computational Methods, and specialized electives.
  • Hands-on learning through real-world projects and case studies.
  • Access co-ops and virtual Experiential Network projects with industry partners.
  • Build professional skills like communication and teamwork in real-world settings.
  • Take advantage of unique opportunities to engage with the Roux Institute’s industry partners to get hands-on learning experiences tailored to Maine’s growing biotech ecosystem.

Admissions

Apply to the program

A graduate degree or certificate from Northeastern can accelerate your career through rigorous academic coursework and real-world professional experience in your area of interest. Apply to take your career to the next level.

  • Online application

  • Unofficial transcripts (official transcripts required upon acceptance of admissions)

    • The Foreign Credential Evaluation (FCE) is a required assessment of all transcripts and documents from non-U.S. accredited post-secondary education institutions. (Review the FCE requirements by country.)

  • GPA 3.0 or higher

  • Personal statement

  • English language proficiency:

    • Degree earned or in progress at a U.S. institution

    • Degree earned or in progress at an institution where English is the only medium of instruction

    • Official exam scores from either the TOEFL iBT (institution code is 3682), IELTS, PTE exam, or Duolingo English Test. Scores are valid for 2 years from the test date.

Program objectives

Prepare for success

Gain advanced skills in bioinformatics to excel in life sciences, biotechnology, and pharmaceutical industries while preparing for further studies or career advancement.

Bioinformatics programming

Develop core programming skills to analyze biological data and employ bioinformatics techniques in real-world research.

Conquer data analysis

Learn to interpret complex biological data in genomics, proteomics, and more to drive research and innovation in the biotech sector.

Connect with us

Want more information?

We’re here to answer your questions about this program, the application process, and more. Complete the form below to receive additional program details and speak with a member of our enrollment team. 

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Cost of attendance

Tuition and financial aid

  • $31,008
    Tuition in USD

Estimated Total Tuition

This is an estimate based on the tuition rates for Academic Year 2025-2026 and does not include any fees or other expenses. Some courses and labs have tuition rates that may increase or decrease total tuition. Tuition and fees are subject to revision by the president and Board of Trustees at any time. Select programs at select campuses offer additional scholarships of up to 25% off the listed price for domestic students studying on campus. For more detailed information, please visit Student Financial Services.

For students interested in pursuing financial assistance or educational loans, additional educational costs, known as Cost of Attendance (COA) components, can be included in the calculation of aid and loan eligibility. Components may include food, housing, books, course materials, supplies, equipment, transportation, personal expenses, and the cost of obtaining a first professional licensure. You can find comprehensive details on the Student Financial Services website. Please keep in mind that COA can vary significantly depending on academic program, enrollment intensity, and individual circumstances.

There are many ways to pay for your education, including scholarships, financial aid, and more. Connect with a financial counselor to learn about your options and make your dream a reality.

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Studying in Portland

Cultivating tech talent in Maine

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Portland is home to the Roux Institute, which supports learning and research in engineering, human-data interaction, AI, robotics, and more. The waterfront facility hosts students, founders, researchers, and business partners who collaborate in open-concept spaces.

#7

Best place to live in the U.S.

Portland's thriving restaurant scene and coastal location make it an ideal home base. (U.S. News & World Report, 2023)

500+

Maine co-ops

More than 500 Northeastern students have participated in Maine-based co-ops as of 2023.

$58M

Investment capital raised by Roux's startups as of 2023

Portland represents an exciting new hub of startup activity, especially in AI and data science.