Skip to content
Two Days. Endless Opportunities.
Join our Virtual Graduate Open House on September 16-17.
Northeastern University Graduate Programs Home
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.

A person wearing safety goggles and a lab coat holds a marker while looking thoughtfully at chemical formulas drawn on a glass board in a laboratory setting.
Program Format
On ground
Time Commitment
Part time, Full time
Duration
8 - 36 Months
Entry Term(s)
Fall, Spring
Meets F1 visa requirements
Yes

Program overview

Bridging biology and data

The Graduate Certificate in Bioinformatics provides interdisciplinary training in biology, computer science, and data analytics. This program prepares students for roles in the life sciences, biotechnology, and pharmaceutical industries by teaching them how to interpret data in fields such as genomics, proteomics, personalized medicine, drug discovery, and cancer therapy.

The certificate, comprised of four courses, can be completed in as little as eight months and offers maximum flexibility of up to three years. Students can choose from various electives to specialize in their area of interest. All credits earned in this certificate program are transferable toward the MS in Bioinformatics, allowing a seamless transition for further study.

  • Four Core Courses: Covers essential topics in biology, computer science, and data analytics.
  • Flexible Duration: Complete in 8-36 months, with options for full-time or part-time study.
  • Gateway to an MS Degree: Credits can be transferred to the MS in Bioinformatics program.
  • Experiential Learning: Students participate in hands-on learning, such as research collaborations and in-class case studies, to provide practical experience in real-world settings.
  • Industry Demand: Bioinformatics skills are sought after in research, biotechnology, healthcare, and pharmaceuticals.
  • Alumni Employers: Graduates work at top companies like IBM, State Street, Amazon, and Raytheon.
  • Skills Development: Gain proficiency in data analysis, research, programming (C++), and project management.

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

The program aims to develop programming, data analysis, and scientific research skills, equipping students for advanced roles in biotechnology, life sciences, and pharmaceutical industries.

Develop data analysis skills

Gain proficiency in interpreting complex biological data using advanced analytics, essential for research and development in genomics, proteomics, and personalized medicine.

Master bioinformatics tools

Learn to utilize bioinformatics tools and software for data analysis in genomics and drug discovery, enhancing your ability to contribute effectively in the biotech sector.

Market outlook
Industry at a glance
Here's a look at current market trends and the career landscape.

Occupations

Cost of attendance

Tuition and financial aid

  • $30,848
    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.

Visit tuition & financial aid
Studying in Boston

A hub of innovation

A group of people walks along a curved pathway beside a modern building, with tall skyscrapers in the background. The late afternoon sun casts a warm glow over the scene, creating long shadows on the path and highlighting the cityscape.

Northeastern's first campus builds on Boston's legacy of innovation. Our 37-plus research facilities allow students and faculty to work on groundbreaking research, while our deep ties to the biotech, healthcare, education, and startup industries provide unique opportunities for learning.

#1

Best state to live in

(WalletHub, 2023)

110K+

Northeastern alumni in Greater Boston

#3

Best state for education

(U.S. News & World Report, 2024) 

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. 

Loading...