Online Graduate Certificate in Computational Life Sciences

Arizona State University’s graduate certificate in computational life sciences centers around the intersection of data science, statistics and biology. In this program, you’ll learn how to combine and analyze life sciences data types, study life sciences data formats and discuss the ethical implications of collecting, analyzing and sharing biological data. This graduate certificate complements a variety of undergraduate degree programs, such as data science, biology, biochemistry, chemistry, mathematics and biomedical engineering.

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Quick facts

Next start date:

Next start date: 01/13/2025


Total classes:

Total classes: 6

Weeks per class:

Weeks per class: 7.5

Total credit hours:

Total credit hours: 16

Degree questions, answered

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What is a computational life sciences graduate certificate?

A computational life sciences graduate certificate focuses on using data to understand biological systems and relationships. Big data can be a challenge for many students and this certificate aims to fill that gap.

New and diverse data types are emerging in the life sciences. After completing this certificate, you’ll understand these new life sciences data formats, be able to discuss the ethical implications of biological data, and apply computational tools to life sciences data.

Is a computational life sciences graduate certificate worth it?

Yes, a computational life sciences graduate degree is worth it. As new data types continue to emerge, more companies are looking to fill data scientist roles. These roles also tend to pay higher than those in other industries.

According to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics, as of 2020, the median annual pay for computer and information research scientists was $126,830. This is a large increase from the median annual wage for all workers, which was $41,950.

What will I learn in a computational life sciences graduate certificate program?

In this computational life sciences graduate certificate program, you’ll:

  • Apply computational tools to life sciences data.
  • Build on your life sciences knowledge.
  • Gain sought-after data analysis skills.
  • Learn how to apply data science to life sciences data.
  • Practice combining and analyzing life sciences data types.
  • Study genomics experimental design.

This certificate includes courses in molecular genetics and genomics, phylogenetic biology and analysis, ecological modeling, systematics and more. One of the benefits of this certificate program is that in addition to receiving training in computational and quantitative life sciences, you’ll have access to a community of like-minded individuals to learn and grow from.

Online certificate courses in computational life sciences

This certificate program is made up of one required course and five elective courses. For the electives, you’ll have the opportunity to choose courses from a wide range of topics, including biometry, computation in neuroscience, ecological modeling, software carpentry and genomic analysis. Through these courses, you’ll gain marketable skills and expand your skill set. Courses in this major include:


What jobs will I get with a computational life sciences certificate?

Once you’re certified in computational life sciences, you’ll be able to work in a variety of life sciences disciplines. Regardless of the field you choose, having the ability to understand and interpret data is incredibly beneficial. Potential career paths include:

Study with experts in computational life sciences

From Royal Society and American Academy Fellows to Marshall and Barry Goldwater Scholarship recipients, The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences is home to prestigious students and faculty members who include:

  • Fulbright American Scholars.
  • Guggenheim Fellows.
  • MacArthur Fellows.
  • Nobel laureates.

Study with experts in computational life sciences

From Royal Society and American Academy Fellows to Marshall and Barry Goldwater Scholarship recipients, The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences is home to prestigious students and faculty members who include:

  • Fulbright American Scholars.
  • Guggenheim Fellows.
  • MacArthur Fellows.
  • Nobel laureates.

How to apply

Applicants to the computational life sciences graduate certificate program must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.

The largest and most diverse college at ASU

The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences takes a transdisciplinary approach to education with a vast spectrum of degrees in the social sciences, natural sciences and humanities. We inspire students to become socially aware critical thinkers and global citizens.

25,500+


currently enrolled students.

$170


million in research expenditures in 2022.

23


interdisciplinary schools and departments.

100+


undergraduate degrees.

Tuition calculator

Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs. Learn more.

Tuition calculator

Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs. Learn more.

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