Online Master of Science in Computational Life Sciences
Are you interested in the intersection of computation, statistics and biological big data? If so, Arizona State University’s Master of Science in computational life sciences may be an ideal choice. You’ll graduate prepared to apply computational skills in a variety of settings across the public, private and nonprofit sectors.
Quick facts
Next start date: 05/16/2024
Total classes: 10
Weeks per class: 7.5
Total credit hours: 30
Degree questions, answered.
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What is computational life sciences?
Computational life sciences is a multidisciplinary field that involves collecting and analyzing complex biological data using computer programming and statistics. Increasingly, the life sciences field requires working with ever-larger biological datasets, such as neurological, behavioral or ecological monitoring data and DNA sequences.
As the life sciences generates new types of big data, such as genomic, transcriptomic, proteomic and metabolomics data, biomarkers and longitudinal samples, the need for those with data science skills increases. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of computer and information research scientists is projected to grow 21% from 2021 to 2031, which is much faster than the average for all occupations.
What you’ll learn in this computational life sciences master’s program
In this program, you’ll gain a grounding in hypothesis-driven and hypothesis-generating research methods. The four competency areas you’ll focus on include computational programming as applied to life sciences data, statistical analysis, biology relevant to big data and scientific ethics.
As you explore the intersection of the life sciences, statistics and data science, you’ll also build a transferable set of skills, such as:
Will my diploma say ‘online’?
No, Arizona State University’s diplomas don’t specify whether you earn your degree online or in person. All diplomas and transcripts simply say “Arizona State University.”
Computational life sciences courses
Your courses cover a variety of interdisciplinary topics that make up computational life sciences ranging from medical and functional genomics to transcriptomics and statistical programming for life sciences.
In addition to completing one core course, you’ll choose two courses in each of the three primary areas of computational life sciences. The program culminates in a capstone or applied project, ensuring you have the practical experience needed for your next step.
Courses may include:
Responsible Conduct in Research
Computing for Research
Data Analysis and Visualization in R
Discovering Biodiversity
Functional Genomics
Medical Genetics and Genomics
Molecular Genetics and Genomics
Principles of Evolution
What can you do with a master’s in computational life sciences?
With knowledge of the life sciences, statistics and data science, you’ll be prepared for roles in a variety of industries, such as health care, academia, research and the government. Potential career paths include biotechnology, next-generation DNA and RNA analysis, biostatistics and more. Job titles you can pursue include, but aren’t limited to:
Bioinformatician
Computational biologist
Instructor
Lab manager
Programmer
Research technician
Staff scientist
Learn from world experts in genomics, big data and more
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.
- Fulbright American Scholars.
- Guggenheim Fellows.
- MacArthur Fellows.
- Nobel laureates.
Learn from world experts in genomics, big data and more
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.
- Fulbright American Scholars.
- Guggenheim Fellows.
- MacArthur Fellows.
- Nobel laureates.
How to apply
Applicants to the Master of Science in computational life sciences 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 be socially aware, critical thinkers and global citizens.
25,500+
currently enrolled students.
$140
million in research expenditures in 2018.
23
interdisciplinary schools and departments.
95+
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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