Student at a computer in a lab
GR

Computational Biology and Biostatistics, Master of Science

The M.S. in Computational Biology and Biostatistics at St. John’s University answers a growing demand for data analysts, data curators, database developers, statisticians, mathematical modelers, bioinformaticians, and software developers with training in both computer science and biology.

Solve urgent global problems using computational methods at St. John’s University in New York City.

The M.S. in Computational Biology and Biostatistics at St. John’s University answers a growing demand for data analysts, data curators, database developers, statisticians, mathematical modelers, bioinformaticians, and software developers with training in both computer science and biology. The program trains you in the use of computational methods and algorithms to represent and simulate biological systems, as well as to interpret large-scale experimental data. 

The competencies you develop in the program prepare you to address some of the world’s most urgent problems, including food shortage, climate change, and emerging diseases. Because these issues disproportionately affect the world’s poor, the M.S. program aligns with the mission of St. John’s. 

In addition to undergoing rigorous training in understanding and modeling the structures and processes of life, you develop a critical consciousness and ethical perspective, preparing you for service and leadership roles in local, national, and international spheres. 

Apply Request Info
Degree Type
MS
Area of Interest
Science & Mathematics
Associated Colleges or Schools
Program Location
  • Queens Campus
Required Credit Hours
36

Contact

Florin Catrina, Ph.D.

Professor, Mathematics and Computer Science

Admission

The M.S. in Computational Biology and Biostatistics provides students with undergraduate degrees in the natural sciences or mathematics with the opportunity expand their career options to the field of computational biology.

In addition to the general requirements for admission to graduate study in St. John’s College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, applicants must present a cumulative undergraduate grade point average of 3.0, as well as a 3.0 or better in the major discipline. No Graduate Record Examination scores are required. The program accepts applications year round.

Graduate Admission Information
Office of Graduate Admission
718-990-1601
[email protected]

Courses

The M.S. in Computational Biology and Biostatistics requires the successful completion of 36 graduate credits and a comprehensive examination. Because of the interdisciplinary nature of the program, the course offerings draw upon the expertise of faculty across departments in St. John’s College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.

Required

Course NumberCourse TitleCredits
BIO 207Biochemistry3
BIO 208Molecular Biology3
BIO 209Bioinformatics3
BIO 212Cell Biology3
MTH 161Introduction to Probability3
MTH 163Statistical Modeling3
MTH 165Introduction to Computing with Applications3
MTH 209Linear Algebra I3
MTH 240Computational Biology3

Electives (select three)

Course NumberCourse TitleCredits
BIO 210Practical Genomics/Transcriptomics3
BIO 236Microbial/Molecular Genetics3
BIO 248Laboratory Techniques and Applications I3
BIO 250Topics in Immunology3
BIO 299Scientific Literacy and Integrity3
CUS 610Data Mining and Predictive Modeling I3
CUS 615Data Mining and Predictive Modeling II3
HCI 520Medical and Health Informatics3
HCI 525Applied Healthcare Analytics3
MPH/PAS 252Biostatistics3
MTH 167Mathematical Modeling I3
MTH 172Operations Research I3
MTH 180Computer Algorithms3
MTH 222Machine Learning3
MTH 242Artificial Intelligence3

Comprehensive Examination

Course NumberCourse TitleCredits
CBB 105Comprehensive Examination0

Assistantships, Scholarships, and Financial Aid

Graduate Assistantships

St. John’s University offers competitive graduate assistantships to qualified full-time applicants. These positions typically include tuition remission and a stipend. Read more about Graduate Assistantships and additional forms of financial aid available to St. John’s graduate students. 

Career Outcomes

The need to address major problems facing the world—including nutrition for a growing population, global climate change, aging populations, “civilization diseases” (e.g., cancer, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases), and emerging infectious diseases—results in exponentially growing demand for researchers and professionals trained in biology and computational methods and approaches. 

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in the fields of medicine and science will grow at 16 percent through 2028, much faster than average. The job outlook for mathematicians and statisticians is expected to grow 30 percent within the same period. 

Interested in Science & Mathematics, but not sure if Computational Biology and Biostatistics, Master of Science is right for you?

Explore opportunities at St. John's with our pathway generator.