Applied Bioinformatics certificate

FEATURES:

• Provides hands-on experience in genomics, databases, programming, and statistical analysis.
• Flexible study options with some evening courses available.
• Program eligible for financial aid

Bioinformatics is an interdisciplinary field combining biology, computing science, and statistics to analyze large datasets and answer complex biological questions.

The Applied Bioinformatics certificate gives you the skills to:

• Work with genomic sequences, including methods to obtain, assemble, and annotate them.

• Develop and use computational tools, algorithms, and databases for large-scale analysis.

• Understand functional, structural, and evolutionary relationships among genes and species.

The certificate is designed for Bachelor of Science students majoring in Biology, and may also appeal to Computing Science students pursuing a Biology minor.

As advances in computing and data generation continue to accelerate, the demand for professionals who can process, analyze, and interpret biological data is growing rapidly. This program provides a strong foundation in genomics, along with the ability to develop advanced databases, algorithms, and computational techniques for efficient analysis of large biosequence datasets.

The certificate requires 28 credits. Fourteen of these credits can be completed as part of your Bachelor of Science program, with the remaining credits usually completed in one additional semester. Some students may require two semesters to finish all requirements.

View program outline in the UFV Academic Calendar

The BC Labour Market Outlook projects strong growth in science and technology fields, with over 150,000 job openings expected in professional, scientific, and technical services over the next decade.

Graduates with an Applied Bioinformatics certificate gain the technical data-science skills needed by organizations across the life sciences sector to support research, development, and innovation.

You may find employment in areas such as:

• Genomics and biotechnology research

• Pharmaceutical and healthcare organizations

• Government agencies and environmental consulting companies

• Data analytics firms

• Academic and industrial laboratories

With experience, graduates may also pursue roles such as biologists, biological technologists or technicians, health policy researchers or consultants, and database analysts or administrators. Professionals in these areas may design and manage databases, perform data mining and analysis, or support research and policy development through data-driven insights.

Graduates are also well-prepared for further studies in genomics, computational biology, or health sciences, opening doors to advanced research and leadership roles in industry and academia.

View entrance requirements in the UFV Academic Calendar.

This program is open to international students

• How to apply

By the end of the certification program, students will be able to:

• Use statistical reasoning, computational tools, bioinformatics databases and computer coding to solve real-world biological problems across a range of genomic and molecular contexts
• Apply and evaluate bioinformatics tools and databases to analyze biological sequences, predict evolutionary relationships, and model molecular function
• Develop reproducible, well-documented bioinformatic workflows using structured and object-oriented programming approaches
• Interpret and communicate the results of bioinformatic analyses clearly and effectively to both technical and non-technical audiences
• Critically assess the strengths, limitations, and ethical complexities of using bioinformatic methods in the analysis and dissemination of genetic information
• Collaborate effectively on interdisciplinary bioinformatics projects, demonstrating respect for diverse perspectives and an awareness of the broader societal impact of genomic research
• Adapt to emerging tools, technologies, and methodologies in bioinformatics by engaging in continuous learning and critical reflection on recent scientific advancement