Acquiring a PhD in Bioinformatics allows you to enjoy a smooth career journey in this interdisciplinary field. A PhD makes you stand out as an expert in the field which helps you secure high-paying positions. The best PhDs in Bioinformatics degree programs at top private and public universities can help you become a leading professional in the field.
If you’re wondering how to begin pursuing a bioinformatics PhD, this guide will cover 10 of the best academic programs available, as well as the funding opportunities and admissions process of each. We’ll also explore exciting bioinformatics jobs and the top PhD in Bioinformatics salary opportunities that await graduates.
What Is a PhD in Bioinformatics?
A PhD, or Doctor of Philosophy in Bioinformatics refers to an interdisciplinary, post-graduate program that integrates the real-world experience of research and applying computer technology to the analysis and management of biological data. PhD in Bioinformatics degrees teach students to organize data from multiple experiment databases, create new algorithms, and use software and mathematical modeling to interpret biological information.
Advanced bioinformatics PhD students gain the knowledge, computational skills, and scientific skills necessary to apply the latest technology to biological data. In addition, they leverage different techniques to find solutions to diseases.
How to Get Into a Bioinformatics PhD Program: Admission Requirements
The admission requirements for a PhD in Bioinformatics program include a 3.0 GPA, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, a current resume, official transcripts, and a master’s degree in a relevant field. Some universities will require GRE exam scores and approval by the department. Certain universities will accept students with a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field.
All international and English as a second language-speaking (ESL) students will need to submit proof of English proficiency in the form of the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) exam scores or an equivalent proficiency exam. Admission processes will vary by school, so you should carefully examine the school’s requirements before submitting your application.
PhD in Bioinformatics Admission Requirements
- 3.0 minimum GPA
- Letters of recommendation
- Relevant master’s or bachelor’s degree
- Official transcripts
- GRE exam scores, depending on school
- Updated resume
- TOEFL exam or equivalent for international and ESL students
Bioinformatics PhD Acceptance Rates: How Hard Is It to Get Into a PhD Program in Bioinformatics?
It can be very hard to get into a PhD program in Bioinformatics because it is a highly specialized field that often requires real-world experience. Depending on the university you apply to, you will encounter different acceptance rates. You can learn how competitive the program is by searching for acceptance or admission rates on the program’s website.
Nevertheless, if you’re an outstanding student who achieved exceptional grades in a relevant master’s or bachelor’s program, you can be sure it will be easy to find an opportunity for acceptance in most universities.
How to Get Into the Best Universities
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Best PhDs in Bioinformatics: In Brief
| School | Program | Online Option |
|---|---|---|
| Colorado State University | PhD in Biological Science | No |
| Columbia University | PhD in Biomedical Informatics | No |
| Cornell University | PhD in Computational Biology | No |
| Johns Hopkins University | PhD in Pathobiology | No |
| Northern Arizona University | PhD in Informatics and Computing | No |
| University of Arizona | PhD in Biostatistics | No |
| University of California, LA | PhD in Bioinformatics | No |
| University of Illinois, Chicago | PhD in Bioinformatics | No |
| University of Miami | PhD in Biomedical Engineering | No |
| The University of Utah | PhD in Molecular Biology | No |
Best Universities for Bioinformatics PhDs: Where to Get a PhD in Bioinformatics
The best universities for bioinformatics PhDs include the University of Utah, John Hopkins University, the University of California, Cornell University, Columbia University, and the University of Miami. If you’re looking for a top university with graduate bioinformatics degree programs, read below for details on each of the best programs available.
Can You Get a PhD in Bioinformatics Online?
Yes, you can get a PhD in Bioinformatics online. Since the research work is computational, you can obtain your doctoral degree remotely as long as you fulfill all of the graduation requirements. However, you may have to apply to universities or colleges outside of your state to access online bioinformatics PhD programs.
Best Online PhD Programs in Bioinformatics
| School | Program | Length |
|---|---|---|
| Bircham International University | PhD in Bioinformatics | 2 years |
| George Mason University | PhD in Bioinformatics and Computational Biology | N/A |
| Rutgers University | PhD in Health Informatics | 4 years |
How Long Does It Take to Get a PhD in Bioinformatics?
Generally, it takes four to six years to complete a PhD in Bioinformatics. However, depending on the university and the specialization you pursue, you can spend three to five years completing the program. Certain programs will take more time than others, and online or part-time programs can often take longer to finish than full-time, on-campus programs.
Is a PhD in Bioinformatics Hard?
Yes, earning a PhD in Bioinformatics is hard. Students pursuing this degree must complete intensive coursework, exams, and other requirements such as a dissertation or thesis. Moreover, some departments will demand prior requirements such as computer programming and mathematical skills, which can be challenging to acquire.
It takes a lot of effort to obtain a PhD in Bioinformatics. Nonetheless, the effort is worth it. With hard work and time, obtaining a bioinformatics PhD is feasible.
How Much Does It Cost to Get a PhD in Bioinformatics?
The average tuition for a bioinformatics PhD program is $19,315 per year across all higher education institutions, according to the National Center for Education Statistics.
However, this value varies depending on the university. Some institutions will fund their bioinformatics PhD students completely, while others may ask for higher or lower tuition costs than the stated figures. Attending a private institution is often more expensive than a public institution, and it is best to research the costs and funding opportunities available for both.
How to Pay for a PhD in Bioinformatics: PhD Funding Options
The PhD funding options that students can take advantage of to pay for a PhD in Bioinformatics degree program include scholarships, graduate assistantships, fellowships, and tuition waivers. Some institutions, like the University of Utah and Johns Hopkins University, offer enrolled students fully-funded tuition, a yearly stipend, and health insurance.
Best Online Master’s Degrees
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What Is the Difference Between a Bioinformatics Master’s Degree and PhD?
The difference between a bioinformatics master’s degree and a PhD is the content of the curriculum and the number of years required to complete the program. While master’s degree programs typically take around two years, PhDs take an extended period of up to six or seven years.
Bioinformatics master’s degrees will cover foundational concepts, but PhDs focus on advanced knowledge and specialized, applicable skills in the field. Additionally, PhDs offer superior job positions compared to master’s degrees because they are the highest form of educational qualification one can have in a particular field of study.
Master’s vs PhD in Bioinformatics Job Outlook
The employment rate for bioengineers, a profession that typically only requires a bachelor’s or master’s degree, is projected to grow by six percent in the next decade, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This is much lower than the rate of employment growth for bioinformatics scientists, which is expected to increase by 22 percent.
This shows that the demand for PhD degree candidates in the bioinformatics field is higher than that of master’s degree holders. Having a PhD in Bioinformatics makes you the most qualified candidate for most positions and you can be assured of securing numerous lucrative career opportunities.
Difference in Salary for Bioinformatics Master’s vs PhD
A PhD in Bioinformatics graduate earns an average base salary of $116,000 per year, according to PayScale. This does not include the numerous benefits and perks of this position. Moreover, some cities offer higher pay, such as San Francisco, San Diego, and New York.
With a Master’s Degree in Bioinformatics, candidates earn an average annual salary of $83,000. A PhD in Bioinformatics graduate earns almost double the salary of a master’s degree holder.
Related Bioinformatics Degrees
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Why You Should Get a PhD in Bioinformatics
You should get a PhD in Bioinformatics to enjoy the numerous benefits of this qualification. With a PhD, you will become a certified expert in the field. Below are some of top the reasons you should consider pursuing a bioinformatics PhD.
Reasons for Getting a PhD in Bioinformatics
- Career development. A PhD in Bioinformatics is essential to secure senior positions in the field. This doctoral degree proves that you have the relevant knowledge and skills to handle top positions in renowned companies, and gives you an edge over the competition in the job market.
- Academic achievement. Aside from securing a dream job, some people feel most accomplished when achieving their academic goals. You can pursue a PhD in Bioinformatics to improve your skills and intensive knowledge in this scientific field.
- Innovative health projects. The best bioinformatics degree programs will equip you with new knowledge and skills in science, computing, and health. You can utilize these skills to work on groundbreaking projects, such as finding a biological solution or cure to a disease.
- Higher earning potential. A PhD automatically increases a degree holder’s earning potential, and can lead to salaries that are double what they would be with a bachelor’s or master’s degree.
Getting a PhD in Bioinformatics: Bioinformatics PhD Coursework
Getting a PhD in Bioinformatics requires candidates to complete core bioinformatics PhD coursework in mathematics, statistics, computing, and biology. Below are a few of the most common core courses you may see in a bioinformatics PhD program curriculum.
Introduction to Bioinformatics
This course introduces students to the fundamental concepts of bioinformatics. It teaches about the different tools and techniques used in the field and how they are applied. It is typically a combination of theory and practical skills and topics for students to gain hands-on experience applying bioinformatics tools and solutions.
Bioinformatics Resources and Databases
This course involves the study of biological databases, data formats, ontologies, and biological resources. This course helps you learn how to obtain and apply different databases to find solutions in the field.
Linux
This course focuses on teaching students how to learn Linux, an operating system that is heavily utilized in the field of bioinformatics. It covers the introduction to Linux, Linux environment, command-line interface, manipulating files and directories, navigating Linux directory structure, and primary Linux commands.
Multiple Sequence Alignment
This course introduces students to multiple sequence alignment theory (MSA), and a protein, DNA, or RNA biological sequence alignment. Students will learn about visualization and assessment of MSA quality, and how to use proper tools for MSA analysis.
Molecular Evolution and Phylogenetics
A course in molecular evolution and phylogenetics focuses on how different species and genes are related. The course will cover introductory and overview methods of molecular evolution and phylogenetic approaches.
Best Master’s Degrees
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How to Get a PhD in Bioinformatics: Doctoral Program Requirements
When undertaking a PhD in Bioinformatics, you’ll have to fulfill all of the doctoral program requirements. Whether you are pursuing a PhD in Informatics and Computing, Information Science, or Pathobiology, below are the typical requirements you’ll need to fulfill to get your degree.
Potential Careers With a Bioinformatics Degree
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PhD in Bioinformatics Salary and Job Outlook
A PhD in Bioinformatics degree increases your qualifications for employment and your earning potential significantly. The job outlook for PhD holders in this field is 22 percent more than the national average for all other occupations. Therefore, you can always find a viable career opportunity in the field, from teaching in a university to industry research.
What Can You Do With a PhD in Bioinformatics?
With a PhD in Bioinformatics, you can join leading experts in many different career paths. You can also enjoy top-paying job opportunities with numerous benefits and exclusive perks to boost your productivity, job satisfaction, and career development. Below are some of the best bioinformatics jobs available to graduates.
Best Jobs with a PhD in Bioinformatics
- Computer and Information Research Scientist
- Postsecondary Teacher
- Bioinformatician
- Senior Research Scientist
- Principal Investigator/Clinical Research
What Is the Average Salary for a PhD in Bioinformatics?
The average PhD in Bioinformatics salary is $116,000 per year, according to PayScale. This value can vary depending on your location and the company you work for. Check out some of the best high-paying bioinformatics jobs below.
Highest-Paying Bioinformatics Jobs for PhD Grads
| Bioinformatics PhD Jobs | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Computer and Information Research Scientist | $131,490 |
| Principal Scientist | $125,801 |
| Senior Research Scientist in Biotechnology | $108,465 |
| Bioengineer or Biomedical Engineer | $97,410 |
| Principle Investigator in Clinical Research | $85,000 |
Best Bioinformatics Jobs with a Doctorate
The job opportunities for candidates with a PhD in Bioinformatics are endless. Below you’ll find information regarding job duties, job outlook, and annual salary information for some of the best jobs available in the field of bioinformatics.
Is a PhD in Bioinformatics Worth It?
Yes, a PhD in Bioinformatics is worth it. With this doctoral qualification, you will stand out from other candidates, as a PhD degree proves that you have specialized, expert knowledge and skills to perform any role in bioinformatics exceptionally. With a high-earning potential in a growing field, pursuing a PhD in Bioinformatics will prove to be more than worth it.
Additional Reading About Bioinformatics
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PhD in Bioinformatics FAQ
Yes, you can get a top-quality PhD in Bioinformatics online at schools like Bircham International University, Rutgers University, and George Mason University. These institutions allow you to pursue your Doctor of Philosophy in Bioinformatics remotely and at your own pace.
The most affordable PhD in Bioinformatics programs are those that are fully funded by the university. These programs include the PhD in Pathobiology offered by Johns Hopkins and the PhD in Biomedical Informatics program at the University of Utah. These two universities cover the full tuition amount and even provide students with a yearly stipend to cater to other needs.
No, you typically cannot get an application fee back after you withdraw your application. Most application fees are non-refundable because they facilitate the entire evaluation process and prove to the department that you are serious about attending the program.
No, a Master’s Degree in Bioinformatics is not always a mandatory admission requirement. Many universities will accept candidates for bioinformatics PhD programs as long as they have a master’s degree in a relevant course, and other universities will accept highly qualified candidates with only a bachelor’s degree.
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