What You'll Learn
- Understand the latest bioinformatics tools and topics, such as information DNA sequencing and assembly; BLAST output; probability and statistics; sequence alignment; ORF prediction; functional genomics; phylogenetics; sequence, gene, and protein databases; and social and ethical considerations.
- Enhance skills in computer science and programming through use of algorithms, data structures, string manipulation, encapsulation, resource management, security, software engineering, and web development.
- Develop competency with programming languages such as Java, Python, R, C++, and SQL.
- Acquire knowledge in a focused topic area, such as bioinformatic algorithms, genomics, medical informatics, and proteomics.
Our Community at a Glance
Through this professional graduate certificate you will work with peers in the fields of medical science and research, genetics, molecular and cellular biology, scientific programming, and software development.
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1/4
Applied Their Certificate to ALM Degree
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84%
Working Full Time
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50%
Pursued Certificate to Deepen Expertise or Advance Career
Earning Your Certificate
To meet the requirements for the certificate, you must:
- Complete the four certificate courses for graduate credit.
- Earn at least a B grade in each course.
- Complete the courses within three years.
Learn more about pursuing a certificate and the process of requesting your certificate.
Certificate Course Requirements
- 1 molecular biology course* (this should be your first course)
- 1 introduction to bioinformatics course
- 1 programming course*
- 1 elective course
*Petitioning for course exemptions:
- Molecular biology course: If you earned a bachelor’s or advanced degree in biology, you may petition to be exempted from this course. We will not grant exemptions for a minor in biology. If granted an exemption, you will take a second elective to complete the certificate.
- Programming course: If you have taken a course in Java, Python, or another programming language, you may petition to be exempted from this course. If granted an exemption, you will take a second elective to complete the certificate.
- To petition for an exemption, email graduate_certificates@extension.harvard.edu. The petition should include:
- A short explanation about the exemption being requested and why.
- Evidence of degree or course, such as a scanned copy of a transcript (unofficial is acceptable).
- Indication of which additional elective you plan to take in place of the exempted requirement.
Search for Courses
You can browse courses by term — fall, spring, or summer — in the DCE Course Search & Registration platform.
Cost
Affordability is core to our mission. When compared to our continuing education peers, it’s a fraction of the cost.
| Our Tuition (2023-24 rate) | $3,220 per course |
|---|---|
| Average Tuition of Peer Institutions | $5,476 per course |
| Average Total Cost | $12,880 |
