Worcester Polytechnic Institute

What you'll study

The programme integrates biology, mathematics, statistics and computer science to provide a foundation in both life sciences and computational methods. Core topics typically include molecular biology and genetics, biochemistry, data structures and algorithms, probability and statistics, and modelling of biological systems. Practical laboratory work and computational coursework develop skills in wet-lab techniques, sequence analysis, next-generation sequencing workflows, structural bioinformatics, machine learning applications in biology, and database design for biological data.

WPI's curriculum emphasises hands-on, project-based learning. You can expect team-based projects that require designing experiments, analysing large-scale datasets, and delivering software or computational pipelines. Elective options often let you focus on areas such as genomics, proteomics, systems biology, synthetic biology, biomedical data science, or computational neuroscience. Senior-level capstone work typically culminates in a substantial project integrating experimental and computational components, often in collaboration with faculty or external partners.

Typical modules and experiences

• Introductory and advanced molecular biology and laboratory techniques
• Data structures, algorithms and scientific programming (Python, R, or similar)
• Statistics for the biosciences and applied probability
• Computational genomics and sequence analysis
• Machine learning for biological data
• Structural biology and protein modelling
• Database design and bioinformatics pipelines
• Interdisciplinary team projects and a major capstone project

Entry requirements

Applicants should present a strong high-school academic record with substantial preparation in mathematics and the sciences. Expected preparation includes calculus, biology and chemistry; coursework in physics and computer science is highly recommended. For American applicants, competitive performance in Advanced Placement or honours courses strengthens an application. International applicants should demonstrate equivalent secondary qualifications and proficiency in English.

WPI looks for students who show aptitude for quantitative work and collaborative project experience. Evidence of programming experience or participation in laboratory research, competitions or internships can be advantageous. Admission is by holistic review; while standardised test scores may be considered where submitted, they are not the sole determinant of admission decisions.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for roles that span academia, industry and healthcare. Typical entry-level positions include bioinformatician, computational biologist, data analyst in life sciences, software developer for scientific applications, and research assistant in genomics or pharmaceutical research. With further study, alumni go on to graduate programmes (MS/PhD) in bioinformatics, computational biology, biostatistics, or related disciplines, or pursue professional degrees in medicine.

Employment sectors include biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies, clinical diagnostics and hospitals, academic research laboratories, government and public-health agencies, and companies specialising in biomedical data platforms. The programme’s emphasis on project work and collaboration also equips graduates for roles that require translating computational results into actionable biological insights for interdisciplinary teams.

Why study at Worcester Polytechnic Institute

WPI is known for an applied, project-based educational model that embeds interdisciplinary team projects throughout the curriculum. This approach gives bioinformatics students many opportunities to work on real-world problems, develop communication and project management skills, and build a portfolio of substantial projects. Faculty in the life sciences and computer science departments collaborate across disciplines, providing mentorship for both computational and experimental aspects of research.

The campus offers access to modern wet and dry laboratories, high-performance computing resources, and local industry partnerships that can support internships and collaborative research. Career services and cooperative education networks help students identify internship and employment opportunities. For students seeking a hands-on, integrative education that bridges biology and computation, WPI provides a supportive environment focused on preparing graduates for technical careers and advanced study.