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Applied Bioinformatics (Capstone)

A man in a lab coat writes at a desk.

Earn this certificate to create a strong foundation in data analysis methods and tools to devise innovative solutions in biotechnology or related fields.


Is this program right for you?

The amount and speed of data are increasing across every biotechnology industry. The Capstone Certificate in Applied Bioinformatics provides a strong foundation in data analysis, tools and methods so working professionals can create innovative bioinformatics solutions or improve the ones already in place.

Learning tools for data analysis with this certificate allows you to understand how to make key decisions about health, security and biotechnology information problems. Completion of the Capstone Certificate in Applied Bioinformatics will provide the core competencies needed to gain entry into bioinformatics positions, or to continue on to the UW–Madison online MS in Applied Biotechnology or the in-person MS in Biotechnology program.

According to the Biotechnology Innovation Organization, since 2001 U.S. bioscience companies have increased employment by 19 percent, and wage growth for the industry consistently exceeds other occupations. The ever-increasing volume of data generated will only increase the demand for those skilled in bioinformatics in the future.

Is this program right for you?

The amount and speed of data are increasing across every biotechnology industry. The Capstone Certificate in Applied Bioinformatics provides a strong foundation in data analysis, tools and methods so working professionals can create innovative bioinformatics solutions or improve the ones already in place.

Learning tools for data analysis with this certificate allows you to understand how to make key decisions about health, security and biotechnology information problems. Completion of the Capstone Certificate in Applied Bioinformatics will provide the core competencies needed to gain entry into bioinformatics positions, or to continue on to the UW–Madison online MS in Applied Biotechnology or the in-person MS in Biotechnology program.

According to the Biotechnology Innovation Organization, since 2001 U.S. bioscience companies have increased employment by 19 percent, and wage growth for the industry consistently exceeds other occupations. The ever-increasing volume of data generated will only increase the demand for those skilled in bioinformatics in the future.

Admissions requirements

All applicants must:

  • Have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
  • Have a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0
  • Have completed one General Biology course with laboratory at the undergraduate level
  • Submit evidence of English language proficiency, if applicable. The required proficiency scores are: TOEFL IBT 92, PBT 580; or IELTS 7.0.

Application materials required:

  • Online application
  • Resume/CV
  • Statement of purpose
  • Transcripts
  • Two letters of recommendation

The Capstone Certificate in Applied Bioinformatics accepts applications year-round.

  • Applications are accepted for Fall through July 15
  • Applications are accepted for Spring through December 15
  • Applications are accepted for Summer through April 15

Application instructions

  1. Complete the online application.
  2. Enter the required information including your personal, contact and background information and educational history.
  3. Complete the program section by adding a statement of purpose and uploading PDFs of your undergraduate transcript and two letters of recommendation.
  4. Complete the residency evaluation.
  5. Review and submit the application.

Adult Career and Special Student Services (ACSSS) is the admitting office for all University Special students, including capstone certificate students. However, the department offering the capstone certificate program makes the final admission decision upon review of all applicant materials.

Program highlights

  • The University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health has consistently ranked among U.S. News and World Report’s best medical schools for primary care and research, with UW–Madison always ranked in the top 10 for national research universities.
  • From major advances in cancer research to breakthroughs in stem cells, investigators at the School of Medicine and Public Health are renowned for key contributions that have expanded our understanding of human health and have led to better treatments.
  • Known for excellence, the Department of Cell and Regenerative Biology is highly interdisciplinary, emphasizing molecular, cellular and systems approaches.

The University of Wisconsin–Madison is ranked #27 in Best Medical Schools: Research and #18 in Best Medical Schools: Primary Care by U.S. News and World Report in 2021.

How you'll learn

  • Fully online curriculum; you choose when you do most of your work each week.
  • Collaborative online coursework.
  • Certificate may be completed in as little as one year; however, based on work and life commitments, you may decide to take longer.

Sample curriculum

  • Experimental Design and Data Analysis in Biotechnology
  • Python for Bioinformatics
  • Bioinformatic Inquiry
  • Application of Bioinformatics