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Brown University’s Sc.B. in Computational Biology is a highly interdisciplinary program integrating biology, computer science, applied mathematics, and statistics to analyze and model biological phenomena through computational means. Housed within The College at Brown University, the program equips students with tools to advance research in genomics, medicine, neuroscience, ecology, and biotechnology.
Students select from three tracks Computer Science, Biological Sciences, or Applied Mathematics & Statistics, allowing them to specialize based on their career goals and academic interests. The program emphasizes real-world applications through a senior capstone or research experience, preparing graduates for roles in biomedical research, pharma, healthcare data science, or graduate study in bioinformatics and related disciplines.
Course Overview
Prerequisites (0–3 courses):
Single-variable calculus (Part II or equivalent)
Multivariable calculus
Introductory biology (The Foundation of Living Systems or equivalent)
Core Curriculum:
Biology: Genetics, Biochemistry or Cell & Molecular Biology
Chemistry: Organic Chemistry I or Equilibrium, Rate, and Structure
Computer Science:
Introductory programming sequence
Discrete Structures and Probability
Mathematics & Statistics: APMA 1655 – Intro to Probability and Statistics with Calculus
Computational Biology Core:
Inference in Genomics and Molecular Biology
Computational Molecular Biology
Track Options (Choose One):
Computer Science Track
Three advanced CS electives (e.g., AI, ML, Databases, Vision)
Three advanced quantitative/computational electives (e.g., Algorithms, Biostatistics, R for Data Analysis)
Biological Sciences Track
Four advanced biology courses forming a theme (e.g., Neurobiology, Genomics)
Two advanced computational/quantitative electives
Applied Mathematics & Statistics Track
Three advanced applied math/statistics courses (e.g., ODEs, PDEs, Biostatistics)
Three advanced computational biology or ML-related courses
Capstone Requirement:
Senior research project supervised by a faculty member
OR a 2000-level computational biology course with a research component
Honors:
Majority of As or “S with distinction” in concentration courses
At least one (preferably two) semesters of research with faculty
Completion and public defense of an honors thesis
Senior Capstone: Required research project or advanced course with research focus
Optional Honors Thesis: In-depth research under faculty guidance
Interdisciplinary curriculum combining hands-on lab work, statistics, and computer science
Access to faculty in biology, computer science, and applied math departments for guidance
Excellent preparation for graduate study in bioinformatics, computational biology, or medicine
Competitive entry into biotech and pharmaceutical companies as analysts or scientists
Trains students for roles at the intersection of life sciences and technology
High success rate in pursuing PhDs, MDs, or research-intensive careers
Supported by Brown’s open curriculum, advising system, and research opportunities
The Computer Science program at Brown University offers a flexible, interdisciplinary curriculum that empowers students to explore the full spectrum of computing while fostering creativity, critical thinking, and innovation. Known for its open curriculum, Brown encourages students to tailor their academic paths, integrating computer science with fields like mathematics, cognitive science, biology, economics, and the arts.The program builds a strong foundation in algorithms, data structures, programming languages, software engineering, and computational theory, while allowing students to dive deep into specialized areas such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, robotics, computer graphics, data science, cybersecurity, human-computer interaction, natural language processing, and the theory of computation.Students engage in hands-on research through renowned labs like the AI Lab, the Graphics Lab, and the Human-Computer Interaction Lab, collaborating closely with faculty and peers on cutting-edge projects. Located in Providence, Rhode Island, Brown offers access to a growing tech community and numerous opportunities for internships, research, and industry partnerships.The program emphasizes collaboration over competition, fostering a supportive environment where students are encouraged to take intellectual risks and pursue innovative ideas. Graduates of Brown’s Computer Science program are highly regarded for their technical expertise, creativity, and problem-solving skills, excelling in fields such as software development, AI, data analytics, research, entrepreneurship, and beyond.Admission to Brown University is through the standard undergraduate application process (Common Application or Coalition Application)International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS) and submit required documentationTwo teacher evaluations/recommendationsEarly Decision applicants must submit all documents by November 1; Regular Decision deadline is January 3Official high school transcript(s) & Midyear School Report and updated transcript (when available) required.Computational BiologistBioinformatics ScientistBiomedical ResearcherData Scientist in Biotech/PharmaGraduate Researcher in Computational Biology
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