Computational
& Integrative
Biology (M.S. | Ph.D.)
Welcome to Rutgers-Camden’s master’s and doctoral programs in Computational and Integrative Biology. These programs operate within an interdisciplinary center, connecting experimental and computational methods in quantitative biology. The curriculum explores integrative biology, spanning molecular intricacies to population dynamics, and harnesses computational tools for meticulous experiment design and analysis.
TAKE THE NEXT STEP
Rutgers-Camden’s Center for Computational and Integrative Biology (CCIB) is an interdisciplinary research center for bridging experimental and computational approaches in quantitative biology. For over a decade, CCIB’s master’s and doctoral programs have excelled in preparing students for contemporary research roles across academia, industry, and government. Our alumni thrive in postdocs and tenure-track faculty positions in the U.S. and Europe, research roles with organizations including Genentech, Evotech, and LG Chem, and governmental agencies like the FDA, DOD, and USDA.
Students in the master’s program develop strong quantitative skills and a deep understanding of systems biology, crucial for conducting meaningful computational and integrative research. The Essential Courses provide a solid foundation in biological chemistry, biomathematics, computer science, and integrative biology. Moreover, students refine their ability to apply quantitative methods, critically assess scientific literature, and communicate research outcomes effectively.
The doctoral program offers rigorous research training. With faculty support, students from diverse academic backgrounds contribute to groundbreaking interdisciplinary research. Doctoral candidates attain a productive understanding of the five scientific fields (Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Mathematics, and Physics) within CCIB, enabling them for interdisciplinary research. Students deepen their knowledge in a specific computational biology area, contributing significantly to research. They gain lab exposure in both experimental and computational realms of computational and integrative biology. Students engage in comprehensive research activities within specific computational and integrative biology areas, encompassing both computational and experimental components.
Charting Your Course: M.S., Ph.D., and 2+3 Options
M.S.
The Master of Science (M.S.) in Computational and Integrative Biology is a 30-credit program. Graduates have the option to continue their studies in the doctoral program.
2 + 3
In the 2+3 model, students pursue an M.S. degree for two years, take the same classes, and are on schedule as Ph.D. students. After two years, 2+3 students undergo a streamlined application process for the Ph.D.
Ph.D.
The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Computational and Integrative Biology, a 70-credit program, prepares students to become researchers in the field, offering a comprehensive curriculum to develop expertise as scholars.
Program Overview
DETAIL | M.S. | PH.D. |
|---|---|---|
| DEGREE | Master of Science (M.S.) Accelerated option available | Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) |
| CREDITS | 30 credits | 70 Credits |
| FORMAT | Full-time or part-time, on-campus | Full-time or part-time, on-campus |
| DURATION | 3-4 semesters | 10 semesters |
| FUNDING | University, Graduate School, and Departmental Funding Available (Partial Funding Only) | University, Graduate School, and Departmental Funding Available (Full funding available for select students) |
CCIB Community in Action
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Unraveling the Science Behind Plant Adaptation
A lifelong problem solver with a passion for science, Maria Schwarz has found her calling in plant genetics. Now a PhD student in the Computational and Integrative Science Program, she investigates how stomata—microscopic pores on plant leaves critical for photosynthesis—develop and adapt to drought conditions. Her path, shaped by curiosity and dedication, highlights the potential… continue reading
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Connecting Academia to Industry
How does cutting-edge academic research translate into life-changing therapies? For… continue reading
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Creating Opportunities for STEM Students
As the Senior Program Coordinator for the Center for Computational… continue reading
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Multidisciplinary Scholar at the Helm of CCIB
Dr. Eric Klein is the Graduate Program Director for the… continue reading
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International Students Share Journeys & Aspirations
Two first-year international graduate students, Basirat Rufai from Nigeria and… continue reading
Featured Courses
View the list of Course Descriptions.
ESSENTIALS OF BIOPHYSICS (56:121:565)
For life science grad students, this physics course covers Newtonian dynamics, electrostatics, thermodynamics, and fluid dynamics, applied to molecular and cellular systems.
MANUSCRIPT AND PROPOSAL COMPOSITION (56:121:630)
Designed for 2nd-year Ph.D. students, this workshop focuses on scientific writing, covering proposal and manuscript prep. Improve writing skills with feedback.
GENOME INFORMATICS
(56:121:552)
The course teaches genome-scale data analysis, guiding students through analytical approaches for biological insights. Students engage in lectures, assignments, discussions, and projects.
CELL MEMBRANES
(56:121:560)
This biophysics course suits physical and life science backgrounds, covering novel insights from biology and physical descriptions. Topics include cellular processes, molecular motion, and entropy in reactions.
ESSENTIALS OF COMPUTER SCIENCE (56:121:530)
This Python course covers control, lists, dictionaries, classes, inheritance, polymorphism, exceptions, file streams, recursion, and searching/sorting—vital for scientists and engineers.
LABORATORY PRACTICES (56:121:620)
This course covers Responsible Conduct of Research (RCR) comprehensively, identifying breaches and proposing responsible resolutions to meet federal requirements.
Admissions Requirements
DETAIL | M.S. | PH.D. |
|---|---|---|
| TRANSCRIPTS | A transcript showing the completion of an undergraduate degree in one of the natural sciences, mathematics, computer science, or engineering. | A transcript showing the completion of an undergraduate degree in one of the natural sciences, mathematics, computer science or engineering. Students with a master’s degree in one of these areas will also be considered. |
| LETTERS OF RECOMMENDATION | Three letters of reference | Three letters of reference |
| PERSONAL STATEMENT | Personal statement | Personal statement |
| STANDARDIZED TEST | Not required | GRE scores (General Test required; Subject Test recommended) |
Application Deadlines
Preference is given to those submitted before the deadline for both decisions and funding opportunities. Applications received after the deadlines will be considered based on available space and budgetary constraints.
Fall
Ph.D. – Feb 15
M.S. – Apr 15
Spring
Not Offered
Summer
Not Offered
Reach Out to Us
Let’s begin a conversation about your academic and professional goals. If you have questions regarding the curriculum, faculty, admission criteria, or committee, please feel free to contact the Graduate Program Director. For administrative inquiries concerning the application process, campus tuition, and fees, reach out to the Graduate School. We are dedicated to assisting you from application to graduation day.
GRADUATE SCHOOL CONTACT
Erick E. Watt-Udogu
Assistant Dean, Graduate School-Camden
erick.watt-udogu@rutgers.edu
(856) 225-6149
Take the Next Step.
We invite you to explore the boundless opportunities that await you here, where a world-class faculty, diverse community, and innovative curriculum converge to nurture your intellect and foster your professional growth. Your future starts with a simple yet significant act – learning more about the exceptional programs we offer. So, why wait? Start your application journey with us, and together, we’ll unlock a future filled with possibilities and endless success.