M.S. in Bioinformatics

Entry Requirements for Postgraduate Courses:

Application Fees : US$  

1. Academic Qualifications: International students applying for postgraduate programs at Marquette University are typically expected to have a minimum academic percentage of 65 or above in their undergraduate studies. This ensures a strong foundation for advanced studies in their chosen field.

2. English Language Proficiency: The minimum required score for IELTS is 6.5, and for TOEFL, a score of 80 or above is typically required. These tests evaluate a student's ability to comprehend and communicate effectively in English.

Marquette University offers several scholarships and financial aid options to support international students in pursuing their education. These scholarships are designed to recognize academic achievement, leadership potential, and diverse backgrounds. 

1. International Merit Scholarships: Marquette University offers merit-based scholarships to outstanding international students. These scholarships are awarded based on academic excellence and range from partial to full tuition coverage. Eligible students are automatically considered for these scholarships upon admission.

2. Ignatius Scholarship Program: The Ignatius Scholarship Program is a highly competitive scholarship opportunity for incoming freshmen. It recognizes students who have demonstrated exceptional leadership skills, service to others, and academic achievement. The scholarship provides financial assistance and access to a range of enrichment programs.

3. Talent-based Scholarships: Marquette University offers talent-based scholarships for students with exceptional skills in areas such as music, theater, and visual arts. These scholarships are awarded through auditions, portfolio reviews, or other talent-based evaluations.

4. Departmental Scholarships: Various academic departments at Marquette University offer scholarships to students within their respective fields of study. These scholarships recognize academic excellence and provide financial assistance to support students' educational pursuits.

5. International Student Work Opportunities: Marquette University provides international students with opportunities for on-campus employment. These part-time jobs allow students to gain valuable work experience, earn income to cover expenses, and contribute to their personal and professional development.

6. External Scholarships and Sponsorships: Marquette University encourages international students to explore external scholarship opportunities and sponsorships. There are several organizations, foundations, and government programs that offer scholarships specifically for international students studying in the USA. The university's International Student Services office can provide guidance and resources to assist students in identifying and applying for such scholarships.

It's important to note that scholarship availability, criteria, and application deadlines may vary each year.

Graduates of the M.S. in Bioinformatics program at Marquette University have excellent career prospects in various sectors that require the analysis and interpretation of biological data. 

1. Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Companies: Graduates can work in biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies, where they contribute to genomic research, drug discovery, and personalized medicine initiatives. They can hold positions such as bioinformatics scientists, data analysts, or research associates.

2. Academic and Research Institutions: Graduates can pursue research careers in academic institutions, government research agencies, or private research organizations. They can contribute to genomic studies, computational biology research, or interdisciplinary collaborations in the life sciences.

3. Healthcare and Clinical Research: Graduates can work in healthcare settings, supporting clinical research projects that involve genomic data analysis, patient stratification, or disease biomarker identification. They may contribute to precision medicine initiatives or work in medical informatics roles.

4. Bioinformatics Service Providers: Graduates can join bioinformatics service companies that offer data analysis and consulting services to researchers and organizations. They can assist clients with data management, analysis, and interpretation, providing expertise in bioinformatics tools and methods.

5. Entrepreneurship and Startups: Graduates with an entrepreneurial mindset can establish their own bioinformatics consulting firms, software development companies, or research-focused startups. They can develop innovative solutions to address challenges in bioinformatics and computational biology.

The M.S. in Bioinformatics program at Marquette University provides students with the necessary skills to excel in bioinformatics and computational biology careers. The program's interdisciplinary approach, comprehensive curriculum, and emphasis on practical application prepare graduates to tackle real-world challenges in the field. As a STEM-designated program, it also offers international students the opportunity to pursue Optional Practical Training (OPT) and extend their stay in the United States for practical work experience in their chosen field.