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Biotechnology M.S. with a Specialization in Bioinformatics/Computational Biology

Combine Biology with Computer Science to Solve Biomedical Issues

Through advances in the areas of genomics, proteomics and biomedical imaging, there is an increased need for highly qualified specialists who possess the skill to analyze biological data and build integrated models of biological systems and use them to create real-world strategies that will help prevent or treat disease. At the University of Houston-Clear Lake, you can earn a Master of Science in Biotechnology with a Specialization in Bioinformatics and Computational Biology to obtain the crucial experience you need to advance your career in modern biomedical research.

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Computing is a Key Skill Set in the 21st Century

Job prospects within this field are rapidly widening, supported by the pharmaceutical and biotech industries who are looking for skilled scientists able to interpret existing genomics data and use it to uncover new drug therapies. This degree from UHCL will put you at the forefront of a growing field in which you’ll occupy a key role in expanding the intersection between computation and biology.


Admission Requirements

Take your education to new heights in University of Houston-Clear Lake's College of Science and Engineering. Learn the next steps to being admitted now.


  • Biotechnology M.S.
  • Admission Deadline

    Standard Graduate Admission Deadline

  • Application

    Apply online through the UHCL Graduate Application Portal.

  • Requirements
    • 3.0 GPA
    • GRE is not required and can be waived. If submitted, GRE total scores should be at least 290 (140 Verbal + 150 Quantitative). If GRE is not submitted, applicant must submit 3 letters of recommendation, resume, and personal statement of research and future plans.
    • Those not meeting GRE and/or GPA standards will be required to meet additional performance criteria.
    • Foundation Courses (C or better): Molecular Genetics, Biochemistry I, Physiology (plant or human or animal), Computational Statistics, Cellular Physiology, and Molecular Biology.
    • Additional Requirements – Undergraduate degree in Biology, but other degrees may apply if preparation includes significant number of core courses in Biological Sciences as well as appropriate chemistry, physics and mathematics courses.


Degree Requirements

UHCL's College of Science and Engineering has created a solid foundation of study designed to help you make your educational dreams a reality. Explore the classes you'll need to take for your University of Houston-Clear Lake degree.

Biotechnology M.S.


Cost Information

Calculate the price of your science or engineering degree at UHCL with our Cost Estimator function.

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Deadlines for Applying

  • Graduate Deadlines
  • Fall
    New Degree-Seeking Students - August 1
    Returning UHCL Students - August 15
  • Spring
    New Degree-Seeking Students - January 5
    Returning UHCL Students - January 15
  • Summer
    New Degree-Seeking Students - May 1
    Returning UHCL Students - May 25

Please note, some graduate programs have special deadlines and requirements. For more information, go to How to Apply as a Graduate Student. The online application is scheduled to close for Graduate students after the Formal UHCL Student deadline of each semester.

Applying After the Priority Deadline

New, non-degree seeking, and returning UHCL students applying after the deadlines above may be considered for admission on a case-by-case basis. Please contact the appropriate graduate enrollment counselor for more information. A $50.00 Late Registration Fee or $50.00 Late Payment may apply.

Review the UHCL Academic Calendar for registration and payment dates and deadlines.


  • International Deadlines
  • Fall

    Priority Deadline - May 1
    Extended Deadline - June 1

  • Spring

    Deadline - October 1

  • Summer*

    Deadline - April 1

For more information regarding deferring your application, please visit Deferring International Admission.

Students interested in qualifying for scholarships &/or applying for visas outside the U.S. should apply and submit the application documents/test scores by the priority deadline

*International freshmen applicants will not be accepted for Summer semester.


Locations

University of Houston-Clear Lake

University of Houston-Clear Lake

2700 Bay Area Blvd
Houston, TX 77058
Phone: 281-283-7600

About UHCL


Accreditations and Distinctions

UHCL's Biotechnology program is the only program in Texas to offer three specializations: Molecular Biotechnology, Management, and Bioinformatics.

  • Molecular Biotechnology: work as a scientist in a research lab
  • Management: manage a research lab or division
  • Bioinformatics: develop or utilize bioinformatics data managements tools


Biotechnology M.S. with a Specialization in Bioinformatics/Computational Biology Faculty

Martha C. Ariza
Martha Ariza

Martha Ariza

Lecturer in Biotechnology,
Science and Engineering

Contact number: 281-283-3763
Email: Ariza@UHCL.edu
Office: B3321

Martha Ariza Faculty Bio

Bazlur Rashid
Bazlur Rashid

Bazlur Rashid

Associate Professor of Biology and Biotechnology,
Science and Engineering

Contact number: 281-283 3756
Email: rashid@uhcl.edu
Office: 3525-11

Bazlur Rashid Faculty Bio

Lory Z. Santiago-Vazquez
Lory Santiago-Vázquez

Lory Z. Santiago-Vázquez

Program Chair of Biotechnology, Associate Professor of Biology and Biotechnology,
Science and Engineering

Contact number: 281-283-3776
Email: santiago@uhcl.edu
Office: B3525-7

Lory Z. Santiago-Vázquez Faculty Bio