Computational and Mathematical Biology
The Computational and Mathematical Biology Bachelor of Arts program at Pennsylvania University is a four-year, full-time undergraduate program designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of biological systems through the integration of computational, mathematical, and experimental approaches. The curriculum combines biology, mathematics, computer science, statistics, and bioinformatics, enabling students to model complex biological processes, analyze large datasets, and develop computational solutions to biological problems. Students engage in laboratory research, computational modeling, and interdisciplinary projects, developing analytical, technical, and problem-solving skills essential for addressing modern challenges in the life sciences.
Throughout the program, students participate in seminars, laboratory exercises, and applied research guided by faculty experts in computational biology, mathematics, and bioinformatics. The program emphasizes critical thinking, quantitative reasoning, and interdisciplinary collaboration, preparing graduates to conduct research, interpret complex biological data, and apply computational tools in diverse biological contexts. Students leave the program with computational proficiency, analytical skills, research competence, and critical reasoning, fully prepared for careers or advanced study in computational biology, bioinformatics, systems biology, or related fields.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Computational and Mathematical Biology
- Degree Type: Bachelor of Arts
- Duration: 4 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 05 January 2026
- Location: University of Pennsylvania, United States
- Field of Study: Biology
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 – Foundations in Computational and Mathematical Biology
- Introduction to Biology and Life Sciences
- Calculus and Linear Algebra
- Introduction to Computer Science and Programming
- Research Methods and Quantitative Analysis
Year 2 – Intermediate Study in Biology and Computation
- Genetics and Molecular Biology
- Probability and Statistics for Biologists
- Data Analysis and Modeling
- Electives: Ecology, Biochemistry, or Cellular Biology
Year 3 – Advanced Computational and Mathematical Applications
- Bioinformatics and Genomic Analysis
- Mathematical Modeling of Biological Systems
- Applied Research Projects in Computational Biology
- Electives: Systems Biology, Neurobiology, or Computational Ecology
Year 4 – Capstone and Professional Integration
- Senior Thesis or Independent Research Project
- Seminar in Contemporary Computational Biology Topics
- Professional Portfolio Development
- Internship or Applied Project in Research, Biotechnology, or Healthcare
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Computational and Mathematical Biology program are prepared for careers in biotechnology, bioinformatics, computational research, healthcare analytics, environmental modeling, and academic research. Alumni may work as computational biologists, data analysts, research scientists, or pursue graduate studies in computational biology, bioinformatics, systems biology, or related fields. The program equips graduates to analyze complex biological data, develop computational solutions, and contribute to scientific research and innovation. With strong analytical, computational, and research skills, graduates are highly competitive in professional and academic environments focused on modern biological and computational challenges.
Why Choose This Program
This program is distinguished by its integration of computational methods, mathematical modeling, biological theory, and applied research within a four-year curriculum. Students benefit from mentorship, laboratory and computational resources, and experiential projects that bridge theoretical knowledge with practical problem-solving in biology. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, quantitative reasoning, and interdisciplinary collaboration, preparing graduates to analyze biological systems, conduct innovative research, and contribute to scientific discovery. For students passionate about combining mathematics, computation, and biology to understand life processes and address complex biological questions, this program offers a rigorous, immersive, and career-focused pathway to professional and academic success.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 215 898 5000
Email: admissions@upenn.edu
Address: University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States
