MS Biomolecular Engineering and Bioinformatics at University of California, Santa Cruz

Programme overview

The Biomolecular Engineering and Bioinformatics MS uses quantitative approaches to address fundamental questions in biology and biomedical science, preparing students for biomedical research settings in the biotechnology industry. Students complete capstone projects with faculty.

Faculty: Baskin School of Engineering | Department: Biomolecular Engineering | Duration: Minimum 41 credits | Study mode: full-time | Location: Santa Cruz, CA, United States

What you will study

Core courses include Bioinformatics Models and Algorithms and one of Computational Genomics and Systems Biology, Stem Cell Biology or Protein Design and Engineering, plus a graduate quantitative science course, an ethics course, electives and at least three seminar quarters. Students usually spend two to three quarters on the capstone project.

Career pathways

Biomedical research in the biotechnology industry.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

UC Santa Cruz graduate admission: bachelor's degree or equivalent from an accredited university awarded before the entry quarter, a B average or better in the last two years of undergraduate coursework, and demonstrated English proficiency. Applicants whose first language is not English: TOEFL iBT minimum 89 (4.5 on the 2026 scale) or IELTS Academic overall 7; waiver may be requested by applicants with a four-year bachelor's degree from an English-speaking institution. GRE General and Subject tests not required. Transcripts and three letters of recommendation (up to five accepted). Programme materials: resume, statement of purpose, personal history statement, and a faculty sponsor letter on letterhead (the programme only admits master's students who have secured a BMEB faculty sponsor). Application deadline: March 16 (Biomolecular Engineering and Bioinformatics MS). Application fee $135 domestic, $155 international.

Duration: Minimum 41 credits

Explore more study programmes

STEM