Frequently Asked Questions
Since bioinformatics is so interdisciplinary, we routinely accept students into the bioinformatics graduate programs that have degrees in either computer science or biology (or chemistry, or math, or physics, or …). Having said that, you will best prepare yourself by taking courses in both areas. A B.S. degree in biology (or chemistry, math, etc.) and a minor in computer science, or vice versa, would be ideal.
If you are a current UNC Charlotte undergraduate, the Minor in Bioinformatics will be your best option.
Please post all of your documentation (including the official transcripts, reference letters, statement of purpose and vitae/resume) only to the graduate school. The Graduate school will send the Department of Bioinformatics and Genomics all of the applications and the respective documents. Please NOTE that the graduate school will only forward complete packets to the department. If the application packet is incomplete the department will not receive the application packet. The department can only make a decision once we receive the packet from the graduate school.
UNC Charlotte’s School Code is 5105. A department code is not necessary.
You can register for your parking permit prior to arriving at UNC Charlotte by following the directions here.
You will need your student ID number in order to register for a parking pass! See the checklist on the Parking Services website for additional requirements.
Alternatively, you can visit the Parking Services Building and register for a parking permit in person. Be prepared to pay the fee and bring the following items with you: Driver’s License, License plate number, Vehicle identification number, Vehicle make, model, and color,and Insurance company name and policy number
Application materials are submitted to the Graduate Admissions office. The goal is to be able to electronically submit all required application documents.
ou will want to set-up your NinerNET Account (UNC Charlotte’s online portal) prior to your arrival at UNC Charlotte. This will allow you to begin checking your UNC Charlotte email and will make registering for classes during orientation much easier.
To activate your NinerNET account, click “Activate Account” at the link below:
ninernet.charlotte.edu
Once you have activated your NinerNET account, navigate to my.charlotte.edu and log in using your NinerNET credentials and click “Banner Self Services.” Here you will be able to register for classes, check out your financial aid status, and explore many other useful features.
Out-of-state
Yes, all international students who obtained degrees outside of the U.S. are required to submit an English language proficiency score. The following tests are accpeted:
Test of English as a Foreing Language (TOEFL) http://www.toefl.org/ minimum score required is 83 internet-based.
International English Language Testing System (IELTS) http://www.ielts.org/ minimum socre required is overall band score of 6.5.
Duolingo English Test https://englishtest.duolingo.com/home Minimum score required is 115.
Yes, all international applicants who received their degree(s) outsid the U.S. must have their transcripts undergo a foreign transcript evaluation. Foreign transcript evaluations are accepted from WES, ECE, and IEE. If you have any questions about using another transcript evaluation company, please contact the Graduate Program Coordinator for approval.
Yes, the seminars are free to the public.
If you have obtained a bachelors degree, you may be able to take a couple courses as a post-baccalaureate. To apply for post-bac, please apply online through the Graduate School’s admissions website.
Yes, however, there is a time limit to complete graduation.
The GRE is not required for the Bioinformatics MS and Bioinformatics graduate certificate programs. The GRE is required for the Bioinformatics and Computational Biology PhD program. The following are the GRE waiver policies for the PhD:
• Applicant obtained, or will complete prior to enrollment, a MS degree from an accredited US institution, with a GPA of 3.2 or higher, in a STEM major related to Bioinformatics and Genomics.
• Applicant obtained, or will complete prior to enrollment, a BS degree from an accredited US institution, with a GPA of 3.4 or higher, in a STEM major related to Bioinformatics and Genomics.
Upon enrollment in the M.S. in Bioinformatics program, you must be prepared to pay for your tuition, fees, books, health care, travel, and any other costs. Although there are possibilities contingent upon your past knowledge and laboratory experiences, the on campus internships are very competitive.
To check the current tuition and fees, please visit Niner Central
The Bioinformatics MS and Graduate Certificate programs has a tuition increment fee. This fee covers the true costs of providing instruction, services for the associated graduate program, and pays for grader positions, Teaching Assistantship and Research Assistantship positions and travel awards. The Tuition Increment is $150 per credit hour.
Upon moving to North Carolina, domestic students should immediately begin the process of obtaining residency. Important residency details can be found at the following link: resdetermination.charlotte.edu
All admitted PhD students receive tuition and health insurance support + a stipend. In general, tuition and health insurance is awarded via the Gradaute Assistant Support Program (GASP). PhD students receive a graduate assistantship through the department or from faculty grant funding.
You can get your ID card at the 49er Card Office located on the main floor of the Student Union, Monday-Friday, 8am to 5pm.
Visit the 49ner ID Card website
IMPORTANT: You must be registered for classes in order to receive an ID card. Bring a form of identification.
Charlotte, NC is a rapidly growing metropolis with multitude of housing options in nearly every price range. The Center for Graduate Life and Learning offers information on on campus and off campus housing options: https://gradlife.charlotte.edu/graduate-community/living-charlotte/housing-and-transportation
It will be important to consider distance from campus as you explore various housing options. Many students choose to live in the University area, particularly during their first year when the class load is most rigorous. Other areas to explore include Uptown, Dilworth, Myers Park, Plaza Midwood, and NODA. These areas are further from campus and are generally more expensive than those near the University; however, they are better situated if you are interested in Charlotte’s nightlife and city atmosphere. Bioinformatics current students and fellow incoming students will also be good resources as you search for a place to live. Do not hesitate to make use of these individuals as you make your important housing decisions!
You may apply through the Graduate School’s online application system. You may only apply online, paper applications are NOT accepted.
Through the Graduate School’s Online Application Portal.