The Bioinformatics department is introducing a new undergraduate curriculum in Fall 2026. Components of the new curriculum are as follows:
- The major gateway requirement has been removed.
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BIOL 313: Introduction to Bioinformatics will be replaced by BIOL 416: Bioinformatics. BIOL 313 and BIOL 416 are automatically considered equivalent during the transition period.
BIOL 416, in addition to BIOL 415: Systems Biology, will become the two core Bioinformatics courses required for both the Bioinformatics major and minor. Both courses will be offered each spring semester. - The elective requirements for the Bioinformatics major have been reduced, with students now completing one List A elective and one List B elective.
Attached to this myUMBC post you will find the new major and minor requirement worksheets. If you are a current/returning UMBC student, you have the option to follow the “new” 2026-2027 catalog. If you choose to follow the “new” catalog, you should consult with your advisor about next steps.
If you have any questions or concerns, follow up with your advisor or contact Bioinformatics Undergraduate Program Director, Dr. Daniel Lobo (lobo@umbc.udu).