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Clinical Bioinformatics


Ontario Graduate Certificate


Program Code: CB511

Campus: Online, Downtown (IGS)

Length: 2 semesters

Bioinformatics is an interdisciplinary field focused on analyzing biological data with computational tools and methods to extract insights and infer meaning from complex datasets. To meet this rapid development, this program is firmly grounded in theory, hands-on skills and application. In the Clinical Bioinformatics graduate certificate, students gain insight into the genetic underpinnings of disease, contributing to the broader landscape of biomedical discovery and innovation through the application of computational analysis techniques.   

Students are introduced to the rapidly evolving fields of -omics research with a focus on genomics, transcriptomics and pharmacogenomics concepts pertaining to human health and disease, providing students with training in analytical approaches used in these areas. Students acquire expertise navigating genetic databases and developing data analysis pipelines using current bioinformatics software to uncover insights into the pathology of disease and aid in developing predictive models. There is also an emphasis on effective data mining and scientific reproducibility, highlighting best practices for the integration and management of data across various platforms using cloud computing. 

This program prepares graduates with the skills needed to build successful careers supporting -omics research across many areas in the health-care sector such as in health care and government institutions, pharmaceutical companies, and in academic research labs. The knowledge of programming languages and competencies in machine learning that are covered in our curriculum provides learners with highly valuable transferrable skills. Graduates of this program cultivate a versatile skillset that extends beyond bioinformatics, opening doors to opportunities in the broader realms of data science and technology. 

This program is offered in two formats,

  1. Online Synchronous - open to domestic students only
  2. Hybrid with in-person and online courses - open to both domestic and international students

Work-Integrated Learning

Having solidified your theoretical foundation in the first two semesters, the third semester becomes pivotal – the experiential component. Imagine putting theory into practice. Supported by industry expert faculty, you will transition your theoretical knowledge into practice, to work through real world situations to ensure that you are ready to be successful in the clinical bioinformatics affairs field, head on! 

The format of experiential learning is determined by your selection of program delivery: Fully Online, or Hybrid (in-person and online courses.)

Field Experience 

Students enrolled in the fully online delivery method will engage in 210 hours of field experience to gain professional work experience in the field of clinical bioinformatics. The field experience takes place during the second semester and can be extended into the summer as needed. Work can occur in diverse settings such as for-profit or not-for-profit enterprises, governmental or educational institutions, or health and wellness institutions. 

The experience will enhance the theoretical learning in the program, giving you hands-on application in clinical bioinformatics. Field experiences might include data curation, developing analysis pipelines, building machine learning models, and contributing to writing publications as part of a bioinformatics research group or core facility. It can also involve research and development roles in private companies in the medical genetics and precision health space. Students are supported throughout their field experience with various key supports and key faculty and staff from the program. 

While Humber assists students find their field experience by working with industry partners and identifying openings, students are responsible for finding their own field experience aligned with the program's learning outcomes. 

Visit Future Students > Work-Integrated Learning > to learn more about your WIL power and other success stories. 

Also take time to explore the digital Faculty of Health Sciences & Wellness Student Handbook to learn foundational WIL concepts, plus requirements specific to this program. 

Experiental Learning

Capstone Experience   

Students enrolled in the hybrid delivery method will engage in an immersive in-person capstone project supported by industry expert faculty. Working collaboratively, learners will engage with routine tasks, pipelines, data sets and duties commonly seen within clinical bioinformatics. This hands-on, supported learning opportunity will provide learners with the tools, resources and portfolio to enter into the field of clinical bioinformatics with all the necessary skills for success. 

Admission Requirements

Admission selection is based on the following 3 requirements:

  • .

    Academic

    To be eligible for admission, you must possess the following:

    • A bachelor’s degree, advanced diploma, diploma or equivalent, in Biological Sciences, Biotechnology, Nursing or a related field.

    Please note: This program is best suited to applicants with a bachelor's degree. 

     

    Mature Applicants

    Diplomas and Certificates

    An applicant is considered a mature applicant if they have not completed secondary school or other postsecondary school, and will be 19 or older as of the first day of classes. Humber will invite you for testing to demonstrate that you meet all listed course requirements.

    Degrees

    An applicant is considered a mature applicant if they have not completed secondary school or attended postsecondary studies, and will be 21 or older as of the first day of classes. Mature applicants for degree programs will be required to meet course requirements at the U/M level or equivalent.

    College Transfer Applicants

    Diplomas and Certificates

    An applicant is considered a college transfer applicant if they have completed some or all of a college-level credential. Humber may use a combination of secondary school and/or college courses and grades to determine program eligibility.

    Degrees

    An applicant is considered a college transfer applicant if they have completed some or all of a college-level credential. Humber may use a combination of secondary school and/or college courses and grades to determine program eligibility. Applicants must have an overall minimum grade point average (GPA) of 65 per cent in the program. Applicants are required to disclose and provide academic transcripts for all course work completed at the postsecondary level.

    University Transfer Applicants

    Diplomas and Certificates

    An applicant is considered a university transfer applicant if they have completed some or all of a university-level credential. Humber may use a combination of secondary school and/or university courses and grades to determine program eligibility.

    Degrees

    An applicant is considered a university transfer applicant if they have completed some or all of a university-level credential. Humber may use a combination of secondary school and/or university courses and grades to determine program eligibility. Applicants are required to disclose and provide academic transcripts for all course work completed at the postsecondary level.

  • .

    English Language Proficiency

    All applicants whose first language is not English must meet Humber’s English Language Proficiency Policy.

  • .

    International Credit Evaluation

    Canadian citizens or permanent residents with international education are required to provide a credential evaluation. Note, for international High school education course by course evaluations, ICAS must be used. For international post-secondary education, a WES evaluation must be provided. In situations where you expect to apply for transfer credit, it is recommended that a course by course WES evaluation is completed.

How to Apply

Applications are made through ontariocolleges.ca. See program page for details.

International Academic Equivalency

Admission equivalencies for Humber depend on your country of study. Please see admission requirements on the program page to enter your location.

Fees

The 2024/2025 fee for two semesters was:

  • domestic: $7,080.42
  • international: $20,868.58

Fees are subject to change.

Domestic Fees by Semester

Semester 1 2021-22 Fees
Tuition $2,789.00
Compulsory Ancillary Fee $444.09
Compulsory Student Union Fee $66.00
IGNITE Health and Dental Insurance Fee $111.12
Enhanced Student Experience Fee (Optional) $20.00
Program Ancillary Fee $0.00
Co-op/Placement $110.00
Total $3,540.21
Semester 2 2021-22 Fees
Tuition $2,789.00
Compulsory Ancillary Fee $444.09
Compulsory Student Union Fee $66.00
IGNITE Health and Dental Insurance Fee $111.12
Enhanced Student Experience Fee (Optional) $20.00
Program Ancillary Fee $0.00
Co-op/Placement $110.00
Total $3,540.21

International Fees by Semester

Semester 1 2021-22 Fees
Tuition $9,683.08
Compulsory Ancillary Fee $444.09
Compulsory Student Union Fee $66.00
IGNITE Health and Dental Insurance Fee $111.12
Enhanced Student Experience Fee (Optional) $20.00
Program Ancillary Fee $0.00
Co-op/Placement $110.00
Total $10,434.29
Semester 2 2021-22 Fees
Tuition $9,683.08
Compulsory Ancillary Fee $444.09
Compulsory Student Union Fee $66.00
IGNITE Health and Dental Insurance Fee $111.12
Enhanced Student Experience Fee (Optional) $20.00
Program Ancillary Fee $0.00
Co-op/Placement $110.00
Total $10,434.29

*Plus Mandatory Health Insurance fee once per academic year: Fall start - $420 Winter start - $280 Summer start - $140

Equipment & Device Requirements

Semester 1

Details and Specifications Minimum Specifications Recommended Specifications
Processor Intel i5-8300H (PC)
4-core or higher 64bit (Mac)
Intel i5-8300H (PC)
4-core or higher 64bit (Mac)
OS Windows 10 (PC)
OS 10.15 (Mac)
Windows 10 (PC)
OS 10.15 (Mac)
Memory 8GB of RAM 8GB of RAM
Storage 256GB 256GB
Monitor Laptop Laptop
Other Built-in microphone and webcam, Software: Adobe creative and Microsoft office Suite Built-in microphone and webcam, Software: Adobe creative and Microsoft office Suite

Pathways

Humber offers a number of transfer options and pathway opportunities. Visit humber.ca/transferoptions or refer to the program page.

Contact Information

Fathiya Mohamed, program manager
Faculty of Health Sciences and Wellness
416.675.6622
fathiya.mohamed@humber.ca

Admissions Questions

Domestic Students

416-675-5000
enquiry@humber.ca

International Students

Contact the International Centre

international.humber.ca/contact

1-416-675-5067

Every attempt is made to ensure that information contained on this website is current and accurate. Humber reserves the right to correct any error or omission, modify or cancel any course, program, fee, timetable or campus location at any time without prior notice or liability to users or any other Person.

Select information only is included in this printable PDF. For complete program details, refer to humber.ca/programs.

Print/Download Date: December 12, 2024