Computational and Systems Biology University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)

Overview

The Computational and Systems Biology programme at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) offers a rigorous interdisciplinary education at the intersection of biology, mathematics, and computer science. This Bachelor of Science degree focuses on the synergy of integrative systems and computational modeling to solve complex biological problems.

Students in this major select a coherent integration of courses from one of five designated concentrations: bioinformatics, biological data sciences, biomedical systems, neurosystems, or systems biology. The curriculum is primarily quantitative, ensuring that graduates possess the mastery of advanced mathematical skills essential for multidisciplinary understanding in the modern scientific landscape.

Why Computational and Systems Biology at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)?

The University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) provides a distinctive teaching environment through its Division of Computational and Systems Biology within the College of Letters and Science. The programme leverages new and developing courses across the institution, ensuring students have access to the latest tools in machine learning and informatics.

Facilities at the university support high-throughput biological data analysis and complex system modeling. The interdepartmental nature of the programme allows for a deep integration with various life science departments, fostering a collaborative atmosphere that mirrors the professional research environment found in top-tier biotech and pharmaceutical industries.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: USD 53302 per year
• National fee: USD 53302 per year
• Local fee: USD 15700 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum is structured around specific concentrations that define the focus of study. Modules may include:

Bioinformatics

• Genetics
• Biology at Molecular and Cellular Levels
• Statistical Patterns in Genomic Information
• Gene Expression Programs
• Structure of Biological Information

Biological Data Sciences

• Machine Learning
• Statistical Data Sciences
• Informatics
• Genomics
• Physiology
• Pharmacology
• Neuroscience
• Ecology and Evolution

Biomedical Systems

• Medical System Studies
• Biomedical Engineering System Devices
• Nanoscale System Devices
• Dynamic Biosystem Modeling
• Clinical Diagnostic Protocols
• Therapeutic Protocols
• Feedback Biocontrol System Model Development

Neurosystems

• Nervous System
• Quantitative Neurophysiology
• Neural System Networks
• Neural Information and Control Systems
• Systems Electrophysiology
• Neural Electronic Systems

Systems Biology

• Dynamical Systems Modeling
• Computer Simulation
• Proteomic Information
• Transcriptomic Information
• Metabolomic Information
• Multiscale Modeling

Careers with Computational and Systems Biology

Graduates from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) are well-prepared for direct entry into various high-growth sectors. The biological data sciences concentration specifically aids students aiming for roles in the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries, as well as those pursuing computational biology graduate school.

Career paths often involve research and development roles where quantitative skills are applied to medical diagnosis, drug delivery optimization, and genomic discovery. The programme also serves as a strong foundation for students entering medical school or advanced research positions in neurophysiology and biomedical engineering.