Biochemistry and Computer Science Accelerated Program

BA/BS Biochemistry and MS Computer Science Accelerated Dual Degree Program Overview

Manhattanville’s dual degree program combines the Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry with the Master of Science (MS) in Computer Science degree program, empowering majors to bypass a long transition from one field to the other and revving up their future in computer science in just five years. 

Students can choose the more flexible BA curriculum or the more focused and intensive BS plan of studies. Though they demand different requirements, both pathways provide a strong foundation in biochemistry, thorough lab training, and the opportunity to complete a research-based capstone project. 

Undergraduate courses introduce them to advanced computer science concepts from biotechnology to cybersecurity, which they can further deepen their understanding of during their master’s programs. Hands-on projects, industry-relevant internship opportunities in New York, and one-on-one faculty guidance prepare students for the dynamic and challenging realities of today’s job market. 

By completing an accelerated biochemistry and computer science degree program, graduates can aim for more advanced roles, higher earning potential, and a smoother entry into the exciting field of computer science. 

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The accelerated bachelor’s to master’s program in biochemistry and computer science provides you with fundamental knowledge in animal and plant biochemistry, cellular and molecular biology, immunology, genetics, and their intersection with computational technology. As you progress through your studies, you hone in-demand skills like experimental problem-solving, data analysis, teamwork, lab techniques, and independent thinking. 

Not only do 4+1 accelerated degree programs fast-track your career, but they also help reduce the overall costs of your education. You can use your undergraduate financial aid package to cover up to 12 credits as dual bachelor’s and master’s program credits. A dual degree also requires only one additional year to complete a master’s in computer science. 

The first three years of the program are devoted to foundational undergraduate courses. In year four, you can begin fulfilling requirements toward the master’s degree. The training you receive opens the doors to roles in biotech companies, research labs, engineering firms, biomedical startups, and pharmaceuticals.

 

Years One-Three: Begin completing coursework in the bachelor’s in biochemistry program, including foundational biological and chemical concepts, mathematics, and research methods

Year Four: After completing entry-level courses and consulting with an academic advisor, apply to begin computer science graduate program coursework while fulfilling bachelor's degree requirements.

Year Five: Complete your Master of Science in Computer Science in just one extra year by building on your bachelor's degree and master's level studies.

 

As a biochemistry major, you gain a solid interdisciplinary foundation in chemistry, biology, physics, cellular and molecular sciences, math, and lab skills while tailoring the curriculum to your academic goals. An MS in Computer Science makes it easier for you to apply your learnings to a dynamic field. 

Explore Manhattanville’s other accelerated combined bachelor’s programs with the MS in Computer Science

The relationship between biochemistry and technology has never been more thrilling and more intertwined than at this moment, which is why the biochemistry and computer science program requirements complement each other well for future careers. 

Undergraduate courses cover topics in biology, organic chemistry, physical chemistry, genetics, developmental biology, human anatomy, microbiology, calculus, forensic biology, and medicinal chemistry. General education requirements and electives round out your education and give you the freedom to explore your unique interests and create exciting connections between fields. Use the opportunity to apply your knowledge in a research-based capstone course. 

Then, the accelerated computer science master’s enhances your biochemistry background by focusing on database design, foundations of deep learning, graph theory, programming languages, and other professional skills through real-world projects, including a final capstone project. 

 

Requirements for the accelerated 4+1 BA/BS in Biochemistry + MS in Computer Science include:

  • 22 core major courses including labs, capstone, and BA or BS requirements
  • 9 Master of Science courses and capstone practicum project (30 credits)

 

Undergraduate students in the 4+1 Accelerated Program in biochemistry and computer science will have 12 fewer graduate credits to complete after their bachelor’s degree, compared to the entire 30-credit program.

 

Course Progression and Eligibility

To prepare for graduate-level studies and demonstrate eligibility for the 4+1 Accelerated Program, students in the BA or BS in Biochemistry major program must complete two computer science courses, MAC1010 and MAC2010, with a limit of one 5000-level (more advanced) computer science courses prior to the second undergraduate year. After starting the second year, students may enroll in up to two upper-level computer science courses each semester period.

Any 5000-level computer science courses taken may be credited to the combined bachelor’s and master’s accelerated program.

A bachelor’s degree in biochemistry is a launching pad for entry-level jobs in laboratories and research centers, admissions to medical school and other health science professional schools, and an academic career. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects the demand for biochemists to grow 7% through 2032—faster than the average growth of other occupations. 

When you add the additional skillset that an MS in Computer Science provides, though, the career prospects and earning potential of a graduate increase exponentially. Candidates can seek jobs combining chemistry and coding in a wide number of industries, including medicine, health, biomedical engineering, pharmaceuticals, biotech, and more. 

Some of the job titles for graduates interested in biochemistry and computer science careers are:

  • Bioinformatics Analyst
  • Bioinformatics Engineer
  • Computational Biologist
  • Database Architect
  • Data Engineer
  • Data Scientist

 

Salaries With a Combined BA/BS in Biochemistry and Master’s in Computer Science

When you enter the workforce with an accelerated master’s degree in computer science, your salary potential is higher than that of a candidate with only a bachelor’s degree in hand. Computer scientists boasted a median wage of $136,620 in 2022, compared to the $81,810 median wage of chemists and materials scientists. By adding that extra year to finish your studies with a master’s degree, you can get further in your professional goals in a shorter amount of time. 

The dual degree in biochemistry and computer science gives you a solid foundation for further education and is a great complement to many roles in the health professions. Medicine and health careers with a biochemistry major can be found in research institutes and in private industries focused on QA, information technology, and web development. 

Manhattanville University’s undergraduate Health Sciences Certificate provides you with the individualized support to apply with confidence to med school and other health professional graduate programs. In addition to covering the course requirements for graduate studies, the track offers targeted academic advising, MCAT and GRE prep, internship services, and other benefits. 

Full time:

Jon Munson

Mia Heissan

Mirela Djordjevic

 

Part time:

Freddy Santiago

Susmita Kha

 

Take every opportunity at your disposal to make your Manhattanville University experience your own journey of discovery. Personalize your interests by adding a minor or two. Discover new interests and skills through electives. Participate in the Castle Scholars Honors Program for enhanced research opportunities. Is graduate school in your future? Our health and professional school tracks provide academic advising, test prep, and more. 

In addition to the 4+1 BA/BS in Biochemistry + MS in Computer Science program, Manhattanville offers other accelerated degrees that combine a master’s in computer science with a major in a related field. Prepare for computer science careers with any of these options: 

 

There is no wrong path toward your goals. All majors give you the in-demand skills and interdisciplinary perspective to help you soar. 

Explore Manhattanville’s 125+ programs

The accelerated bachelor’s to master’s in computer science and biochemistry can supercharge the path toward your professional goals.

If you are not a current student at Manhattanville University, the first step is to apply for undergraduate admission to the BA or BS in Biochemistry program. If you are a current undergraduate student, you can apply online to the MS in Computer Science after completing at least 75 credit hours with a minimum GPA of 3.3. You need at least one letter of recommendation from a Manhattanville faculty member to submit your application. Once you are accepted into the program, you can start taking graduate courses in your fourth year. 

Connect to an advisor who can guide you throughout the process and explain the next steps to fulfill the accelerated dual degree program requirements. Review Manhattanville Undergraduate Admissions and contact the admissions team with any questions. 

 

Accelerated Program Financial Aid

Biochemistry majors can use their undergraduate financial aid package to cover up to 12 credits of graduate coursework and reduce the overall cost of a master’s degree, making the 4+1 Accelerated Programs a savvy financial investment. Reach out to our financial aid office to find out more about affording your education. 

 

Apply to the 4+1 BA/BS Biochemistry + MS Computer Science Program

Graduate with a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in only five years with the 4+1 BA/BS in Biochemistry and MS in Computer Science degree program at Manhattanville University. The interdisciplinary degree helps you stand out in the job market by providing you with a solid theoretical foundation and practical skills in two in-demand fields. 

Boost your résumé with capstone projects, career-focused internships, and the unparalleled professional opportunities that only New York City can provide—all while taking advantage of the reduced costs of a dual degree. 

Find out more about the 4+1 pathway, visit our campus, or apply to Manhattanville University today.