Bioinformatics, often referred to as Genomics, is one of the most rapidly growing fields of biotechnology. It emphasizes the integration of basic and applied research in gene mapping, molecular cloning, large-scale restriction mapping, and DNA sequencing and computational analysis. "Bioinformatics is emerging as the white-hot field. For pharmas and biotechnology companies, scientists able to interpret the data revealed by sequencing efforts have become as rare as ego-free professors have. In the absence of formal degree-granting courses in the subject, companies seek scientists with strong backgrounds in both life science and computer science." "Bioinformatics is central. You can't do large scale biology research without having a bioinformatics facility." "The challenge is to find people with interest and enthusiasm who can span the worlds of basic sciences and computer science."

Bioinformatics - (From list of top 15 hot jobs) - Structural biology, computational chemistry, mathemataics and a love of computing combine in one of the most difficult to fill positions of them all.

Two Paths: Below are listed two alternatives: Computer science BA, for those who want to emphasize programming skills, and a computer science minor with information systems courses for those who wish to emphasize computer management skills.