General Program Questions
Computational Genomic Medicine is an interdisciplinary field that combines genomics, bioinformatics, and data science to understand the genetic basis of health and disease. It involves analyzing large-scale genomic and clinical data using computational tools and algorithms to uncover insights that can guide precision medicine, improve diagnostics, and inform personalized treatment strategies.
A Master of Science in Computational Genomic Medicine focuses on applying advanced computational and statistical methods to analyze genomic and clinical data for precision medicine and research. It emphasizes algorithm development, data integration, and translating genomic insights into clinical applications.
In contrast, Bioinformatics programs typically have a broader scope, covering computational methods for various biological data types (not just human genomics) and often focus on tool development and biological discovery rather than direct clinical application.
Genetic Counseling programs, on the other hand, prepare professionals to work directly with patients and families, providing education, risk assessment, and support related to genetic conditions. These programs emphasize communication, counseling skills, and clinical practice rather than computational analysis. Learn more about CWRU's Genetic Counseling Program.
Graduates of this program are prepared for a wide range of roles at the intersection of genomics, data science, and healthcare. Career paths include:
- Clinical Genomics Analyst – Interpreting genomic data to support precision medicine in hospitals and healthcare systems.
- Bioinformatics Scientist – Developing and applying computational tools for genomic research in academic, clinical, or industry settings.
- Genomic Data Scientist – Analyzing large-scale genomic and clinical datasets for pharmaceutical, biotech, or research organizations.
- Research Associate or Specialist – Supporting genomic research projects in universities, medical centers, or government labs.
- Healthcare Technology Specialist – Working with companies developing genomic diagnostics, personalized medicine platforms, or AI-driven health solutions.
Graduates may also pursue PhD programs in genomics, bioinformatics, computational biology, or related fields.
We offer three tracks to earn the Master of Science in Computational Genomic Medicine. The Standard Track is a two-year program. The Accelerated Track is a 1.5-year program. And the Part Time Track is a 3-year program.
Yes. The MS in Computational Genomic Medicine provides a strong foundation in genomics, bioinformatics, and computational methods, which are essential for advanced research. Graduates will gain the analytical, technical, and research skills needed to be competitive applicants for PhD programs in related fields such as genomics, bioinformatics, computational biology, or biomedical data science.
No. The Computational Genomic Medicine program at CWRU is an in-person program that requires students to be on campus in Cleveland. Many components of the curriculum involve hands-on learning and direct interaction with faculty and peers, which are essential to the program experience.
Yes, a part-time track is available. On this track you will earn your MS in Computational Genomic Medicine in 3 years.
No. Safe and affordable housing is available near campus, either within walking distance or accessible via free campus shuttles. Research opportunities at University Hospitals and the Cleveland Clinic are also conveniently located - either within walking distance or reached by a free shuttle ride. CWRU’s campus is also in the heart of University Circle, a vibrant cultural district that offers a grocery store, a variety of dining options (from casual to upscale), bars, museums, green spaces, and convenience stores – all within walking distance.
The CWRU campus has a number of resources available to graduate students. Information about resources can be found at the Case website: http://www.cwru.edu. In particular, graduate students have access to:
STUDENT HEALTH INSURANCE
Information about the CWRU student health insurance plans can be found at the website below. All students must have health insurance unless they have health insurance through their family, in which case, they may request a waiver of health care.
/studentlife/healthcounseling/medical-plan
COUNSELING SERVICES
University Health and Counseling Services, is a division of Student Affairs. Health Services is staffed by several professionals including physicians, nurse practitioners, psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and registered nurses. A number of the physicians are affiliated with University Hospitals of Cleveland and with the CWRU School of Medicine. Call 216.368.2450 for an appointment.
CWRU also has counseling services available 24/7, free of charge for all students. Counseling Services offers help to students who experience a variety of difficult personal and interpersonal challenges. Graduate school can be very demanding and adjusting to these challenges is not always easy. The UCS office is staffed with psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, counselors, and doctoral-level counseling trainees. We recommend that students feel free to utilize these services at any time. UCS also has walk-in hours and emergency assistance. Please refer to the Counseling Services website for additional information
WRITING RESOURCE CENTER
The Writing Resource Center (WRC) provides support for writers across the university. Our writing consultants provide individualized, hands-on instruction specific to each writer’s goals. We encourage visits from writers at any stage of the writing process, from understanding contexts for writing and interpreting assignment prompts, to organizing and revising ideas. And, we work with all campus writers, including undergraduate students working on course assignments, graduate students working on theses and dissertations, post-doctoral and faculty writers composing grant applications and specialized genres, and staff members working on personal and professional projects. More information can be found here: /artsci/writing/resources/writing-resource-center
DISABILITY RESOURCES
The Division of Student Affairs is committed to assisting all ÐÓ°ÉÊÓÆµ students with disabilities by creating opportunities to take full advantage of the University's educational, academic and residential programs. Information can be found here: /studentlife/disability/about
HOUSING
Most graduate students live off campus in one of the pleasant residential neighborhoods within walking or biking distance of the University. There is a variety of very reasonably priced housing available in these areas. Information about off-campus housing can be obtained from: Off Campus Housing at 216.368.3780 or the CWRU housing website .
STUDENT GROUPS
CWRU currently has 848 groups on campus for students, both graduate and undergraduate. A list of groups, with website and contact information can be found here:
Admissions and Application Questions
There are two application deadlines. Our early deadline is January 1st with notice of acceptance by March 1st. The final deadline is July 15th. All required materials - such as unofficial transcripts from every institution where you completed coursework and letters of recommendation - must be submitted by this date for your application to be reviewed by the Admissions Committee.
Letters of recommendation should come from individuals who can accurately assess your academic abilities, communication skills (both written and verbal), and your potential for success in graduate studies.
We strongly recommend that at least one recommendation be from a faculty member at a previous academic institution. Additional strong references may include supervisors from research projects, internships, employment, or volunteer opportunities. Letters from friends or family members are not appropriate and will not be considered.
Please note: while CWRU provides an online recommendation form for referees, each referee should also submit a personal letter to accompany the form.
Interviews are conducted via Zoom and are intended to be conversational. This is an opportunity for us to learn more about you -, and for you to learn more about us. We encourage you to relax, enjoy the discussion, and be ready to share the experiences that led you to pursue a Master’s degree in Computational Genomic Medicine.
The interview process also helps you determine whether CWRU is the right fit for your goals. You will participate in three one-on-one interviews with members of our admissions team, each lasting approximately 30 minutes.
No. Programming experience is not required for admission to the MS in Computational Genomic Medicine program. While the curriculum includes courses that involve coding and data analysis, we provide the necessary training to help students develop these skills. We ensure that all students receive the support they need to succeed.
The GPA requirement helps ensure that students are prepared for the rigor of our graduate-level curriculum. However, we understand that extenuating circumstances can sometimes affect academic performance. If your undergraduate GPA is below 3.0 but you believe you are otherwise well-qualified for the program, please contact the Program Director at genems@case.edu to discuss your situation and explore possible admission options.
Yes. International students are welcome and encouraged to apply to CWRU.
Financial Aid and Funding Questions
Tuition for the 2025-2026 academic year is $2,316.00 per semester hour. The computational genomic medicine program is a 30-credit program. Currently, other fees include student health insurance ($1,993.00 per semester, which is able to waived with proof of insurance coverage from another source) and a student activity fee. For more, information regarding tuition and fees visit the website for the School of Graduate Studies.
The Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences is unable to provide financial aid or research/teaching assistantships to students. However, other forms of financial aid are available to graduate students. The university has extensive information regarding financial aid and scholarship opportunities to assist students in funding their education. For additional information or assistance, please contact the Office of University Financial Aid at financialaid@case.edu or 216.368.4530.