Computational Science Certificate

Use cutting-edge computational tools to solve complex problems and promote discovery

Certificate details

Requirements
Learning outcomes
Careers
Who this program is for
Take the first step

Undergradute Computational Science Certificate

Computational science is a fast-growing field that combines science, computer science, and math to help solve complex problems using technology. It’s used to model things like chemical phenomena, climate systems, and biological processes.

This certificate program includes core computer and data science courses, plus science classes in one of four areas: Biology, Chemistry, Earth and Environmental Sciences, or Physics. You’ll learn how to use tools to understand and model real-world systems—skills that are in high demand.

This certificate can help prepare you for careers in science, tech, medicine, business, and more. Whether you're looking to boost your resume or explore a new interest, this certificate gives you valuable skills that apply across many fields.

Total credit hours: 19–24

Dependent on the focus area you choose (Biology, Chemistry, Earth and Environmental Sciences, or Physics).

Apply credits towards your bachelor's degree

Easily extend all credits earned in this certificate program into a full B.A. or B.S. degree.

Requirements

Total credit hours: 19–24 (dependent on the focus area you choose - Biology, Chemistry, Earth and Environmental Sciences, or Physics).

You must complete a core of seven credit hours of introductory computer programming and data structures coursework:

CSCI-C 200: Introduction to Computers and Programming (4 cr.)
CSCI-C 310: Data Structures – Python (3 cr.)

In addition, you must complete one of four courses with an emphasis on computational science:

BIOL-N 360: Computational Biology, along with corequisite BIOL-N 361: Computational Biology Laboratory
CHEM-C 371: Chemical Informatics I, and related CHEM-C 372: Chemical Informatics II Molecular Modeling
GEOL-G 221: Introductory Mineralogy
PHYS-I 299: Introduction to Computational Physics

Each of the above courses has prerequisites, such as mathematics or chemistry courses, some of which must be taken sequentially.

You can apply credits towards a bachelor's degree in biology, chemistry, geology, environmental science, or physics.

Learning outcomes

By the end of the computational science certificate program, you will have acquired introductory skills in these core areas:

Problem-solving, critical thinking, and algorithmic proficiency: Analyze, design, and implement algorithmic solutions for computing problems using appropriate data structures.
Applying computational methods to solve practical problems in science and engineering.
Scientific methods, such as modeling and simulation, experimental design, quantitative reasoning, scientific communications, and more.

Depending on your focus area, you'll also gain foundational knowledge in the following:

Biology–biochemical and molecular properties of life; cellular organization; reproduction; genetics and evolution; physiology.
Chemistry–physical and chemical properties; atomic and molecular structure; equilibrium; thermodynamics; kinetics.
Earth and Environmental Sciences–processes within and at the surface of the earth; description, classification, and origin or minerals and rocks; geology, biology, and physical characteristics of the ocean; assembly of minerals from atoms in nature.
Physics–static, uniform and accelerated motion; Newton's laws; circular motion; properties of matter; energy, momentum, and conservation principles; dynamics of rotation; chaos, random processes.

Careers

The computational science certificate program gives you a solid foundation in key science areas while teaching you how to use computational and data science tools—skills widely used in high-tech and STEM industries. You’ll learn to model complex systems while also understanding the science behind those systems.

The certificate can lead to careers such as:

Computational Science Engineer
Software Engineer
Data Scientist
Business Analyst
Biological or Chemical Technician
Geological or Hydrologic Technician
Web Developer

Designed for you

The computational science certificate program is ideal for:

New students who are unable to commit to a full, four-year bachelor's program. Completing this certificate can help prepare you for entry-level jobs in various industries.
New students pursuing a bachelor's degree in biology, chemistry, geology, environmental science, or physics. This program offers pathways that can easily be incorporated into a full B.A. or B.S. degree without adding extra time or credit hours, and it allows you to gain and document career-ready computational science skills.
This certificate program is also great for working professionals who want to advance their STEM knowledge.
Current School of Science bachelor's degree students can earn the certificate without increasing the total number of required credits.

Take the first step

You can complete the requirements to earn a standalone certificate, or you can apply the credits towards a bachelor's degree.

New students

You'll first need to apply to IU Indianapolis.

Current students

Talk to your advisor about this certificate program.

Request information

Have questions or need more information? Email us at science@iu.edu.