Integrate Computer Science with Chemistry to Innovate in Drug Discovery and Molecular Research
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science with Cheminformatics | Oral Roberts University

Program Overview

ORU offers a degree in Computer Science with a concentration in Cheminformatics. Cheminformatics is a field that combines chemistry and informatics (the study of information and data) to create and use computational methods for storing, managing, analyzing, and modeling chemical data. This can include the use of computer software, databases, and algorithms to represent, manipulate, and analyze chemical structures and reactions, as well as the development of new computational methods and technologies for dealing with chemical information. Cheminformatics is an interdisciplinary field, drawing on concepts and techniques from chemistry, computer science, and informatics, and has many applications in areas such as drug discovery, environmental science, and material science. 

Cheminformatics was created in response to the need for more efficient and effective ways of dealing with the vast amounts of chemical data that are generated in fields such as drug discovery, environmental science, and material science. Traditional methods of handling and analyzing chemical data were often time-consuming and labor-intensive, and were not well-suited to dealing with the large and complex datasets that are common in many areas of chemistry. By using computational methods and technologies, cheminformatics provides a more efficient and scalable way of managing and analyzing chemical data, allowing for more rapid and accurate analysis of chemical structures and reactions. This has led to many advances in fields such as drug discovery, where cheminformatics is used to identify and evaluate potential drug candidates.

Above all, our unique mission to develop Holy Spirit-empowered leaders through Whole Person Education can set you apart as an inspiring Cheminformatics professional called to make a difference. You’ll experience a life-transforming education that will prepare you for a career in today’s complex technology-rich world.

Our commitment to equip Spirit-empowered leaders is why you can graduate from this program fully prepared to lead with purpose. The ORU Bachelor of Science in Computer Science with a concentration in Cheminformatics will empower and challenge you to do your finest work!

 

PROGRAM EDUCATIONAL OBJECTIVES

Graduates of the program will have an ability to:

1. Secure computing positions that will lead to successful careers in industry, government, academia, or will successfully pursue an advanced degree in a chosen field.
2. Apply computer science theory and software development fundamentals to produce computing-based solutions.
3. Communicate and work effectively with people with diverse backgrounds.
4. Graduates will engage in lifelong learning and professional development.
5. Graduates will demonstrate sensitivity to their Creator and be able to apply Christian principles of stewardship and discipline in their personal lives, being committed to professional and ethical standards of responsibility.

 

WHAT MAKES ORU's COMPUTER SCIENCE - CHEMINFORMATICS PROGRAM STANDOUT?

In addition to the classical Computer Science program design, ORU has myriad undergraduate research efforts for students to participate in. These efforts are full-scale, challenging problems that require long-term activity to achieve progress. They also require the utilization of the ORU Research Computing and Analytics facility's supercomputer, Titan. Students can participate at any level of activity and gain valuable real-world problem-solving skills as well as real-world experience in using state-of-the-art, high performance computing and AI resources.

STUDENT OUTCOMES EXPECTED BY GRADUATION

By the time of graduation, students are expected to have the skills to:

• Analyze a complex computing problem and to apply principles of computing and other relevant disciplines to identify solutions.
• Design, implement and evaluate a computing-based solution meeting computing requirements in the context of the program’s discipline.
• Communicate effectively in a variety of professional contexts.
• Recognize professional responsibilities and make informed judgments in computing practice based on legal and ethical principles.
• Function effectively as a member or leader of a team engaged in activities appropriate to the program’s discipline.
• Apply computer science theory and software development fundamentals to produce computing-based solutions.

What about accreditation?

As a university, we meet the accreditation standards set by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

Are there scholarships available?

Nearly 100% of our full-time, undergraduate residential students receive ORU grants and scholarships through academic achievement and through ORU’s premier scholarship opportunity of our Quest Whole Leader Scholarship. To learn more about financial aid, click here.