<p>Subsequent to graduation from my undergraduate program, I would like to directly secure a position as a bioinformatics specialist. In addition, I aspire to eventually matriculate to a biomedical engineering PhD program. The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign provides the most detailed admission criteria for prospective students (biomedical engineering PhD program). It can be found here (bottom portion of the page): </p>
<p>Academic</a> Preparation for Graduate School in Bioengineering | Bioengineering Department</p>
<p>I have either alternate A or B. I can double major in biochemistry/molecular biology with computer science as my second field of study. Or, I can major in computer science with minor concentrations in engineering, mathematics and biology. Both alternatives could take five years for completion.</p>
<p>didn’t you ask this question a while ago?</p>
<p>No, this is rephrased differently. I continue to reconsider my available options. Each time I come across new guidance, I make subtle adjustments. I’m rather confident about studying computer science, however - I am still trying to ascertain what would be the best combination in consideration of my career and graduate aspirations. As of right now, I have become slightly more inclined to arrange an individualized program consisting of mathematics, engineering and biology - even if it consequently forfeits a double degree/major. How willing are academic advisors in setting up an individualized program of study catered to the interests of the student? Is it something that happens regularly, or are there often complications that require resolution? </p>
<p>Also, can anyone shed light on minor concentrations? Are they really all that insignificant as they are made out to be? Will a prospective employer be more inclined to hire me if I have a double degree/major, or would they be just as satisfied if I have minor concentrations in fields that overlap?</p>