Biomedical Informatics is the scientific field that deals with the storage, retrieval, sharing, and optimal use of biomedical information, data, and knowledge for problem solving and decision making. It touches on all basic and applied fields in biomedical science and is closely tied to modern information technologies, notably in the areas of computing and communication. Columbia offers two degree programs in Biomedical Informatics: a full-time, sequential M.A./M.Phil./Ph.D. program and a separate program, leading to the free-standing M.A. degree, which is offered for part-time or full-time study.