Despite the rapid evolution of bioinformatics over the past decades, a lack of computing skills and a widening skill gap among biologists can be observed. It is therefore of increasing importance to understand why biologists are motivated in studying bioinformatics and computing, and what the challenges are that they face. To this end, a computing capital mixed methodology has been developed, inspired by the concept of science capital. A total of 13 master’s level bioinformatics students with a biology background participated in the computing capital survey, of which 10 agreed to a follow-up interview. Descriptive statistics and thematic analysis suggest that, while biology students are driven by career opportunities, as well as positive beliefs and values when it comes to computing, they perceive barriers such as low levels of computing confidence, and a gap between their skills and future careers. Future research can build onto the developed methodology, and explore other aspects of capital and their role in computing education. The aim of such efforts is to broaden participation in computing education by developing an understanding of why people engage with computing, and what they aspire to do with it.