MHS in Biomedical Sciences Curriculum

Program of Study

Students may choose either a thesis or a non-thesis option in the Biomedical Sciences (BMS) program. Both options require students to take two required core courses (BMS 502 and BMS 522 & BMS 522L). As part of the BMS Core Curriculum, students also choose three specialization courses from one of the following concentrations:

• Medical Sciences
• Microbiology
• Neuroscience

The program also offers a variety of science electives including independent study research or internships for a tailored experience.

Thesis Option Requirements

The curriculum includes a minimum of 35 credits including 8 credits of thesis (BMS 650, BMS 651), and 8 credits of core classes along with three classes (9–12 credits) of electives within an area of specialization. Thesis track students are required to take at least one semester of independent study (typically BMS 688 for 3 credits). Open elective courses are chosen from any course offered in graduate BMS, and can also include additional independent study (BMS 688 and BMS 689), internship (BMS 597), or select options from additional programs (see Graduate Science Electives below).

¹

Since courses are either 3 or 4 credits, the total specialization elective credits are based on the individual courses chosen.

²

Thesis track opportunities are arranged between the student and faculty member and are based on availability of faculty.

Non-Thesis Option Requirements

The curriculum includes a minimum of 35 credits including 2 credits of comprehensive examination (BMS 670), and 8 credits of core classes along with three classes (9–12 credits) of electives within an area of specialization. Open elective courses could be chosen from any course offered in graduate BMS, and can also include independent study (BMS 688 and BMS 689), internship (BMS 597), or select options from additional programs (see Graduate Science Electives below).

¹

Since courses are either 3 or 4 credits, the total specialization elective credits are based on the individual courses chosen.

²

The comprehensive examination (2 credits) is a requirement for the non-thesis option in the Biomedical Sciences program. It is an individualized exam, and includes material learned across the BMS core curriculum.

Areas of Specialization

Students in thesis or non-thesis track will choose between concentrations in Medical Sciences, Microbiology, or Neuroscience with differing specialization elective options. This requirement is fulfilled by the student taking at least three courses within one of the specialization areas. A student may choose to take more than three courses, or courses from multiple specialization area categories, as all graduate BMS courses can also be used toward open electives.

Medical Sciences

Microbiology

Neuroscience

Graduate Science Electives

Open electives are fulfilled with any 500- or 600-level graduate BMS Science electives offered, including specialization area courses across all three areas. The student will take open elective courses so that the total adds up to a minimum of 35 credits to complete degree requirements. Additional options from the graduate Molecular and Cellular Biology (BIO) and Pathologist Assistant (PA) programs listed below may also be applied to open electives in the traditional MHS in BMS degree (limited seats, based on space availability).