M.S. Program

The M.S. degree in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology requires 30 graduate credits and a written thesis based on the successful completion of an original research project. It is a Plan A program heavily weighted towards original research and requires a committee-approved thesis and defense. The program typically takes two years to complete. Due to the accelerated time frame required to finish an M.S. degree, students will need to think critically and have a clear goal in mind. Throughout the process, students will experience various disciplines while honing their individual, professional, and scientific acuity.

The M.S. degree in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology provides strong research training for students who are interested in a research career in academia, medicine, or industry, in related careers in which first-hand research experience is an asset, or as a prelude to more advanced degrees.

M.S. candidates with less than 16 credit hours of course credits in BMB may transfer to the PhD program with the approval of the Graduate Committee. Such candidates must then take and pass the PhD written qualifying exam. M.S. candidates with more than 16 hours must complete the M.S. degree and reapply to the Ph.D. program if they wish.

All coursework must be completed in accordance with the regulations of the Graduate School and the College. A minimum G.P.A. of 3.0 must be maintained throughout the program. Students should strive to be 1st or 2nd author on one peer reviewed publication to validate the quality of their research and to compete effectively in their post-graduate careers.

Research interests in the Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology & Immunology are diverse, allowing graduate students to choose from a broad spectrum of topics when picking a research lab. Regular interactions between students and faculty are facilitated with weekly departmental and student seminars, formal collaborations between research groups and a cooperative work environment that promotes discussion of research projects between students of different labs.

More detailed information can be found in the BMB M.S. Graduate Handbook.