Master of Science in Biochemis - University of K

The Master of Science in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at the University of Kansas prepares graduates for advanced roles in research, industry, or teaching. The program emphasizes hands-on research experience and includes coursework in biochemistry, molecular biology, and biomedical research. Graduates are well-equipped for careers in academia, industry, government, or secondary/junior college teaching.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The Master of Science in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology program at the University of Kansas is designed to prepare graduates for advanced technical roles in academic research, industry, or government. It can also lead to teaching positions at the secondary or junior college level. The program typically takes 3 years to complete, although a maximum of 7 years is allowed.

Outline:

Degree Requirements:
Cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 for all KU graduate coursework.
Completion of a minimum of 30 credit hours.
Successful completion of either a thesis defense or general examination in the semester of graduation.
Thesis option:
Enrollment in BCHM 899 Master's Thesis (minimum 1 credit hour).
Successful thesis submission and publication (according to Office of Graduate Studies policy).
General examination option:
Enrollment in a minimum of 1 credit hour in the semester of graduation.
Completion of the following Interdisciplinary Graduate Program in Biomedical Science (IGPBS) courses (or equivalents):
GSMC 850: Proteins and Metabolism (2 credit hours)
GSMC 851: Molecular Genetics (2 credit hours)
GSMC 852: Introduction to Biomedical Research I (2 credit hours)
GSMC 853: Cellular Structure (2 credit hours)
GSMC 854: Cell Communication (2 credit hours)
GSMC 855: Introduction to Biomedical Research II (2 credit hours)
GSMC 856: Introduction to Research Ethics (1 credit hour)
GSMC 857: Biographics (1 credit hour)
GSMC 858: Introduction to Faculty Research (1 credit hour)
GSMC 859: Research Rotations (1-4 credit hours)
Completion of the following Biochemistry and Molecular Biology courses:
BCHM 862: Biochemical Research-Literature Seminar (1 credit hour)
BCHM 890: Research in Biochemistry (1-6 credit hours)
BCHM 899: Master's Thesis (if thesis option chosen) (1-6 credit hours)
Students who haven't mastered undergraduate biochemistry may take BCHM 850: Topics in Biochemistry to strengthen any areas of weakness.
Elective coursework as determined in consultation with the student's advisor.
Typical Plan of Study:
Year 1:
Fall:
GSMC 850 (2 credit hours)
GSMC 853 (2 credit hours)
GSMC 859 (1-4 credit hours)
Spring:
GSMC 851 (2 credit hours)
GSMC 854 (2 credit hours)
Elective course from chosen degree program (1-3 credit hours)
Summer:
GSMC 852 (2 credit hours)
GSMC 855 (2 credit hours)
Year 2:
Fall:
BCHM 850 (if required by advisor) (1-3 credit hours)
BCHM 862 (1 credit hour)
BCHM 890 (1-3 credit hours)
Spring:
BCHM 862 (1 credit hour)
BCHM 890 (1-6 credit hours)
Summer:
BCHM 890 (1-6 credit hours)
Year 3:
Fall:
BCHM 862 (1 credit hour)
BCHM 899 or 890 (1-6 credit hours)
Spring:
BCHM 899 or 890 (1-6 credit hours)
Thesis defense or general examination may be scheduled.
Technical Standards and Requirements:
Observation:
Communication: Ability to communicate effectively in oral and written form, present and analyze research data.
Motor: Sufficient motor function to carry out lab techniques, perform procedures, analyze data.
Intellectual-Conceptual, Integrative, and Quantitative Abilities: Measurement, calculation, reasoning, analysis, synthesis, problem-solving.
Behavioral and Social Attributes: Emotional health, good judgment, integrity, motivation.

Assessment:

Thesis option: Successful submission and publication of thesis according to Office of Graduate Studies policy.
General examination option: Successful completion of a comprehensive examination.
Cumulative GPA: A minimum GPA of 3.0 is required for all KU graduate coursework.
Technical standards and requirements: All students must meet the specified technical standards and requirements, which are assessed throughout the program.

Teaching:

Teaching methods: Lecture courses, laboratory sessions, research rotations, seminars, and individual research projects.
Faculty: The program is taught by faculty members in the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at the University of Kansas Medical Center.
Unique approaches: The program emphasizes hands-on research experience and provides opportunities for students to work alongside faculty members on cutting-edge research projects.

Careers:

Potential career paths:
Academic research
Industry research
Government research
Secondary or junior college teaching positions
Opportunities: Graduates of the program are well-prepared for a variety of careers in the biomedical sciences.
Outcomes: The program aims to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to contribute to the advancement of biomedical research and to make a positive impact on human health.

Other:

Application process: Facilitated through the Interdisciplinary Graduate Program in Biomedical Sciences (IGPBS).
Admission requirements: Bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution, minimum GPA of 3.0, official transcripts, English proficiency requirement (for non-native speakers), background check, three letters of recommendation, prerequisite coursework, research experience.
Student policy on infectious disease: Applicants with infectious diseases must advise the Graduate Committee and may be required to provide medical records for review.
Drug-free workplace policy: Unlawful manufacture, distribution, dispensing, possession, or use of controlled substances or alcohol is prohibited.
Technical standards and requirements: Applicants who cannot meet the expectations will be reviewed by the Graduate Committee and Technical Support staff of KUMC.
Contact information: Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Kansas School of Medicine.