Biomedical sciences is the study of human biological processes; the complex interactions between physiological, genetic and environmental factors that influence disease and health. It spans the spectrum from fundamental discovery to innovation and application.
Areas of focus may include but not limited to cardiac health, nutrition, reproductive biology, toxicology, diagnostic & imaging and medical engineering.
The PhD program in biomedical sciences is designed to position graduates for long-term competitive success in the rapidly changing and multifaceted health-related arena in the 21st century. It is a comprehensive, interdisciplinary program, making connections between various disciplines to gain new insights, discover and apply new knowledge, and promote self-directed, life-long learning.
Biomedical Sciences is a research & discovery focused program balancing depth and breadth of content knowledge with “enabling” skills including problem solving, innovation, entrepreneurship, communication and leadership.
Program of Study
Rationale: The program of study is designed according to student learning goals and research opportunities. It blends depth and breadth of preparation by providing broad core requirements with electives promoting specialization in a “parent” discipline. This is recognized on program documentation by a Doctorate in Biomedical Sciences/”specialization” area. For example, Doctorate in Biomedical Sciences/Reproductive Biology.
Student Learning Outcomes: The BMS program provides unique array of formal courses and informal discovery experiences focused on ensuring aptitudes, behaviors and skills necessary for leadership and competitive success in the biomedical science arena.
Although the foundation enabling innovative, independent thinking and knowledge discovery is deep discipline knowledge, the BMS program is also designed to promote student competency in information assessment, synthesis and integration, communication and translation to the broader community, teamwork, leadership and project management.
The BMS program trains graduates to be competent, skilled experimentalists, problem solvers, critical and independent thinkers, expert in their field, with both depth and breadth of knowledge.
In addition, the program aims to instill characteristics that are essential to long-term professional success, preparing scientists who are effective and dedicated mentors and teachers, organized administrators, exemplars of high ethical standards, and effective collaborators. Upon completion of the program, graduates will demonstrate:
- Independent, critical thinking skills
- Ability to identify appropriate biographical resources
- Knowledge of recent advances in discipline and related areas
- Understanding of a broad spectrum of research methodologies and their applications
- Ability to critically analyze research findings
- Ability to design and independently execute research
- Ability to use appropriate information technology to record, manage, and disseminate information
- Understanding of issues related to researcher and subject rights
- Motivation and aptitude needed to acquire knowledge
- Communication skills that are appropriate for a range of audiences and purposes
- Ability to construct and articulate arguments to a wide range of audiences
- Ability to effectively support the acquisition of knowledge by others when teaching or mentoring students
- Willingness to assume responsibility for their work
- Ability to design and teach undergraduate or graduate courses
- Ability to publish single/first authored papers in peer-reviewed journals
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