Program Overview

ADA - Master of Medical Science Program Essential Functions

The Master of Medical Science program at the Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences has established essential functions that students must be able to perform in order to successfully complete the program. These essential functions are outlined below.

Observation

Students must be able to decode written documents and hear in situations when not able to read lips. They must be able to accurately observe near and distant objects in order to learn laboratory techniques, conduct experiments, and gather reliable data using a variety of sensory modalities. This includes observing and comprehending an instructor's/mentor's physical movements as they manipulate laboratory equipment, experimental animals, and reagents.

Communication

Students must be able to communicate effectively and efficiently in the English language. They must be capable of communicating the background, hypothesis, goals, results, and interpretations of their research projects to other students, faculty, and visitors. This includes responding to questions and asking pertinent questions in a one-on-one, small group, or large group format.

Psychomotor Skills

Students must be able to manipulate a standard or adapted computer keyboard and carry out laboratory experiments at a standard height or adapted laboratory bench. They must be able to dress in protective clothing such as lab coats and disposable gloves. Students must have sufficient motor capacity to use multiple types of laboratory equipment, including microscopes, centrifuges, spectrophotometers, computers, and dissecting/surgical instruments.

Intellectual and Cognitive Abilities

Students must be able to measure, calculate, reason, analyze, synthesize, integrate, remember, and apply information for the purposes of developing models, analyzing data, writing papers, and making presentations. They must be able to comprehend three-dimensional relationships and understand the spatial relationships of structures. Students must be able to translate information from printed reports to actual hands-on laboratory experiences and apply information from a variety of sources to their own research problems.

Professional and Social Attributes

Students must exercise good judgment and promptly complete all responsibilities expected by the courses, curriculum, and program in which they are enrolled. They must develop mature, sensitive, and effective professional relationships with peers, colleagues, and faculty. Students must be able to function as a part of a team and negotiate conflicts satisfactorily and fairly. They must be capable of significant workloads that require long hours, attention to detail, and accurate and thorough recording of experiments and data.

Application of Legal/Ethical Principles and Professional Standards

Students must demonstrate the highest standards of professional ethics, attitudes, and behavior in course work, laboratories, and interactions with others. They must demonstrate honesty, integrity, and reliability and adhere to standards reflecting the values and functions of the scientific profession. Students must apply an ethical decision-making process in their studies, avoid plagiarism, and adhere to the other legal/ethical standards set forth by the Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences.