Master of Science in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
Program Overview
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: Ability to observe demonstrations and experiences in basic sciences, analyze experimental detail.
- 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.
University of Kansas Summary
Overview:
The University of Kansas (KU) is the state's flagship institution, known for its innovative research and commitment to knowledge pursuit. It is home to the Jayhawks, a symbol of the university's spirit and community.
Services Offered:
KU offers a wide range of services to its students, including:
myKU:
A portal for accessing student information and resources.Email:
Access to university email accounts through Outlook.Canvas:
The learning management system for online courses.Enroll & Pay:
A platform for managing enrollment and tuition payments.Libraries:
Extensive library resources for research and study.Academic Calendar:
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A searchable directory of faculty, staff, and students.IT Support:
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Policies and resources related to freedom of expression.Privacy Policy:
Information on the university's privacy policies.Consumer Information:
Information on financial aid and other consumer-related topics.Student Life and Campus Experience:
KU offers a vibrant campus experience with a strong sense of community. Students can participate in a variety of activities, including:
Athletics:
Cheer on the Jayhawks at sporting events, especially basketball games at Allen Fieldhouse.Student Organizations:
Join clubs and organizations based on interests and passions.Campus Events:
Attend concerts, lectures, and other events throughout the year."Rock Chalk" Tradition:
Embrace the university's unique chant and spirit.Key Reasons to Study There:
Academic Excellence:
KU boasts nationally recognized programs and faculty who are leaders in their fields.Research Opportunities:
Students have access to cutting-edge research facilities and opportunities.Transformative Experience:
KU aims to provide a transformative college experience that prepares students for success.Strong Community:
The Jayhawk spirit fosters a sense of belonging and community among students.Academic Programs:
KU offers over 400 degree and certificate programs across 14 academic schools. Some of the key academic strengths include:
Fields of Study:
A wide range of fields of study to choose from.Online Programs:
Flexible online learning options for students.Other:
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KU's main campus is located in Lawrence, Kansas.Campus Map:
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Stay updated on KU news and events through KU Today.Giving to KU:
Support the university through donations and contributions.Social Media:
Connect with KU on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok.The provided context does not include information on the following sections:
Student Life and Campus Experience:
While the context mentions athletics and the "Rock Chalk" tradition, it does not provide a detailed description of student life and campus experiences.Key Reasons to Study There:
The context highlights academic excellence and research opportunities, but it does not explicitly state key reasons to study at KU.Entry Requirements:
- Bachelor's Degree: A bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution is required. This must be documented by official transcripts showing the degree has been conferred before entering the program.
- Transcripts: Official transcripts from all institutions attended post-baccalaureate are required.
- International Students: Students with degrees from outside the U.S. may need to have their transcripts evaluated to ensure they are equivalent to a U.S. degree and meet the minimum GPA requirements.
- GPA: A cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale for the bachelor's degree is required.
- English Proficiency: Applicants who are not native speakers of English (both domestic and international) must demonstrate they meet the Minimum English Proficiency Requirement. Specific details regarding the requirement and acceptable tests are not provided in the context.
- Background Check: A background check is required during the admission process.
- GRE Scores: GRE scores are NOT APPLICABLE TO THE IGPBS.
- Letters of Recommendation: Three letters of recommendation are required.
- Prerequisite Coursework:
- One year of general chemistry
- One year of organic chemistry or one semester of organic chemistry and one semester of biochemistry
- One year of biological sciences
- One semester of calculus
- One semester of physics
- Research Experience: Research experience (beyond labs associated with lecture courses) is strongly suggested.
- Interview: The most qualified applicants will receive an invitation for an interview.
- Admissions Assessment: Applicants are assessed based on a combination of GPA, research experience, and interview performance.
- Deferred Admission: After an applicant has been admitted, a program may defer an applicant's admission for one year. If this happens, a new application must be submitted.
- Admission Requirements Subject to Change: Admission requirements are subject to change. In most cases, the catalog from the year the student entered the program should be used.
Language Proficiency Requirements:
Applicants who are not native speakers of English (both domestic and international) must demonstrate they meet the Minimum English Proficiency Requirement. Specific details regarding the requirement and acceptable tests are not provided in the context.