Joint Biomedical Sciences Program

The joint M.D./Ph.D. degree is a challenging one, combining comprehensive research with a passion for patient care to solve the health care problems of today as a physician-scientist. This program investigates and explores the processes that govern the functioning of molecules, cells, and organisms while acquiring the medical knowledge and experience necessary to treat patients.

Program Details

• Program type: Doctoral Degree
• Format: On Campus
• Estimated time to complete: 6+ years
• Credit hours: 90

Why Earn a Combined Doctorate in Biomedical Sciences?

The joint M.D./Ph.D. program allows students to see how the results of research discoveries and insights can be converted into clinically significant outcomes. This program is offered through the cooperation of the School of Graduate Studies and the School of Medicine & Health Sciences. It will take at least six years of full-time academic study to complete the joint program. To be eligible, students first need to obtain admission to the School of Medicine and Health Sciences Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) program through the normal application process. Once admitted, they will be eligible to apply for admission to the Ph.D. in Biomedical Sciences program.

Application Deadline

• Fall: Jan. 31 (priority application deadline), April 1
• Note: International students should refer to the international application process for deadlines.

Biomedical Sciences at UND

• Contribute to research at one of the nation's premier facilities for the study of drug addiction and neurodegenerative diseases.
• Use the most advanced technology at the 20,000-square-foot Center for Biomedical Research.
• Obtain a university stipend for accepting a teaching or research assistantship.
• Network with colleagues through the Biomedical Graduate Student Association.
• Participate in research; UND's Department of Biomedical Sciences ranks #2 in the nation for research funding from the National Institutes of Health.
• Study at a Carnegie R1 Institution ranked #144 by the NSF.

Biomedical Science Careers

A combined doctorate in biomedical sciences prepares students for a rewarding career in a clinical setting or as a researcher. The program prepares students for self-directed, lifelong learning and careers as independent scientists. Graduates have gone on to careers as:

• Clinical research scientists
• College professors
• Clinical directors The median annual salary for medical scientists is $101k (2024, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics), with a 9% projected job outlook through 2034, which is much faster than the average for all occupations.

Biomedical Sciences Courses

• Basic Biomedical Statistics (BIMD 510): A series of lectures, demonstrations, and exercises to provide students with the basic rationales for the use of statistics in the assessment of biomedical data and a selected set of the most common and useful statistical tests. Prerequisite: BIMD 500 or permission of course director.
• Functional Biology of Cells & Tissues (BIMD 534): Microbial cells have unique structures that relate their functions. Students will understand how prokaryotic and eukaryotic organisms differ and how different structures can be used to obtain similar functions. Prerequisite: BIMD 502 or consent of instructor.
• Pathobiology (BIMD 539): A supervised readings course on topics of mutual interest to the student and a faculty member. Prerequisite: BIMD 502 or consent of instructor. Repeatable to 4.00 credits.
• Physical Examination and Human Life Cycle (BIMD 591): Advanced Topics in Biomedical Sciences. A series of lectures, discussions, and/or laboratory experiences developed around a specific topic in the biomedical sciences. Repeatable as topics vary. Prerequisite: BIMD 502 or consent of instructor. Repeatable to 6.00 credits.
• Principles of Neuroanatomy (BIMD 520): Students will learn the fundamental principles of neuroscience, particularly gross and cellular anatomy, development, and systems physiology of the nervous system. Behavioral, cognitive, and clinical manifestations of abnormal neural functions will also be addressed. Prerequisite: BIMD 502 or permission of instructor.
• Neurophysiology (BIMD 521): This course is designed to introduce students to the electrical properties of neuronal membranes. The course is organized to first provide a brief review of the basic properties of semi-permeable membranes. The electrical and biochemistry principles that apply to neuronal membranes are discussed. Prerequisite: BIMD 502 or consent of instructor.

University of North Dakota: A Summary

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Overview:

The University of North Dakota (UND) is the state's oldest and largest university, offering over 225 accredited on-campus and online degrees. It is known for its commitment to student leadership and fostering a welcoming and inclusive campus environment.

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Services Offered:

UND provides a range of support services for students, including:

Diversity and Inclusion:

UND values diverse perspectives and actively promotes a sense of belonging for all students.

TRIO Programs:

Support for first-generation and Pell-eligible students to help them succeed at UND.

Pride Center:

Resources and support for the LGBTQ+ community on campus.

Disability Resources:

Equal opportunities for qualified students with disabilities to participate in all UND activities.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

UND emphasizes student leadership and provides opportunities for students to make a positive impact. The campus offers a vibrant community with various student organizations and activities.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Academic Excellence:

UND offers a wide range of highly accredited programs, including specialized fields like Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operations, Data Science, and Forensic Science.

Affordability:

UND consistently ranks among the best for educational quality and affordability.

Career Outcomes:

UND prepares students for successful careers with strong emphasis on practical skills and real-world experience.

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Academic Programs:

UND offers a diverse range of academic programs, with notable strengths in:

Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operations:

A cutting-edge program in a rapidly growing industry.

Data Science:

A high-demand field with strong career prospects.

Economics:

A solid foundation for careers in law, business, and other fields.

Forensic Science:

Immersive program with hands-on experience in forensic labs.