Program Overview

Master's Program in Biomedical Sciences

The Master's Program in Biomedical Sciences is designed to launch careers and opportunities in biotechnology, science advocacy, and public outreach, enhance academics in preparation for M.D. or Ph.D. programs in medicine and research, and enable medical students to gain specialized biomedical research skills through a dual M.D.-M.S. degree.

Program Overview

The Master of Science in Biomedical Sciences program offers students two plans to complete their degree: the Thesis Plan, which involves in-depth research and a thesis, and the Comprehensive Examination Plan, which requires a written exam at the conclusion of the program. Both plans include core graduate courses and a directed research component.

Curricular Outcomes

The M.S. in Biomedical Sciences offers several scientific enrichment and career focuses to help students customize their education. While all students follow the same core curriculum, each option provides specific opportunities for career development. Students can switch between or integrate these focuses as needed, with individualized coursework planning through their committee and their Individual Development Plan (IDP).

• M.S. Completion Outcome: This option is designed to strengthen academic and research skills in translational basic science, preparing students for a variety of biomedical science careers, such as laboratory research, public service, and science education.
• Ph.D. Preparation Outcome: For students considering a Ph.D., this option provides focused research and guidance to help decide if a doctoral program is right for them. It includes pre-doctoral guidance, advanced training in biomedical sciences, and research lab experience. Students with this focus often pursue careers in academia, research, the health industry, or education or science advocacy.
• M.D. Preparation Outcome: For those pursuing a career in medicine, the option offers professional development resources, mentoring, academic support, and premedical advising, including application and interview preparation.
• Dual M.D.-M.S. Outcome: This option provides current M.D. students in the School of Medicine an opportunity to pursue a specialization in a specific area of research.

Cost of Attendance

The master's program is self-funded, as such admitted students are required to pay their own tuition and fees. The cost of attending a graduate program at UC Riverside is based on a quarter system. Eligible students are encouraged to apply for aid. Some graduate students may be eligible for external grants and scholarships. For international students, the estimated cost for attending UCR can be found on the Graduate Division's Financial Verification.