Program Overview

Introduction to Biomedical Sciences PhD Degree Programs

The College of Veterinary Medicine offers a college-wide graduate program leading to the Master of Science and the Doctor of Philosophy degrees in Biomedical Sciences (BMS or VBMS). This program is supported by participating departments, including Anatomy, Physiology and Pharmacology (APP), Clinical Sciences (DCS), and Pathobiology (PATHO).

Program Overview

Applicants to the program must meet entrance standards established by the College's Graduate Program Committee, the Graduate School, and their intended area of study. A baccalaureate degree or the Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree or equivalent is required for admission. The program represents a gateway to various areas of concentration, with ten BMS concentrations available:

• Anatomy (APP)
• Animal Genetic Disease (PATHO)
• Animal Parasitology (PATHO)
• Clinical Sciences (including all DCS Residency Programs, MS only)
• Infectious Disease (PATHO)
• Molecular Oncology (multidisciplinary through PATHO)
• Pathology (Anatomic and Clinical; PATHO)
• Pharmacology (APP)
• Physiology (APP)
• Veterinary Sports Medicine (DCS, MS only)

Program Structure and Enrichment Activities

The BMS program offers specific enrichment activities, including:

• Seminars and journal clubs
• Training in grant writing
• Participation in scientific meetings
• Opportunities to present research results at national and international meetings A graduate student advisory committee is appointed for each student, which develops a plan of study that must be submitted for approval. Study programs are designed to meet the student's needs and interests, featuring research training and a strong background in biochemistry, biophysics, and/or molecular biology. Original research is required for all BMS graduates.

Dual Degree Program

A dual degree program (DDP) allows students to pursue DVM and graduate degrees simultaneously in a time-and content-integrated manner. Graduates, particularly DVM/PhD graduates, will have strong backgrounds in both veterinary medicine and research, preparing them for successful careers in academia, industry, and/or specialty clinics. To participate in the DDP program, students must be admitted to the College of Veterinary Medicine program and the graduate program via separate applications.

Admission and Requirements

Students already admitted to the Graduate School may apply for admission to the DVM program to gain entry to the combined degree program. However, they must meet specific criteria to pursue this course of study. Courses must be selected in conformity with the regulations of the college's BMS Graduate Program Committee and the Graduate School.