M.A. in Secondary Education
The Master of Arts (M.A.) in Secondary Education at Roosevelt University is an intensiv...
M.A. in Biomedical Sciences
Chicago - Illinois, Schaumburg - Illinois
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
The M.A. in Biomedical Sciences is an accelerated, 26-credit-hour program that can be completed in as few as nine months (two semesters) for full-time students. It features in-person classes on both the Chicago and Schaumburg campuses, with admissions open for fall, spring, and summer start dates, offering significant flexibility. The program is specifically tailored to enhance a student's understanding of the biological disciplines crucial for medical and health professional schools. It also includes integrated test preparation for standardized exams like the MCAT, PCAT, OAT, DAT, GRE, and PA-CAT, a key benefit for pre-health students.
STEM-Designated: Yes, Roosevelt University's M.A. in Biomedical Sciences program is STEM-designated. This is a significant advantage for international students, as it qualifies them for the STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT) extension after graduation, allowing them to gain up to 36 months of work experience in the U.S. relevant to their field of study.
Curriculum: The curriculum is rigorous and designed to strengthen a student's preparation for health professional schools. It requires 26 credit hours of graduate coursework, primarily at the 400-level, focusing on biological and/or biochemical topics. All students are required to take "Clinical Bioethics and Medical Literature" and at least one course with a lab section. Elective courses allow students to tailor their studies to their specific interests and future professional goals. Sample courses include "Human Cadaver Anatomy," "Physiology: Mechanisms and Disorders," "Biology of Cancer," "Biology of Aging," "Histology & Ultrastructure," and "Virology." The program emphasizes building formal skills in analyzing biomedical literature and ethical questions relevant to the medical profession.
Research Focus: The M.A. in Biomedical Sciences program incorporates an applied research focus by building students' skills in critically analyzing biomedical literature. While it may not always involve a formal research thesis, students are encouraged to engage with the scientific method through coursework that integrates theoretical knowledge with practical applications. The curriculum's emphasis on advanced biological disciplines like molecular biology, genetics, pharmacology, and biochemistry inherently requires an understanding of research methodologies and the interpretation of scientific findings. The program prepares students to understand and contribute to evidence-based practices in future health professions, by engaging with cutting-edge biomedical techniques and scientific inquiry.
Industry Engagement: Roosevelt University fosters industry engagement for its M.A. in Biomedical Sciences through various practical opportunities. The program offers shadowing opportunities that enhance student skills before matriculating to medical or other professional health schools, providing direct exposure to clinical environments. Faculty members, who are accomplished professionals and active researchers in the field, provide personalized attention and mentoring. Graduates are well-prepared for roles in medical and healthcare fields, biomedical research (academic, government, or industry labs), biotechnology, and pharmaceuticals. The program's success is evident in its high placement rates into a variety of health professional programs, including allopathic and osteopathic medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, physician assistant training, optometry, and veterinary medicine.
Global Perspective: Roosevelt University's M.A. in Biomedical Sciences cultivates a global perspective through its inherent focus on universal health challenges and the diverse academic backgrounds of its student body. The curriculum addresses fundamental biological and medical principles that apply globally, and discussions may incorporate diverse perspectives on health equity, medical ethics, and global health disparities. The program's diverse student and faculty population, drawing from metropolitan Chicago and around the world, enriches the learning environment by bringing varied cultural viewpoints and experiences to the study of biomedical sciences, preparing graduates to address health needs in an increasingly interconnected world.
Location
Chicago - Illinois, Schaumburg - Illinois
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 35750
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Application Fee: $42
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for postgraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 65% or above in their bachelor's degree.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.5 or 7.0 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 80 or higher.
- PTE: Overall score of 55 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 110.
Roosevelt University in the United States offers a variety of scholarship opportunities specifically designed for international students to support their academic journey and make higher education more affordable. These scholarships recognize academic excellence, leadership potential, and contributions to campus diversity.
Merit-Based Scholarships: International students applying to Roosevelt University are eligible for merit-based scholarships awarded based on academic achievements, standardized test scores, and overall potential. These scholarships can significantly reduce tuition costs and are automatically considered during the admissions process.
International Student Scholarship Program: Roosevelt University provides special scholarships targeted at international students, aiming to encourage a diverse and global student body. These awards vary in amount and criteria but typically recognize outstanding academic performance and community involvement.
Departmental Scholarships: Certain colleges and departments within Roosevelt University, such as the Chicago College of Performing Arts and the Walter E. Heller College of Business, offer additional scholarships for international students enrolled in specific programs. These awards may be based on talent, portfolio, or academic excellence in the field of study.
An M.A. in Biomedical Sciences from Roosevelt University provides a robust scientific foundation, primarily serving as a pre-health post-baccalaureate program to enhance a student's profile for competitive health professional schools. However, the rigorous curriculum, integrated test preparation, and STEM designation also open doors to various career opportunities within the broader biomedical and healthcare sectors, even if one decides not to pursue a professional health degree immediately.
Medical Doctor (MD/DO), Dentist (DDS/DMD), Pharmacist (PharmD), Physician Assistant (PA), Optometrist (OD), or Veterinarian (DVM): This is the primary intended outcome for many students. The program is designed to strengthen their academic record and prepare them for admission and success in these demanding professional health programs.
Biomedical Research Scientist/Technician: Graduates can work in academic institutions, government labs (e.g., NIH, CDC), or private industry (e.g., pharmaceutical, biotechnology companies). Roles involve designing and conducting experiments, analyzing data, and contributing to scientific discoveries related to disease mechanisms, drug development, or biological processes.
Clinical Laboratory Scientist/Medical Technologist: These professionals perform complex diagnostic tests on patient samples (blood, tissue, urine) in hospitals, reference labs, or public health settings. They play a crucial role in disease diagnosis, treatment monitoring, and ensuring public health.
Pharmaceutical Scientist: Graduates can work in the pharmaceutical industry in areas like drug discovery, development, formulation, quality control, or regulatory affairs. They contribute to creating new medications and ensuring their safety and efficacy.
Biotechnologist: This role involves applying biological systems and organisms to develop new products and technologies. Graduates work in biotech companies on projects related to genetic engineering, vaccine development, and agricultural improvements.
Clinical Research Associate (CRA)/Coordinator: CRAs oversee clinical trials for new drugs or medical devices, ensuring protocols are followed, data is collected accurately, and regulatory guidelines are met. They may work for pharmaceutical companies, contract research organizations (CROs), or academic medical centers.
Medical Writer: With strong scientific understanding and communication skills, graduates can create clear and accurate scientific documents, including research articles, clinical trial reports, regulatory submissions, and educational materials for both professional and public audiences.
Public Health Specialist/Epidemiologist: Graduates can work in public health agencies, non-profits, or research institutions studying disease patterns, causes, and effects within populations. They contribute to public health initiatives, disease prevention, and health policy development.
Biomedical Sales Representative: Combining scientific knowledge with sales skills, these professionals promote and sell medical devices, diagnostic equipment, or pharmaceutical products to healthcare professionals and institutions.
Science Educator/Lecturer: With further experience or a doctoral degree, graduates can pursue careers in education, teaching biological or biomedical sciences at the high school, community college, or even university level, particularly within pre-health programs.
