Master of Biomedical Sciences, Downers Grove Campus

Improve your academic foundation in biomedical sciences and gain valuable basic and translational research experience.

Woman scientist looking through a microscope in a lab.

The Master of Biomedical Sciences Program (M.B.S.) is a full-time, 21-month, graduate-level program designed to immerse you in exciting laboratory work, equip you with valuable research skills, and help you build a strong foundation in the world of biomedical sciences.

Enhancing Your Academic Foundation

Dive deep into the biomedical sciences and bolster your academic foundation. Whether you're preparing for medical school, dental school, or another healthcare profession, our program provides you with the knowledge and skills needed to become a competitive applicant for your chosen career path.

Curriculum

Our comprehensive curriculum consists of 72 quarter-hour credits, divided into 63 required core credits and 9 elective credits. Explore core disciplines taught by faculty experts and experience interprofessional small group learning in select courses.

Curriculum details*

*Subject to change

Research Excellence

Master the art of scientific research with courses that emphasize critical thinking, study design, data analysis, ethical research conduct, and effective communication. You'll also have opportunities to present your thesis research at scientific conferences, supported by available funding.

 

Midwestern University students present their research posters at Cardinal Hall.
Biomedical Sciences students present their research at MWU’s Kenneth A. Suarez Research Day.

Faculty Guidance and Support

Our experienced faculty advisors are here to mentor you every step of the way. From refining your application to enhancing your interview and communication skills, they'll help you chart your individualized career path.

College faculty

Scholarships and Financial Assistance

M.B.S. students may receive merit-based scholarships including the Midwestern University Scholarship and can apply for the CGS Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Scholarship.

Students can also apply for and receive funding through the Federal Work Study Program.

For more information, visit the Scholarships and Financial Aid Types pages.

Broadening Your Career Horizons

The M.B.S. Program isn't just about preparing you for professional schools. It also opens doors to a multitude of careers within the biomedical sciences field. Faculty advisors can help you explore options in this important industry.

Program Outcomes

81%

Graduated or Enrolled in Professional School

21 of 26 matriculants in the class of 2023 either graduated or are currently enrolled in a professional program

85%

Enrolled in Professional School or Working

89 of 105 graduates from 2019 to 2023 were either accepted into professional school or are working in the biomedical professions

29%

Presented Research

30 of 105 graduates presented their thesis research at a regional or national conference between 2019 and 2023, despite COVID restrictions

Learn More

Learn more about the requirements and find quick links to relevant catalog content to guide you in your application process.

To be considered for admission to the Master of Biomedical Sciences Program, an applicant must have:

  1. A bachelor's degree or higher from a regionally accredited college or university.
  2. A minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75 on a 4.00 scale.

Test score from one of the following is optional: MCAT, PCAT, DAT, OAT, or GRE.

Full list of requirements*

*Subject to change

Applicants can apply either of the following ways:

  1. Through PostbacCAS. Applicants can receive a coupon to cover the entire cost of the PostbacCAS application fee! Contact the Office of Admissions – Downers Grove campus at admissIL@midwestern.edu to receive your coupon code!
  2. Using the application materials from another MWU program. Contact the Office of Admissions for more information about transferring your application.
  • Female: 92%
  • Male: 8%
  • Average Age: 24
  • Average Overall GPA: 3.07
  • Home States/Territories: Illinois, Florida, Texas, Puerto Rico, Other Midwest (IA, MI, OH, WI)

The Midwestern University Master of Biomedical Sciences Program provides students with an in-depth education in the biomedical sciences, offers significant experience in laboratory research, and graduates students who are competitive applicants for admission into professional programs in healthcare or a career in research.

The College of Graduate Studies has both general and specific articulation agreements with MWU programs on both campuses. Please contact the Office of Admissions for specific information and deadlines regarding articulation agreements that are in place for the professional program(s) in which you might be interested. 

Articulation Agreement Information*

*Subject to change

Midwestern University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission/A Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (HLC/NCA), 230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500, Chicago, IL 60604-1413.

Academic Course Catalog

Explore details regarding your specific College/Program (subject to change).

Hear Our Stories

Hear from students just like you who are pursuing healthcare careers and from the faculty who are helping them along the way.

Christianna Belt, Master of Biomedical Sciences (M.B.S.) Program, Class of 2022

“Midwestern University has taught me the importance of clinical-based research and I hope to someday apply this insight to finding the best suited treatment therapies for my patients.”

Christianna Belt

Peter Alfano, Master of Biomedical Sciences (M.B.S.) Program, Class of 2023

"I feel like Midwestern really has my back." 

Contact Us

Our admissions staff is here to assist you in making informed decisions about your academic journey. When contacting us, be sure to provide your preferred program and campus so we can address your questions or concerns.