College of Graduate Studies, Downers Grove Campus

Master of Biomedical Sciences (M.B.S.)

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Tailored to meet your needs, Midwestern University's one- and two-year Biomedical Sciences degree programs offer the options you need to achieve your goals. Our student-centered curriculum is designed to provide you with a broad background in the biomedical sciences. Caring faculty members will guide you as you develop the academic and analytic skills you need to build your future. You'll be well-prepared for success whether you decide to pursue additional education in the health professions or choose to start a meaningful career in biomedical science.

Program
Masters

Location
Downers Grove, IL

Duration
21-24 Months, Full-Time

Intake
Fall Quarter

Class Size
25-30


The Master of Biomedical Sciences (MBS) Program is a full-time, 21-month, graduate level program that provides the student with a broad background in the biomedical sciences, significant laboratory research experience, and opportunities for scientific communication. This Program is designed to help students with a bachelor’s degree, preferably with a major in the sciences, improve their academic foundation in the biomedical sciences, develop problem-solving research skills, and enhance their credentials for admission into medical school, dental school, or other healthcare professions program. The Program also equips graduates with the technical skills and expertise to function in a variety of careers in biomedical sciences. All students take a total of 72 quarter hour credits: 63 required core credits and 9 elective credits. The structured core curriculum is taught by faculty in the College of Graduate Studies, most of whom hold joint appointments in Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine. Some courses have an interprofessional small group component. Research courses emphasize critical evaluation of the scientific literature, experimental study design, statistical evaluation of data, ethical conduct of research, and written and oral communication of scientific information. Funding is available to support student presentation of their thesis research at local, regional, and national scientific conferences. Experienced Faculty Advisors assist students and graduates with resumes, personal statements, interviewing and communication skills, and career exploration.

Through successful completion of the rigorous program, graduates demonstrate their academic preparedness for professional programs in healthcare, develop effective learning and test-taking strategies, hone their time management skills, and build confidence as an independent scientific researcher.

Midwestern University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission, 230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500, Chicago, IL 60604-1413.

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.
  3. One letter of recommendation from a prehealth advisor or committee, science professor, or health professional.
  4. Copies of transcripts from each college or university attended.  Official transcripts must be submitted prior to matriculation.
  5. Commitment to abide by the Midwestern University Drug-Free Workplace and Substance Abuse Policy.
  6. Passage of the Midwestern University criminal background check.

Test scores from one the following are optional: MCAT, PCAT, DAT, OAT, GRE.


General Requirements

  • Bachelor's degree
  • Minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75

Class of 2024 Profile

  • Female: 81%
  • Male: 19%
  • Average Age: 27
  • Average Overall GPA: 3.05
  • Class Size: 16
  • Top Home States: Illinois (50%), Indiana, Pennsylvania

Graduation Rate (2021)

  • 79% (23/29) of students matriculating in the class of 2021 graduated from the program
  • 93% (27/29) of matriculants either graduated or are currently enrolled in a professional program

MWU OUTCOMES (CLASS OF 2021)

83% (24/29) of matriculants were accepted into professional programs (Medicine, Dentistry, Pharmacy, Podiatry, Physical Therapy), or were offered a research job in academia or industry 1. Some graduates apply to healthcare professions programs after earning their degree.

1Class of 2021 Biomedical Sciences-Illinois May 2021 exit survey (100% [23/23] of graduates responding) and MWU Professional School Admissions.

Career Opportunities

  • Research technicians
  • Governmental and regulatory agencies
  • Pharmaceutical laboratories
  • Postsecondary Teaching

US Employment Projections

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the 2021-2022 edition, Occupational Outlook Handbook, the following Biomedical Sciences related employment occupations are expected to reflect the following demand:

Employment of Biological Technicians

Job Outlook
Employment of biological technicians is projected to grow 9 percent from 2021 to 2031, faster than the average for all occupations. Demand for biological and medical research is expected to increase the need for biological technicians.

2021 Median Pay - $48,140 per year - $23.15 per hour

http://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/biological-technicians.htm - (accessed 2/1/2023)

Employment of Medical Scientists

Job Outlook
Employment of medical scientists is projected to grow 17 percent from 2021 to 2031, much faster than the average for all occupations. Demand for medical scientists will stem from greater demand for a variety of healthcare services as the population continues to age and rates of chronic disease continue to increase.

2021 Median Pay - $95,310 per year - $45.82 per hour

http://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/medical-scientists.htm - (accessed 2/1/2023)

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