Master of Science in Biomedical Research (MS)
Students in the Biomedical Research M.S. program will take an interdisciplinary approach to, and develop a broad basis in, biomedical research. Students will focus on biomedical and translational research that is important for the health care of West Virginia and Central Appalachia. This region has one of the highest rates in the nation of obesity, heart disease, smoking, diabetes, and death from drugs, prematurity, cardiovascular, cancer, and from an environmental standpoint, pollution. These concerns, such as obesity and its many complications, are also relevant to global health issues.
Students may work in one of the following areas of interest with a faculty mentor within the department:
| Areas of Research | |
| Epithelial Transport | Regulation of Intestinal Sodium, Glucose, Amino Acid |
| Regulation of Renal Na-K-ATPase | Obesity Related Disorders |
| Intestinal Inflammation | Renal Disease |
| Toxicology | Breast Cancer |
| Pulmonary Disease | Addiction Associated Diseases |
| Diabetes | Hypertension |
| Bone Growth Abnormalities | Lipid Homeostasis |
| Neuroscience | Endometriosis |
Centers of research interest include:
- Appalachian Clinical and Translational Science Institute (ACTSI)
- Appalachian Center for Cellular Transport in Obesity Related Disorders (ACCORD)
- Marshall Institute for Interdisciplinary Research (MIIR)
- West Virginia IDeA Network of Biomedical Research Excellence (WV-INBRE)
Minimum Admission Requirements
- Baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university.
- A minimum 3.0 GPA overall with a 3.0 for combined science and math courses is recommended.
- Under certain circumstances, the minimum GPA requirement may be waived on a case-by-case basis.
- Completion of all prerequisite coursework with a grade “C” or better.
- Completion of extensive undergraduate research or summer research.
- No GRE requirement
Prerequisite Coursework
- Two semesters of general biology and associated laboratories.
- Two semesters of general chemistry and associated laboratories.
- Two semesters of organic chemistry and associated laboratories.
- Two semesters of physics and associated laboratories.
- One semester of biochemistry or molecular biology.
Application Process
- Contact Dr. Valentovic for questions regarding the application process.
- Supporting Documents required:
- Official Transcripts
- Written Statement
- Your statement should address your educational and career goals, and why you should be admitted to the Biomedical Research M.S. program. .
- Three Letters of Recommendation
- Letters of recommendation from STEM-related Professors are preferred.
- Resume or CV
- International Students will need to submit proof of English Proficiency. Visit https://www.marshall.edu/admissions/graduate-proof-of-english-proficiency/ to learn more.
Students are expected to complete the degree within two years.
| Curriculum |
||
| Course Number | Course Name | Credit Hours |
| BMS 601 | Introduction to Nucleic Acids and Proteins | 3 |
| BMS 602 | Introduction to Cell Structure and Metabolism | 3 |
| BMS 603 | Regulation of Cell Function | 2 |
| BMS 604 | Cellular Basis of Disease | 1 |
| BMS 660/661 | Communication Skills for Biomedical Sciences I/II | 1/1 |
| BMR 785 | Introduction to Research | 3 |
| BMS 680 | Seminar | 1 |
| BMS 882 | Research | 1 |
| BMS 617 | Statistical Techniques for Biomedical Sciences | |
| BMS 644 | Responsible Conduct of Research | |
Graduate Assistantships
TThis program does not offer Graduate Assistantships (GA). You are encouraged to seek assistantships through other Marshall University departments. Please contact Dr. Egleton for information of currently available opportunities. More information is provided on the Graduate College Graduate Assistantship overview web-page. For information on cost of attendance visit, marshall.edu/tuition/.
For additional financial aid information, visit Marshall University’s Financial Aid website or contact the financial aid office to speak with a representative.
Old Main, Room 116
304.696.3162
[email protected]
- Plan of Study
- Student Progress Report
- Student Research Rotation Evaluation (completed by both student & lab head)
- Laboratory Rotation Evaluation (completed by student)
- Thesis Committee Formation
- Application for Graduation
- Results of Master’s Comprehensive Exam
- ETD Final Submission Form (if thesis written)
For best chance of admission, have application verified through BioMedCas by June 15.
Leadership

Monica Valentovic, PhD
Associate Dean, Health Sciences Graduate Programs
304.696.7332
[email protected]