Division of microbiology and molecular genetics

Master of Science

There are thesis and non-thesis options for the Master of Science degree. The thesis option involves intensive research on a single project, and culminates in a thesis or a research publication. The non-thesis option includes rotations through different laboratory settings that provide intensive training in a wide variety of research techniques. Students may choose to obtain laboratory training in a hospital clinical laboratory or in an industrial laboratory. Southern California has a concentration of biotechnology companies and other research facilities. Students preparing for a career as a technician in the biotechnology industry or a university will benefit from the thesis option. Those planning to transfer to a doctoral program must enroll in the thesis option. The non-thesis option is suited to medical technologists and teachers.

Prerequisites

One year of course work in each of the following is required: general biology, general chemistry, organic chemistry, and general physics. Microbiology and biochemistry are recommended. The Graduate Record Exam (GRE) general test is required. Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) is required for students whose native language is not English.

Summary of Requirements

A minimum of 52 units are required for the MS degree, including core requirements.

Core curriculum
IBGS 511, 512, 513 Cellular Mechanisms and Integrated Systems I, II, III (30)
IBGS 501 Biomedical Communication and Integrity (2)
IBGS 502 Biomedical Information and Statistics (2)

Thesis Option

In addition to the core sequence, the student takes 2 units of cognate courses. The candidate is required to complete 10 units of research and 3 units of thesis, leading to the presentation of a thesis or published paper. The student must pass an oral examination given by his/her graduate guidance committee after the thesis or publishable paper has been completed.

Non-Thesis Option

This is a terminal degree. In addition to the core sequence, the student fulfills the total unit requirement by taking an additional 13 units of microbiology electives. The student takes a comprehensive written examination over the graduate course work in lieu of preparing a thesis or publishable paper.

Graduate courses

Financial information

How to apply

School of Medicine - Faculty of Graduate Studies - Loma Linda University

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