MD/MS in Biomedical Sciences - Pharmacology

The goal of the joint MD/ Masters of Science in Biomedical Investigation program at Case School of Medicine is to train medical students in basic or clinical research approaches so that the physician graduate may conduct research to advance health. Students will earn a plan B type MS from Graduate Studies, and the name of the joint degree will reflect the particular track pursued by the student (eg MD/MS Biochemistry). The tracks proposed in this joint MD/MS program are derived from existing type B MS programs at the School of Medicine into a joint program with the MD, using a common template. The core activities for this degree include limited credit from the medical core curriculum, 3-6 graduate courses in specific tracks, participation in a common seminar series, scientific integrity training, and a requirement for a special problems project that reflects a full year of research (18 hours of 601 non-graded credits) culminating in a written report and examination. Students are anticipated to complete all graduate courses before entering the research year, allowing full focus on the research experience. Thus, this program will require 5 years overall to complete the requirements for both degrees. Students who wish to join the MD/MS program may apply to the Program after arriving at the University any time prior to Fall of their second year of medical school. For students to receive graduate credit for medical coursework, they must register for IBIS credit (see below) in advance of the preclinical medical school semester. Students are likely to complete the required two semesters of research 601 after the pre-clinical years in medical school, although the research could occur in other years. Before initiating full time research, the trainee must submit a final Program plan to the Program Oversight Committee that summarizes the courses taken, the proposed thesis topic, and the names and credentials of the MS Thesis Committee. During the research period, the student is expected to participate in track-specific graduate activities including retreats, student talks, journal clubs and other program functions. Only under unusual circumstances will the student be allowed to satisfy the research requirement in non-contiguous semesters.