Typically, one needs a Bachelor’s degree in a science field in order to apply into an Online Masters in Biomedical Sciences program. These are research-intensive programs and usually also require a thesis and about 2 years to complete.
prepare themselves with a foundation in clinical care (patient care and health delivery systems) and human medicine (anatomy and biology) in order to apply for admission to veterinary, dental or medical school.
Other students are intending to use the Masters degree in Biomedical Science as a springboard to a PhD, a Medical Degree, or for careers where doctorate-level education is required such as careers in academia, biomedical research or to work in the biotechnical or pharmaceutical industries.
Online Masters in Biomedical Sciences Potential Coursework
The biomedical sciences are a vast and interdisciplinary academic field that studies the biological sciences and their application to the medical field. Some of the fields that the biomedical sciences encompass include molecular science, biochemistry, and genetics. Students in biomedical Science Masters programs often create their own study plans that focus on their interests by taking electives. Some of the core courses might include:
- Microbiology
- Biochemistry
- Anatomy
- Pharmacology
- Molecular cell biology
- Genomics and proteomics
- Neuroanatomy
Students may also be encouraged to take classes in writing, in order to be able to write grant proposals, and document their research in clearly expressed scientific articles.
Common Areas of Specialization For Masters in Biomedical Science Students
When choosing an area of specialization, it definitely helps to have an end career in mind. Some common choices for specializations in Biomedical Science Masters Programs include areas such as:
- Biochemistry
- Oncology
- Optometry
- Biotechnology
- Cardiovascular Disease
- Reproductive Science
Explore a Potential Career in Biomedical Science
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, biomedical scientists have a bright future, with a projected increase in employment of 8% between 2014 and 2024[i]. They attribute this to a variety of factors that include:
- Larger and aging population
- Increased rates of chronic conditions
- Current reliance on pharmaceuticals
- Need for research into treating diseases (AIDS, Alzheimer’s)
- Need for development of treatments and medicines
The median annual wage for medical scientists in May 2014 was $79,930, with ranges from the lowest 10% at less than $43,150 and the highest 10% easned more than $148,210[ii]..
FUN FACT: some of the associated job titles for medical scientists includes: Associate Director, Experimental Medicine; Clinical Laboratory Scientist; Clinical Pharmacologist; Investigator; Laboratory Director; Post-Doctoral Fellow; Research Scientist; Scientist; Senior Research Scientist; Senior Scientist[iii]
The industries with the highest levels of employment for medical scientists, excluding epidemiologists, are[iv]:
- Scientific research and development services
- Colleges, universities, professional schools
- General medical and surgical hospitals
- Pharmaceutical and medicine manufacturing
- Medical and diagnostic laboratories
Whereas an entry-level job for Medical and clinical laboratory technicians is usually a bachelor’s degree[v], working as a Medical Scientist typically requires a PhD in biology or a related life science, and some professionals have both a medical degree and a PhD.
Biomedical scientists design and conduct studies to understand, treat and prevent human diseases, as well as test medical devices and develop programs to improve health outcomes. They use clinical trials, form hypothesis and may work with physicians to test a new drug on patients in these studies. The research work of Biomedical Scientists is what often finds cures or treatment protocols in illnesses from diabetes to lung cancer, and is a vital aspect of Medicine
Ready to Pursue a Masters in Biomedical Science Degree Online?
Earning an Online Masters in Biomedical Science degree may enhance the scientific and professional preparation of students who have aspirations of pursuing careers in the health professions or in a related field requiring graduate level biomedical sciences. Use the search tools on GradSchools.com to find the program that matches your needs!
Sources:[i] bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/medical-scientists.htm |[ii] bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/medical-scientists.htm |[iii] onetonline.org/link/summary/19-1042.0 | [iv] bls.gov/oes/current/oes191042.htm |[v] bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/medical-and-clinical-laboratory-technologists-and-technicians
