Program Structure and Curriculum

The Master of Science in Biomedical Science (MSBS) program at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai (ISMMS) is built around a classic model of rigorous coursework combined with the generation of new knowledge through research. The curriculum culminates in an original thesis that is defended orally. In order to receive their MSBS students must:

• Complete a full-time course of study with a minimum of 45 credits
• Complete all degree requirements in three terms with an option to continue their research for a fourth term
• Spend 25 hours per week in the laboratory completing thesis research
• Successfully defend their thesis
• Maintain an average of a B (3.0) or better in the Core Curriculum and a cumulative GPA of a B (3.0) or better

Curriculum

In the MSBS program, your time will be divided between coursework and research. Our students have access to select courses from the Graduate School’s wide-ranging and diverse course catalog – including courses in basic and translational science, data science, public health, and clinical research. In addition, three medical school courses are also open to MSBS students: immunology, medical physiology, and medical microbiology.

Students typically spend about 20-25 hours each week in the lab working on their thesis research.

Second Year

A busy, but rewarding period, the third semester is dedicated to completing coursework and research projects, and writing and defending the thesis.

We offer the optional fourth semester because it gives students the opportunity to extend their coursework and can allow a bit of extra time to prepare for an entrance exam to another program.