Dual MS in Medical Sciences/MS in Clinical Research
The BU Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine currently combines two successful programs under Graduate Medical Sciences: the Master of Science in Medical Sciences (MAMS) and Master of Science in Clinical Research (MSCR) programs. A review of curricula, student interests and goals, emerging careers for professionals with a background in the medical sciences and clinical research suggested the need for a Master of Science in Medical Sciences and Clinical Research Dual Degree Program.
Some students elect to complete the dual degree program to gain a clinical research background prior to attending medical school. Others intend to pursue clinical research–related career opportunities in academic institutions or in pharmaceutical, biotechnology, or medical device industries. The dual degree option gives these students an opportunity to gain training that will serve them well as clinician-researchers.
Learning Outcomes
- Demonstrate an in-depth and integrated knowledge of the processes underlying normal and abnormal function in the human body in preparation for advanced studies in a healthcare field.
- Demonstrate the ability to work as part of a team to integrate and apply concepts in the medical sciences and draw linkages between structure and function at the level of molecules, cells, organs, and systems.
- Demonstrate the ability to critically read and analyze the scientific literature, propose and test a hypothesis, and communicate findings clearly, incorporating them into the existing body of knowledge.
Degree Requirements
Curriculum
The 50-unit Dual Degree Program in Medical Science and Clinical Research offers complementary curricula with a strong background in the medical sciences and research design and implementation. The model curriculum for the dual degree program (below) can be modified to meet specific student needs.
This unique program includes curricula in medical sciences and all of the key elements in clinical research offered in a dynamic hospital and medical school environment. The program is designed as a two-year, full-time experience with applications accepted for September start dates only, although accommodations can be made for students who need more time to complete the dual degree. Senior faculty with clinical and research expertise will both instruct and mentor students throughout the program. A capstone project, completed during the second year of the program, is designed to demonstrate research skills. Students will also complete a clinical research practicum in either an academic institution or in industry.
In addition to core coursework, graduates will develop fine-tuned clinical research skills as part of their successful completion of the practicum and capstone project. Students completing the program will be concurrently awarded both a Master of Science in Medical Sciences and a Master of Science in Clinical Research.
Model Curriculum
Total Units: 50
Year 1 Fall Term
Year 1 Spring Term
Year 2 Fall Term—12 units
- GMS CI 675 Designing Clinical Research Studies (4 units)
- GMS CI 670 Biostats with Computing (4 units)
- GMS CI 640 Regulatory & Compliance Issues in Research (4 units)
Year 2 Spring Term—8 units
- GMS CI 790 Seminar Clinical Research (2 units)
- GMS CI 631 Management of Clinical Trials (4 units)
- GMS CI 795 Practicum (2 units)
- Capstone Project
