The William Carey University Master of Biomedical Science (MBS) program, initiated in the fall of 2009, is a comprehensive full-time program designed to enhance the academic profile of students aiming to pursue careers in health-related fields. This program is dedicated to preparing students for professional study in medicine (both D.O. and M.D.), dentistry, pharmacy, and various other health sciences. Through a broad biomedical education, it aims to fill knowledge gaps in basic biology and human disease, setting a robust foundation for success in professional schools.

Program Overview


Hours

The MBS program is structured around a term system, offering flexibility and allowing for the completion of a total of 34 required credit hours. This design accommodates multiple tracks to better serve the educational and career aspirations of its diverse student body.


Delivery Method

Classes are held on the Hattiesburg Campus, with coursework taught primarily by medical school faculty. This allows for a curriculum tailored specifically to the needs of MBS students, enhancing both the relevance and quality of the education received. Students also have the opportunity to choose electives that complement the core requirements of their selected track, further personalizing their academic experience.


Applicant Prerequisites & Requirements

  • Baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university.
  • Official transcripts demonstrating the completion of prerequisite coursework in Physics (8 credit hours), General/Inorganic Chemistry (8 credit hours), Organic Chemistry (8 credit hours), and Biology (12 credit hours).
  • MCAT (preferred), GRE, or DAT scores, with specified minimum and preferred scores.
  • Two letters of evaluation from appropriate professionals.
  • One-page personal statement.
  • Completion of the WCU graduate admissions form by July 15 for consideration in the upcoming cohort.
  • A $250 nonrefundable deposit to secure a spot in the class, applied to tuition upon matriculation.

To apply for the MBS program, prospective students should follow the instructions for applying to a graduate program at William Carey University. Applications completed after the July 15 deadline may not be assured consideration for the desired start date. The successful applicant will be required to make a nonrefundable deposit, which will be applied towards tuition fees upon starting the program.


Curriculum

The MBS program has been updated to better serve the students. The MBS program will now have multiple tracks. The tracks will include a Pre-Medical/Dental, a Pre-Pharmacy, and general Pre-Health professional track. Each track would require a total of 34 hours. MBS students will have their own dedicated classes taught primarily by medical school faculty. This will allow the classes to be tailored to the needs of the MBS students. The classes will be taught in the term system, which will allow flexibility for the students. In addition, students will now have their choice of electives to complement the core requirements of their program. The programs are listed below.

PREMEDICAL/DENTAL TRACK: 25 of the 34 required hours would consist of MBS Gross Anatomy I & II, MBS Physiology I & II, MBS Current Topics I, II, & III and MBS Biochemistry I & II.

PRE-PHYSICAL THERAPY TRACK: 25 of the 34 required hours would consist of MBS Gross Anatomy I & II, MBS Physiology I & II, MBS Current Topics I, II, & III and MBS Biochemistry I & II.

PRE-PHARMACY: 26 of the 34 required hours would consist of MBS Physiology I & II, MBS Current Topics I, II, & III, MBS Biochemistry I & II, MBS Immunology, MBS Human Genetics and MBS Pharmacology. (Additional unlisted courses may be used as electives)

PRE-HEALTH PROFESSIONAL: 11 of the 34 required hours would consist of MBS Physiology I & II, and MBS Current Topics I, II, & III. Additional required courses will be added on a case-by-case basis (depending on the student’s goal). Proposed classes include MBS Human Gross Anatomy I & II, MBS Physiology I & II, MBS Histology, Cell Physiology, MBS Genetics, Research, Biochemistry 1 & II, Current Topics I & II, MBS Immunology, MBS Pharmacology, MBS Neuroscience, and Microbiology. Classes may change based on demand and/or availability.


Frequently Asked Questions

The MBS program equips students for graduate study in biomedical sciences and enhances their competitiveness for professional schools in medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, and more. Graduates also find opportunities in science education, leadership, biomedical research, and doctoral programs.

The MBS degree bolsters academic credentials and demonstrates preparedness for professional studies. While it does not guarantee admission, approximately 80% of graduates successfully enter professional schools, thanks to the strong foundation the program provides.

While completion of the MBS does not guarantee admission into WCUCOM, a strong performance in the MBS program is viewed favorably by its admissions committee.

Generally, courses from master's programs, including the MBS, do not substitute for medical school courses. This policy is also observed at WCUCOM.

  • Deadline: Applications are reviewed starting in January, with a July 1 deadline for full consideration. Early applications are encouraged.
  • Standardized Tests: Preferred test is MCAT with a minimum score of 495. GRE scores of 290 (new scale) and DAT scores of 15 or higher are also accepted.
  • GPA Requirement: An overall undergraduate GPA of 2.75 or higher is required, with a focus on science course performance.
  • Prerequisites: Completion of prerequisite courses in Physics, General/Inorganic Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, and Biology is mandatory.
  • Interviews: Not required at this time, but the admissions committee may opt for telephone interviews.
  • Recommendation Letters: Letters used for WCUCOM applications can be reused for the MBS application.
  • Financial Aid: Currently, the only financial aid available is through graduate student loans like Stafford loans. Tuition waivers and assistantships are not offered.
  • Seat Deposit: A $250 nonrefundable deposit is required to secure a spot in the class, which is applied to tuition upon matriculation.

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