Biomedical Sciences

The Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Sciences at The Pennsylvania State University offers students an in-depth exploration of the fundamental principles of human biology, medicine, and healthcare. This comprehensive program is designed to equip students with a solid foundation in cellular and molecular biology, biochemistry, genetics, physiology, and microbiology, preparing them for diverse careers in health sciences, research, or advanced studies. Throughout the program, students engage in both classroom instruction and laboratory experiences, gaining practical skills and analytical abilities essential for understanding complex biological systems and their applications in medicine and health-related fields.

The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, scientific inquiry, and technological proficiency, enabling students to analyze and interpret biomedical data effectively. Students have opportunities to participate in research projects, internships, and collaborative work with faculty members, fostering a hands-on understanding of current biomedical challenges and innovations. The program also offers specialized coursework in areas such as pharmacology, immunology, pathology, and neuroscience, allowing students to tailor their educational experience to their career interests.

Graduate placement rates of program alumni demonstrate its effectiveness, with many students pursuing advanced degrees in medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, or graduate research programs, while others enter the biotechnology and healthcare industries directly. The program is committed to preparing graduates not only for professional success but also for responsible conduct in their respective fields. Students benefit from a vibrant academic community with access to cutting-edge laboratories, libraries, and research centers, all supported by dedicated faculty committed to mentorship and academic excellence. Whether students aim for medical school, research careers, or industry roles, the Biomedical Sciences program at Penn State provides a rigorous and comprehensive education that lays the groundwork for a successful future in health sciences and biomedical research.

First Year

During the first year, students participate in both coursework and laboratory rotations. The two interdisciplinary courses taken in the fall semester of the first year - Cell and Systems Biology and Flow of Cellular Information - provide foundational knowledge important for all curricular tracks of the BMS Graduate Program. Given the critical importance of communication skills in science, students also participate in the presentation and seminar course titled The Art of Scientific Communication I. To enhance their laboratory research skills and to begin the process of identifying the laboratory for their dissertation research, students also participate in one eight- to 10-week laboratory rotation during the semester.

In the spring semester of the first year, students participate in courses that enhance expertise in their chosen areas of interest. Students choose among advanced courses required for the various curricular tracks and elective courses that further develop their specific interests. Students continue to hone their communication skills in The Art of Scientific Communication II and further their exposure to different laboratory research experiences by completing two additional laboratory rotations.

At the end of the first year, students take the Candidacy Exam that assesses both their foundation of knowledge and the development of their critical thinking skills. In addition, students identify both the laboratory for their dissertation research and their curricular track at this time.

Second Year

During the second year, laboratory research becomes the student’s major commitment. Students are in the laboratory conducting work that will lead to the development of their dissertation research. A limited number of courses chosen in consultation with the dissertation adviser are also taken.

At the end of the second year, students complete the Comprehensive Exam, in which they develop and defend a research grant-like proposal.

Third Year and Beyond

By the third year, students are in the laboratory full-time conducting their dissertation research. The average time to graduation for biomedical sciences PhD students at the College of Medicine is 5.5 years, which is the same as the national average.

Curricular Tracks

Biomedical Sciences

The Biomedical Sciences curricular track emphasizes flexibility since research areas of faculty range from molecules to cells to organisms to systems.

In consultation with their research adviser, students in this track choose courses from a variety of departments and programs to complement their research project and interests.

Students may choose a research adviser from any BMS program faculty, including those who are members of options within BMS.

Option in Biochemistry & Molecular Genetics

The curriculum and laboratory training for students in the Option in Biochemistry & Molecular Genetics (BMG) focuses on the application of biochemical and molecular genetic analyses to basic and translational investigation of human health and disease.

The BMG option trains students to identify, formulate, and solve significant biological problems using biochemical and molecular genetic approaches.

Research strengths of faculty in the option include: enzyme structure and function; epigenetics and epigenomics; cancer biochemistry and genetics; biochemistry of infectious diseases; structural biochemistry in human disease; biochemistry and genetics of DNA repair; carbohydrates and lipids in health and disease; genetics and biochemistry in metabolism; and genetic analysis of complex disorders.

Option in Translational Therapeutics

The curriculum and laboratory training for students in the Option in Translational Therapeutics (TT) provides students a combination of didactic instruction, informal interaction, and laboratory experiences that builds a firm foundation in the principles, methods, and contributions of pharmacology, defined broadly as the science of the interaction of chemical agents with biological systems.

Of primary importance, faculty in this option focus their work on identification of disease targets, development of therapeutic strategies, and refinement of drug delivery approaches.

With this preparation, graduates of the TT option will be able to design and execute high-quality independent research, and assume positions of responsibility within the therapeutic community.

Option in Virology & Immunology

The curriculum and laboratory training for students in the Option in Virology and Immunology (VIRIM) provides students the opportunity to focus their coursework and research training in areas related to virology and immunology.

This option trains individuals for professional careers in virology, immunology, and related disciplines.

Areas of research within virology include viral oncology, virus-cell interactions, viral structure and assembly, functional role of viral gene products, molecular biology of virus replication, and viral induced latency.

Areas of research within immunology include adaptive and innate immunity, cellular and humoral immunity, antigen presentation, tumor immunology, vaccine development, and neuroimmunology.

Students in the VIRIM option develop integrative research approaches using aspects of biochemistry, molecular and cellular biology, and genetics to approach scientific questions associated with areas of virology and immunology.

All students must submit an application through The Graduate School.

Individuals having a baccalaureate (or higher) degree in science-related majors from a United States institution of higher learning, or an equivalent degree from a foreign institution of higher education, such as biology, biochemistry, biomedical sciences, biotechnology, chemistry, physiology or microbiology, may apply for admission to the Biomedical Sciences Graduate Program.

Individuals with a non-biomedical sciences background may also apply, but acceptance into the program will depend significantly on the applicant’s specific background and statement of purpose for pursuing advanced study in biomedical sciences. An applicant’s undergraduate background must, at minimum, include biology, chemistry, organic chemistry, biochemistry, and molecular biology or genetics.

• Completed online application
• Payment of the $65 application fee
• Copies of official transcripts from all colleges and/or universities attended, uploaded by the student (do not mail official transcripts unless specifically requested to do so)
• Official GRE general test scores - School Code 2660 - sent directly from the testing agency
• 3 letters of recommendation, uploaded through online application system by person writing the reference
• TOEFL score (if applicable) - School Code 2660 - sent directly from the testing agency
• Personal statement including your reasons for applying to the program; your research interests; your research experience (not including lab courses): and your future goals
• Resume or curriculum vitae

Scholarships

Assistantships

The most common form of graduate support, teaching and research assistantships, include a stipend, tuition remission, and a subsidy for medical insurance. Recipients are assigned to a faculty adviser who supervises the experience. Graduate assistants support undergraduate instruction or undertake research projects. A specified time commitment of 10-30 hours per week is required depending on the unit (a half-time/20 hour per week commitment is typical). Appointments are available only to graduate students who are registered for courses and enrolled in degree programs.

Fellowships

Fellowships are highly prestigious financial support packages that typically include a stipend, tuition remission, and a subsidy for medical insurance. They derive from University or outside awards. Unlike assistantships, they do not have a required work commitment; they are duty-free. Recipients must be enrolled in degree programs and be registered full time. Fellowship recipients are not permitted to accept employment without obtaining approval from the unit and/or agency supporting the fellowship.

Traineeships

Training grants are derived from agencies outside the University and are intended to support specific student learning experiences in core curricular areas and research methods. Institutional awards, typically under the direction of a faculty principal investigator, afford funding to support selected students with stipends, tuition grants-in-aid, and often include a subsidy for medical insurance.

The undergraduate Bachelor of Science (B.S.) program in Biomedical Sciences at The Pennsylvania State University provides students with a comprehensive foundation in human biology, physiology, biochemistry, and molecular biology. The curriculum is designed to prepare students for diverse careers in health-related fields, including medicine, dentistry, veterinary medicine, pharmacology, and research. Throughout the program, students engage in both classroom instruction and hands-on laboratory experiences to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and practical expertise. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary understanding and encourages exploration of advanced topics such as genetics, cell biology, immunology, and neuroscience.

Students have the opportunity to participate in research projects, internships, and collaborations with faculty members, which enhances their learning and prepares them for graduate studies or professional schools. The program also offers various support services, including academic advising and career counseling, to help students achieve their educational and professional goals. Graduates of the Biomedical Sciences program are well-equipped to pursue further education in health sciences or to enter the workforce in biomedical research, healthcare, or related industries. The program's design reflects Penn State’s commitment to fostering innovation, scientific inquiry, and community engagement in the biomedical field.

The curriculum typically includes core courses in biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics, along with specialized courses in biomedical sciences. Students are encouraged to participate in undergraduate research experiences and to take advantage of extracurricular activities related to health sciences. The program emphasizes ethical considerations in biomedical research and practice, preparing students to contribute responsibly to advancements in medicine and health sciences. With a variety of research laboratories, affiliations with hospitals, and opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration, Penn State’s Biomedical Sciences program provides a rich environment for aspiring health professionals and researchers to develop their skills and achieve their academic and career ambitions.