MS Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
The Masters in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology program at Georgetown University is a basic science program that infuses core concepts of biochemistry and molecular biology as applied to biomedical sciences and biotechnology, providing students with a rigorous and challenging curriculum to succeed in their post-academic and professional endeavors. Our program is targeted to those interested in pursuing academic, medical, or biotechnology industry research careers, those who wish to enhance their current careers by reinforcing their biomedical backgrounds, those making career shifts to positions that require additional background in biochemistry and molecular biology, as well as those seeking advanced study in preparation for entry into Ph. D. programs in the biomedical sciences or into professional programs in the medical sciences. Graduates from M.S. Biochemistry and Molecular Biology program seek careers primarily in academic, government, or biotechnology research and most transition to Ph.D., M.D., D.D.S, J.D. or M.B.A programs.
Core concepts and skills are taught through a sequence of required core courses, with the remaining coursework consisting of advanced electives and special topics courses chosen in consultation with the Program Director. At least 30 graduate credits with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or greater are required for the MS degree. Our courses expose students to advanced methods in biochemistry, molecular biology and cell biology, laboratory research and literature-based research, and include a significant number of “hands on” lab-based courses that develop expertise in biochemistry, cell biology, molecular biology, and biotechnology concepts and skills.
Our program offers a well-organized intensive internship program that culminates in students presenting their research at tri-annual poster presentation sessions. The four-credit internships are performed with research mentors in various GUMC laboratories on campus or off campus in government agencies such as NIH and FDA, as well as the MD Biotechnology Industry corridor.