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Loras Offering New Graduate Program in Biomedical Sciences

Robert Waterbury 528 Views , ,

DUBUQUE, Iowa – Loras College has announced that it is now accepting applications for its new Master of Science in Biomedical Sciences program.

“We are excited to build on our strengths in the sciences and in premedical education,” Kate Cooper, Ph.D., Biomedical Sciences Director, said. “This program allows us to help a new population of students develop further as scientists to help them achieve their career goals.”

Dr. Kate Cooper

The Biomedical Sciences program is designed to serve as an academic record enhancer (ARE) postbaccalaureate pre-medical/pre-health program. These types of postbaccalaureate programs are specifically intended for students who have taken the required undergraduate science coursework to apply to medical school or other graduate-level health professional programs but do not have a competitive application. 

The program’s coursework is designed to challenge students looking to enhance their previous academic history to be competitive applicants for med school, a Ph.D. program, or a full-time job. As a result, it allows them to show demonstrated improved academic ability and continue to extend their learning on topics necessary for the MCAT and in health professional school.

“One of the most advantageous aspects of this new program is the research experience that culminates in a thesis,” Heidi Nelson, Director of Graduate and Continuing Education Programs, said. “Participation in research allows students to deepen their understanding of science taught throughout the didactic coursework through an immersive experience integrating concepts in biology, biochemistry, and physiology, among others.”

Students in the M.S. in Biomedical Sciences will receive academic support and academic advising from the Director of Health Professions Advising at Loras College, Dr. Ulrike Schultz, MD, MPH.  As a medical doctor, Dr. Schultz knows and understands the medical profession, as well as associated healthcare areas, and provides individualized advising to Loras students seeking admission to graduate-level health professional programs.

Additional program benefits include:

  • Application guidance to health-related professional schools, including personal statement guidance and interviewing practice.
  • Admission test guidance for health-related professional schools.
  • Assistance finding shadowing and other related opportunities.
  • Regular postbaccalaureate seminars.
  • Small program size to allow for personalized attention to all students in the program.
  • Beautiful Midwest location with a robust health care environment, which provides      opportunities for students to gain experience in the health care field.
  • Priority class registration.
  • Very competitive tuition, and financial aid opportunities available (federal loans).

Anyone interested in applying for the Master of Science in Biomedical Sciences program must have   earned at least a Bachelor’s degree by the time of enrollment, with a background in natural sciences. Applicants are required to have completed specific prerequisite undergraduate coursework and also achieved a minimum cumulative undergraduate GPA of at least 3.0.

For fall enrollment, all materials are due by August 1. Apply online at https://postbaccas.liaisoncas.com For more information, please visit www.loras.edu/biomedical or contact Megan Henderson, Director of Admission for Graduate and Postbaccalaureate Programs, at megan.henderson@loras.edu.