Academic Catalog 2020-2021

MASTER OF ARTS IN BIOMEDICAL SCIENCES GRADUATE PROGRAM

In July 2018, the College of Sciences at Bluefield College launched the Master of Arts in Biomedical Sciences (MABS) degree to be delivered in partnership with the EdwardVia Col- lege of Osteopathic Medicine (VCOM). The program offers an option to pursue a Certificate in Teaching Health Sciences upon completion of the MA course work. The MABS degree program curriculum places strong emphasis in human medicine and clinical applications. Program Description The purpose of the M.A. in Biomedical Sciences program is to enhance students’ academics so as to help them gain acceptance into a medical school or other healthcare program through a nine-month, 35-credit hour, face-to-face delivery with emphasis on bio- medical course work, research experience, field study as well as seminars in professional development. In addition to obtaining proficient knowledge in biomedical sciences and biomedical education, students that participate in the program will have the ability to suc- cessfully engage in written and oral dialogue with peer and elemental audiences. Students in the program are expected to apply the highest ethical and professional standards. Those students that achieve benchmarks throughout the program may gain guaranteed acceptance into the VCOM D.O. After completing the M.A. in Biomedical Sciences, students can choose to earn a Certificate in Teaching Health Sciences online through Bluefield College’s School of Edu- cation as part of the Master of Arts in Education program. Embodying the College's vision of preparing innovative learners and transformational leaders in education to impact the world, the biomedical sciences graduate will expand their skills as teachers in health sci- ences, by advancing their clinical expertise through teaching practice and by preparing for leadership roles in Academic Medicine and/or Academic Health Sciences. The MABS program supports the mission of Bluefield College by attracting individuals from rural areas, low socioeconomic status backgrounds, and underrepresented minorities, although acceptance is not limited to individuals from these groups. Admission Requirements for the MABS Program Admission to the MABS program is limited to candidates capable of performing on the graduate level. Applicants for admission must meet the following requirements prior to entry into the Master of Arts in Biomedical Sciences program. - Earned baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited institution. - The following undergraduate courses must be completed with a grade of C or better prior to matriculation: o Biological Sciences – One year with laboratory o Physics – One year o General or Inorganic Chemistry – One year o Organic Chemistry – One year o English – One year Laboratories for Physics, General or Inorganic Chemistry, and Organic Chemistry are strongly encouraged for all applicants. - Minimum GPA required:

o Overall GPA of 3.0 o Science GPA of 3.0

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