Master of Arts in Biomedical Sciences, Glendale Campus

Get ready for graduate-level studies in a variety of healthcare careers through this one-year Master of Arts (M.A.) program in the Biomedical Sciences.

Midwestern University students in Biomedical Anatomy lecture.

The Master of Arts in Biomedical Sciences (M.A.) degree is a rigorous full-time, three-quarter, graduate-level, coursework-only program.

Enhancing Your Academic Foundation

The Master of Arts in Biomedical Sciences (M.A.) Program serves as an academic springboard, strengthening your foundational knowledge in biomedical sciences and elevating your qualifications for admission into medical schools and various other health professional programs.

Core Curriculum

All students take a total of 45 quarter hour credits. Core courses include Biochemistry, Molecular Cell Biology, Medical Ethics, Human Anatomy (with lab), Genetics, Physiology I & II, Microbiology, Immunology, and Pharmacology I & II. Completion of a capstone research project to improve critical thinking and analytical skills is required. Elective credits, offered in a variety of disciplines, are designed to enhance the student’s preparation for success in professional school.

Curriculum details

Faculty Guidance and Support

Our experienced faculty advisors are here to mentor you every step of the way. From refining your personal statement to enhancing your interview and communication skills, they'll help you chart your career path.

Scholarships and Financial Assistance

Most M.A. students apply for and receive scholarships or funding through the Federal Work Study Program. Scholarships include the Midwestern University Scholarship and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Scholarship. For more information, visit the Scholarships and Financial Aid Types pages.

Transfer Policy

Transfer between M.A. and M.B.S. programs may be permitted after completion of the first quarter of either program. Transfer is available by application only and will only be considered when space is available.

Learn More

Learn more about the requirements and find quick links to relevant catalog content to guide you in your application process.

  • Bachelor's degree
  • Minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75
  • DAT, MCAT, GRE General Test, PCAT, OAT, or other professional exam scores are recommended but not required.

To be considered for admission to the Master of Arts in Biomedical Sciences degree program, applicants must submit the following documented evidence:

  1. Completion of a bachelor's degree (B.A. or B.S.) or higher, preferably with a major in the sciences, from a regionally accredited college or university.
  2. A minimum cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 2.75 on a scale of 4.00 in all coursework completed.
  3. One letter of recommendation (individual or committee letter from the applicant's college or university).
  4. Copies of transcripts from each college or university attended. Official transcripts must be submitted prior to matriculation.
  5. Completion of the typical prerequisite coursework for admission into medical, dental, optometry or pharmacy schools, including biology, general chemistry, organic chemistry, physics, and mathematics. Prospective students are responsible for determining the prerequisites for the health professional program and institution of their choice.
  6. Completion of the prerequisite courses with grades of C or better (grades of C- are not acceptable). 
  7. Passage of the Midwestern University criminal background check.
  8. Commitment to abide by the Midwestern University Drug-Free Workplace and Substance Abuse Policy.

Full list of requirements

The Master of Arts in Biomedical Sciences Program uses a rolling admission process in which completed applications are reviewed and decisions are made at regular intervals during the admissions cycle. This Program begins in the fall quarter.

On-Time Graduation Rate (2018)

  • Ninety-Three (93) of the 123 students (76%) who matriculated into the class of 2018 graduated from the Master of Arts in Biomedical Sciences degree program on time. Four (4) students (3%) did not complete the Master of Arts program, but were accepted into professional schools prior to graduation.

Graduate Outcomes (2018)

  • Fifty-Eight (58) of the 102 total students (57%) who graduated in the class of 2018 have been accepted into professional school, including: medical, dental, podiatry, pharmacy, physician assistant, and Ph.D. programs.
  • Forty-four (44) of the 102 students (43%) who graduated in the class of 2018 have not communicated their career status with the program.
  • Typically, additional students are accepted following a gap year.
  • Data obtained from Midwestern University matriculation records and annual exit interviews.
  • Female: 59%
  • Male: 41%
  • Average Age: 25
  • Average Overall GPA:  3.24
  • In-State: 38%

Mission

The Midwestern University Master of Biomedical Sciences Program educates and prepares students in the biomedical sciences to be competitive applicants for careers in a wide range of health-related fields, as well as for additional academic and professional training.

Biomedical Sciences students may also qualify for specialized articulation agreements with other Midwestern University programs. Please contact the Office of Admissions for specific information and deadlines regarding articulation agreements that are in place for the professional program(s) in which you might be interested. 

Application details

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the 2017 edition, occupational outlook report, the following Biomedical Sciences-related employment occupations are expected to reflect the following demand:

Job Outlook

  • Employment of health educators and community health workers is projected to grow 16% from 2016 to 2026, faster than the average for all occupations.
  • Employment of dentists is projected to grow 19% from 2016 to 2026, much faster than the average for all occupations.
  • Employment of optometrists is projected to grow 18% from 2016 to 2026, much faster than the average for all occupations. Because vision problems tend to occur more frequently later in life, an aging population will require more optometrists.
  • Employment of pharmacists is projected to grow 6% from 2016 to 2026, about as fast as the average for all occupations.
  • Employment of physician assistants is projected to grow 37% from 2016 to 2026, much faster than the average for all occupations.
  • Employment of veterinarians is projected to grow 19% from 2016 to 2026, much faster than the average for all occupations.
  • Employment of podiatrists is projected to grow 10% from 2016 to 2026, faster than the average for all occupations. 
     

Detailed Information by Profession

The State of Arizona Board of Private Postsecondary Education has approved all current degree programs at Midwestern University-Glendale, Arizona Campus. All degrees are conferred under the authority granted by the Arizona State Board for Private Postsecondary Education and The Higher Learning Commission, A Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

Midwestern University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission/A Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (HLC/NCA), 230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500, Chicago, IL 60604-1413; 312-263-0456.

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Hear Our Stories

Hear from students just like you who are pursuing healthcare careers and from the faculty who are helping them along the way.

Brian Mayer, College of Graduate Studies, Biomedical Sciences Program (M.A.) Graduate and AZCOM student

“The teachers really are invested in your success by how they teach and how they present themselves and make themselves available."

Del Eckman, Ph.D., Associate Professor, Biomedical Sciences, College of Graduate Studies-Glendale

“We’ve been around for quite a while and our ability to train students to be successful or give them the tools to be successful are second to none.”

Contact Us

Our admissions staff is here to assist you in making informed decisions about your academic journey. When contacting us, be sure to provide your preferred program and campus so we can address your questions or concerns.