MS in Biomedical Sciences – Concentration in Cancer Biology
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Cancer Biology

MS in Biomedical Sciences

  • One year of full-time research experience at The Wistar Institute
  • Conduct cutting-edge research in cancer biology 
  • Prepare for a variety of research-based careers
BIOMEDICAL SCIENCES

    Cancer Biology Concentration 
    MS in Biomedical Sciences

    The MS in Biomedical Sciences – Concentration in Cancer Biology is a thesis-based program designed to prepare students for careers in biomedical research, with a specialized focus on cancer biology.

    Program Overview

    This concentration is ideal for students seeking rigorous training in laboratory research and cancer biology. Following successful completion of the foundation year of the MS in Biomedical Sciences program, students will engage in a year-long, full-time research experience at The Wistar Institute—a leading research center dedicated to cancer, immunology, and infectious diseases.

    Program Components
    • Core biomedical sciences curriculum in the first academic year.
    • One year of full-time laboratory research in a Wistar Institute lab.
    • Development of a research plan in consultation with a faculty mentor.
    • Completion of a written thesis and an oral defense before a faculty committee.

    Learning Objectives

    Graduates of the MS in Biomedical Sciences – Concentration in Cancer Biology will be able to:

    • Develop and conduct original, hypothesis-driven research in cancer biology.
    • Apply advanced biomedical concepts to the investigation of molecular and cellular mechanisms of cancer.
    • Analyze and interpret experimental data within the framework of cancer biology.
    • Communicate research findings effectively through both written and oral formats.
    • Demonstrate readiness for doctoral-level research, professional school, or research-based careers in academia, industry, or government.

    Program Structure

    Year 1:
    • Completion of the foundation year of the MS in Biomedical Sciences program, including coursework in cell biology, molecular biology, biochemistry, physiology, and research methodology.
    Year 2:
    • Full-time research placement at The Wistar Institute in Philadelphia.
    • Completion of research plan, execution of a laboratory research project, and development of a master’s thesis.
    • Oral defense of thesis before a faculty committee.

    Admission Requirements

    Applicants must be accepted into the MS in Biomedical Sciences program and will be eligible to apply for the Cancer Biology concentration during the foundation year. Admission to the concentration is competitive and based on academic performance, research interest alignment, and availability of research mentors at The Wistar Institute.

    Location

    This concentration is available only in Philadelphia, PA due to the on-site research requirement at The Wistar Institute.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Students enrolled in the MS in Biomedical Sciences program who are in good academic standing.

    All research is conducted at The Wistar Institute in Philadelphia.

    • A written research proposal
    • One year of bench research
    • A formal written thesis
    • An oral defense before a faculty committee

    Research areas include cancer biology, immunotherapy, molecular mechanisms of tumor progression, and related fields.

    This program prepares students for careers in biomedical research, PhD or MD/PhD programs, biotechnology, or other roles requiring strong research skills in cancer biology.

    PCOM is committed to helping students maximize funding sources and minimize student debt. Visit our Office of Financial Aid section to learn about cost of attendance, types of aid available and how to apply for financial aid.

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