Cancer Biology (M.S.)
The M.S. program in Cancer Biology offers a strong didactic and laboratory curriculum in cancer biology with a major focus on molecular oncology. Our goal is to provide intensive research training for students who are interested in a career in academia, medicine, industry, or related careers in which first-hand research experience is an asset. Research interests in the Department of Oncology are diverse and dynamic, allowing students to choose from a broad spectrum of topics for their research thesis. Students are encouraged to attend departmental seminars by internationally renowned scientists and annual Cancer Biology symposia. Through regular interactions between students and faculty students develop oral communication and collaboration skills for future success.
Admission Requirements
Admission to the M.S. program is contingent upon admission to the Graduate School and the graduate programs of the School of Medicine. Qualified applicants must have a BS or BA degree from an accredited college or university, preferably with a major in biology, chemistry, physics, or a closely related discipline. A complete application includes the basic application form, a personal statement, official transcripts from previous institutions, and three letters of reference. International students must be proficient in English, as determined by satisfactory performance on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) examination. TOEFL scores should be reported to Wayne State University using institution code 1898. Applications must be submitted online by February 1st. Graduate School Admissions policies can be found at the Office of Graduate Admissions.
Contact Information
Administrative Office for the M.S. Program in Cancer Biology
Department of Oncology
Wayne State University School of Medicine
421 E Canfield Street
Detroit, MI 48201
Tel: 313-578-4302
Email: danieln@karmanos.org
The master's degree in Cancer Biology is offered under Plan A only. A minimum of 30 credits, eight of which must be from thesis research, and completion of an original research project are required to receive a MS degree. The coursework includes 19 credits of compulsory courses and 3 credits of elective courses (listed below). A minimum GPA of 3.0 must be maintained throughout the MS program. Students should select an advisor and MS thesis committee as early as possible in the second semester of year 1 to begin full time thesis research. Students should strive to publish one peer-reviewed paper as first or second author to demonstrate the quality of their research.
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Required Courses | ||
| CB 7210 | Fundamentals of Cancer Biology | 4 |
| CB 7220 | Molecular Biology of Cancer Development | 4 |
| CB 7240 | Molecular Mechanisms of Cancer and Therapy | 4 |
| CB 7500 | Introduction to Cancer Biostatistics | 2 |
| CB 7510 | Journal Club/Seminar (Max. of 2 credits over the course of the program.) | 2 |
| CB 7710 | Individual Studies in Cancer Biology | 2 |
| CB 7800 | Rigor and Reproducibility in Cancer Biology | 1 |
| Elective Courses | ||
| Select 3 credits from the following: | ||
| CB 7130 | Clinical Aspects of Cancer Biology | 1 |
| CB 7300 | Special Topics in Cancer Biology | 1-3 |
| CB 8920 | Principles of Translational and Clinical Cancer Research | 1 |
| Thesis course | ||
| CB 8999 | Master's Thesis Research and Direction | 8 |
| Total Credits | 30-32 | |