Master of Arts in Biomedical Sciences Program, Downers Grove Campus

Get ready for graduate-level studies to prepare for a variety of healthcare careers through this 9-month Master of Arts (M.A.) program in the Biomedical Sciences.

Midwestern University students take a class in the anatomy lab.

The Master of Arts in Biomedical Sciences (M.A.) degree is a rigorous full-time, 9-month, graduate-level, coursework-only program. 

Enhancing Your Academic Foundation

The Master of Arts in Biomedical Sciences (M.A.) Program is designed to help students with a bachelor’s degree, preferably with a major in the sciences, improve their academic foundation in the biomedical sciences and enhance their credentials for admission into medical school, dental school, or other healthcare professions programs.

Core Curriculum

All students take a total of 45 quarter hour credits (41 required core credits and 4 elective credits). Core disciplines are taught by faculty experts. Some courses have interprofessional small group learning. Elective credits, offered in a variety of disciplines, include other biomedical science courses, and are designed to enhance the student’s preparation for professional school applications.

Curriculum Details*

*Subject to change

Faculty Guidance and Support

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

College Faculty

Scholarships and Financial Assistance

M.A. students may receive merit-based scholarships including the Midwestern University Scholarship and can apply for the CGS Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Scholarship.

Students can also apply for and receive funding through the Federal Work Study Program.

For more information, visit the Scholarships and Financial Aid Types pages.

Program Outcomes

83%

Graduated or Enrolled in Professional School

50 of 60 matriculants in the class of 2023 either graduated or are currently enrolled in a professional program.

75%

Graduates Accepted into Professional School

257 of 344 graduates from 2019 to 2023 were accepted into professional school.

41%

Enrolled in Laboratory Research Elective

140 out of 344 graduates were enrolled in a laboratory research elective from 2019 and 2023.

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
  • Prerequisite coursework
  • Test score from one of the following is optional: MCAT, DAT, OAT, or GRE

Full list of requirements*

*Subject to change

Applicants can apply either of the following ways:

  1. Through PostbacCAS. Applicants can receive a coupon to cover the entire cost of the PostbacCAS application fee! Contact the Office of Admissions – Downers Grove campus at admissIL@midwestern.edu to receive your coupon code!
  2. Using the application materials from another MWU program. Contact the Office of Admissions for more information about transferring your application.
  • Female:  70%
  • Male: 30%
  • Average Age:  24 
  • Average Overall GPA:  3.31 
  • Top Home States:  Illinois, Michigan, California

The Midwestern University Master of Arts in Biomedical Sciences program provides students with an in-depth education in the biomedical sciences and graduates students who are competitive applicants for admission into professional programs in healthcare.

The College of Graduate Studies has both general and specific articulation agreements with MWU programs on both campuses. 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.

Articulation Agreement Information*

*Subject to change

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; phone: 312-263-0456.

Academic Course Catalog

Explore details regarding your specific College/Program (subject to change).

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.

Andrew Hawkey, Ph.D., Assistant Professor, Biomedical Sciences, College of Graduate Studies-Downers Grove

“It’s amazing to be at an integrated health sciences university. There are great collaborative relationships going on.”

Alejandro M.S. Mayer, Ph.D., M.S.Ed. Professor, Department of Pharmacology, College of Graduate Studies

“The most rewarding parts of being a member of the Midwestern University faculty over the past 29 years have been to have the privilege of being part of a team that teaches pharmacology to students across many colleges on the Downers Grove Campus, as well as to conduct independent research with students on the immunopharmacology of marine-derived chemicals.”

Professor’s headshot

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.