VCU’s M.S. in physiology and biophysics prepares students for careers as researchers, clinicians and educators across a broad spectrum of industries. Over the course of their studies, students receive highly individualized training through a combination of didactic coursework, a research apprenticeship and the preparation and oral defense of a thesis. Our program encourages critical thinking and creative problem-solving, and diverse, tight-knit cohorts foster a collaborative and congenial learning environment for everyone.
Many students choose to complete VCU’s Premedical and Predental Graduate Health Sciences Certificate (CERT) program before joining an M.S. program. This one-year opportunity provides graduate-level courses for individuals seeking to enhance their qualifications for admission into professional school and graduate school.
Major areas of study available to students include:
M.S. students focus on coursework during their first year, developing a solid background in biomedical sciences. Students must complete at least 30 graduate credit hours in courses such as the following:
During the first year, students perform small research projects during rotations in two different laboratories. After choosing an adviser, students will train with that mentor and conduct an independent research project and prepare a written thesis based on their findings. Students then present this work in a public seminar, followed by a defense examination with their adviser and graduate advisory committee.
Due to limited resources, M.S. students do not receive direct financial support from the Department of Cellular, Molecular and Genetic Medicine. U.S. citizens and permanent residents admitted into the program are encouraged to seek assistance from VCU Student Financial Services.
Supporting our students is at the core of the School of Medicine's mission. We provide a wide variety of resources to help enhance our graduate students' experience and ensure their safety, as well as resources to support our faculty.
Applicants must apply through the Graduate School at VCU. On the "Intended program of study" screen, select the appropriate term of entry, "Master's" as your intended level of study and "Physiology-MS" as your planned course of study.
After completing the online applications, documents that cannot be submitted electronically, such as official transcripts, should be mailed to the following address:
Virginia Commonwealth University
Office of Admissions
Box 843051
Richmond, Virginia 23284-3051
For more information about the Physiology and Biophysics M.S. program, please contact:
Roland N. Pittman, Ph.D.
Graduate program director
roland.pittman@vcuhealth.org
Carlos R. Escalante, Ph.D.
Assistant graduate program director
carlos.escalante@vcuhealth.org