MS in Biomaterials

This program comprises an intensive, didactic, 30-credit option. Thus, a student in this program must be fully committed to taking an average of 15 credits per semester for two semesters. There is no thesis option in this program, but a 2-credit independent project is the final requirement. The student is responsible for the selection of a mentor and for working with that mentor to develop an independent project. Students are free to propose their own topic but final project selection must be approved by the faculty mentor. Because of the condensed nature of the 1-year program, hands-on research experience, which is normally conducted after the first year, is not included in this program.

The program represents a challenge to students in managing course work while designing and completing a thesis research project. Completion of the M.S. program in Biomaterials Science requires 36 credit hours of course work as well as completion and acceptance of a research thesis based on the student’s original work. Of the 36 required credit hours, 2-6 credit hours may be approved for the student’s research work. The time required to complete the program is not specified and will vary as it is affected by time commitment, motivation and the uncertainties of research. Most of the didactic portion of the program for full time students can be completed over approximately two regular semesters (one academic year). The research for the thesis will overlap with the didactic program. A full time student can complete the program, including research, in approximately two academic years

A part-time student is encouraged to register for 6 credits a semester and could complete the program in approximately 3 years. All requirements must be satisfied within a period of 5 years from the time of original registration for courses.

The student is responsible for the selection of a mentor and for working with that mentor to develop a research protocol. The protocol must be presented to the faculty for approval before the research can commence. Students are free to propose their own research topic but final project selection must be approved by the faculty mentor and department. Constraints regarding feasibility, time, cost to the department, safety and regulatory issues, availability of materials, access to fabrication and investigation facilities, and mentor interest are all factors in project selection. The department will try to provide alternatives that are satisfactory to the student.

In lieu of a thesis the student will be required to conduct an Independent Project in Biomaterials.

Completion of the M.S. program in Biomaterials Science, non-thesis option, requires 36 credit hours of course work, 2 credit hours will be utilized for the student’s independent project. The time required to complete the program is not specified and will vary as it is affected by time commitment, motivation. Most of the didactic portion of the program for full time students can be completed over approximately two regular semesters (one academic year). A full time student can complete the program, including research, in approximately two academic years.

A part-time student is encouraged to register for 6 credits a semester and could complete the program in approximately 3 years. All requirements must be satisfied within a period of 5 years from the time of original registration for courses.

The student is responsible for the selection of a mentor and for working with that mentor to develop an independent project. Students are free to propose their own topic but final project selection must be approved by the faculty mentor.