Accelerated MS in Tumor Biology

Highly motivated Georgetown BS in Human Science students can complete the requirements for the MS in Tumor Biology in one semester after completing the bachelor’s program.

Students in the Master of Science in Tumor Biology program will learn basic concepts in cancer biology. Topics include biochemistry, pharmacology, prevention and methodology specific to cancer research. Students will be trained in basic laboratory techniques and will complete a research project. Graduates from our program will have a comprehensive understanding of the underlying mechanisms of cancer progression and the existing clinical challenges in treating this disease.

Students are required to complete a Laboratory Research Project (TBIO 7050 and 7060). Students are matched with a cancer researcher at Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center based on mutual preferences. In the laboratory, students receive hands-on training for planning and conducting experiments to answer key questions in cancer biology. Common techniques learned include methods in cell culture, molecular biology (analysis of DNA, RNA, proteins or metabolites) or in vivo models of cancer. 

Application

HSCI students with a minimum GPA of 3.5 in the major are eligible to apply to this program by January 15 of their junior year. Students who wish to apply should inquire with Sumaira Akber, Assistant Dean, School of Health.

For more information about our program and admissions, please contact us.

Timeline

Undergraduates start taking master’s courses in their senior year, earning the master’s degree in the fall after completing the Bachelor of Science.

Human Science Accelerated Master's Program Timeline. HSCI Junior Fall/Spring: Apply to M.S. program. HSCI Senior Fall: 2 HSCI core courses, 2 M.S. courses. HSCI Senior Spring: 2 HSCI core courses, 2 M.S. courses. M.S. Program Fall: Complete M.S. requirements.

Degree Plan

Senior – Fall

Course NameCredit(s)
HSCI 4972: Human Science Seminar/Capstone I3
HSCI 4510: Physiological Adaptations4
TBIO 6510: Biochemistry for Cancer Research4
SYSM 5910: Biomedical Informatics
or
TBIO 6525: Cancer Genetics
3
14 Credits

Senior – Spring

Course NameCredit(s)
HSCI 4973: Human Science Seminar/Capstone II3
HSCI 3090: Immunology3
TBIO 6536: Cancer Pharmacology4
TBIO 7060: Cancer Research Techniques3
13 Credits

Master’s – Fall

Course NameCredit(s)
TBIO 6508: Cellular/Molecular Aspects of the Transformed Cell4
TBIO 7050: Cancer Research Techniques3
SYSM 5910: Biomedical Informatics
or
TBIO 6525: Cancer Genetics
3
Graduate electives6
16 Credits

Master’s Courses

Senior – Fall

4 credits
Course Instructor: Ayesha N Shajahan, Michael Johnson

In this course, students will be introduced to basic biochemical pathways involved in normal human tissue and in carcinogenesis. Furthermore, students will be encouraged to think about how molecular interventions of biochemical pathways could be applied to solve current problems in cancer research.

SYSM 5910: Biomedical Informatics
3 credits
Course Instructor: Sona Vasudevan

This new didactic course will provide an overview of the field of Biomedical Informatics from different perspectives. Particular emphasis is given to understanding the basic building blocks, various information resources and the application areas of Biomedical Informatics. Students will learn to explore the process of developing and applying computational techniques for determining the information needs of health care providers and patients.

TBIO 6525: Cancer Genetics
3 credits
Course Instructor: Jan M Blancato, Michael Johnson

This course introduces the fundamentals of the molecular genetics and molecular cytogenetics of cancer. In addition, it covers diagnostic, clinical, and population-based aspects of this rapidly advancing field.

Senior – Spring

4 credits
Course Instructor: Robert Glazer , Robert R. Clarke

An overview of the fundamentals of pharmacology as applied to cancer therapy. Mechanisms of action and resistance to chemotherapeutic, antihormonal, biological response modifiers, and new experimental drugs will be emphasized.

3 credits
Course Instructor: Ayesha N Shajahan

Laboratory Research Project required for MS Students.

Master’s – Fall

4 credits
Course Instructor: Michael Johnson, Rebecca B Riggins

Designed to provide students with an integrative overview of mechanisms of growth control & malignant transformation by physical, chemical, & viral mechanisms. Introduction to growth factors, oncogenes, & suppressor genes. Includes an introduction to means of reverting or blocking malignant behavior with particular emphasis on biochemical & molecular mechanisms.

3 credits
Course Instructor: Ayesha N Shajahan

Laboratory Research Project required for MS Students.

SYSM 5910: Biomedical Informatics
3 credits
Course Instructor: Sona Vasudevan

This new didactic course will provide an overview of the field of Biomedical Informatics from different perspectives. Particular emphasis is given to understanding the basic building blocks, various information resources and the application areas of Biomedical Informatics. Students will learn to explore the process of developing and applying computational techniques for determining the information needs of health care providers and patients.

TBIO 6525: Cancer Genetics
3 credits
Course Instructor: Jan M Blancato, Michael Johnson

This course introduces the fundamentals of the molecular genetics and molecular cytogenetics of cancer. In addition, it covers diagnostic, clinical, and population-based aspects of this rapidly advancing field.

Our students can choose from many elective courses. Browse Electives on our MS courses page.

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The Georgetown Difference

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The Georgetown Difference

Student Resources

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Student Resources

Career Readiness

Our students benefit from the services of the Biomedical Graduate Education career office, including one-on-one advising, skills workshops, leadership programs and more.