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The Diagnostic Laboratory Sciences (DLS) track of the PSM in Applied Biosciences GIDP is designed to prepare students for professional careers in the medical and biotechnology diagnostic industries surrounding in vitro devices (IVDs), a term used to describe medical devices and diagnostic laboratory test methods regulated by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Graduates may seek employment in a wide variety of medical and scientific settings, including the diagnostics and pharmaceutical industries, the biotechnology industry, clinical and translational research units, and government agencies. Emphasis topics may include development of laboratory management skills, acumen in the legal and business environment of the diagnostic and biotech industries, compliance to federal regulations for healthcare or the diagnostic industry, or knowledge of the in vitro device processes and regulations. The track requires that students successfully complete an internship in a medical laboratory, a diagnostic or translational research group, a university compliance office for industry- or agency-funded research, or one of the associated bioscience companies.
Students will work closely with faculty members of the PSM-ABS program. These faculty members direct translational research programs, and collaborate with partners in the diagnostic and biotech industries. Their research involves the development of novel testing methods for disease detection, as well as basic science research programs that investigate mechanisms of disease, characterization of diseases such as cancer and infections, or development of disease interventions such as vaccines and antitoxins.
The Graduate College sponsors several Graduate Interdisciplinary Programs (GIDPs) in addition to the many interdisciplinary possibilities available through regular graduate degree programs. GIDPs transcend departmental boundaries by facilitating cutting edge teaching and research at the nexus of traditional disciplines. The high value placed on interdisciplinary research and education is indicative of The University of Arizona's enthusiasm and commitment to fostering innovation and creativity among its faculty and students.
Students who wish to apply to the PSM degree in Applied Biosciences must have the minimum qualifications:
A Bachelors (or equivalent) degree with a major in an area of biosciences from an accredited institution.
A minimum 3.0 GPA
A desire to pursue a professional career in the applied biosciences.
Admissions Process
Students should apply directly to the specific track in the program they wish to pursue. The application should be submitted online (only) via the Graduate College website (http://grad.arizona.edu). Be prepared to submit the following materials:
Scans of all transcripts (official versions will be requested if you are selected for admission)
GRE scores (recommended but not required; general test only)
TOEFL scores (required if you are not a native speaker of English)
GPAs for all undergraduate work
A one to two page statement of interests, which outlines your background (including any professional experience) and your professional goals.
You should separately arrange with two references (typically former or current professors or work supervisors) who can comment on your skills, training and potential for the PSM in Applied Biosciences. You will need to include their names and email addresses in your online application
Required test(s):
Required GRE Subject tests:
Recommended tests:
Recommended tests:
Recommended GRE Subject tests: general test only
Minimum GRE Verbal: 130-170, in 1 point increments
Minimum GRE Quantitative: 130-170, in 1 point increments
Minumum GRE Written: 0-6, in half point increments
Minimum TOEFL: 79 internet based (IBT); 550 paper based (PB)
Minimum IELTS: 7 (no subject area below 6)
There is no funding support directly available from this program.
Domestic Applicants:
International Applicants:
4832
The ABS PSM program is designed specifically to prepare students to competitively enter the scientific workforce. During the two-year course of study, students will gain a strong understanding of the applications of the biological sciences to real world problems, including those faced by public institutions and private industry. A minimum of 36 unit hours is needed for this degree; 6-9 of these units are for the research internship and report. Students have a maximum of 6 years to complete the degree. Students may apply for, and be admitted to, any of the 4 tracks (“sub-plans”). The courses are grouped into modules.
Curriculum
All Tracks have the following general structure.
Science Module...................................................15 Units
Professional Preparation Module.............................12 Units
Internship Module (including the Final Report)..........9 Units
Total.................................................................36 Units
For new students, please contact the Director of Graduate Studies (DGS) of your track for advice in the selection of your first semester courses.
For more detailed information on all other official academic requirements, policies and procedures of the program are outlined in the ABS-PSM Student Handbook 2017-2018 (PDF)
Administrative policies are outlined in the program bylaws here.