2009-2010 KCUMB College Catalog - Kansas City University of ...

College of Biosciences
Introduction
With an expanded mission that includes greater emphasis on research and discovery,
KCUMB established the College of Biosciences in 2004. The College of Biosciences
granted its first diplomas to graduates of the master of science in biomedical sciences
program in 2006 and the master of arts in bioethics in 2009.
Master of Science in Biomedical Sciences
The College of Biosciences offers a master of science in biomedical sciences.
Students interested in pursuing the accredited master of science in biomedical sciences
can enroll in either the 12-month or the research track program (about 2 years).
The 12-month track includes coursework in biochemistry, cell biology, genetics,
epidemiology, physiology, molecular biology, neurosciences and anatomy, and places
emphasis on the acquisition of knowledge regarding state-of-the-art research
methodologies and protocols, regardless of the field one chooses to enter. The research
track is designed for individuals interested in pursuing careers as research scientists in
major laboratories.
Master of Arts in Bioethics
KCUMB’s College of Biosciences offers students the opportunity to earn a master of
arts in bioethics, which explores ethical questions raised in the life sciences, medicine,
biotechnology, health and public policy, as well as the implication of these issues for our
understanding of what it means to be a human person.
The program prepares students to deal with critical ethical issues, such as stem cell
research, genetic engineering, end-of-life care, health-care equity and public policy, the
globalization of medicine, and the relationship between environmental quality and
human health.
Students must complete 30 semester hours of course work, culminating with a threehour
final project. Traditionally, this requirement is fulfilled through a 25-50 page thesis
that could be published in a peer-reviewed bioethics journal. However, the program does
include the flexibility for non-traditional approaches, such as a video-based project or the
creation of a bioethics educational curriculum for in-serve training of healthcare
workers.
The program is designed to accommodate students with diverse backgrounds and
interests. Although the requirements are the same for all students, there are three distinct
tracks for completing the degree:
1. Dual-Degree Track – This track is designed for KCUMB students studying
osteopathic medicine who decide to also pursue a concurrent master’s
degree in bioethics. These students begin the bioethics program in the
summer following successful completion of their first year in COM. They
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