MHS in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology | Johns Hopkins

About the MHS in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Program

The MHS in the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology is designed for students interested in graduate-level preparation for careers in medicine, biomedical research, public health, and related health sciences. Our curriculum focuses around biochemistry, molecular biology, cancer biology, and the biology of disease and public health. Our coursework includes elective classes which allows students the opportunity to take courses in other departments.

BMB has two master degree programs, this 9-month MHS and the 2-year ScM. Both share the same coursework in the first year and MHS students may apply to transfer to ScM, which includes an additional year of lab research training that culminates in an original research-based thesis under the guidance of a faculty mentor.

Apply by June 1 for an August start.

MHS in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Program Highlights

The Biochemistry and Molecular Biology MHS provides an in-depth grounding in the cellular and molecular biology at the foundation of medicine and public health, providing preparation for a range of careers. Our position within the School of Public Health offers students vast opportunities to broaden their experience. Joining our program provides you with:

A curriculum that builds your academic portfolio – from mastering required courses to understanding basic biology and public health topics beyond the standard medical school offerings
Opportunities to participate in community service, engagement, and outreach, both within the Bloomberg School, and beyond, with a focus on our East Baltimore neighborhoods, through SOURCE
Access to the School of Public Health Career Services Office, offering excellent career services and professional development for careers paths from medicine to biotech to academia and beyond
Options to focus elective options to gain focused training in specific public health topics through the School of Public Health Certificate Programs, many only open to Johns Hopkins students
Opportunities to train in professional public health practice settings through internships and other placements arranged through the Office of Practice and Training (note, programs do not qualify for MHS course credit)

Explore

A diverse range of career paths

1 on 1

Extensive opportunities for mentoring and advising

1

Comprehensive literature-based thesis

9

Months to complete the program

What Can You Do With an MHS In Biochemistry And Molecular Biology?

The MHS is designed to prepare students for careers in medicine, health and research by providing a grounding in the basic biology that is at the foundation of medical and public health practice and advances.

Sample Careers

Physician (MD or DO)
Research Coordinator
Physician Scientist (MD/PhD)
Dentist
Clinical Researcher
Research Consultant
Physician Assistant
Nutritionist
Healthcare biotechnology worker

Preparation For

Medical School
Dental School
Physician Assistant School

Connect with current students! Bloomberg Ambassadors are available to answer your questions about being a student at the School of Public Health.

Curriculum for the MHS in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology

The BMB MHS includes courses within a core curriculum focused around biochemistry, molecular biology, cancer biology, and the biology of disease and public health. The remainder of the courses are electives that can be chosen based on interests and career goals.

Browse an overview of the requirements for this master's program in the JHU Academic Catalogue and explore all course offerings in the Bloomberg School Course Directory.

64.5

Minimum course credits

18.5

Core course credits

45

Minimum elective course credits

100+

Courses available

Admissions Requirements

For the general admissions requirements see our How to Apply page. The specific program also requires:

Prior Coursework

Strong background in the sciences, particularly in chemistry, biochemistry, or biology

Standardized Test Scores

Standardized test scores (GRE, MCAT) are optional for this program. The admissions committee will make no assumptions if a standardized test score is omitted from an application, but will require evidence of quantitative/analytical ability through other application components such as academic transcripts and/or supplemental questions. Applications will be reviewed holistically based on all application components.

Program Faculty Spotlight

Floyd Bryant

Professor

Biochemistry and Molecular Biology

Randy Bryant, PhD, studied mechanistic enzymology and now trains future scientists and public health leaders in the classroom, teaching biochemistry, and mentoring students.

Roza Selimyan

Teaching Professor

Biochemistry and Molecular Biology

Roza Selimyan, PhD, leads the Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Department academic programs, where she focuses on connecting science, health, and education.

Utthara Nayar

Assistant Professor

Biochemistry and Molecular Biology

Utthara Nayar, PhD, is a breast cancer biologist who uses functional genomics tools to understand and overcome tumor resistance to targeted therapies.

View More Program Faculty

Tuition and Funding

MHS students can be supported by student loans and work-study programs. Additional information on financial aid for MHS students is available from the Office of Student Affairs within the Bloomberg School. All full-time students are required to maintain health insurance–the Student Affairs health insurance resources provides more information about the requirement and the health insurance plan available to students for purchase.

See Cost Breakdown