Medical School Receives SACSCOC Approval for the Master of Science in Biomedical Sciences Program

The Campbell University Jerry M. Wallace School of Osteopathic Medicine received approval of its Master of Science in Biomedical Sciences (MSBS) from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges this week.
In the MSBS program, students work towards a degree while strengthening their academic record and are provided opportunities to gain insight and experience in the biomedical sciences.  Upon successful completion of the MSBS degree, students will be more competitive for admission to medical school and other health professional programs as well as more competitive for employment in areas of healthcare education such as the biomedical sciences, research, and patient simulation.
“I am delighted about the addition of the MS in Biomedical Sciences to the University’s long and growing list of approved academic programs,” said Dr. Mark Hammond, Vice President for Academic Affairs & Provost for Campbell University.  “For years, Campbell undergraduate students have needed and wanted a preparatory pathway for successful transition into medical school or various professional degree programs.  It is exciting that we can now offer such an attractive post-baccalaureate program right here in our own medical school!”
The approval of the new program comes at an optimal time for pre-professional students.  In 2014, 17,944 students applied to osteopathic medical school and of those applicants 6,465 matriculated into an osteopathic medical school according to the American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine.  Similarly, the Association of American Medical Colleges reports 140,045 prospective students applied to allopathic medical schools in 2014 and only 61,005 were accepted.  Furthermore, there is a need for basic scientists to work in laboratories and research facilities across the region and the state.
“The application process for medical school and health-professions programs is very competitive, and CUSOM is proud to be able to provide a program for students to enhance their competitive edge,” said Dean Kauffman.  “The MSBS program will prepare students for medical school or a career in biomedical research – we look forward to an increase in the number of North Carolinians and Campbell University alumni who graduate from our MSBS programs and fulfill the needs of the healthcare and biomedical science fields both regionally and across the nation.”