Biomedical Sciences, Certificate (1801)
Program Coordinator
Jarrett R. Johnson, jarrett.johnson@wku.edu, (270) 745-3696
The Department of Biological Sciences at Western Kentucky University offers an 18-hour Graduate Certificate in Biomedical Sciences with highly flexible start dates, completion timelines, and the ability to complete all coursework asynchronously online. The certificate provides graduate-level preparation for professional school applications, career advancement, professional accreditation, or future graduate study.
Certificate coursework strengthens students’ critical thinking and scientific reasoning skills while providing foundational knowledge relevant to professional programs or other advanced degrees in biology. Up to 12 credit hours accrued in the certificate program are eligible to count towards the 30-hour M.S. in Biology, and both credentials may be earned with a minimum of 36 credit hours. The certificate includes coursework in cell biology, molecular genetics, virology, cancer biology, immunology, microbiology, biochemistry and neurobiology, with elective courses available in statistics, evolution, plant therapeutics, and toxicology. Students may enter the certificate program during any of WKU’s four academic terms, with start dates in January, May, August, and December. Students may choose accelerated or relaxed timelines based on their needs.
Graduate Studies Admission
Please refer to the admission section of this catalog for Graduate Studies admission requirements.
Program Requirements (18 hours)
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Required Core Courses | ||
| Select 6-12 hours of the following: | ||
| Molecular Basis of Cancer | ||
| Virology | ||
| Cell Biology | ||
| Molecular Genetics | ||
| Biochemistry | ||
| Required Advanced Courses | ||
| Select 6-12 hours of the following: | ||
| Advanced Neurobiology | ||
| Advanced Cell Biology | ||
| Advanced Molecular Genetics | ||
| Advanced Microbiology | ||
| Advanced Immunology | ||
| Advanced Biochemistry | ||
| Electives | ||
| Select 0 to 6 hours of the following: | ||
| Plants as Alternative Therapeutics | ||
| Biological Systematics | ||
| Evolution and Ecological Genetics | ||
| Environmental Science Concepts | ||
| Animal Communication | ||
| Mechanistic Toxicology | ||
| Biometry | ||
| Analytical Biochemistry | ||
| Total Hours | 18 | |
| Completion of Certificate Assessment Exam | ||