FAQ

1. How many courses are required? Are there any electives?

Ten courses must be completed: four core science courses, four core drug discovery courses, and two science electives.

Elective courses include: Molecular Basis of Pharmacology, Cancer Biology, Clinical and Molecular Diagnostics, Tissue Culture Techniques, Theory and Application of Immunoassays, and Recombinant Protein Expression. Additional courses offered in the bioinformatics and regulatory affairs concentrations may be substituted with the approval of the program advisor.

2. How long will it take to complete the program?

Starting in Fall 2004, the program can be completed in five semesters (Fall 2004, Spring 2005, Summer 2005, Fall 2005, and Spring 2006). The program cannot be completed as an accelerated program.

3. What is the fellowship?

Fellows earn an Master of Science in Biotechnology with a concentration in Molecular Targets and Drug Discovery Technologies, participate in full-time cancer research at the National Cancer Institute laboratories in Bethesda or Fredrick, MD, and receive full tuition and a competitive stipend. Fellowships are renewed annually.

4. How do I get a fellowship?

Admission into the Fellowship program is a competitive admission process where up to five students per year will be admitted to the JHU/NCI Fellowship program. Candidate must be a recent (within the past 3 years) graduate of an accredited university or college, be a U.S. citizen or Permanent Resident, and be accepted into the JHU M.S. Biotechnology program as a degree student before being considered for the fellowship.

5. If I am admitted into the MS in Biotechnology Program but do not receive a fellowship at NCI, can I still get the concentration Molecular Targets and Drug Discovery?

Yes, but you must receive approval from the program advisor. All students in the concentration must work in a research or bioscience laboratory that utilizes the techniques of modern drug discovery.

6. Will I be able to enroll in the core drug discovery courses if I don't want the concentration?

Yes, as long as prerequisite courses have been completed and space is available in the class.

7. Where will classes be held?

The core science and elective courses can be completed at the Homewood Campus in Baltimore, the Montgomery County Campus in Rockville, or online. The core drug discovery courses will only be offered at the Montgomery County Campus.

8. If I am currently enrolled in the MS in Biotechnology can I switch to the new concentration?

Yes, but only after petitioning the program advisor, who will require verification of employment status in an organization (research or bioscience laboratory) that utilizes the tools and techniques of modern drug discovery.

9. Am I required to take the GRE or the TOEFL?

The GRE is not required. The TOEFL test is required if your undergraduate degree was not completed in the United States.

10. Are recommendation letters required?

Yes, three letters of recommendation are required.

11. Am I eligible for financial aid?

Students accepted into the MS in Biotechnology program are eligible for financial aid, and should contact the Financial Aid office at 410-516-8028.

12. Whom should I contact for information about the program?

Dr. Cummings at cupat@jhu.edu or Dr. Obom at kobom@jhu.edu