Mission Statement
The Master of Science in Immunology, offered by the Department of Microbiology and Immunology and the Institute for Molecular Medicine and Infectious Disease (IMMID), is a non-thesis degree program. The program provides education and training in areas of research in basic and clinical immunology and immunologically based diseases. Students in this program acquire theoretical and practical knowledge about the normal functions of the immune system and disease pathogenesis associated with immunological dysfunction. Students also learn how this knowledge is applied to develop tools for diagnosis, treatment, prognosis, and prevention of immunologically based diseases. Graduates from this program will be ready to enter the biotechnology workforce and are attractive candidates for doctoral programs in science and medicine.
The Master of Science in Immunology program is designed to provide academic and practical biotechnical knowledge in translational research, particularly in the areas of immunotherapeutics and vaccine development.
Curriculum
The two year non-thesis program encompasses fundamental requirements to establish a sound grounding in immunology, biochemistry, genetics, and cellular and molecular biology. The program is typically completed in two full-time years (four semesters of at least nine credits) of required and elective graduate courses, and one or more experiential research components in the first or second year. The flexibility of the curriculum enables students to complete the degree requirement within 18 months on an accelerated basis and up to 4 years on a part-time basis. The successful completion of the degree will be determined by grades obtained in the graduate courses, participation in seminars and journal clubs, and performance in the research component. A minimum of 36.0 credits is required to graduate with at least 6.0 of those earned as research credits.
The experiential research component of the curriculum can be fulfilled by two alternative approaches. Most students choose to engage in an intensive 6.0 credit hands-on research internship in which a 12-16 week research program will be undertaken in a laboratory at Drexel University, another academic institution, or at a biotechnology or biopharmaceutical company. Alternatively, students may choose to engage in a less intensive experience spanning two semesters, or conduct an independent research project with the approval and supervision of program directors.
Traditional (Face-to-Face), Hybrid, or Online Learning Options
Classes can be attended at any of Drexel College of Medicine locations: Center City and Queen Lane campuses in Philadelphia. State-of-the-art video conferencing provides real-time interactive learning at these locations. Most classes are held in the late afternoon/early evening to facilitate participation of working professionals. The program may also be completed fully online–offered through Drexel University Online. All required courses and most electives have online sections and online students experience the same curriculum as face-to-face or hybrid students. Online sections are designed to maximize interactions among students and faculty and may include live web sessions. Individual students also may choose a mix of traditional and online (hybrid) courses. The goal is to provide maximum scheduling flexibility.