The master's of science degree is a thesis-based program that consists of a total of 33 credits (27 course credits and 6 research credits). Students are expected to have a background in physiology in the undergraduate level or graduate level physiology courses may need to be taken. During the first academic year, students are required to select their thesis research advisor. Selection must take place no later than the end of the first summer (beginning of next summer for students entering in January), by then each student will have the opportunity to complete a one-month research rotation with three different principal investigators if they are unable to determine an advisor. The program then culminates in a final defense of their thesis before a committee of 3 BME graduate faculty members.