Curriculum

At Harvard Medical School, the Master of Medical Sciences in Therapeutic Sciences immerses students in research-intensive, hands-on coursework that prepares them to succeed in a wide range of research careers in biomedical research or to pursue further education. Completion of the residential, in-person MMSc in Therapeutic Sciences program requires 64 credits, with 36 credits dedicated to lab-based mentored research. Based on the desired area of scientific specialization and the thesis project, students select advanced training in either biochemical or cell biology-based methodologies. In their second years, students will primarily focus on their Mentored Research/Thesis work, including generating data, analyzing data, and writing and defending the thesis.

The MMSc in Therapeutic Sciences program curriculum covers the following key topic areas:

  • Fundamentals in biochemistry, cell biology, and assay development
  • Biophysical and biochemical mechanisms of protein function
  • Principles of cell biology
  • Scientific communication and data visualization
  • Data literacy
  • Professional skills development

The program also includes a seminar series and journal clubs that expose students to real-world experiences and case studies that reflect the newest developments, challenges, and trends in the industry.

Year 1

Fall
  • Fundamentals in Biochemistry, Cell Biology and Assay Development (8 credits)
  • Data Literacy (4 credits)
  • Seminar Series and Journal Club* (1 credit)
  • Thesis Research (2 credits)

*Full-year course

Spring
  • Scientific Communication, and Data Visualization (4 credits)
  • Biophysical and Biochemical Mechanisms of Protein Function* (4 credits)
  • Principles of Cell Biology* (4 credits)
  • Thesis Research (6 credits)
  • Possible elective(s)** (2-4 credits)

*Students will select between one of the courses: either BCMP 250 or CB 201
**Not required

Year 2

Fall
  • Professional Skills Development (2 credits)
  • Thesis Research* (14 credits)
  • Possible elective(s)** (2-4 credits)

*Occurs over Summer and Fall Sessions
**Not required

Spring
  • Thesis Research (14 credits)
  • Seminar Series and Journal Club* (1 credit)
  • Possible elective(s)** (2-4 credits)

*Full-year course
**Not required