College of Graduate Studies Programs

Graduate Student, Vivian in the lab

Programs Overview

The College of Graduate Studies at the Medical University of South Carolina is committed to the graduate training of biomedical research scientists, providing critical thinking skills and experimental expertise that prepare them to work at the interface of the basic sciences and human health and disease. We believe that the single most important experience a University can offer is the opportunity to make exciting new discoveries through research.

Ph.D. students are provided with competitive stipends, paid tuition, health insurance, and travel awards to allow them to present their work at scientific conferences. The time to Ph.D. averages five years in our graduate program. MS and combined degree programs are also offered. (M.D./Ph.D., D.M.D./Ph.D., and Pharm.D./Ph.D.) More information on our degree programs offered is below.

MS: Biomedical Sciences

  • Interdisciplinary program with first-semester core curriculum
  • Laboratory rotations to choose a research mentor
  • Mentorship that ensures progress through program milestones
  • 2 years to complete, thesis required

Learn more about the MS in Biomedical Sciences

MS: Medical Sciences

  • One-year program to prepare for medical/dental school
  • Medical/dental school-level coursework
  • Streamlined application process with an AMCAS or AADSAS
  • Professional development and skill-building workshops

Learn more about the MS in Medical Sciences

MS: Clinical Research

Prepares current health professionals for research in clinical settings. 

Learn more about the MS in Clinical Research

Ph.D.: Biomedical Sciences

  • Interdisciplinary program with first-year core curriculum
  • Laboratory rotations to choose program and mentor
  • Mentorship that ensures progress through program milestones
  • Financial considerations include a $37,000 per year stipend, paid tuition, fees, health insurance

Learn more about the Ph.D. in Biomedical Sciences

M.D./Ph.D.

  • Integrates basic biomedical research with clinical/translation research
  • NIH Funded for 25 years
  • MSTP pays for medical school expenses

Learn more about the M.D./Ph.D. program

D.M.D./Ph.D.

  • Multidisciplinary program in dental-related sciences
  • NIH Funded for 10 years
  • Part of the Center for Oral Health Research (COHR)
  • DSTP pays for dental school expenses

Learn more about the D.M.D./Ph.D. program

PharmD/Ph.D.

  • Department of Drug Discovery and Biomedical Sciences in the South Carolina College of Pharmacy at MUSC
  • Research in Bioorganic and Medicinal Chemistry and Cell Death, Injury and Regeneration
  • Stipends and scholarships provided

Learn more about the PharmD/Ph.D. program