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Biomedical Sciences Career Map

What is Biomedical Sciences?

The Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Sciences (BMD) at the University of South Alabama provides intensive study in the sciences to prepare students for upper-level courses in human systems. The program offers three concentrations: Pre-Health Professions (PHP), Biotechnology (BT), and Public and Global Health (PGH). Because the curriculum focuses specifically on human systems, graduates have the distinct advantage of having taken basic medical sciences classes usually only offered at the post-baccalaureate level.

 

 

Awareness

Half lightbulb and half brain

First Year

  • Understand that the degree provides a solid foundation for health professions, graduate school, or entry-level health-related jobs.
  • Recognize that the program focuses on human systems, offering a unique advantage for those entering medical or dental fields.
  • Learn about the three distinct concentrations: Pre-Health Professions, Biotechnology, and Public and Global Health.
  • Identify the "Biomedical Foundations" core, which includes Biochemistry I & II, Human Anatomy, Human Physiology, and Microbiology.

Middle Years

  • Awareness of the "Biotechnology" track's emphasis on genetics, molecular biology, and recombinant DNA technology.
  • Recognize that the "Public and Global Health" track focuses on challenges limiting the provision of healthcare globally.
  • Identify the specific prerequisite coursework required for programs within the Pat Capps Covey College of Allied Health Professions.
  • Understand that each concentration requires approximately 16 hours of restricted electives selected through advising.

Last Year

  • Recognize that the degree requires a total of 120 credit hours for graduation across all concentrations.
  • Understand the preparation required for post-baccalaureate educational experiences such as Ph.D. programs or medical school.
  • Be aware of the career opportunities in industry and government laboratories, such as the CDC, for PGH graduates.

Exploration

Half lightbulb and half brain

First Year

  • Explore the differences between the three concentrations to determine which aligns best with your long-term career goals.
  • Investigate the "Biomedical Foundations" courses to understand the rigor of the medical sciences curriculum.
  • Engage with the Department of Biomedical Sciences to learn about various health-related careers like optometry or physical therapy.

Middle Years

  • Explore the laboratory component of the Biotechnology concentration to gain hands-on experience with recombinant DNA technology.
  • Investigate multi-disciplinary factors important to health and disease in resource-limited areas through the PGH concentration.
  • Utilize advising to select restricted electives that tailor your degree toward a specific professional interest.

Last Year

  • Research graduate programs in scientific research, public health, or global health education.
  • Explore entry-level job opportunities in the pharmaceutical industry or government sectors.
  • Investigate the requirements for professional school applications (medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, etc.).

Preparation

Briefcase

First Year

  • Establish a strong foundation in basic human sciences, chemistry, math, and statistics.
  • Begin the "Seminars in Biomedical Science" to start building professional and academic networks.
  • Consult with an advisor to ensure you are on the correct graduation plan for your chosen concentration.

Middle Years

  • Focus on mastering "Biotechnology Skills I & II" if pursuing the BT concentration to prepare for lab-based roles.
  • Prepare for clinical or research roles by excelling in Human Anatomy, Human Physiology, and Microbiology.
  • Gain knowledge of international healthcare systems and epidemiology if specializing in Public and Global Health.

Last Year

  • Finalize preparation for the MCAT, DAT, or GRE depending on your post-graduation professional school goals.
  • Complete advanced coursework such as Neurosciences, Immunology, or Computational Genetics.
  • Prepare a resume highlighting the specialized medical science coursework that sets BMD graduates apart.

Labor Statistics for
Biomedical Sciences 

Typical Entry-Level Education
Bachelor’s Degree

 

Job Outlook

5% growth by 2032

 

Median Salary

$60,780-91,290 per year

 

Annual Job
Openings Each Year

342,900

 

Current Workforce

-

 

 

What can I do with this major?

  • Pharmaceutical Sales Representative
  • Laboratory Technician (Biotechnology)
  • Government Lab Specialist (CDC/NIH)
  • Public Health Educator
  • Clinical Research Assistant
  • Environmental Health Specialist

What skills will I learn?

  • Human Systems Expertise: Advanced knowledge of human anatomy, physiology, and genetics.
  • Biotechnology Skills: Proficiency in recombinant DNA technology and molecular biology laboratory techniques.
  • Epidemiological Analysis: Understanding the distribution and determinants of health and disease in populations.
  • Medical Science Foundations: Mastering biochemistry and microbiology at a level comparable to post-baccalaureate study.
  • Computational Genetics: Utilizing data and technology to analyze genetic information.
  • Global Health Strategy: Knowledge of international healthcare systems and challenges in resource-limited areas.

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