Medical Sciences Interdepartmental Area (MSIA) Program
The Department of Oral Biology participates in the Medical Sciences Interdepartmental Area (MSIA) Program in the Graduate College at the University of Nebraska Medical Center.
- Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy degrees are offered with specialization in a variety of biomedical disciplines.
- The opportunity exists for college graduates, including health professionals, to pursue a graduate degree in preparation for careers in research and academic dentistry.
- The MSIA oral biology program emphasizes basic research on clinically important problems concerned with the biological, chemical and physical basis of issues related to oral health.
- molecular biology of cell signaling pathways
- cell-cell adhesion
- oral cancer
- DNA damage and repair
- craniofacial physiology including developmental anomalies
- immunoregulation
- dental outcomes
- dental biomaterials
It is expected that students will pursue a program of a multi- or inter-disciplinary nature including courses in at least two of the disciplines represented in the department and courses offered on the UNMC Omaha or Lincoln campus.
- The thesis or dissertation will be conducted under the direction of one or more graduate faculty members of the department.
- Graduate courses offered on the UNMC Omaha or Lincoln campus, for which prerequisites are met, may be taken by MSIA students. This allows maximum flexibility in program design for each student. These studies include course work, seminars and significant experience in research.
- A particular strength of this program is the degree of collaborative research between faculty of different departments and colleges. A student may pursue dental and graduate degrees simultaneously providing all entrance requirements are fulfilled.
Each applicant must hold a DDS, DMD, MD or a baccalaureate degree from a recognized college or university. In general, to be admitted, students must have achieved a B average as an undergraduate student.
If English is not the primary language of the applicant, a minimum score of 550 (paper-based) or 213 (computer-based) is required on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). A brief narrative describing the reasons for applying to the MSIA Graduate Program is also required. The narrative should include a statement of career goals and area of research interest. A completed application includes:
- Application form
- Official transcripts from each university of college attended
- Three letters of recommendation
- Narrative from the applicant outlining his/her objective and career goals
- Proof of English language proficiency, if the applicant is from a foreign language country
Tuition, other fees and expenses are listed on the UNMC Office of Graduate Studies website.
Graduate students can be supported through competitive university fellowships, research assistantships, and research grants held by the faculty. A limited number of graduate research assistantships (includes stipend, tuition and fees) are available to entering students. Graduate students are encouraged to apply for a research assistantship as soon as their thesis/dissertation proposal is approved.
Apply online through the UNMC Office of Graduate Studies.
Contact
Dr. James Wahl, Associate Dean for Research
Department of Oral Biology
402-472-1324
jwahl@unmc.edu