Loyola Launches New Masters of Science Physiology Program

MAYWOOD, Ill. – Registration is under way for Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine’s new master’s degree program in physiology. “Physiology is the basis of medicine,” said Stephen L. Lipsius, PhD, professor of physiology and director of the program.

“By enhancing students’ understanding of medical physiology, this program will provide graduates an excellent opportunity to enhance their academic credentials for admission to future medical training programs, such as medical and dental school or a physician assistant, physical therapy or perfusionist program.”

The physiology master’s degree program consists of eight courses (24 credit hours) and is a non-thesis, full-time curriculum that will take students nine months to complete. Courses will run from early September to late May. Students will be taught by faculty at the Stritch School of Medicine in Maywood, Ill. Students will be assigned a faculty advisor who will guide them through the program. The program also will provide assistance to students seeking volunteer experience for medical-related career opportunities. The program includes courses in graduate cell physiology, physiological biochemistry, organ systems physiology, neurophysiology, basic human anatomy, introduction to pathophysiology and clinical bioethics.

It also includes a course in professional development to foster students’ interaction with medical professionals and enhance their ability to prepare résumés, fill out medical school applications and develop strong interviewing skills. Students must maintain a B average to successfully complete the program. Graduates who achieve GPAs of 3.5 or higher and whose most recent MCAT score is 30 or higher are guaranteed admission interviews at Stritch School of Medicine.

“Successful completion of the program will provide students with a strong foundation for success in a wide variety of future professional biomedical programs,” said Pieter de Tombe, PhD, chairman of Stritch’s Department of Physiology.

Applicants to the program must have: A bachelor’s degree with a GPA of 3.0 or higher. One year of biology, general chemistry, organic chemistry, physics and mathematics, preferably calculus. Official MCAT scores with a minimum required score of 27 or GRE scores with a minimum of 1100 (verbal plus quantitative) or DAT scores with a minimum of 16. Only scores obtained within the last three years will be considered. Official transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate institutions attended. A statement that expresses the student’s motivation and plans for a biomedical career as well as any relevant clinical, employment, teaching or research experiences. Two letters of recommendation appropriate for acceptance into a master’s degree program. Pre-med committee letters are acceptable. Applicants must agree to an Illinois state criminal background check. The application deadline is July 15, 2011. Students must commit to acceptance by Aug. 1. All applicants must apply online to the Loyola University Chicago Graduate School at http://gradapp.luc.edu/gradapp/login.htm. Updated materials such as transcripts and letters of recommendation should be sent to: Graduate and Professional Enrollment Management, 820 N. Michigan Ave., Lewis Towers, Room 800, Chicago, Ill., 60611.