Biomedical Laboratory Clinical Sciences

bu.edu/met/biomedical

Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Laboratory & Clinical Sciences Certificate in Biotechnology Certificate in Clinical Research
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From the Director

Welcome to Boston Universitys program in Biomedical Laboratory & Clinical Sciences.
If you are interested in a career in the fields of biotechnology or clinical research, youve come to the right place. Boston is one of the worlds preeminent biomedical centers; the rapid pace of innovation in these industries and the high demand for trained professionals means a broad range of exciting opportunities at the forefront of life sciences research. Boston Universitys Metropolitan College and School of Medicine collaborate to provide this outstanding academic program that will prepare you for a rewarding future in biomedical or clinical research. You have the opportunity to obtain a Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Laboratory & Clinical Sciences, or a certificate in Biotechnology or Clinical Research. Along with the academic excellence you expect from Boston University, our program features part- and full-time study options, evening and Saturday courses, and valuable hands-on training through laboratory courses and externships at research facilities in the greater Boston area. Many of our students work in Bostons biomedical industry while pursuing their studies simultaneously. Metropolitan Colleges open registration policy means you can even register for individual classes before committing to a degree or certificate program. Whether you are changing careers or working toward a credential to improve your marketability, Boston Universitys program in Biomedical Laboratory & Clinical Sciences will prepare you for a fulfilling role in this fast-growing and rewarding industry. As you explore the following pages, youll find information on our undergraduate offerings and admission policies. Should you have any questions, please feel free to contact me directly at 617-638-5622 or cphilli@bu.edu. I look forward to hearing from you.

Sincerely, Constance Phillips

Director, Program in Biomedical Laboratory & Clinical Sciences Research Assistant Professor of Biochemistry BA, Emmanuel College MA, Suffolk University MPH, Boston University

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Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Laboratory & Clinical Sciences

The Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Laboratory & Clinical Sciences (BLCS) combines general undergraduate education with special technical preparation for the biomedical field in order to train students for positions in biomedical research laboratories or clinical research settings. The time required to earn the degree varies based on individual schedules, transferable credits, and the pace students establish for themselves to complete the program. The BLCS curriculum consists of 128 credits, to be earned in four distinct components: 1.  Distribution/Specialization Requirements (74 credits) Distribution requirements comprise the basic science and liberal arts courses for all Metropolitan College degree candidates, while specialization requirements are drawn from specified courses in the biomedical sciences taught at Boston Universitys School of Medicine. Students must complete 48 distribution credits and 26 specialization credits. Courses taken at other institutions may satisfy some of these requirements.

4.  Externship/Clinical Practicum (10 credits)

Students gain hands-on experience in their chosen field by working as interns in a laboratory environment. Externships are available in clinical, industrial, and university settings, and assist students in meeting individual goals while earning credit toward their degree and adding valuable professional experience to their rsum.  Students must earn a minimum of 10 credits through the externship program, and may earn up to 20 credits with the directors approval. The total number of credits earned in the externship will determine the number of specialization elective course credits required of students. Students must earn a grade of C or higher in specialization courses. To graduate, students need a cumulative grade point average of 2.0 or higher.

Course Listings and Descriptions

A comprehensive list of courses, course descriptions, and requirements for the Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Laboratory & Clinical Sciences can be found online at bu.edu/met/biomedical. Course schedules for specific semesters can be found on the website or in the Metropolitan College Schedule prior to the start of registration. See page 5 of this brochure for details and registration procedures.

2.  Specialization Electives (36 credits)

Specialization electives provide working knowledge in a range of relevant fields, including cell culture, molecular biology, immunology, and clinical laboratory genetics. Students select their electives from a wide range of offerings, and may concentrate on an area of their choosing. Students must complete 36 credits of specialization electives, of which 10 additional credits of externship may be chosen.

3. F  ree Electives (8 credits)

Free electives allow students to complement and broaden their academic background. Students should consider their career objectives and personal interests when selecting free elective courses. Eight credits of free electives are required; approved transfer credits from another accredited institution may be applied toward this requirement.

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The Externship
The externship is an integral component of the Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Laboratory & Clinical Sciences degree requirements, providing a valuable opportunity for students to gain hands-on experience in their chosen field. Externships can take place in biotechnology firms, clinical laboratories, and biomedical research facilities. Students have also been able to arrange externships at their own workplace. A contract signed by the student, laboratory supervisor, and program director is required. Students must meet with the program director and submit a rsum at least one semester before their externship is to start. Before receiving a grade, each student must present a PowerPoint summary of his or her directed study. A minimum of 10 externship credits is necessary for the Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Laboratory & Clinical Sciences degree. A minimum of 15 hours of supervised laboratory work equals one credit. Students pay regular tuition charges for externship credits. Students completing their externship should enroll in Directed Study Biomedical Externship (GMS BT 591/592) or Clinical Research Practicum (GMS BT 594/595).

student profile

Jean Nazaire

MS Program in Bioinformatics Georgetown University CityLab Academy (07) BS in Biomedical Laboratory & Clinical Sciences (11) I finished CityLab Academy and entered the BLCS program so I could compete for a good lab assistant or technician position. So far, my favorite aspect of the program is the hands-on training. The lab classes provide a good opportunity to practice and learn at the same timehelping me become more familiar with the lab instruments and research in the Lab Animal Science Center at BUMC, where I work. Getting to know proper medical terminology also makes it easier to communicate with the Centers primary investigators. I can do a lot with the BLCS degree, but Im focusing on genetics and molecular biology because I want to go into bioinformatics. This program is giving me the foundation I need to pursue this goal.

Employment Opportunities
The biomedical field offers a broad range of career opportunities. Below are two examples of job descriptions for which Biomedical Laboratory & Clinical Sciences graduates are qualified:

Associate Scientist I
This position is critical in the testing of manufactured drugs to be released by a company. Knowledge of CGMP, Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), validation activities, specific software, and laboratory assays is critical to successful performance in this job. Excellent communication skills are also important in training and working across different departments within the company.

Recent Externship Sites

 Analytical Development Laboratory, Biogen Idec, Inc., Cambridge  Emergency Department, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston Millennium Pharmaceuticals, Cambridge  Massachusetts General Hospital, Core Hematology Laboratory, Boston  Department of Human Genetics, Boston University School of Medicine (BUSM) Department of Pharmacology, BUSM Department of Infectious Diseases, BUSM  Quality Control Department, Pfizer, Inc., Andover  Pharmaceutical Laboratory, Genzyme Corporation, Cambridge

Clinical Research Coordinator

Responsibilities include assisting with clinical research studies; recruiting and evaluating patients for studies; scheduling patients for study visits; obtaining informed consent; collecting and organizing patient data; quality assurance of research charts to assure compliance; and insuring high levels of confidentiality regarding study and patient medical records.

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Admission and Registration

Students apply for admission to the Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Laboratory & Clinical Sciences degree program through Metropolitan Colleges Undergraduate Student Services. Secondary school graduation, or an equivalency diploma, and official transcripts from all postsecondary institutions attended are required.

International Students
Applicants who are not U.S. citizens or permanent residents must contact Undergraduate Student Services at 617-353-2980 or visit bu.edu/met/admissions/ apply-now.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

The Boston University Financial Assistance office can answer your questions about financial aid, merit awards, need-based grants, and other educational grant and lending programs. Please visit bu.edu/finaid or call 617-353-2965.

Transfer Students
Students may be able to enter the program with credits earned at other accredited institutions. To determine eligibility, transfer applicants must meet with an academic counselor prior to completing an application for admission.

Scholarship for Community College Graduates

The Metropolitan College Scholarship for Community College Graduates offers a 50 percent tuition scholarship, for up to 12 credits a semester, to qualified graduates of the following Massachusetts community colleges: Bunker Hill, Mass Bay, Middlesex, Northern Essex, Quinsigamond, and Roxbury. For information, visit bu.edu/met/scholarship/community.

Open Registration
Open registration allows new and current students to take most Metropolitan College courses without applying to a program or submitting transcripts. Applicants who have completed secondary school or its equivalent may enroll in courses by following registration procedures. Those registering for more than three courses will need a signature from an academic counselor or the program director.

Scholarship for Parents

Metropolitan College offers a 50 percent reduction in tuition for parents with children in Boston and Chelsea public schools. For eligibility details, visit bu.edu/met/scholarship/parents.

Scholarship for Boston Medical Center Employees

Benefits-eligible Boston Medical Center employees who work 24 hours per week or more can enroll in undergraduate or graduate Metropolitan College courses on the Boston University Charles River Campus or Medical Campus, and receive a 50 percent reduction in tuition. For more information, visit bu.edu/met/corporate/bmc/scholarship.

Registration Procedures
All students are expected to register for courses during the normal registration period each semester. Exact dates, methods, times, and locations of registration are published before each semester in the Metropolitan College Schedule. A calendar of important dates and a registration form are included in the publication. Students may also view the University Class Schedule online at bu.edu/studentlink. Before registering, students should check course descriptions for additional notes, as many advanced courses carry prerequisites that must be completed before enrolling. To request a copy of the Metropolitan College Schedule, please call 617-353-6000, email met@bu.edu, or visit bu.edu/met.

Additional scholarship opportunities are available through Metropolitan College. For more information, please visit bu.edu/met/scholarship.

Academic Advising
Experienced academic counselors are available to advise undergraduate degree candidates and non-degree students on the many programs offered by Metropolitan College. Undergraduate Student Services provides guidance on enrollment procedures, course selection, and academic requirements. This service is available to those considering enrolling in Metropolitan College, as well as to new and continuing students. For more information, please call Undergraduate Student Services at 617-353-2980, visit bu.edu/met, or email metuss@bu.edu.

Tuition and Fees

In general, tuition is determined by the number of credits taken, plus any additional fees. For specific tuition and fee information, please refer to the Metropolitan College website at bu.edu/met. Information on payment procedures and deadlines is included. To request a copy of each publication, please call Metropolitan College at 617-353-6000, email met@bu.edu, or visit bu.edu/met.

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Other Biomedical Programs

Certificate Programs
For those who already work in a laboratory setting, the Certificate in Biotechnology and the Certificate in Clinical Research each offer excellent opportunities to update skills and earn a professional credential without committing to a degree program.
student profile

Certificate in Biotechnology
The Certificate in Biotechnology is an excellent option for those who wish to obtain advanced training in areas such as microbiology, molecular biology, and cell culture. The certificate provides preparation in various protocols and hands-on laboratory skills used at many biomedical, pharmaceutical, and biotechnology companies. A comprehensive list of courses, course descriptions, and requirements for the Certificate in Biotechnology can be found online at bu.edu/met/biotechcertificate. Course schedules for specific semesters can be found on the website or in the Metropolitan College Schedule prior to the start of registration. See page 5 of this brochure for details and registration procedures.

JoAn Blake

BS in Biomedical Laboratory & Clinical Sciences (11) As a student in the clinical research pathway of the program, I gained a tremendous amount of practical information and skills. I now believe that, as a direct result of the many courses and the hands-on practicum, I can contribute to the world of clinical trials in a meaningful way. Clinical trials saved my daughters life; that is why I wanted my bachelors degree in biomedical laboratory and clinical sciences. As the first Parent Scholar at Metropolitan College, I feel especially fortunate to have been given the opportunity to learn about my chosen field and to gain the confidence to pursue a career in clinical research.

These four-course certificate programs are designed for students who have a foundation in biology, chemistry, and math; who already hold an undergraduate degree in the sciences; or who are career changers with a degree from another field. With the program directors approval, students have the option of designing their own certificate based on individual goals. To earn a certificate, students must have sufficient education or job experience to succeed in their chosen field. Admittance to a certificate program requires submission of a rsum and application, as well as an interview with the program director to determine the students goals and design an appropriate curriculum.

Certificate in Clinical Research

Functioning as the link between the biomedical industry and the physician, clinical research professionals assist in the testing and evaluation of new drugs, devices, and procedures. The Certificate in Clinical Research trains professionals to contribute to the design, conduct, and analysis of clinical trials. A comprehensive list of courses, course descriptions, and requirements for the Certificate in Clinical Research can be found online at bu.edu/met/ clinicalresearch. Course schedules for specific semesters can be found on the website or in the Metropolitan College Schedule prior to the start of registration. See page 5 of this brochure for details and registration procedures.

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Other Biomedical Programs,

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CityLab Academy
City Lab Academy is a free, two-semester degree-track education and biomedical training program for high school graduates. Students earn 12 Boston University credits and a Certificate in Biomedical Laboratory Science upon successful completion of four courses: Medical Terminology, Introduction to Biomedical Laboratory Sciences, Cell Culture Techniques, and Biotechnology. Participants in the CityLab Academy program attend academic and laboratory courses with students who are enrolled in BUs Biomedical Laboratory & Clinical Sciences (BLCS) degree program. CityLab Academy students receive tutoring, develop study and job-readiness skills, and are mentored by a graduate student in the medical sciences. An intensive two-week internship offers firsthand experience in the field and supports job-skill preparation. Graduates of CityLab Academy are qualified for a variety of entry-level laboratory jobs at biotech companies, universities, and hospitals. Many Academy alumni are successfully employed and continue their studies in the BLCS program at little or no cost, through their employers tuition benefit. For more information about CityLab Academy, please visit bumc.bu.edu/CityLabAcademy, or email medacad@bu.edu, call 617-638-5664.

alumni profile

Andres Berrio

Senior Research Associate, Momenta Pharmaceuticals CityLab Academy (02) BS in Biomedical Laboratory & Clinical Sciences (08) The Biomedical Laboratory & Clinical Sciences program offers a broad spectrum of classesincluding pharmacology, cancer biology, cell culture, and biochemistryall within one degree program. The practicality of all my classes has already helped me transition into the biotech industry. Currently, Im working at Momenta Pharmaceuticals, a public company in the Boston area that specializes in the analysis of complex sugars. The direct impact of what I learned in class is apparent in my actions and involvement at work, as well as in my ambitions for the future. The skills and opportunities provided will give me the edge I need to successfully advance in the field.

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Contact
Biomedical Laboratory & Clinical Sciences Program Director: Constance Phillips Phone: 617-638-5622 Fax: 617-638-5621 Email: cphilli@bu.edu bu.edu/met/biomedical

Getting to the Medical Campus

The Boston University School of Medicine is located at 801 Albany Street in Bostons South End. There is a campus shuttle between the Charles River Campus and the Medical Campus; a schedule is available at bu.edu/thebus. The School of Medicine is also accessible by car, subway, and bus. For detailed information, please refer to map below.

Mailing and Street Address:

Boston University School of Medicine 801 Albany Street, Fourth Floor Boston, Massachusetts 02119

Boston University Medical Campus

An equal opportunity, affirmative action institution. 10/11