The program leading to the M.S. in biomedical sciences degree with emphasis in one of the basic sciences listed above requires approximately two years of study. Degree requirements include completion of all course work, submission of an approved research proposal, and preparation and defense of a thesis. Some programs offer a nonthesis track. In addition, the College offers a joint program with the University of Charleston for the M.S. in environmental studies. Protein and DNA research is supported by separate DNA extraction, DNA synthesis, and protein chemistry facilities.
Many departments also operate shared research equipment facilities.
Financial Aid Students can obtain support in a variety of ways. Assistantships are funded by numerous research projects conducted by the faculty, and it is possible for such research to qualify as a dissertation or research project. Living and Housing Costs Off-campus rooms and apartments are available at various costs. The majority of the University's student body is native to South Carolina, although students come from many other states and countries. Fifty percent of the students in the College of Graduate Studies are from out of state.