Translational biomedicine is a rapidly growing field within biomedical and public health research that seeks to improve the health of individuals and the community by turning discoveries into diagnostic tools, medicines, procedures, policies and education. Translational science is the field of investigation focused on understanding the scientific and operational principles underlying each step of the translational process. The National Institutes of Health officially established a National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS) in 2012. Read more about the translational science spectrum
The doctoral program in Translational Biomedical Sciences (TBS) aims to train students to translate basic research effectively into enhanced health care outcomes for the entire population in fields such as biomedical research, bioengineering, drug development, informatics, communications, and health policy and planning. As a trans- and inter-disciplinary program, the purpose of the PhD in TBS is to prepare individuals to lead the implementation of the patient-centered health care of the 21st century. Existing research and educational strengths at Ohio University, such as the Diabetes Institute , the Ohio Musculoskeletal and Neurological Institute , and the Edison Biotechnology Institute , are ideally suited to accommodate the innovative, cross-disciplinary nature of TBS.
Curriculum
The Ph.D. program in TBS transcends the model of a traditional disciplinary program, creating a flexible student-learning environment with a curriculum focusing on three main components:
- Translational core competencies
- Specific, individualized, knowledge content
- Research skills
The flexibility in design allows for different combinations of potential course work depending on the student’s prior education and experience. Additionally, the program combines formal educational activities such as case studies, problem-based learning in small groups, presentations, seminars, and laboratory group meetings, with informal gatherings between graduate students, scientists and faculty with experience in interdisciplinary team research, which will provide key networking opportunities.
The course work and related experiences throughout the Ph.D. in TBS program provides students from all backgrounds with the opportunity to acquire and refine the skills necessary for teamwork, leadership and competitive success in the field of Translational Biomedical Sciences. Additionally, a deep knowledge within a specific cross-disciplinary study area will result in graduates who are experts in their field, with both depth and breadth of knowledge. Upon successful completion of the TBS program, graduates will be able to take advantage of their unique traits to lead scientific teams, engage the community in the quest for better health, apply innovative and entrepreneurial approaches to the improvement of the health of their community, and to reduce inequality in the access to health care.
Admissions Requirements
Degree Required/Recommended
- Bachelor's degree required— A bachelor’s/master’s degree in a relevant discipline
- A master's degree is notrequired
English Language Testing
Non-native speakers of English must meet Graduate College minimum proficiency requirements .
Entrance Examinations Required/Recommended
| Exam | Required? |
|---|---|
| Graduate Record Examination (GRE) | Optional* |
| Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) | No |
| Miller Analogies Test (MAT) | No |
*If submitting optional GRE scores, they must be reported directly from the testing agency.
Additional Requirements
| Required Item | Details of Requirement |
|---|---|
| Minimum GPA | 3.00 |
| Coursework Required | None |
| Resume or Vitae Required | Yes required |
| Letters of Recommendations | 3 letters required |
| Personal Statement | Yes required |
| Supplementary Materials | Yes required |
Application Materials
Prospective students must provide:
- Transcripts of all previous academic work
- At least three (3) letters of recommendation. The letters should be from individuals that can speak to your academic and research abilities.
- A Resume/CV
- A personal statement that addresses the following areas:
- Future career goals and how the Translational Biomedical Sciences program would help you meet those goals
- Expected research interest while in the program
- How your goals and research fit within the interdisciplinary nature of translational biomedical sciences
- An essay detailing previous research experience and describing your current research interests. Indicate potential mentors among the faculty at Ohio University. Note that the interdisciplinary dimension of the TBS doctoral program requires you to identify at least two mentors from two different disciplines.
- GRE scores are optional. If submitting scores, they must be reported directly from the testing agency.
International students whose native language or academic language of instruction is not English must meet the University English language proficiency requirements as stated in the Graduate Catalog.
Individuals wishing to apply for admission effective Fall must have ALL materials submitted by January 1.
Questions?
For more information or questions about the Ph.D. in Translational Biomedical Sciences, please email TBS@ohio.edu or call 740.593.9791.