New SHSU-COM Master’s Program Connects Biomedical Science, Medical AI and Healthcare Innovation

New SHSU-COM Master’s Program Connects Biomedical Science, Medical AI and Healthcare Innovation

As medicine continues to evolve, the future of healthcare will depend on professionals who can work across disciplines, understand emerging technologies and apply biomedical knowledge to real-world challenges.

The Sam Houston State University College of Osteopathic Medicine (SHSU-COM) has launched a new Master of Science in Applied Biomedical Sciences (MABS) program, with courses for the inaugural cohort planned to begin this fall.

For students considering what comes next after an undergraduate degree in science or a related field, the program offers a flexible way to build on that foundation while exploring career pathways in healthcare, research, technology, innovation and continued education.

Housed within SHSU-COM’s Department of Biomedical & Digital Health Intelligence in Clinical Systems, the program brings together biomedical science, medical artificial intelligence, health technologies, regulatory affairs and clinical sciences.

The MABS program is offered online, allowing students to pursue graduate study while balancing work, school or other commitments.

The curriculum is designed to help graduates develop marketable skills in biomedical data analysis and interpretation, scientific and regulatory communication, translational research and experimental design, interdisciplinary collaboration and problem-solving.

“Healthcare is changing quickly, and programs like this help build a bridge among physicians, scientists, data-informed professionals, educators, researchers and industry partners,” said Thomas J. Mohr, DO, dean of SHSU-COM and vice president for medical affairs. “That kind of collaboration is essential as we prepare professionals who can help shape the future of medicine.”

Through the Institute for Medical Artificial Intelligence, students will also be connected to SHSU-COM’s growing work in medical AI. The academic and research-focused institute is designed to advance education, research and innovation in the responsible use of AI in medicine and healthcare delivery.

For SHSU-COM, the new master’s program represents another step in the college’s mission to serve Texas by addressing healthcare workforce needs, particularly in rural and underserved communities. While the college’s Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine program prepares future physicians, the MABS program creates an additional graduate pathway for students and professionals who want to contribute to healthcare in other ways.

Working professionals in healthcare, research, biotechnology, medical technology, education and industry may find the program especially relevant as they seek career advancement. It may also support students interested in strengthening their academic foundation before pursuing additional graduate or professional education.

“Through this program, students will have the opportunity to explore how biomedical science connects with the tools and technologies transforming modern medicine,” said Vinoth Sittaramane, DVM, MS, PhD, chair of the Department of Biomedical & Digital Health Intelligence in Clinical Systems. “Our goal is to help them build a strong, practical foundation, with coursework connected to the scientific, technological and regulatory issues shaping modern healthcare.”

Applications for the fall cohort are being accepted now through ApplyTexas. The application fee will be waived for students applying to begin the program this fall, and applications are due Aug. 1.

Prospective students can also learn more during one of three upcoming virtual information sessions:

• July 9, 12:30-1:30 p.m.
• July 22, 12:30-1:30 p.m.
• July 30, 12:30-1:30 p.m.

Those interested in joining the inaugural cohort are encouraged to attend an information session and complete the program application as soon as possible.