MS in Bioscience and Health Policy

Master of Science (MS) in Bioscience and Health Policy

Overview

The Bioscience and Health Policy degree gives students a deep background in science complemented by courses in business, economics, humanities and policy studies to foster their understanding of the role of science in policymaking and the role of public policy in science. Their coursework provides study skills enabling students to develop specific policy recommendations. Students also receive the tool set to become knowledgeable in the formulation and execution of policy. In addition to program courses, students take an overview course in Science and Policy and Ethics, management courses and a seminar jointly with the students involved in the other tracks. Direct access to the Baker Institute for Public Policy allows students to work closely with policy scholars and meet with many of the leaders in science and technology policy, health care management and business. This program focuses on training health care professionals and health policy analysts, providing them with the tools to face the complex challenges inherent in the US bioscience research, public health, health care systems and health-related industry.

Focus Areas

  • Biomedical science
  • Health policy
  • Healthcare management

At A Glance

  • Degree: Master of Science (MS) in Bioscience and Health Policy
  • Credit Hours: 39 credit hours of graduate coursework plus a required 3-credit professional internship
  • Time to Completion: Complete the degree in as few as 3 semesters (16 months)
  • Format: Full-time or part-time, 100% in person at Rice University in Houston, Texas
  • Curriculum: Combines advanced bioscience coursework with business, management, leadership, and health policy education. View the curriculum here.
  • Professional Experience: Includes a required internship that provides hands-on experience
  • Career Outcomes: Prepares graduates for careers in biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, healthcare, public health, medical devices, regulatory affairs, life sciences consulting, government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and health policy research

download

Faculty involved in the Bioscience and Health Policy Program:

  • Tom Killian, Dean of Wiess School of Natural Sciences
  • Ed Nikonowicz, Department Chair of BioSciences
  • Dan Wagner, Program Advisor, Faculty Program Director
  • Janet Braam, Program Advisor, BioSciences
  • Susan Cates, Program Advisor, BioSciences
  • Kirstin Matthews, Program Advisor, James A. Baker III Institute for Public Policy
  • Mary Purugganan, PSM Professional Communication