Molecular Basis of Cancer Master’s Program Online

MS in Molecular Basis of Cancer Degree

Drexel University’s online master’s program in the molecular basis of cancer is the first fully online cancer biology master’s program in the United States. Our curriculum is specifically designed to maximize flexibility, including allowing you to take your practicum as a course in your work environment without the need for in-person laboratory trainings.

When earning the Master’s in Molecular Basis of Cancer degree online, you can expect to gain:

• Knowledge of fundamental molecular and biochemical processes at the cellular level and how these processes are altered in cancer
• Knowledge of how molecular and biochemical processes are used to target cancer during therapy
• The ability to define the significance of scientific discovery in relation to cancer biology
• Experience in clearly communicating scientific knowledge in written and online formats
• Proficiency in identifying, evaluating and utilizing scientific literature and other resources

This program is "stackable" with the Post-Baccalaureate Certificate Program in Molecular Basis of Cancer and all completed courses in the Certificate Program can be applied towards the Master’s Degree.

Why Choose Drexel for an online Master’s In Cancer Biology and Therapies?

Drexel University’s online master’s program in biology of cancer is designed to provide you with an in-depth understanding of academic and practical knowledge in basic and translational cancer research, with an emphasis in molecular targets and therapeutics. With the goal of helping you to establish or advance your career within the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industry, the specialized focus of this molecular cancer research degree will be on research and development relevant to new diagnostics, therapeutics, and treatment of cancers of various etiologies. After establishing foundational knowledge in cellular and molecular biology of cancer, special attention will be given to topics including:

• Therapeutic and diagnostic identification
• Drug discovery and development
• Mechanisms of tumor growth and metastasis
• Challenges of cancer drug resistance

About this Program

In general, Drexel University’s Master’s Program in Molecular Basis of Cancer will encompass three years of required and elective graduate courses. The successful completion of this molecular cancer biology and therapy degree program will be determined by grades obtained in the interactive online courses, participation in virtual journal clubs, and optional practicum/laboratory experiences. A total of 36 semester credits is required to complete the program.

Program Features

• 100% Online: one of the first cancer biology masters’ programs to be offered fully online
• All credits from Drexel’s online Certificate in Molecular Basis of Cancer may be transferred into Drexel’s MS in Molecular Basis of Cancer program
• Courses are taught by faculty with current experiences in molecular cancer research
• No GRE required
• Flexible curriculum that caters to your career goals
• Average completion time: 2-3 years
• Practicum can be completed in your personal work environment without the need for in-person laboratory trainings

Requirements To Enroll

The online Master Program in Molecular Basis of Cancer is available to those who have already obtained a BS or BA degree in the life, physical or health sciences who may wish to pursue industry-focused training. This includes those who wish to have a broader base of information about cancer biology and research, those who may wish to transition into the industry, or those who are currently seeking a promotion in the industry.

For acceptance to the Master of Science Program in Molecular Basis of Cancer, you must have completed a four-year, biology or chemistry-based BA/BS degree program with a preferred GPA of at least 3.00. No standardized test is required for admission but if one has been taken, such as the GRE and MCAT, the scores should be submitted for review.

The merit of each applicant will be evaluated by the admissions committee of the program and all qualifications, including professional experience, will be taken into consideration.

What Can You Do With Master’s In Cancer Biology?

This molecular biology of cancer program is designed to prepare you for or to advance your existing career in cancer biology, basic science, translational, and clinical research in government, industry, and academic environments. Whether you are just starting your career or looking to advance to the next level, Drexel’s online MS in Molecular Basis of Cancer will help to prepare you for rewarding careers, such as Biochemist, mid-level industry scientist, and managerial roles. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Biochemist and Biophysicist jobs are expected to grow 6% by 2034, which is much faster than the average for all occupations. This represents an addition of approximately 2,100 new jobs in that same time period.

Source: BLS.gov

How Much Can Graduates of The Online Master’s in Molecular Basis Of Cancer Program Make?

Recent BLS.gov reports show that Biochemists and Biophysicists earn an average salary of $103,650 per year or $49.83 per hour. However, salaries can fluctuate for a number of reasons. These include a candidate’s experience, education level, job title, and location. 

The following are a few cancer biology research career paths and median annual salaries, according to BLS.gov, Payscale.com, and Salary.com:

• Biochemist or Biophysicist - $103,650
• Cancer Registrar - $67,310
• Cell Therapy Specialist - $64,692
• Clinical Research Coordinator (CRC) - $161,180
• Master's Level Cancer Biology Scientist - $68,000
• Project Manager - $100,750

FAQs: Online MS in Molecular Basis of Cancer

What campus requirements are there for the MS in Molecular Basis of Cancer program?
While we would love to see you visit campus, especially for graduation, you will not be required to come to campus for this program. The curriculum is 100% online.

Do you accept any transfer credits into this program?
Yes, any credits earned in Drexel University’s online Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Molecular Basis of Cancer may transfer into the full master’s program.

Should I still apply if I don’t have a 3.0 GPA?
Yes, we still encourage you to apply! We recommend that you include all relevant professional experience on your resume.

Is prior research experience required for application?
No. While we encourage those with research experiences or those working in a research environment to apply, admission is based on merit and qualifying experiences. Therefore, those with no bench science experiences will be considered for our program.

Related Programs

• Certificate in Molecular Basis of Cancer
• Certificate in Drug Discovery and Development
• Quantitative Principles for Clinical Research Certificate
• MS in Biomedicine and Business
• MS in Biomedicine and Law
• MS in Cancer Biology (On-Campus)
• MS in Clinical Research Organization and Management

Drexel University offers a variety of Graduate Minors that can be added to any master's degree program.
State restrictions may apply to some programs.