Matriculation into the doctoral program is based upon prior demonstration of a high level of academic achievement in graduate and/or undergraduate work. Advanced study and research are conducted under the guidance of a faculty member of the Department of Biomedical Engineering and an interdisciplinary committee. A total of 72 credits (21 course work credits and 51 credits of research) satisfies the Department's and the Institute's residency and thesis requirements. Students in the Ph.D. program can automatically earn a M.S. degree when completing their candidacy. Also, it is common for doctoral students to receive financial support from the department and/or the faculty.<br><br>Biomolecular science is one area in the life sciences which focuses on the understanding of cellular processes at the molecular level and modifications of extracellular matrix. Developing an understanding and using this knowledge for manipulating cell and matrix processes in order to predict, prevent or ameliorate medical conditions are key components of biomolecular science and engineering. Research in biomolecular science deals with applications including drug development and delivery, proteomics, and tissue engineering.