Topics in Biomedical Science Graduate Certificate (Online)

The Biomedical Science Graduate Certificate equips you to understand the molecular and cellular mechanisms that drive human health and disease. Through applied coursework, you’ll explore how advances in genomics, proteomics, epigenetics, and immunology are transforming the way diseases are studied, diagnosed, and treated.

Designed for learners seeking a deeper understanding of the biological basis of disease, this certificate prepares you to engage with developments in biomedical research and their implications for clinical practice and public health. You’ll build the foundation to interpret emerging science and connect discoveries at the bench to real-world applications in healthcare and therapeutics.

Through the Topics in Biomedical Science Graduate Certificate program, you’ll learn to:

• Analyze the pathophysiology of diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and infertility — examining the molecular and cellular mechanisms that drive disease onset, progression, and treatment response.
• Evaluate how advances in genomics, proteomics, and epigenetics are transforming diagnostics, therapeutic development, and our understanding of disease at the molecular level.
• Explain the role of stem cells across molecular, cellular, and clinical applications — assessing their potential to advance regenerative medicine and therapeutic innovation.
• Examine the biological basis of neurological processes — including pain, emotion, and psychiatric conditions — and interpret their implications for neuroscience research and clinical understanding.
• Interpret emerging biomedical research and translate scientific findings into their broader implications for clinical practice, public health policy, and therapeutic application.

This certificate prepares you to apply advanced knowledge of human biology and disease in research, healthcare, and related fields. You’ll engage with topics such as genomics, diagnostics, and therapeutic development, building a foundation for work that connects scientific research to clinical and public health applications.

The Topics in Biomedical Science Graduate Certificate includes four online courses:

• 2 to 4 core courses (two core courses are required; you may take up to four)
• Up to 2 elective courses (electives are not required)

Selecting courses. Multiple course options are available during fall, spring, and summer terms. Offerings vary by term. Explore current options in the DCE Course Search & Registration platform.

Stackable credentials allow you to earn multiple credentials by completing courses that meet overlapping requirements.

If you pursue the master’s degree in biology, you can earn this graduate certificate along the way by completing courses that fulfill both certificate and degree requirements.

This approach allows you to build expertise in biomedical science while making measurable progress toward your graduate degree.

Learn how to plan a stackable credential pathway.

If you take two courses per semester, you can complete your certificate in 8 months. If you prefer a more flexible pace, you have up to three years to finish.

There is no formal application required. You simply register for each course.

To meet the requirements for the certificate:

• Complete the four certificate courses for graduate credit.
• Earn at least a B grade in each course.
• Complete all courses within three years of starting your first eligible certificate course.

Learn more about pursuing a certificate and the process of requesting your certificate.