M.S.A. Curriculum

A comprehensive, in-depth approach to anatomy

The Master of Science in Anatomy program offers two distinct tracks: the non-thesis track and the thesis track. Both tracks provide advanced training in anatomy to prepare students for a professional career in academic teaching or in basic science research. Both tracks leading to the M.S.A. degree are designed to be completed in 24 months but can take up to five years to be completed on a part-time basis. The distinctiveness of these tracks is detailed below.

The current learning goals of the Master of Science in Anatomy program:

1. To demonstrate mastery of the anatomic sciences including anatomic imaging
2. To effectively teach and communicate in the field of anatomy
3. To demonstrate professional attributes
4. To demonstrate critical thinking skills
5. To demonstrate knowledge of biochemical and physiological concepts and principles.

The program has anchored its five learning goals to those at the level of the institution as developed by the University Student Learning Assessment Committee.

Non-Thesis Track

The non-thesis track is designed to prepare students for entry into medical and allied medical professional programs, careers in academic teaching or further study in graduate programs, particularly anatomical education. The non-thesis track curriculum includes many first-year medical school classes, courses specifically designed for the anatomy master’s degree program and an extensive requirement to teach anatomy by assisting the anatomy faculty in this craft.

Students currently enrolled in the Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine program or Doctor of Podiatric Medicine program can also apply to the non-thesis track. The curriculum for dual-degree students (D.O./M.S.A. or D.P.M./M.S.A.) is designed to be completed during the first two years of their medical program. The emphasis for dual-degree students is on expanding each student’s anatomic knowledge to better prepare him or her to enter medical specialties underpinned by the relationship between anatomical structure and function.