Master of Science in Clinical and Applied Mass Spectrometry Program (MS CAMS)
The Master of Science in Clinical and Applied Mass Spectrometry (MS CAMS) Program is designed for science graduates and those already working in the field of scientific research who wish to pursue or advance their career through specialized study in the exciting field of Mass Spectrometry. This one-year course is a combination of innovative, didactic online study of theory, combined with two in-person hands on laboratory rotations in order to provide students with the freedom to study from anywhere while still gaining access to operational training with some of the most specialized, modern equipment available.
The curriculum consists of 30 credits completed across two semesters. 20 credits achieved through didactic course work and a further 10 through laboratory rotations (see curriculum below). Students are expected to fulfill the program obligations throughout the course of the year, culminating in qualification in the summer.
Upon successful completion of the program, students will be qualified to pursue ever in-demand positions in either the industrial or clinical worlds. Through access to the attached Loyola Hospital, students will gain valuable clinical experience should they wish to continue into pharmaceutical or clinical labs. Through our many industrial partnerships, those who wish to go on to a career in a more industrial laboratory setting will have the chance to network and establish connections for their futures.
For more information check out our program site here
In Demand
The field of mass spectrometry is a fast-growing and increasingly in-demand one. Employment and career advancement opportunities will be opening up to graduates of this course at a rapid pace.
Unique
The University of Loyola is leading the way in introducing this Graduate program to produce candidates uniquely qualified for a career in mass spectrometry.
Flexible
During the theory sections of the course, you will be able to access the classes online from anywhere that is convenient for you.
Hands on
During the two laboratory rotations, you will gain invaluable in-person experience with state of the art equipment at our medical campus, in addition to expert instruction from our faculty experts.
Small Class Sizes
Receive a personalized educational experience as part of an exclusive graduating class.
Networking
Students will establish professional connections with our industry partners and get a head start on finding success in their careers.
Clinical Opportunities
Through access to the Loyola Hospital, students will gain invaluable clinical exposure and experience that will support them should they wish to pursue a career in biomarker development.
Faculty Advisor
Each student will be assigned a faculty advisor to support and guide them through their projects and in pursuit of their individual career goals.
The MSCAMS Program is designed for career focused motivated students, able to self-manage themselves through their theoretical studies, seeking to enter promptly into the workforce with career-ready skills and expertise. Candidates for the MSCAMS Program will be required to have the following minimum requirements:
- Minimum BA or BS in STEM-related field with a cumulative GPA >3.0 (GRE not required
- TOEFL score >75 required when English is not the primary language
- Must be a citizen of the United States or Eligible for a student Visa to enter the United States for the two, three week in-person sessions.
- Must be willing to submit to an Illinois State criminal background check. Self-disclosure of anything that may be flagged in such a check is in the interest of the applicant.
The MSCAMS requires 30 credit hours. The time limit to complete all the work towards the degree is one year.
The credit hours are broken down as follows:
20 didactic course credits
10 laboratory credits
Students will take courses in Theory and Physics of Mass Spectrometry (4 Credit Hours), Chemistry of Protein Separation (4 Credit hours), Introduction to Mass Spectrometry (2 Credit hours) and complete a laboratory rotation (5 credit hours) during semester 1. The remaining 15 credits will be completed in semester 2. These include Computational and Bioinformatics (3 credit hours), Clinical Considerations and Biomarker Development (3 Credit hours), Advanced Approaches for Mass Spectrometry (2 Credit hours), Proteomics Capstone Design Project – Advisor Monitored Independent Study – (2 Credit hours), a further laboratory rotation (5 credit hours)
The didactic classes will take place online and will be assessed through a series of exams (50%), weekly quizzes and homework (25%), and Case study problem solving sessions (25%)
The laboratory rotation will take place in person at the Loyola University of Chicago’s Health Sciences Campus and be assessed through Laboratory reports (50%), Attendance and good practice (25%), and sample preparation/data quality.
The Capstone Design Project will be assessed through a written research proposal (50%), an oral presentation of the Capstone Project (25%), and participation in advisory meetings (10%).
For more information, consult the MS CAMS Handbook 2022
Information regarding tuition and fees for the Graduate Programs at the Loyola University Medical Center can be found at: Tuition and Fees
Jonathan Kirk, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Physiology,
MSCAMS Program Director
Peter Kekenes-Huskey, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Cell and Molecular Physiology
Patrick Oakes Ph.D., Assistant Professor of Cell and Molecular Physiology
Toni Pak Ph.D., James R. Depauw Professor and Chair Cell and Molecular Physiology