MS in Clinical and Applied Proteomics (MS - CAPs)

After completing the program, graduates will be qualified to pursue ever in-demand positions in either the industrial or clinical worlds. Through access to Loyola Medicine, Loyola University Chicago's academic medical center partner, students will gain invaluable clinical experience if they choose to work in pharmaceutical or clinical labs. Through Loyola's many partnerships, graduates who want to develop a career in an industrial laboratory will have opportunities to network and create connections.

Upon graduation, students will possess the following knowledge, skills, and professional values:

KNOWLEDGE

• Demonstrate an understanding of the theory behind ionization and mass spectrometry
• Explain the applications and functions of mass spectrometry

SKILLS

• Operate cutting-edge mass spectrum technology
• Interpret and report results from mass spectrometers

PROFESSIONAL VALUES

• Develop the hard and soft skills for operating in a high energy, collaborative, scientific environment
• Create and maintain a professional network in the mass spectrometry and scientific field

The curriculum consists of 30 credits completed over two semesters; didactic course work provides 20 credits and laboratory rotations (see curriculum below) provide 10 credits. Students are expected to fulfill the program obligations throughout the year, culminating in qualification in the summer. Each student will be assigned a faculty advisor to support and guide them through their projects as they pursue their career goals. Class sizes are small, allowing students to engage with faculty and students.

During the first semester, 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).  The remaining 15 credits will be completed in the second (and final) semester. 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), and a final lab rotation (5 credit hours).

Online didactic classes will be assessed through a series of exams (50%), weekly quizzes, and homework (25%), and case study problem-solving sessions (25%).

Lab rotations will be at Loyola University Chicago’s Health Sciences Campus. They will 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 (25%), and participation in advisory meetings (10%).

Read the program's student handbook.

• Jonathan Kirk, PhD, associate professor, Physiology CAMS MS Program Director
• Peter Kekenes-Huskey, PhD, associate professor, Cell and Molecular Physiology
• Patrick Oakes, PhD, assistant professor, Cell and Molecular Physiology
• Toni Pak, PhD, James R. Depauw Professor and Chair, Cell and Molecular Physiology

The CAMS MS Program is designed for career-focused, motivated students, able to pursue theoretical studies, seeking to enter (or re-enter) the workforce with career-ready skills and expertise. The application deadline is July 28.  Candidates must meet the following minimum requirements:

• 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.

Apply online.

For more information, contact: Program Coordinator Maureen Cruz-O'Brien.

Loyola's Biomedical Sciences Programs and its Office of Financial Aid are committed to helping students secure the financial resources to make their Loyola education affordable.

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