Frequently Asked Questions

Students do not need to move to Miami for the program because the program offers flexible learning options that accommodate both local and remote students. Specifically, the program includes an entirely online track that allows students to complete all coursework, assignments, and assessments remotely, without the need for in-person attendance.

Those students enrolled in the thesis track of the hybrid program, however, are expected to be in Miami full-time. Non-thesis students enrolled in the hybrid program are expected to be on campus 2 non-consecutive weeks each semester. Students from out of state would need to travel to Miami during these weeks.

Classes are conducted in the Rosenstiel Medical Science Building at the Miller School of Medicine Campus. This campus is located in Downtown Miami.

Yes, there are leadership opportunities within the program. One or two class representatives are selected at the beginning of the fall semester, allowing students to take on a leadership role and represent their peers throughout the academic year. Additionally, there is an opportunity for one student to represent the M.S. in Skin Biology and Dermatological Sciences program as a senator in the Graduate Students’ Association.

• Full time hybrid/online non-thesis track: The program can be completed in 14 months by enrolling in the full-time track. This option is ideal for students who can dedicate themselves fully to their studies. This track involves a more intensive course load, including both core courses and electives, and requires a strong commitment to the program’s schedule.
• Part-time hybrid/online non-thesis track: For students who have other professional or personal commitments, the program offers a two-year part-time track. This option allows students to spread their coursework over a longer period, reducing the number of classes taken each semester and providing a more manageable workload.
• Hybrid thesis track: The program also offers a thesis option, which allows students to engage in more in-depth research over an extended period. The thesis track involves the development of a research proposal, conducting original research, and writing and defending a thesis under the guidance of faculty mentors, providing a robust foundation in skin science research. The thesis track typically takes students about two years to complete.

The class size varies from year to year but is typically between 10-20 students. There are 30-40 faculty members involved in teaching, including didactics, lab research, and clinical shadowing. The student-to-faculty ratio in the program provides a highly personalized and supportive learning environment that enhances the overall educational experience for students. This low-student-to-faculty ratio offers several key benefits: individualized attention, enhanced interaction and engagement, stronger mentorship opportunities, and improved learning outcomes. A smaller cohort size helps students build stronger connections with their peers and faculty, creating a tight-knit academic community. Networking with faculty, who are experts in their field, provides students with opportunities for collaboration on research projects and valuable recommendations for their future career endeavors.

While these standardized test scores are not required for admission, they are highly recommended as they provide an additional metric for evaluating an applicant’s readiness for the program. The admissions committee adopts a holistic approach when reviewing applications, considering various aspects such as academic achievements, letters of recommendation, personal statements, and relevant experiences. Standardized test scores can serve as an additional data point that helps create a more comprehensive picture of the applicant’s capabilities. Ultimately, while not mandatory, submitting strong standardized test scores can be advantageous and is encouraged for those who have performed well on these exams.

Applications for priority applicants and for those students who have attended international colleges or universities are due on January 15. All other domestic applications are due on March 1.

The application requirements and prerequisites for admission to the MS-SBDS program are designed to identify candidates who possess a strong academic foundation, a clear motivation for pursuing advanced education in skin science, and the potential to excel in a rigorous and specialized curriculum. The key components that competitive applicants must meet include: a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution conferred before the intended start data, excellent academic record (minimum overall cumulative GPA = 3.0), GRE or MCAT scores are not required but highly recommended, strong letters of recommendation from university academic advisors, professors, and scientists who know the candidate well, and motivation to pursue a state-of-the-art skin science education.

The hybrid schedule and the online schedule offer two distinct approaches to learning, catering to the different needs and preferences of students. The hybrid schedule combines both in-person and online learning components. Students enrolled in this format meet in person for two non-consecutive weeks per semester, providing students with valuable face-to-face interaction with faculty, peers, and guest lecturers. In contrast, the online schedule is entirely remote, with no in-person requirements. This format is ideal for students who may have professional or personal commitments that prevent them from attending on campus sessions or who prefer a fully online learning environment.

The hybrid track includes in-person classes that are typically held for two non-consecutive weeks each semester. This format is designed to provide a balanced approach to learning, combining the flexibility of online coursework with the benefits of face-to-face interaction and hands-on experiences.

Students in the online track cannot pursue clinical shadowing and/or research electives primarily due to the nature and requirements of these activities. Clinical shadowing and research electives require direct, in-person engagement within a clinical or laboratory environment, which is essential for hands-on learning, observation, and interaction with patients or research subjects. While the online track offers flexibility and access to the program’s core academic components, it lacks the ability to support the in-person, experiential learning that clinical shadowing and research electives demand.

Yes, there are clinical opportunities within the program. Students enrolled in the hybrid track of the program can participate in clinical shadowing, allowing them to observe and learn directly from experienced dermatologists. This hands-on experience provides valuable insights into clinical practice, patient care, and the application of skin biology in a real-world medical setting.

• Yes, there are many research opportunities within the program. The program is designed to provide students with a strong foundation in research, offering various opportunities to engage in studies related to skin biology and dermatology. Students can choose to participate in research projects under the guidance of faculty members, who are leading experts in their fields.
• For those interested in a more research-intensive experience, the program offers a thesis option. This track allows students to focus on a specific research topic, develop a research proposal, conduct original research, and defend a written thesis.

The program’s tuition rate is the regular cost of tuition for graduate students at the University of Miami. Financial aid is available through federal and private loans.

Unfortunately, the program does not yet offer any scholarships. Students are welcome and encouraged to apply for external scholarships.

• The program equips students with specialized knowledge, research experience, and practical skills that are highly valued across a range of career paths. Graduates are positioned to make meaningful contributions to skin biology and dermatology, with a strong outlook for career advancement and opportunities to impact patient care, research, and innovation.
• Graduates may find opportunities in academic research, contributing to studies that advance understanding in areas such as skin cancer, wound healing, inflammatory skin disorders, and more. Graduates are also equipped for roles in the pharmaceutical and biotech sectors, where they can contribute to the development of skincare products. The program also provides a foundation for graduates planning to continue their education in medical school, physician assistant programs, or PhD programs. Students who already hold an MD prior to enrolling may opt to pursue a dermatology residency.