Translational Research, MSTR
The Master of Science in Translational Research (MSTR) provides students with in-depth instruction in the fundamental skills, methodology and principles necessary to become a well-trained translational investigator. The program is designed to meet this objective through the provision of didactic course work, a formal mentorship program, laboratory training, a professional development core, and specific ongoing guidance with hands-on exposure to protocol and grant development. The MSTR is housed within the Institute for Translational Medicine and Therapeutics (ITMAT) which supports research at the interface of basic and clinical research focusing on developing new and safer therapeutics.
The MSTR is designed to facilitate training and research particularly from proof of concept in cellular and animal model systems across the translational divide to proof of concept and dose selection in humans. Student projects and career goals align across this continuum. Students enroll in a core set of courses and also choose elective coursework to focus in on specific areas of translational science.
For more information: https://www.itmat.upenn.edu/itmat-ed/master-of-science-in-translational-research/
The degree and major requirements displayed are intended as a guide for students entering in the Fall of 2026 and later. Students should consult with their academic program regarding final certifications and requirements for graduation.
Curriculum
Students must complete 12 course units and achieve a B- or higher in each course for the degree.
| Code | Title | Course Units |
|---|---|---|
| Competencies | ||
| Complete the mininimum CU from each of the following pillars: | ||
| Research Methods | 3 | |
| Proposal Development and Study Design | ||
| Master of Science in Translational Research LAB | ||
| Analytical Skills | 2 | |
| Introduction to Biostatistics | ||
| Disease Measurement | ||
| Responsible Conduct of Research | 1 | |
| Scientific & Ethical Conduct | ||
| Scientific Writing | 1 | |
| Data Manuscript Writing | ||
| Grantsmanship for Career Development Awards | ||
| Writing an NIH Grant | ||
| Thesis | 2 | |
| Thesis | ||
| Electives | 3 | |
| Select 3 CU guided by research area of interest. | ||
| Total Course Units | 12 | |
| First Year | ||
|---|---|---|
| Summer | Course Units | |
| MTR 6020 | Proposal Development and Study Design | 1 |
| MTR 6040 | Scientific & Ethical Conduct | 1 |
| Course Units | 2.00 | |
| Fall | ||
| MTR 6000 | Introduction to Biostatistics | 1 |
| MTR 6030 | Disease Measurement | 1 |
| Course Units | 2.00 | |
| Spring | ||
| Elective 1 | 1 | |
| Elective 2 | 1 | |
| Course Units | 2.00 | |
| Second Year | ||
| Summer | ||
| MTR 9999 | Master of Science in Translational Research LAB | 2 |
| Course Units | 2.00 | |
| Fall | ||
| MTR 6050 | Data Manuscript Writing | 1 |
| Elective 3 | 1 | |
| Course Units | 2.00 | |
| Spring | ||
| MTR 9900 | Thesis | 2 |
| Course Units | 2.00 | |
| Total Course Units | 12.00 | |