The program provides both bachelor and master’s level training at the interface of biomedical science, business, and the health sciences sector, based on a commitment among teaching faculty to active, team-based learning. Students receive intensive training in the biomedical sciences as well as essential business skills and street smarts. The program prides itself on incorporating career development in the curriculum, providing routine occasions for reflection and mentorship by leaders in the community.

The undergraduate program begins in level III for students in the Health, Life, and Physical Sciences and emphasizes biomedical science courses while integrating key business elements with commerce courses from McMaster’s DeGroote School of Business. Students in other programs may also be eligible to apply, depending on their educational background. Most level III courses are purpose-built to expose students to real-world problems and thinking in modern drug discovery and development. Students continue this in level IV while doing an intensive senior thesis in the biomedical sciences. The graduate year builds on this training with MBA courses, new venture planning, career development skills, engagement with the local and regional industrial community, and includes a four to eight-month internship (longer terms may be available) in the pharmaceutical, therapeutic, biotechnology, finance, or consulting sectors.

McMaster’s Dr. Eric Brown and the staff of the BDC program, with the support of faculty in Health Sciences and Business, created this exceptional training program, whose excellence continued under the leadership of Dr. Andrew McArthur. Now, I am honoured to take over as Director in July 2024. Having been engaged in mentoring in the MBDC program and working with undergraduate BDC students in their 4th year thesis, I am very excited to be involved in further supporting this multidisciplinary program. I have seen first-hand the excellence of our graduates and the high esteem with which they are regarded by industry. I look forward to the continued growth of our students and the BDC program and invite anyone interested in an impactful career at the intersection of biomedical research and commerce to join us.

Sara Andres, PhD
Program Director & Associate Professor
Department of Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences

In all, innovative educational methods using experiential, inquiry and team-based learning approaches are a hallmark for this exciting program. Thus, students will benefit from a vanguard, multi-disciplinary educational experience aimed at positioning graduates for career success in health sciences related sectors.