Program Overview

The program is a four-year doctoral (PhD) program in the Biomedical Sciences at Alfaisal University in collaboration the King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center (KFSHRC), one of the co-founders of the University. Research projects would be conducted at Alfaisal University, KAUST, KACST, as well as at KFSHRC.

Program Mission

The mission of the program is to support multi-disciplinary biomedical research involving faculty and students by enhancing the environment for creative scholarly work with the highest levels of quality and integrity, and that stimulate the development of a knowledge-based society.

Aims and Objectives

The PhD in Biomedical Sciences program at Alfaisal University, Saudi Arabia, aims to prepare individuals for successful careers in research, academia, and industry by providing a strong foundation in biomedical science principles and applications. The program objectives include:

• Acquiring advanced knowledge: Develop a comprehensive understanding of current and emerging topics in biomedical sciences, including molecular biology, immunology, neuroscience, genetics, biochemistry, cell biology, and more.
• Developing research skills: Gain competence in conducting experimental research and adopting cutting-edge laboratory techniques to design and execute experiments that address significant biomedical questions.
• Critical thinking and problem-solving: Enhance critical thinking and problem-solving abilities through exposure to complex biomedical issues, promoting innovative and independent investigations to solve these problems.
• Communication skills: Develop strong written and oral communication skills that enable students to effectively present and discuss their research findings in various forums, including conferences, seminars, and publications.
• Interdisciplinary collaborations: Foster interdisciplinary collaborations with scholars from diverse fields such as engineering, chemistry, physics, and mathematics, enabling students to integrate concepts from these disciplines into their research.
• Ethics and professionalism: Acquire professional and ethical research practices in line with international standards, ensuring the responsible conduct of research and strengthening the scholarly community's integrity.
• Career preparation: Equip students with the knowledge, skills, and networking opportunities necessary for securing positions in academia, research institutes, government agencies, private industries, and other organizations focused on biomedical innovation.

These objectives aim to contribute to the field of biomedical sciences by producing cutting-edge research and developing a workforce of skilled and innovative biomedical scientists.

Who can apply?

The program is designed for qualified students with master’s degrees in Medicine, Pharm-D, Dentistry, and Nursing.

---

Admission Requirements

Saudi and International Students

A full time candidate holding master’s degree with a GPA of at least 3.0 out of 4.0, or equivalent; Students with long bachelor’s program like medicine and doctor of pharmacy, dentistry and Nursing (minimum 180 credits) are allowed into the PhD program having completed 24 credits of course work of master’s in biomedical sciences (according to the national qualification frame work levels- ETEC) with a GPA of at least 3.0 out of 4.0, TOEFL of 550, or equivalent ( academic IELTS 6.5); successful interview; and letters of reference; and financial support. Students from institutions both inside and outside of the Kingdom may be admitted directly to the doctoral program provided they meet admission requirements stipulated above. Applicants seeking admission based on degrees/qualifications obtained from educational institutions outside the Kingdom are required to have their certificates approved by the Saudi Ministry of Higher Education for equivalency.

Interview

All applicants for the PhD program must pass an oral interview which will be conducted by the program committee.

Graduation Requirements To earn a PhD degree in Biomedical Sciences

A student must fulfill the following graduation requirements:

• Attain a minimum cumulative average B at PhD level courses.
• Pass PhD qualifying exam, for full details kindly refer to Graduate Calatog
• Pass the PhD dissertation defense, for full details kindly refer to Graduate Calatog
• Have an accepted publication in refereed international journal, based on the PhD research.

Curriculum for a Doctoral Degree in Biomedical Sciences

Doctoral students in Biomedical Sciences register for 15 credits of core and electives, 6 credits of lab rotations and 36 credits for the Dissertation, giving a total of 57 credits Electives are chosen by students in consultation with their supervisors. Alfaisal works on the semester system with fall and winter (Spring) semesters. The recommended course plan over four years is outlined in Table 2.

Suggested Study Plan