A biomedical research program may consist of obligatory taught and research elements. Taught aspects may include instruction on key research skills such as critical analysis, scientific writing, experimental techniques and presentation skills. Instructors may also encourage scholars to participate in or observe active research projects.

An associate degree is an undergraduate degree that typically awarded by community colleges, technical colleges and 4-year colleges. If pursued on a full-time basis, an associate degree usually takes two years to obtain.