The Medical and Biological Illustration (MBI) program offers a robust curriculum designed to prepare future leaders in the medical illustration profession. Accredited since 1970, the MBI program offers courses in visual communication of medicine and life sciences as well as graduate-level science courses in the School of Medicine. Courses are directly related to technical, biological, or medical subject matter. Student assignments require problem-solving and individual research. Complete understanding of the topic is required. Expertise in all media communication utilized by clinicians, research scientists, health science personnel, students, patients, and the public is stressed. Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree with courses in premedical sciences and be able to demonstrate art skills and experience that they obtained through instruction in the fine and applied arts.
Basic medical science courses will be offered by the School of Medicine. Illustration and communications curriculum will be provided by the Department of Art as Applied to Medicine. Students may individualize their study depending on previous training, professional interests, and career objectives. All degree candidates must satisfy the requirements of the University, the School of Medicine, and the Department of Art as Applied to Medicine.
The MBI program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) in cooperation with the Accreditation Review Committee for the Medical Illustrator (ARC-MI), which is a Committee of the Association of Medical Illustrators (AMI). Current Accreditation: 2019–2026.
Scholarships
Departmental scholarships are awarded to all students enrolled in the program and applied toward tuition fees.
The Howard Bartner Scholarship for Excellence in Art as Applied to Medicine This scholarship provides tuition support to deserving students as they work toward their Master of Arts in Medical and Biological Illustration. Beginning in 2023, this endowed scholarship is awarded to students who demonstrate the potential for excellence as a professional Medical Illustrator.
The Elinor Widmont Bodian Scholarship in Medical Art This scholarship fund was established in 2000 by Mrs. Bodian (JHU ’43) and her family to provide financial assistance to students in Medical Illustration.
The Ranice W. Crosby Scholarship Fund An endowment for student tuition support in the Department of Art as Applied to Medicine was established in 2008 with a generous gift from the estate of Mrs. Crosby. Memorial contributions from friends and colleagues have been added to this fund since her death in 2007.
The William P. Didusch Scholarship and Loan Fund An endowment for student tuition support in the Department of Art as Applied to Medicine was established in 1973 with a generous gift from Mr. Didusch. A significant contribution was added to this Fund from the estate of Bertha M. Trott whose death in 1973 ended a life filled with dedication and service to urologists at Johns Hopkins and elsewhere. Memorial contributions from friends and colleagues have been added to this Fund since the death of William P. Didusch in 1981.
The Joseph M. Dieter, Jr., Scholarship for Creative Design Excellence This scholarship recognizes a second-year graduate student in the Medical and Biological Illustration program who has demonstrated innovative excellence and outstanding creative design in their graduate coursework. This new endowed scholarship has been established through the extraordinary generosity of our beloved and talented graphic designer Joe Dieter, a member of our department from 1970–2014.
The Gwynne M. Gloege Scholarship Fund in Medical Art This scholarship fund was established in 2004 by Gwynne Gloege (JHU ‘56) to provide financial assistance to medical art students.
The Frank H. Netter, M.D. Memorial Scholarship in Medical Art Frank. H. Netter, M.D. is known worldwide as a medical illustrator who could distill complex medical subject matter into clear, effective teaching images. Dr. Netter was not only a skilled draftsman, but knowledgeable in anatomy, physiology, and pathology through his medical training. Family and friends established this scholarship to recognize a student in Art as Applied to Medicine who displays a similar balance of medical and scientific knowledge with the artistic skills that Dr. Netter exhibited throughout his career. Winners of this award have excelled in their academic courses; displayed exceptional art expression; and most importantly utilized both resources to create well-designed and effective didactic illustrations.
The Kathleen Mackay Powell Memorial Fund An endowment to assist and benefit students in the field of medical illustration given in memory of Kathleen Mackay Powell who studied in the department (1930–31) under Max Brödel.
The Chester Reather Scholarship in Art as Applied to Medicine An endowment established in Art as Applied to Medicine in honor of Chester Reather’s distinguished career as a medical photographer and research associate at The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. This fund is used to reward a graduate student with a scholarship for innovative research and creative use of new imaging technology.
The W. B. Saunders Company Fellowship in Art as Applied to Medicine This fellowship was established in 1964 in honor of Lawrence Saunders upon his retirement after 50 years of distinguished leadership in medical publishing.
The Leon Schlossberg Scholarship Fund This scholarship was established in 1999 in memory of Leon Schlossberg (JHU ’35) and his lifetime association as a medical illustrator for the Department of Surgery and faculty member in Art as Applied to Medicine.
Awards, Lectureship, and Support
The Ranice W. Crosby Distinguished Achievement Award Through the generosity of alumni, colleagues, and friends, a medallion honoring Ranice W. Crosby, Director of Art as Applied to Medicine from 1943 to 1983, is awarded for scholarly contributions to the advancement of art as applied to the medical sciences. The recipient is selected by a committee at intervals of one to three years.
The Samson Feldman Visiting Scholar in Art as Applied to Medicine Rossetta A. and Sadie B. Feldman, sisters of Samson Feldman, established a visiting lectureship to honor his life as an artist and lifelong patron of the arts. Lecturers are selected from distinguished scholars in visual communications with the purpose of presenting contemporary views pertaining to medical art. The selection of lecturers is made by a committee representing the Department of Art as Applied to Medicine.
The James M. and Carolyn H. Phelps Fund Support for the preservation and care of the Max Brödel Archives. This fund was established in memory of their parents by the Phelps family.
Admission Requirements
The goal of the Admissions Committee is to find students with intellectual curiosity and a passion to communicate medicine and science through dynamic visuals. We seek candidates who demonstrate high academic performance in science, particularly the life sciences, excellent draftspersonship in an art portfolio, and strong verbal and written communication skills.
Further details on the below Prerequisites can be found on the MBI Admissions web page.
Prerequisites
- A Bachelor's degree demonstrating a high level of scholarship (BS, BA, BFA, or similar)
- Exemplary Science Preparation which includes the following four courses:
- General Chemistry
- Vertebrate Anatomy* (with mammalian dissection lab)
- Vertebrate Physiology*
- At least one of these specific Upper-Level Biological Science courses:
- Molecular Biology
- Embryology
- Immunology
- Histology
- Cell Biology (must be upper-level / Junior-Senior level)
- A Strong Art Portfolio demonstrating ability to realistically render directly observed subject matter in the following categories:
- Excellent Written and Verbal Communication Skills
- At least one course in English Composition***
* A two-semester sequence in Human Anatomy and Physiology (course 1 and course 2) may substitute for the Vertebrate Anatomy and Vertebrate Physiology prerequisite courses. A one-semester Human Anatomy and Physiology course may only substitute for one prerequisite.
**Take a look at the Sample Portfolio for additional information.
*** GRE or TOEFL scores may substitute for one course in English Composition
Application Process
Admission to the MBI program occurs in two Steps. Full details on the requirements for each Step of the process, along with sample portfolio images and links to the portfolio submission website, are available on the MBI Admissions web page. Admissions occurs one time each year with enrollment in August.
Step One - Portfolio and Applicant Profile
In Step One, candidates submit a Portfolio of 20 examples of their artwork that demonstrates excellent draftspersonship, good sense of realistic proportions, understanding of light on form, and ability to focus the viewer's eye within a drawing. Realistic rendering of directly observed subject matter including life drawing, still life, landscape, and portraits is encouraged. Faculty strongly encourage creating art while directly observing the subject and to avoid photo reference. Step One portfolio is due January 10th.
- Portfolio with examples from each portfolio category, 20 total
- Applicant Profile
- Portfolio Submission Fee
Following the January 10th Portfolio / Profile due date, the MBI Graduate Program Director notifies all candidates of the Admissions Committee decision. Only those candidates invited to continue should submit Step 2 materials.
Step Two - Official School of Medicine Application and Interview
The Director of the Graduate Program invites qualifying candidates to submit an official School of Medicine Application. These Candidates will also be invited to interview with the Director and Faculty. Only candidates invited to submit the SOM application should do so.
Candidates should be prepared to provide the below documents in the application:
- Three letters of recommendation
- College Transcripts
- Statement of Interest
- Resume OR CV
- Application Fee
All candidates from Step One and Step Two can expect a response from the Graduate Program Director and the Admissions Committee by April of the admissions year.
Degree Requirements
Graduate Program:
- The degree candidate must complete all required science courses with a C or better or with a Pass: Molecular and Cellular Visualization, Neuroanatomy for the Medical Illustrator, Pathology for Graduate Students: Basic Mechanisms, and Human Anatomy with Developmental Anatomy (P/F).
- The candidate must complete all required illustration courses with a C or better (a maximum of two illustration courses with a grade of C may be counted toward the degree).
- Each candidate must submit a thesis on a subject approved by the program or department director. Candidates must outline their thesis research and consult with their preceptor by the first quarter of the second year. The thesis must include original investigation and expository illustration, and may also include 3D digital or physical models, 2D or 3D animation, video, or immersive technology. The completed thesis must be approved by a university qualified preceptor as worthy of acceptance in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the M.A. degree.
- Degree candidates must complete the following training in the Responsible Conduct of Research:
- Responsible Conduct of Research (CITI), a course offered through JH myLearning
- Departmental discussions on research ethics for medical illustrators. Topics include: Research Ethics; Human subjects research ethics and purpose, and Institutional Review Board (IRB) requirements, including the application and approval process specific to JHM; HIPAA, Patient Privacy, safe handling of Personal Data, and De-Identification / Anonymization of visuals; Copyright and Intellectual Property Ownership; Business Ethics, Corporate Social Responsibility, and Ethical Leadership.
University:
- A candidate’s period of attendance in the program will be no less than 22 months. Transfer graduate students must register for a minimum of two consecutive semesters as full-time residents.
- Certification by the Department or Graduate Program Director that all programmatic degree requirements have been fulfilled.
- Before they are recommended for a degree to the JHU Board of Trustees, the candidate’s academic standing and thesis research will be reviewed for advancement by the Committee on Masters and Ph.D. Programs of the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine.
Program Curriculum
The Medical and Biological Illustration (MBI) program offers a robust curriculum designed to prepare future leaders in the medical illustration profession. Accredited since 1970, the MBI program offers courses in visual communication of medicine and life-sciences as well as graduate level science courses in the School of Medicine. Courses are directly related to technical, biological, or medical subject matter. Student assignments require problem solving and individual research. Complete understanding of the topic is required. Expertise in all media communication utilized by clinicians, research scientists, health science personnel, students, patients, and the public is stressed.
A complete and updated list of courses is available on the MBI program's Curriculum page.
First Year - Fall
- ME.120.708 - Introduction to Design (1 hrs.): Introduction to principles of graphic design, data visualization, and user-centered thinking that will inform the production of clear, functional multimedia.
- ME.120.719 - Illustrating Anatomy (4 hrs.): A comprehensive overview of the technical, theoretical, and narrative aspects of creating anatomical illustrations and the fundamentals of incorporating radiological visualizations into medical illustration workflows.
- ME.120.720 - Vector Illustration (2 hrs.): Introduction to visual storytelling, hierarchy and layout. Technical aspects of digital art production using vector digital imaging applications and the fundamentals of creating effective visuals for patient or lay audiences
- ME.120.721 - Raster Tone Illustration (3 hrs.) An overview of the technical aspects of digital art production using raster-based digital imaging applications for continuous-tone rendering. Students develop skills in creating two-dimensional raster illustrations, with emphasis on digital rendering techniques for biological subject matter. The course focuses on producing high-quality digital still artwork suitable for both print and digital media, integrating technical proficiency with effective visual communication.
- ME.120.722 - Introduction to 3D Modeling and Animation (2 hrs.): This course introduces Cinema 4D as a tool for creating 3D assets for illustration and animation. Essential topics include user interface, setting up reference images, modeling techniques, materials and textures, lighting, rendering, camera placement and movement, dynamic simulations, and animation. Students will develop skills to create and animate 3D models of organic and non-organic structures, gaining a solid understanding of the fundamental principles of 3D content creation. Outcomes include a proficiency in C4D and Redshift and the establishment of a 3D asset library for future projects.
- ME.130.600 - Human Anatomy with Developmental Anatomy (12 hrs.): This seven-week Human Anatomy course is taught to first year medical students in the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. Designed to provide a comprehensive regional approach to the human body, this course includes lecture, cadaver dissection with emphasis on the three-dimensional relationships of anatomic structures, clinical correlations, medical imaging sessions, and team-based learning small group activities. State of the art facilities in the Armstrong Medical Education Building support the learning objectives of the course.
First Year - Spring
- ME.120.714 - Editorial and Conceptual Illustration (2 hrs.): An introduction to conceptual thinking and visualization and its place in medical editorial and advertising markets.
- ME.120.715 - Biological Illustration (2 hrs.): Students will produce a biological illustration in partnership with experts from the National Aquarium in Baltimore. Students will apply illustration techniques to biological, botanical, and natural science topics and work on project management skills
- ME.120.716 - Medical Sculpture (3 hrs.): Survey of materials and techniques for creating custom medical sculptures
- ME.120.723 - 2D Animation (3 hrs.): Principles of 2D animation for video production. Fundamentals of script-writing, storyboard creation, asset and scene production, motion, 2D animated rendering techniques, special effects and post-production processing.
- ME.120.727 - Neuroanatomy for the Medical Illustrator (3 hrs.): Comprehensive overview of human neuroanatomy with a focus on visual communication concepts. Lecture content is supplemented by access to specimens, pathology conferences, and radiological data. Includes creation of a color neuroanatomical illustration.
- ME.120.728 - Advanced 3D Animation (5 hrs.): Building on the foundations established in the Introduction to 3D course, students are guided through the creation of an advanced animation using Cinema 4D, Redshift, and Adobe After Effects. Course content covers all aspects of production, including Topic Development, Pre-Production, Production, and Post-Production phases. This course emphasizes a thorough animation workflow, enabling students to produce polished, professional-quality results.
Second Year - Summer
- ME.120.726 - Molecular and Cellular Visualization (4 hrs.): This course will provide an in-depth review of structural and cell biology for the medical illustrator, including methods for background research and strategies for visually depicting molecular and cellular data. The course will introduce size relationships and scientific data that must be considered when illustrating on molecular and cellular scales.
- ME.120.755 - Business Practices for the Medical Illustrator (1 hr.): An in-depth exploration of the design and management of a small medical illustration studio business practice. Students gain practical experience analyzing challenges and developing effective, real-world solutions grounded in best business practices. Topics include strategic planning, operations, production and business management, pricing, finance, accounting, taxes, business entities, human resources, contracts and negotiations, copyright and intellectual property, marketing, branding, advertising, social media, ethics, and leadership.
- ME.120.756 - Operating Room Sketching (4 hrs.): Introduction to operating room protocol, observation and recording of surgical procedures.
- ME.120.807 - Design of Interactive Learning Experiences (3 hrs.): This course applies Instructional Design and Learning Experience Design to interactive media programs. Students will work in teams and use design-thinking to create an interactive module, and share their work through a written product pitch booklet and slide presentation. Throughout the course, students will be asked to wear the hats of instructional designer, project manager, producer, subject matter expert, digital media developer, illustrator, user experience designer, and end user.
Second Year - Fall
- ME.120.724 - Web Animation and Development (2 hrs.): Introduction to web coding language, theory, techniques, and development with specific emphasis on using a Content Managment System for the creation of a dynamic portfolio website.
- ME.120.750 - Surgical Illustration (5 hrs.): Illustration of surgical procedures from operating room sketches for medical education.
- ME.120.754 - Research and Theis (4 hrs.): Original investigation under preceptor and department advisor.
- ME.120.757 - Scientific Communication (2 hrs.): Principles of effective oral and written presentation.
- ME.120.759 - Interactive Media and Game Development (3 hrs.): Students will use a game engine to build an interactive teaching module for a scientific, medical or healthcare topic in 2D or 3D. Objectives include gaining familiarity with game engines and coding, creating interactable game objects and sprites, optimization of 3D assets for game engine rendering, and incorporating instructional and UI/UX design to help users with learning.
- ME.300.713 - Pathology for Graduate Students: Basic Mechanisms (3 hrs.): Pathology for Graduate Students: Basic Mechanisms will concentrate on the basic mechanisms of tissue injury and disease both at the molecular level and as they are manifested in human tissues. Normal tissue histology and function will be discussed in relation to organ systems as a basis for the understanding of disease mechanisms. Morning Lectures and discussion groups will be followed by afternoon laboratory and microscopic sessions. Students will dissect and prepare mouse tissues for a histology slide collection that will serve as the basis of some of the microscopic sessions. This block on basic pathogenic mechanisms will prepare students for more advanced topics on organ specific diseases that can be taken individually or in succession. The advanced blocks will be organized under 3 themes: 1) Neoplasia, 2) Immunopathology, and 3) Neuropathology.
Second Year - Spring
- ME.120.754 - Research and Thesis (12 hrs.): Original investigation under preceptor and department advisor.
- ME.120.758 - The Portfolio (4 hrs.): Professional portfolio and exhibition preparation and presentation, includes effective negotiation in a professional environment.
- ME.120.760 - Independent Student Development (1-4 hrs.): Independent Student Development offers students the opportunity to design and pursue self-directed projects as they transition from graduate studies into professional practice. This flexible period can be used to: strengthen specific competencies, refine existing work based on faculty feedback and self-evaluation, produce new portfolio pieces, or explore entirely new areas of interest within the field. Students may also choose to continue developing thesis-related deliverables in preparation for presentation or publication. Each student will be paired with a Faculty Advisor who will provide guidance, consultation, and technical support. However, students are expected to work independently and approach their projects with resourcefulness and self-motivation.
Elective Studies
Second year students may request course credit for specialized study not included in the MBI degree program curriculum. With approval of the MBI Program Director, an Elective Study course can be arranged in the second semester of the second year as an overload to, i.e. in addition to, the already scheduled curriculum required to earn the Master of Arts degree in Medical and Biological Illustration.
- ME.120.801 - Advanced Projects in Illustration (variable hrs.): Special topics in editorial, conceptual, biological or surgical illustration
- ME.120.813 - Independent Study (1 hr.): Conceptualization of scientific information and application to problem solving assignments. Students may arrange independent study with a faculty member with the approval of the Department or Graduate Program Director and scheduled during any quarter of the second year as an overload.
Seminars
Seminars by departmental faculty and guest lecturers are offered throughout the year introducing topics pertinent to the profession. Sample topics: illustration ethics, intellectual property, artist rights, art pricing, career pathways, and scientific / medical advances.
Learning Outcomes
The objective of the Medical and Biological Illustration Master of Arts program is to prepare skilled practitioners and future leaders in the field of Medical Illustration. Accredited since 1970, the MBI program offers courses in visual communication of medicine and life-sciences as well as graduate level science courses in the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. The Commission on the Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) publishes the Standards and Guidelines for the Accreditation of Educational Programs in Medical Illustration (found here) as adopted by the Accreditation Review Committee for the Medical Illustrator (ARCMI) and the Association of Medical Illustrators (AMI). Below is an abbreviation of the full list of Entry-Level Competencies for the Medical Illustrator located in Appendix B of the Standards and Guidelines.
Basic Science Competencies
- Understand, interpret, visualize, and accurately depict biomedical science content
- Access, interpret, and critically evaluate biomedical research
- Understand the scientific method, research principles, and levels of scientific evidence
- Distinguish between theoretical/hypothetical proposals and well-supported science
- Create clear and accurate visual representations of biomedical concepts
Cognitive Competencies
- Visualize biological structures, processes, and abstract scientific concepts in 2D and 3D formats
- Interpret and create visuals using perspective, cross-sections, cutaways, sequencing, and multiple viewpoints
- Translate verbal or written descriptions into accurate visual representations
- Apply visual problem-solving, conceptualization, and idea-generation methods (e.g., sketching, brainstorming, modeling, mapping)
- Apply graphic conventions, visual symbols, and communication standards effectively
- Analyze communication challenges, identify key messages, define goals, and evaluate alternative solutions
- Use analogies, metaphors, and strategic approaches to solve visual communication problems
Research Competencies
- Review and critically appraise relevant literature
- Formulate meaningful research questions, statements of purpose, and hypotheses
- Plan and conduct visual research projects using appropriate methods (e.g., audience testing, focus groups)
- Collect, organize, assess, and interpret data and resources
- Apply critical thinking, organization, and time management in research execution
- Communicate findings effectively in written and/or oral scientific formats
Applied Visual Communication Competencies
- Create accurate, effective visual media that meet defined communication goals
- Integrate information from research and multiple reference sources
- Apply principles of design, composition, color, scale, proportion, lighting, texture, and storyboarding
- Design visuals appropriate to defined audiences, considering literacy, disability, education, and cultural context
- Select appropriate media, style, format, and delivery methods (print, digital, motion, interactive)
- Apply educational, communication, and visual perception research to visual products
- Develop educational, medical-legal, and scientific illustrations across print, projection, electronic, and motion media
- Produce technically appropriate digital and print-ready files; demonstrate familiarity with current technologies and basic scripting/programming
- Demonstrate modeling and fabrication skills (e.g., sculpting, mold-making, casting, prosthetics, forensic reconstruction) where applicable
- Create and present a professional portfolio
Communication Competencies
- Identify client and learner needs and define project goals
- Use formative feedback, consultation, and revision processes
- Collaborate effectively with subject matter experts, supervisors, and team members
- Deliver professional oral presentations
- Apply professional writing skills to correspondence, proposals, contracts, reports, scripts, and publications
Professional and Ethical Competencies
- Maintain professional conduct in all work environments, including clinical and legal settings
- Protect confidentiality and handle sensitive information appropriately
- Produce original work, properly credit others, and uphold artists’ rights and fair practice
- Maintain ethical integrity in legal and scientific representations
Business and Management Competencies
- Estimate and manage project scope, costs, timelines, and resources
- Understand intellectual property, copyright, and legal hiring practices
- Recognize and operate within various business models
- Negotiate contracts and agreements effectively
- Maintain accurate business and financial records
- Use relevant business technologies and tools
- Market and promote professional services
- Understand the role of professional organizations
Emergency Preparedness & Response Competencies
- Develop clear visual communication for medical emergencies and public health situations
- Create effective visuals under time constraints or adverse conditions
- Design culturally appropriate medical iconography and public information graphics
- Contribute visual expertise to emergency preparedness and response planning