Graduate Programs

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UMB Biology Graduate Student Annual Report

Prospective students, find more information here

MS Programs

• Master of Science in Biology
• Master of Science in Biotechnology

• Biotechnology Certificate Program
  
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  PHD PROGRAMS IN BIOLOGY
  Two Tracks:
  

1. Environmental Biology
   
2. Molecular, Cellular and Organismal Biology (MCOB)
   
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• Biomedical Engineering and Biotechnology (BMEBT)

• Graduate Assistance in Areas of National Need (GAANN) Program

INFORMATION FOR PROSPECTIVE STUDENTS

Application Deadlines

• Fall admission -To be considered fully for all available funding, applications should be received by February 1. This is a target date. We begin reviewing applications at that time, but we will continue reviewing applications received after that date until our funding resources are exhausted.
  
  
• Spring admission - To be considered fully for all available funding, applications should be received by November 1. This is a target date. We begin reviewing applications at that time, but we will continue reviewing applications received after that date until our funding resources are exhausted.
  

Application Process

Complete application as required by Graduate Admissions (see Graduate Bulletin)

The University requires a detailed statement of interests and intent. As described in the Graduate Bulletin, you must include a two- part essay. In the first part, include your reasons for wishing to pursue graduate studies.

In the second part, the Biology Department requires a detailed description of your specific interests, and the area of research you wish to pursue. You must designate at least two faculty members whose research focus is of interest to you. You can find a complete listing of our faculty and their research interests here.

In addition, international students must meet other requirements as required by the University... click here.

Decision Process

1. Your application arrives in the Department from the University's Graduate Admissions Office.
2. When complete (letter of intent, GRE scores, letters of recommendation, and transcripts), the application will be reviewed by the Biology Graduate Program Director.
3. The application is then forwarded to possible mentors/advisors in the department for review.
4. All applications are then reviewed by Graduate Committee for decisions on possible acceptance.
5. Acceptance/Rejection notification is sent out.

FAQ's

• Is there a minimum GRE score required by the Department?

No. While we do not have a minimum acceptable GRE score, to be competitive in the applicant pool, a minimum score of 500 in each area is a good starting point. Although you may be lacking in your GREs, the rest of your application could be very strong, and we take that into consideration.

• Which GRE test do I need?

You must take the General GREs. We do not require individual subject tests.

• Is there a minimum TOEFL score?

Yes. The University requires a score of at least 213 on the computer-based exam, and 550 on the written.

• Is there a minimum GPA?

Your undergraduate cumulative GPA must be at least 2.75. Again, this is a University requirement.

• Can I be accepted without stipend support?

Yes.

• Are there any fees associated with being Graduate Student at UMass?

Yes. Please see the University fee table.

• Can I take graduate courses if I'm not in the Graduate Program?

Yes. You can take any course as a non-matriculated student per University policy. You also will need permission of the instructor. See our course listings.

• Can I transfer courses into the Biology Graduate Program if accepted?

Yes. You can transfer up to 6 graduate credits towards your degree in Biology.