Frequently Asked Questions concerning the Graduate Program
- What is the BBSC?
- How many students are admitted each year?
- Can I apply by post (Postal Mail)?
- Can the application fee be waived?
- How much is the student stipend?
- What is the cost of living in Galveston?
- How much is tuition?
- Do I have to apply separately for financial aid?
- What is the application deadline for the year 2005?
- Is there an advantage of applying earlier?
- Do you have a minimum GRE score requirement and what importance does GRE score hold as compare to the GPA?
- I have taken the GRE, how long is that score valid?
- Do I need to take the GRE subject test?
- I am an international applicant and English is my first language; am I required to take the TOEFL test?
- How important is research experience for applying to UTMB?
- In my application, do I have to identify my faculty advisor?
- Would it be possible for me to come and tour the department?
- Can I choose a lab that is not in the department for rotation to learn additional techniques?
- My undergraduate coursework is deficient in the biological sciences, can I take coursework at UTMB to meet the requirements of the program?
- How and when can I find out if I have been accepted?
What is the BBSC?
The BBSC is composed of three 16-week foundation courses (Biochemistry, Cell Biology, and Molecular Biology & Genetics), eight-week elective courses, two to four laboratory rotations, and a set of specialize courses and activities (ethics, seminar, statistics, orientation and electives). Following successful completion of the BBSC, students select a graduate program to complete their degree requirements. For more information, visit the BBSC Home Page.
How many students are admitted each year?
There is not a fixed number as such, it depends on the number of applicants and the funding in the department. In the year 2004 we had 32 students admitted in the graduate school.
Can I apply by post (Postal Mail)?
No, the only way to apply is online.
Can the application fee be waived?
We do make exceptions for application fee payment under certain justified exceptions. You may contact Dr. Dorian Coppenhaver, Associate Dean for Student Affairs.
How much is the student stipend?
Stipend is currently set at $25,000 per year. In addition, students receive a ~$5,000 benefits package which includes a medical health insurance plan. Dental insurance is available for a small charge.
What is the cost of living in Galveston?
Galveston is a very reasonable place to live compared to most of the cities in USA. For more information on Housing, visit the Student Life page, and Galveston.com
How much is tuition?
The approximate cost for tuition and fee for 9 hours is $1,194 per term, (does not include liability insurance/yearbook). Graduate students must register for a minimum of 9 credit hours.
Do I have to apply separately for financial aid?
No, all applicants admitted to the program receive financial assistance. For scholarships and awards visit the scholarship opportunities page.
What is the application deadline for the year 2007?
| Receipt of Application | Supporting Materials | |
|---|---|---|
| International | December 14 | March 1 |
| US Residents | January 15 | April 1 |
Is there an advantage of applying earlier?
Yes. We start reviewing applications as soon as all the documents have been received. Applying earlier would be an added advantage.
Do you have a minimum GRE score requirement and what importance does GRE score hold as compare to the GPA?
Although there's no minimum cut off for the GRE scores, we do give a lot of importance to the scores while reviewing the applicants.
I have taken the GRE, how long is that score valid?
GRE scores are valid for 5 years. More details can be obtained from www.gre.org
Do I need to take the GRE subject test?
It's not a requirement, but we strongly recommend it.
I am an international applicant and English is my first language; am I required to take the TOEFL test?
The TOEFL requirement can be waived under the advice of the Program Director, Dr. Lillian Chan.
How important is research experience for applying to UTMB?
Completion of the prerequisite course work, which includes: mathematics, general physics, general chemistry with laboratory experience, organic chemistry with laboratory experience, biology and English (all applicants must be proficient in written and spoken English). Applicants should have completed at least one years' work in advanced science courses pertinent to his/her proposed area of interest. Examples of possible areas for such advanced work include advanced biology, analytical chemistry, biochemistry, organic chemistry, physical chemistry, computer science, genetics, cell biology, molecular biology, engineering, physiological psychology, etc.
In my application, do I have to identify my faculty advisor?
It is NOT necessary for the application. However, you may want to state your area of interest. To view a listing of faculty who have funds to support rotation students, visit the Graduate Program Laboratory Rotation Matrix Page.
Would it be possible for me to take a tour of the department?
Yes, it is possible. Review the web site of the faculty whose research is of interest to you, then contact the Graduate Program office, Debora Botting, to coordinate a possible tour.
Can I choose a lab that is not in the department for rotation to learn additional techniques?
Absolutely; the advantage of our program is its flexibility, which allows students to explore different areas before making their decision about their mentor and laboratory.
My undergraduate coursework is deficient in the biological sciences, can I take coursework at UTMB to meet the requirements of the program?
No, All the courses offered at UTMB are graduate level courses.
How and when can I find out if I have been accepted?
As soon as the decision about your application is made, an email is sent out, the time frame again depends on when the application is received and reviewed. All decisions are made by April.
