Frequently Asked Questions Concerning the Graduate Program

FAQs

• What is the BBSC?
  The BBSC is composed of foundational courses (Biochemistry, Cell Biology, Molecular Biology & Genetics, Biostatistics, Bioinformatics and Responsible Conduct in Biomedical Research) and a series of 8-week laboratory rotations. Additional available activities include regular seminars and specialized courses. 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 2009, we had 24 students admitted in the first year Basic Biomedical Science curriculum within the graduate school.
• Can I apply by post (Postal Mail)?
  No, the only way to apply is online.
• Can the application fee be waived?
  Unfortunately, we cannot waive the application fee.
• How much is the student stipend?
  Stipend is currently set at $28,000 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. Graduate assistant-ships are only available to US citizens and permanent residents (green card holders).
• 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 Housing page, and Galveston.com
• How much is tuition?
  For students awarded a graduate assistant-ship, tuition and fees are paid by the student's mentor. The approximate cost per term is $1,700.00. Graduate students must register each term for a minimum of 9 credits 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?
  While there is no specific deadline, application reviews and admissions typically begin December-January, so completed applications should be submitted by this time.
• Is there an advantage of applying earlier?
  Yes. We start reviewing applications as early as December. However, only completed files will be reviewed.
• 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 https://www.ets.org/gre/
• Do I need to take the GRE subject test?
  It's not a requirement, but we strongly recommend it.
• What are the codes?

  International Applicants Only
  	GRE	TOEFL		IELTS
  	(Subject test is not required)	(³ 550 paper; ³ 81 internet)		(6.5 - academic test)
  Institution Code	6887 U Texas Galveston	6887 U of Texas Med Branch Galvston	OR	U of TX Galv, Med. Br.
  Dept Code	0299 Biomedical Sciences Other	45 Biomedical Sciences		Grad Sch Biomed Sci
  Phone	1-800-473-2255	1-800-468-6335		1-626-564-2954
  Web Site	http://www.ets.org/gre/	http://www.ets.org/toefl		http://www.ielts.org

• I am an international applicant and English is my first language; am I required to take the TOEFL test?
  Requests for waivers with a written justification should be sent to Dr. Daniel C. Jupiter, Assistant Dean for Recruitment, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences.
• How important is research experience for applying to UTMB?
  Prior research experience is an important consideration when applications are reviewed.
• Is there any required undergraduate coursework?
  Prerequisite coursework 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.
• 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, Taylor Groves, 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.