Explore the dynamic field of biomedical sciences in this cutting-edge interdisciplinary doctoral program. Core coursework integrated with seminars and laboratory rotations exposes students to the breadth of biomedical inquiry prior to pursuing advanced research concentrations.
In this interdisciplinary program, students will be required to master a broad knowledge of basic biomedical sciences. Integration of coursework is reinforced by laboratory experiences and seminars that highlight the interdisciplinary relationship and approach to biomedical research. The student progresses from a set of core courses to advanced courses in their chosen concentration and an in-depth doctoral research project. Under the guidance of the graduate faculty, the student will integrate knowledge from the broad spectrum of biomedical disciplines into their focus in an area of specialization.
Please email us if you have any questions or need more information.
Program Information:
Admissions Requirements
Students admitted to the program should ordinarily hold a B.S. degree in one of the life sciences, including biology, biochemistry, biomedical engineering, chemistry or microbiology. The requirements for admission to the Biomedical Sciences Ph.D. program are as follows:
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A bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with a B (3.00) average on a 4.0 scale. Students with advanced degrees are encouraged to apply.
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Transcripts of coursework only from institutions awarding a bachelor's or master's degree.
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A statement of personal goals and academic objectives.
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Writing sample on a science related topic (from a course or from your research experience).
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Resume listing all degrees earned and work experience.
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Three letters of recommendation on letterhead, preferably from faculty members at colleges attended who are familiar with the applicant's academic and research capabilities.
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A completed application form.
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Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) test scores, sent directly from ETS to the ODU International Graduate Admissions Office. Test scores must accompany applications for non-native English-speaking candidates with a degree issued outside of the United States.
Consideration of applicants for entrance into the fall semester will begin on December 15th and continue until the class is filled. The closing date to receive complete applications is February 1st.
Spring and summer entrance on a case-by-case basis is only allowed for Post-M.S. students. Applicants must be accepted by an ODU mentor before applying. Please email all questions regarding this special process.
Please note that students who are currently enrolled in master's study either at the University or another institution are strongly encouraged to complete their degree before applying to the Biomedical Sciences Ph.D. program since the acceptance of all graduate credits previously earned cannot be guaranteed
Students holding a bachelor's degree in another, a related field such as computer science, mathematics and physics may need to take leveling courses in the biological and chemical sciences or pursue master's level work in those fields. Both the Biological Sciences and Chemistry & Biochemistry Departments offer master's degrees.
Students will complete the following core courses unless they have prior equivalent graduate-level coursework.
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BIOL 810 - Advanced Cell Biology - 3 credits
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BIOL 847 - Responsible Conduct in Research - 2 credits
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BIOL 857 - Biometry - 4 credits
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BMS 899 - Dissertation Research - 1-6 credits
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CHEM 865 - Advanced Biochemistry - 3 credits
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HLSC 873 - Planning Proposals and Developing Grants in Health Research - 3 credits
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MDTS 850 - Molecular Genetics, Gene Function, and Genomics - 3 credits
Graduate Program Director
