College of Arts and Science Vanderbilt University
Department of

Biological Sciences

Applying for Admission

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The Biological Sciences Graduate Program is designed for students wishing to earn the Ph.D degree. We do not admit students specifically for a masters degree.
 
There are two tracks for entering the department:
  1. You may apply directly to the department and be a part of the program from the start of your graduate career.
  2. Alternatively, you may enter after spending the first year in the Interdisciplinary Graduate Program (IGP).
The IGP is an interdepartmental program between our department and six Medical School departments. Entering through this track permits you to choose our department or any of the other participating departments.

To obtain information about one or both tracks or for answers to any questions you may have, please contact the Director of Graduate Studies, Kathy Friedman.

To apply for either track, students are asked to complete an online application.
Students holding degrees in the physical or biological sciences are especially encouraged to apply to the Graduate Program, but applicants from other fields will be considered. In appropriate cases, background deficiencies may be made up in the first year of the program or in the summer prior to entry. Students are advised to take the Graduate Record Examinations as early as possible. Any applications completed prior to January 15 will be considered.  However, the admissions committee will begin reviewing completed applications on December 15.  Please encourage referees to submit letters as soon as possible since applications cannot be considered complete until the letters of recommendation are received.