Program Overview

Introduction to the Biochemistry, Cell and Molecular Biology Program

The Biochemistry, Cellular and Molecular Biology Ph.D. and M.S. graduate programs at Central Michigan University provide research-based multidisciplinary training in diverse aspects of biological, biochemical, and biomedical sciences. This program is an individually tailored program emphasizing professional skills and career development.

Program Overview

Work closely with your advisor and committee, cultivating individual development as you progress through foundational coursework and research. The Biochemistry, Cell and Molecular Biology researchers and labs participate from several departments in the College of Science and Engineering and from the College of Medicine. Researchers use a wide array of techniques and model systems to pursue basic and translational research on topics ranging from cancer and infectious diseases to neuroscience and developmental biology.

Research Areas

The diversity of expertise and research interests in our Biochemistry, Cell and Molecular Biology programs provide you with opportunities to explore a wide spectrum of important biological questions through innovative, collaborative, and interdisciplinary approaches.

M.S. Program

Students complete the M.S. program in approximately 2 years. The combination of advanced course work and research experience prepares students for Ph.D. programs, schools in the health professions (e.g., medical school), or jobs in biotechnology.

Ph.D. Program

The Ph.D. program provides an in-depth research experience over approximately 5 years. Students graduating with a Ph.D. may go on to careers in academia, industry, or other fields that draw on the knowledge and skills acquired during their graduate work.

Admission Requirements

Minimum requirements for applicants for the BCMB Ph.D. and M.S. programs are:

• Bachelor's degree in Biology, Chemistry, Biochemistry, or a related discipline
• Overall GPA of 3.0 and major GPA of 3.0
• A strong background in basic sciences including biology, chemistry, and mathematics
• International students must demonstrate English proficiency
• Research experience is required for the BCMB Ph.D. program
• Applicants must "match" with an advisor in order to be admitted to either program

Application Process

The application process is the same for both the Biochemistry, Cell and Molecular Biology Ph.D. and M.S. programs. Students with a bachelor's degree may apply to either the M.S. or Ph.D. program; however, students with limited research experience should consider the M.S. program first.

Application Guidelines

• Contact potential advisors before applying
• Review the faculty profiles and contact faculty with whom you would like to work
• Include your CV and unofficial transcripts to provide evidence of your training and experiences
• Deadlines: Complete applications received by January 10 will be considered for admission into the program the following fall semester

Required Materials

Applications must be submitted by the deadline for an application to be considered. Upload the following materials to complete your online application:

• Official transcripts for all Bachelor's degrees and any MS degrees
• Letters of recommendation
• CV/resume
• Application fee
• International students will be required to submit proof of English language proficiency
• Three letters of recommendation must be requested through the application portal

Financial Support

Graduate students in the Biology, Cellular and Molecular Biology programs are typically supported through a combination of teaching and research assistantships. Graduate teaching assistantships (GTAs) and graduate research assistantships (GRAs) are service-related appointments that require teaching or research, respectively. Through an assistantship, you will receive a stipend, a tuition waiver, travel accident insurance, and special library privileges. During the application process, your faculty sponsor will develop a funding plan that outlines how you will be supported for each semester of the program.