Program Overview

Introduction to the PhD in Molecular Oncology and Immunology

The PhD in Molecular Oncology and Immunology at Augusta University is designed to prepare students for a career in basic and translational biomedical research, either in an academic environment or industry. This program offers an interdisciplinary approach to research, with faculty members from clinical and basic science departments.

Program Overview

• The program is ideal for students who consider themselves analytical and strategic, as well as innovative and cutting-edge.
• Students in the program are admitted via a common admissions process to the Biomedical Sciences doctoral programs.
• After completing the first-year core coursework and laboratory rotations, students choose a dissertation research mentor and enter the Molecular Oncology and Immunology program.
• The average time to completion of the degree is approximately five years of full-time, year-round study.

Curriculum

• The program includes coursework and laboratory rotations in the first year, followed by dissertation research.
• Students work closely with their dissertation research mentor to design their research project and complete their dissertation.

Admissions Criteria

• GPA: Overall GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale at the Baccalaureate level calculated on all undergraduate work.
• Degree Requirement: Minimum of a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent from an accredited college or university.
• Transcripts: Official transcripts are required from all universities and colleges ever attended.
• Standardized Test Requirements: None are required for this program.
• Letters of Recommendation: Recommendations from three individuals must be submitted through the application portal.
• Resume: Applicants must submit a resume or curriculum vitae within the application portal.
• Research Experience: Research experience is required for admission.

Tuition and Fees

• Estimated total: $4,801 (full-time, in-state, per semester)
• Tuition Per Hour: $401
• Mandatory Fees: $675

Application Deadlines

• Fall '26 Deadline: December 1, 2025
• Early submission of all application materials is strongly advised.

Why Choose Augusta University?

• The program’s focus on the development of new approaches to disease treatment through the unique combination of basic science and translational medical research prepares graduates to make a difference in a variety of different environments.
• Individualized programs of study allow students to tailor their research and focus on their career objectives.
• The diverse, internationally recognized faculty provide the full spectrum of biomedical research training.

Career Options

• According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median pay for a medical scientist is $100,890 per year.
• Job growth for medical scientists is projected to rise much faster than average.

Student Stories

• Students in the program have found positions in highly respected universities and organizations, including Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine.

Program Focus

• The program’s focus on tumor immunology gives graduates important skills valued by academic and clinical research, medicine, and industry.
• The diverse faculty come from the basic sciences and clinical medicine to provide a truly interdisciplinary education.

Conclusion

The PhD in Molecular Oncology and Immunology at Augusta University offers a unique and interdisciplinary approach to research, preparing students for a career in basic and translational biomedical research. With a focus on tumor immunology and a diverse faculty, graduates are well-equipped to make a difference in a variety of different environments.