Program Overview

Introduction to the Microbiology Graduate Program

The Graduate Program in Microbiology at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus seeks students with intellectual aptitude, independence, and motivation to pursue scientific research. The program welcomes applicants from varied backgrounds, with previous experience in Microbiology coursework and research being helpful but not required.

Admissions Philosophy

The program considers and selects students based on past academic performance, previous laboratory research experience, recommendations, and individual interviews. The admissions committee reviews completed coursework to determine if each applicant has a sufficient background to pursue the doctoral degree.

Entrance Requirements

• Undergraduate Studies: A baccalaureate degree (BS or BA) with a 3.0 (out of 4.0) Grade Point Average (GPA) is required, although exceptions can be considered. Specific courses are not required, but coursework in subjects like Microbiology, Immunology, Virology, Organic Chemistry, Biology, Biochemistry, Cell Biology, Genetics, Molecular Biology, Molecular Genetics, and Physiology is recommended.
• Research Experience: Research experience, particularly experimental, hypothesis-driven research experience, is highly recommended. This type of experience provides valuable insight into the applicant's commitment to the rigors and rewards of scientific endeavor.
• Letters of Recommendation: Three letters of recommendation are required for an application to be considered complete. These letters should be from individuals such as college professors or faculty mentors who are familiar with the applicant's academic and/or laboratory achievements.
• Work Authorization: Students in some doctoral programs receive coverage of stipend, tuition, and fees (including health insurance). To be eligible for such coverage, a student needs to be authorized to work in the United States.

Application Process

• Deadline: The deadline for applications is December 1. Applications will open on September 1.
• Application Components: To apply, applicants must submit the following:
  • Online Graduate School application
  • A non-refundable application fee ($50.00 domestic, $75.00 international)
  • One official transcript of all academic work completed to date
  • Three letters of recommendation
  • GRE scores are no longer required for admission
  • International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency by submitting scores of the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or its equivalent

International Applicants

International students must meet all the requirements above and those required by International Admissions. The priority deadline for international applicants is November 1, to ensure time for administrative processing before December 1.

Recruitment Weekend

If an application is accepted, and the applicant is invited for an interview, the Microbiology Program Administrator will contact them to make travel arrangements. The Microbiology Program covers all expenses during the visit, including transportation, lodging, and meals.

Program Details

• The program does not award master's degrees; it is a Ph.D.-granting program.
• A new Immunology and Microbiology track has been added to the Biomedical Science and Biotechnology Master's program.
• The Admissions Committee reviews application files and decides whether to offer an interview.
• Usually, 12 to 15 applicants are invited for interviews, which are held in January or early February.
• The Committee has until April 15 to notify applicants of their decision.

Interview Process

• The interviews are one-on-one, 30-minute talks with the Microbiology faculty and Admissions Committee faculty.
• Applicants may bring additional information to share during the interviews.
• Current students escort applicants to and from their interviews.
• Dietary needs are accommodated, and alternatives are provided.
• Applicants are advised to wear comfortable, professional attire for the interviews.

Post-Interview

• After the interview weekend, the Admissions Committee makes their decision.
• Applicants who do not receive an invitation or a letter of decline are placed on a waitlist.
• The Committee notifies applicants of their decision by April 15.