Applicants
Application Materials and Information
Request for application packages, information or assistance should be directed to:
Molecular Biology Program
University of Utah
15 North 2030 East
EIHG 533, Rm 1400
Salt Lake City, Utah 84112-5330
Phone: (801) 581-5207
FAX: (801) 585-2465
E-mail: tami.brunson@genetics.utah.edu
Documents Required
See below for detailed explanation.
- Application Form: This form alone often enables us to identify the most promising applicants, and should be submitted as early as possible. There is no application fee. Moreover, all students admitted to the program receive a stipend, tuition waivers and health insurance so a separate application for financial support is not required.
- Personal Statement: a few pages usually suffice.
- GRE Scores: an official copy of the Graduate Record Examination aptitude tests. If you are planning to take a subject test, we recommend that you take the Biochemistry, Cell and Molecular Biology, the Biology, or the Chemistry test.
- Transcripts: one official copy of transcripts from each college or university attended.
- Letters of Recommendation: from at least three persons familiar with your research potential.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV): see example.
Application Timetable
All applications are reviewed on this schedule for entrance in the fall semester.
| January 1 | Review of applications begins. |
| January 15 | Application deadline. |
| February 1- March 10 |
Interview visits for applicants residing in North America. |
| March 1 - April 1 |
Applicants are notified of admissions decision. |
| April 15 | Decision date for acceptance of admission offers by applicants. |
Criteria for Admission
Admission decisions are based on the following factors (not necessarily listed in order of importance):
Educational Background
Applicants should have some undergraduate training in biochemistry, genetics, cell biology, or biology, but students with strong chemistry, physics or mathematics backgrounds are encouraged to apply even if they have not had extensive coursework in molecular biology. Deficiencies in basic undergraduate courses can be remedied in the first year of graduate school.
Undergraduate Performance
Ideally, the undergraduate record should be strong in all areas. However, evidence of ability to perform well in science courses, particularly those stressing quantitative skills, is most important.
Research Experience
Many successful applicants have had some sort of independent laboratory experience indicative of an informed commitment to a research career.
Recommendations
Strong statements of support from persons in a position to evaluate the applicant's potential for success as a graduate student have significant impact on admissions decisions.
GRE Scores
A strong performance on this test carries considerable weight. In evaluating the performance on the advanced test, if taken, allowances are made for differences in undergraduate preparation. (Subject test is not required.)
Personal Statement
The personal statement should be articulate and give evidence of a strong commitment to research. Mention of specific, well-focused interests is useful, but not essential; overly vague statements may be detrimental. The statement offers the applicant a unique opportunity to demonstrate critical thinking ability.
Personal Interview (North America residents only)
Promising applicants are invited to visit the University of Utah to meet graduate students and faculty members and to learn more about the graduate program, the university, and the local environment
Application Procedures: (US Citizens)
U.S. Citizen applications can be submitted online or printed by clicking the links below:
Personal Reference Form (PDF Form)
Application Form (PDF Form)
Application Procedures: (International Applicants)
PLEASE NOTE: We do not allow International applicants to apply online via our website.
Application proceedures for International applicants living outside the U.S.
Application proceedures for International applicant living inside the U.S.
You may also contact our office for an application packet.
For a list of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) click here.