PBSE Graduate Training Tracks
  •  Bioinformatics & Computational Biology
            •  BCB Courses
            •  BCB Faculty
  •  Mechanistic, Structural & Chemical Biology
            •  MSCB Courses
            •  MSCB Faculty
  •  Molecular, Cell & Developmental Biology
            •  MCD Courses
            •  MCD Faculty

Other Related Links
  •  Biomedical Research at UCSC
  •  Center for Biomedical Science & Engineering
  •  Initiative for Maximizing Student Diversity
  •  CBSE Diversity Fellowships
  •  Support UCSC Biomedical Research

GRADUATE TRAINING PROGRAM IN BIOMEDICAL SCIENCES & ENGINEERING
APPLICATION PROCEDURES

The graduate training Program in Biomedical Science and Engineering (PBSE) crosses traditional departmental boundaries and provides students with diverse research opportunities. Rather than applying to a department, prospective students apply directly to the PBSE, indicating interest in one of three training tracks: Bioinformatics and Computational Biology (BCB), Mechanistic, Structural and Chemical Biology (MSCB), and Molecular, Cell and Developmental Biology (MCD). Each track is characterized by unique coursework and research opportunities, while also offering courses and seminars that overlap with other tracks.  This approach facilitates interaction and collaboration, exposing students to the diverse research that occurs daily across disciplines at UCSC.

PBSE is a Ph.D. granting program only.  Students interested in masters degree programs should go to departmental links at the bottom of this page.

APPLICATION PROCESS

• Only on-line applications are accepted.
• Applications to PBSE for FALL 2010 must be received by DECEMBER 10, 2009. 
• The completed application must be accompanied by a nonrefundable $70 fee.
• Applicants must select one of three PBSE training tracks (BCB, MSCB, or MCD) on the initial application.

APPLICATION REVIEW CRITERIA

• Undergraduate record: overall GPA and grades in relevant courses
• Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores: Applicants MUST take the GRE General Test. Subject tests in Biochemistry or Cell and Molecular Biology are recommended for the MCDB track.  Subject tests in Biochemistry or Chemistry are recommended for the MSCB track.   The GRE exam should be taken sufficiently early so that resutls are available for review. UCSC's school code for the exam is 4860.
• Letters of recommendation: Three letters in electronic format only
• Previous research/work experience: While not required, most successful candidates have acquired some laboratory or research experience, either during their undergraduate career or while working in industry.
• Research interests: Research interests, as put forth in the applicant's personal statement, are evaluated for their relevance to the PBSE program and selected training track.
• Personal Interviews: Based on the above criteria, applicants will be invited to visit UCSC for personal interviews with faculty members and current graduate students. Transportation and other costs of the interview process are covered by the program.

ADMISSION

Admission offers are sent from mid-February through March. To be formally admitted, the Graduate Studies Office must receive a written acceptance letter by April 15th.

FOREIGN APPLICANTS :

The MCD Biology graduate program places a high value on the presence of scholars from diverse nations and cultures, and actively solicits applications from foreign applicants. However, due to limited financial resources, we can only make a small number of offers to non-U.S. residents. Foreign applicants from countries where English is not the primary language MUST take the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). A minimal score of 550 (on the paper-based test), 220 (on the computer-based test) or 83 (on the internet-based test) is required. TOEFL scores are good for two years from the test date.

TRANSFER APPLICANTS:

It is possible, though uncommon, to transfer from another Ph.D. program to the PBSE graduate program. Course or rotation requirement waivers are made on a case by case basis.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

• General information about UCSC graduate admissions and support can be found at the UCSC Division of Graduate Studies website.
• For Email questions about applications, contact the Graduate Admissions Office, or call 831-459-4975
• For specific research questions, contact relevant PBSE faculty members directly.

PBSE is a Ph.D. granting program only. Information about masters degree programs in related areas can be found at the following links:

UCSC's graduate  Program in Biomedical Sciences and Engineering is supported by training grants from the National Institute of General Medical Science.