Frequently Asked Questions: PhD in Biomedical Sciences

If we don’t answer your question here, please email us.

Application

  1. What are the requirements for admission?

    You must have an undergraduate degree (BA, BS or equivalent) in biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics or similar science discipline; previous exposure to laboratory research; U.S. citizenship or permanent resident status; and English language proficiency.

  2. Are advanced degree holders eligible for admission?

    Yes—we encourage you to apply if you hold an advanced degree (e.g., MD, DO, PharmD, DVM or DDS). Our program is well suited to early career clinicians who also want to conduct research.

  3. Is there an application fee?

    No, there is no fee to submit the application.

  4. Does the Graduate School require GRE scores?

    No, the Graduate School no longer requires applicants to take the GRE for admission into the PhD program.

  5. Can I save my application and come back to it later?

    Yes. However, be sure you complete it by December 1!

Admission

  1. How does the admissions process work?

    After you upload transcripts, personal statement, research summary, layman’s essay, professional headshot and referee contact information, you can submit your online application.

    Your information then becomes available online to the Graduate School for review. In January, top candidates visit the St. Jude campus for interviews and tours. (Online interviews are possible.) Decisions begin in February and may continue into April. You must accept admission by April 15.

  2. What does an admissions committee look for when making decisions?

    We review your research experience, grades, letters of recommendation and essay. In addition, we are curious about your research interests, and how well that matches our faculty. We want to ensure that we have the faculty who can support your interests and guide you through your dissertation. Candidate interviews are another way we ensure a good match between you and the Graduate School.

    We don’t have a minimum GPA in mind. We do expect you to have broad training in core areas of life sciences and we do expect you to be ready to succeed in graduate coursework and research.

  3. How many students apply and are admitted to the Graduate School?

    Approximately 100-140 students apply for the 12 available slots annually.

General

  1. Is student housing available for admitted students?

    First-year students are encouraged to take advantage of student housing available at Harbor Island Apartments or Parcels @ Crosstown. Rent is significantly subsidized for a fully furnished 1-, 2- or 3-bedroom apartment.

  2. How long is orientation?

    Orientation lasts two weeks and your courses begin immediately after. 

  3. Is there a summer break?

    Yes, the last two weeks of June, roughly. After your first year (which begins with orientation), you will be back in the lab after the July 4 holiday.

The St. Jude Children's Research Hospital Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences is authorized for operation as a postsecondary educational institution by the Tennessee Higher Education Commission. In order to view detailed job placement and graduation information on the programs offered by the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, please visit http://www.tn.gov/thec/bureaus/student-aid-and-compliance/postsecondary-state-authorization/authorized-institutions-and-data.html.