We welcome applicants from all scientific backgrounds, including clinical fellows or junior faculty who wish to pursue a clinical research career.
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Eligibility
Candidates must meet the following minimum criteria for enrollment:
- An undergraduate degree (BA, BS or equivalent) in biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics or similar science discipline. Advanced clinical degrees (MD, DDS, DMD, DO, DC, OD or ND) are preferred.
- U.S. citizenship or permanent resident status or be sponsored by another institution on a Visa that allows for a full-time course of study in a degree-granting program
- A resident of the state of Tennessee or the state of Mississippi during the duration of the program
- Written and verbal proficiency in English language
- Letter of commitment from their division or department (St. Jude clinical fellows or junior faculty applicants only)
More detailed admissions and eligibility information is available in our general catalog (Download a PDF version).
How to Apply
We require an online application and additional supplemental materials.
Complete an Online Application
In the online application, you will be asked to provide demographic information and the following materials (please check application for accepted file formats).
- A Curriculum Vitae giving full details of your personal history, education, honors and previous experience.
- A 3-page personal statement (in English) that outlines:
1) your motivation for pursuing the MS in Clinical Investigations and how your past experiences and training have contributed to this interest;
2) what differentiates you as an applicant: your life experiences, why you are applying to this program, your research interests, your interest in contributing to new scientific knowledge, your commitment to fostering equity and innovation in healthcare and research, your experiences working/collaborating with others, and/or your leadership potential;
3) your professional goals upon completion of the program and how the MS in Clinical Investigations will contribute to attaining those goals
- Official transcripts of academic records. These must be sent directly from the institution’s registrar’s office to the Graduate School.
- Letters of reference from three mentors, professors or program directors. The letters must be submitted directly via the website and should describe your academic successes, clinical background, potential for achievement at the graduate level, and capacity for creative, self-directed study.
- If you are currently employed full-time, at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or elsewhere, one of the letters should be from a current supervisor expressing support for your participation in the program and willingness to allow you to attend synchronous class sessions on Tuesday/Thursday afternoons during the fall and spring semesters.
- If you are a clinical fellow or junior faculty member, one letter of support must come from your department chair or division chief. This can also serve as the above-referenced supervisor letter, if appropriate.
- You may save your application at any time and complete it later; however, it must be completed and submitted by the deadline.
Required Supplementary Materials
In the online application, you will be asked to provide email addresses of up to five, and no less than three, individuals who will be providing letters of reference. The system will automatically contact them. They should be prepared to describe your academic successes, background in research, potential for achievement at the graduate level, and capacity for creative, self-directed study.
Admissions Timeline
| Dates | Admission Process |
|---|---|
| September | Application period opens |
| January 15, 11:59 p.m. PST | Applications must be submitted with all supporting materials |
| Mid-March | Issuance of decision letters begins |
| April 15 | Acceptance of admission offer due |
| Early August | Orientation |
| Mid-August | First day of class |
Environment of Diversity and Equal Opportunity
St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences encourages diversity on campus and does not discriminate on the basis of race, national origin, sex, genetic information, sexual orientation, age, religion, disability, veteran’s status, disabled veteran’s status or any other status protected by federal or Tennessee law. The St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences is committed to creating an inclusive learning environment that provides cultural and ethnic diversity. Underrepresented minorities are encouraged to apply to the program.
Health Screening and Vaccines
Newly admitted students whose program requires an on-campus presence or are considered full-time must fulfill health screening requirements. Students who will be physically present on the St. Jude campus or are considered full-time must have immunity to measles, mumps, rubella, varicella. Students who will work with influenza viruses must receive the annual influenza vaccine unless a medical or religious accommodation is approved. All other students physically present on the St. Jude campus must receive the annual influenza vaccine or sign a declination form.
Students may also be required to comply with St. Jude health and safety protocols designed in accordance with local and federal requirements or guidelines. These protocols may include daily SARS-CoV-2 symptom screening, masking and/or physical distancing.