How to Apply

Pharmacology and Physiology PhD program

The Pharmacology and Physiology PhD program accepts applicants beginning August 1. It is a combination of the former Molecular, Cellular and Biochemical Pharmacology PhD and the Systems Biology and Physiology PhD programs.

Requirements

Prospective students must have a baccalaureate degree from an accredited undergraduate institution and a strong background in the sciences.  Students are expected to have an overall GPA of at least 3.0, with particular emphasis placed on having excellent performance in the advanced science courses. Qualified students with specific deficiencies in their undergraduate preparation will be guided to remedy these either before, or during the early part of, their graduate education.

Applicants are NOT required to take the Graduate Record Exam (GRE).

Special Requirements for International Students

Prospective applicants, whose native language is not English, must demonstrate proficiency in English as required by the Graduate College. Additional information for meeting this requirement may be found at the Graduate College Admissions Requirements.

Additional information for international applicants is also available through International Services.

Application Procedures

Interested students should first complete the online application, choosing the Fall 2025 through Summer 2026 graduate program application. Be certain to select ONLY the Summer 2026 entry term, fill out the personal information, and pay the $65.00 application fee ($70.00 for international students).

Before being considered, applicants must submit:

• An unofficial transcript of all undergraduate and any graduate training.
• A CV/resume that includes your education background, honors and awards, accomplishments, research experience, publications and/or presentations, leadership role(s), volunteer work, and extra-curricular activities/hobbies. 
• A personal statement discussing your journey in applying for our P&P PhD program, including but not limited to relevant life experience, research background, the reason you would like to pursue a PhD and your future goals. 
• (Optional) If applicable, upload a document that discusses your research experience(s) and what you have learned from those opportunities.
• One letter of reference required (three letters preferred) assessing the applicant’s academic ability, research potential, and character.
• If your degree was granted in China, please check the Graduate College admission's policy regarding official transcripts.

Interview Process

When possible, applicants are invited to spend the day with students and faculty. The interview provides an opportunity for the applicant to meet the faculty and graduate students, see the program’s research facilities and learn more about the training offered by the program. Interviews conducted at this time will contribute significantly to the committee’s admission decision.

Timing

Applications and all supporting documents are accepted according to the following deadlines:

• Applications open August 1
• Applications received by November 1 will be considered for early interviews and admission decision
• Final submission deadline is February 1
• Begin date is July 1

All applications will be reviewed by the Admissions and Recruitment Committee. Offers of admission are made throughout the duration of the application cycle.