How to Apply

Students seeking admission to a graduate degree program must apply online Click here for the online Application. The deadline for application is December 15, and study begins in the fall semester only.  Applications are welcomed from students with ambition, enthusiasm, and outstanding undergraduate records in the fields of biology, biochemistry, and physical sciences who are seeking a challenging graduate level program to prepare for careers in research, teaching, or public service. Admission to the program is based on evaluation of applications by the admissions committee, composed of five faculty members, two senior graduate students, and a program assistant. Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college with a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.75 (on a 4-point scale).

Undergraduate coursework in genetics, cell biology, developmental biology, organic chemistry, biochemistry, general physics, and differential and integral calculus is highly recommended. Students lacking coursework in one or two of these areas will be given an opportunity to make up the deficiency after enrollment. Some research experience is highly desirable. All applicants must take the Graduate Record Examinations (GREs) for general verbal, quantitative, and analytical aptitude and an advanced examination in biology or chemistry is optional. The general exams are offered as computer-based tests. 

Admission Requirements and Deadlines

Completed applications and all supporting documentation include:

• University of Colorado Application Parts I and II (Submitted on line)
• A current CV, statement of purpose, and department supplemental application. (Can be printed and mailed to the department or emailed to mcdbgrad@colorado.edu)
  
• Three Letters of recommendation from faculty or others qualified to evaluate your potential for graduate study.
• Two official university/college transcripts from each attended should be sent to the department.  Include transcripts for any schools were transfer credit was given.
  
• Official Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores (The paper-based only subject examinations must be taken in November (registration deadline is September 27) in order for scores to be received by the December 15th deadline.)  Use School Code R4841; Dept 0206.  Average scores of student accepted in Fall 2009: Verbal 598; Quantitative 701; Analytical Writing 4.6/6.0; Average overall undergraduate GPA was 3.55
  
• The application fee for domestic applicants is $50 and $70 for international applicants.  This application is non-refundable.
• International Applicants must also submit an Official TOEFL Score.  The requirement for MCD Biology is 600 (paper based); 250 (computer based); 100 (internet based)

Mailing Address

Graduate Admissions Committee
MCD Biology, 347 UCB
University of Colorado
Boulder, CO  80309-0347

FOR MORE INFORMATION AND GRADUATE ADMISSIONS QUESTIONS CONTACT:

Karen Brown
MCD Biology, 347 UCB
University of Colorado, Boulder, CO 80309-0347
Telephone (303) 492-7230
mcdbgrad@colorado.edu