How to Apply

Pathways Prerequisites

Master of Science Program applicants are expected to have completed the following courses:

• organic chemistry
• 3 or more Quantitative Analysis courses (calculus, statistics, physics, computer science, programming)
• 4 courses in the Biological Sciences with labs; 2 of the 4 must include:
  • 1 course in Biochemistry
  • 1 course in Genetics
• 2 additional courses in one of these areas:
  • Biochemistry
  • Physiology
  • Genetics
  • Development
  • Molecular Biology
  • Cell Biology
  • Evolution

Applicants with good records but who lack one or two of the prerequisite courses are eligible for admission, but the missing course must be elected and successfully completed no later than the second term of enrollment.

Application Procedure

Application deadline: March 15. 
Applications are submitted online using the Rackham Graduate School's on-line application process.

A fee waiver is available to prospective students applying for this program. Contact the MCDB graduate program to obtain a code to be used when applying. Email: MCDB.grad.programs@umich.edu

Application must include the following:

• Completed application form
• Statement of Purpose — A precise, concise description of your background and career goals, and prior experience
• Personal Statement –How your background and life experiences motivated you to pursue a Master’s degree in MCDB
• CV
• Recommendations — Three (3) letters of recommendation from professors or others qualified to evaluate your potential for graduate research
• Transcripts — Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions
• Note: we do NOT require the GRE.

Contacts

General queries about your application:
Rackham Graduate School
Phone: 734.764.8129
Email: rackadmis@umich.edu

For specific MCDB questions:
MCDB Graduate Coordinator 
Phone: 734.615.1635
Email: MCDB.grad.programs@umich.edu