When is the application deadline?

The application deadline will be listed on our website and also in the application portal.

I would like to apply, but when I look in the application portal, I don’t see your program listed. What should I do?

If our program is not listed, it is likely we have not yet opened the portal for applications. We typically open the portal in mid-October. Please check our website for the specific date.

Are there any specific admission requirements for the MS program?

Nothing specific, however our strongest applicants have completed their bachelor’s degree in a science area and have demonstrated enthusiasm for research or for interacting with their community.

Will you have virtual or in-person information sessions or open houses for prospective students?

Yes, we will have some activities to help you learn more about our program. To get announcements, please start an application. Once you have started the application and entered your email, you will automatically receive information about these activities. We will also publicize these events on social media. If you will be in Los Angeles and would like to visit the campus, let us know and we can arrange a tour.

How can I strengthen my application and make it as competitive as possible?

Please read and answer all questions in the application fully. If you have had gaps in your education or a period of time when your grades were not your best, please explain.

How much is tuition?

Information regarding the cost of tuition and fees can be found at this link. Please note that our students are full-time, taking 14 units in the fall and 13 units in the spring.

How do we apply for the second year?

Students interested in the second optional research year must maintain a GPA of 3.0 and be volunteering in a faculty lab. Their supervisor must agree to provide mentorship and contact the program director and program assistant for further instructions.

Are lab positions available?

Upon acceptance to the program, students will have the opportunity to connect with faculty and volunteer in our research labs. However, these positions are unpaid and stipends are not available.

Is housing available?

Please see this link for more information regarding housing. Note that we are located at the Health Sciences Campus (HSC).

Are scholarships available? If so, how much?

Yes, we do offer multiple, partial scholarships. The amount varies depending on the generosity of donors. To apply, please fill out this form.

What are the application requirements?

Completed applications will need two letters of recommendation, a copy of transcripts, and two personal statements. International students must include a TOEFL or IELTS score, even if instruction was in English. For more information, please visit this link.

Do I need to locate a PI or supervisor for this program?

No, our program is 1 year, and no research is required. If you would like to do the 2-year program with thesis, we can help you identify a potential mentor once you arrive.

Are there any paid lab positions available?

Unfortunately, we do not offer paid, RA, or TA positions.

How many students make up the cohort each year?

Approximately 35–40 students join our program each year.

Where do I send transcripts?

Please upload your unofficial transcripts in the application portal. Additionally, your application will not be considered complete until you submit official transcripts. Instructions for this are here. Do not mail official transcripts to our department. Only the graduate admissions department can process them.

Is spring enrollment available?

Unfortunately, we do not offer spring admission. Spring admission is only available to USC undergraduates joining the progressive degree program.

Is the program offered online or hybrid?

No, our program is fully in-person.

Is the GRE required?

The GRE is not required for admission, but applicants may include it in their application.

When should I expect to hear back about the status of my application?

We offer rolling admission and review our applications as they come in. It may take approximately 1–3 months to receive an admissions decision.

Is there a PhD track for this program?

No, we do not offer a PhD track. Students interested in a PhD would need to apply as usual.

What are student outcomes? 

Approximately 49% enter the workforce in the biotechnology and academic sectors. 51% go on to further post-graduate training, with half pursuing a PhD and moving into MD/DO/DMD programs.

Can I schedule a Zoom call with an advisor?

Yes, please email scrm@usc.edu for Zoom appointments.