<img height="1" width="1" style="display:none" src="https://www.facebook.com/tr?id=381893259123400&amp;ev=PageView&amp;noscript=1">
Skip to content

Graduate Studies in Molecular and Cellular Biology

The graduate programs in Molecular and Cellular Biology prepares students for careers in modern biological research. The diverse faculty ensures broad training that includes coursework and research experience in:

  • Molecular biology of prokaryotes and eukaryotes
  • Biochemistry and structural biology
  • Advance cell biology
  • Epigenetic regulation of gene expression
  • Genetics and molecular biology of model organisms and human pathogens
  • Virology and cancer biology
  • Mechanisms of aging and senescence
  • Neuronal development and RNA processing
  • Neurodegeneration
  • Structure and dynamics of nucleotide binding and membrane proteins

The graduate program offers three degree options: Ph.D., M.S., and M.A. A five-year combined B.S.-M.S. program is also offered to current SMU undergraduates.

Molecular and Cellular Biology M.A.

Admission Deadline

Final deadline for Fall admission to the Master's program is May 1.

Admission Requirements

  • 3.00 GPA (cumulative)
  • Foundational Courses: 
    • 6 hours of calculus or statistics
    • 16 hours of chemistry including 8 hours of organic chemistry
    • 4 or more hours of advanced credit in biology
  • Transcripts from all institutions attended (post high school; unofficial documents can be uploaded to your application).
  • 3 Letters of Recommendation
  • Résumé
  • Statement of Purpose* 
  • GRE Scores
    • Score for the Biology, or the Biochemistry, Cell and Molecular Biology subject test is encouraged, but not required. 
  • International applicants must provide English Language Proficiency scores if their degree does not meet our waiver requirements. 
 

Learn More

Molecular and Cellular Biology M.S.

Admission Deadline

Final deadline for Fall admission to the Master's program is May 1.

Admission Requirements

  • 3.00 GPA (cumulative)
  • Foundational Courses: 
    • 6 hours of calculus or statistics
    • 16 hours of chemistry including 8 hours of organic chemistry
    • 4 or more hours of advanced credit in biology
  • Transcripts from all institutions attended (post high school; unofficial documents can be uploaded to your application).
  • 3 Letters of Recommendation
  • Résumé
  • Statement of Purpose* 
  • GRE Scores
    • Score for the Biology, or the Biochemistry, Cell and Molecular Biology subject test is encouraged, but not required. 
  • International applicants must provide English Language Proficiency scores if their degree does not meet our waiver requirements. 
 

Learn More

Molecular and Cellular Biology PH.D.

Admission Deadline

Priority deadline for Fall admission to the Ph.D. program is January 15.

Admission Requirements

  • 3.00 GPA (cumulative)
  • Foundational Courses: 
    • 6 hours of calculus or statistics
    • 16 hours of chemistry including 8 hours of organic chemistry
    • 4 or more hours of advanced credit in biology
  • Transcripts from all institutions attended (post high school; unofficial documents can be uploaded to your application).
  • 3 Letters of Recommendation
  • Résumé
  • Statement of Purpose* 
  • GRE Scores
    • Score for the Biology, or the Biochemistry, Cell and Molecular Biology subject test is encouraged, but not required. 
  • International applicants must provide English Language Proficiency scores if their degree does not meet our waiver requirements. 
Ph.D. Guide Cover viewed on an iPad and iPhone.

Access Our Free Digital Download

A Guide to Choosing and Applying to Ph.D. Programs

Download Now

Related Blog Articles

About the department

Send Us a Message

Useful Links