{"id":1904,"date":"2019-11-20T11:46:28","date_gmt":"2019-11-20T16:46:28","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.bu.edu\/mcbb\/?page_id=1904"},"modified":"2026-02-19T11:00:55","modified_gmt":"2026-02-19T16:00:55","slug":"apply","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.bu.edu\/mcbb\/apply\/","title":{"rendered":"Apply"},"content":{"rendered":"<div class=\"bu_collapsible_container \" id=\"top\" aria-live=\"polite\" data-customize-animation=\"false\"><h3 class=\"bu_collapsible\" aria-expanded=\"false\"tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\">MS Deadline and Application for Fall 2026<\/h3><div class=\"bu_collapsible_section\" style=\"display: none;\"><\/p>\n<h4>The <em>priority <\/em>deadline for Fall 2026 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.bu.edu\/mcbb\/programs\/ma\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" style=\"color: #cc0000;\" target=\"_blank\">MS in MCBB<\/a> applications is January 15, 2026 at 11:59pm EST*<\/h4>\n<p>*For full consideration for the MS program, applications should be received by January 15th; late applications may also be considered until <strong>May 15, 2026 <\/strong>if space in the cohort permits.<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\">Please note: <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\">We will be adding a <strong>Coursework track<\/strong> beginning in the 2026\/27 academic year.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\">For the <strong>Research Thesis track<\/strong>, we will be recruiting directly into labs for Fall 2026; we recommend contacting faculty of interest prior to applying.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><em>Generally the Program does not accept new students for the spring semester.<\/em><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><a class=\"button button-primary\" href=\"https:\/\/bu-grs.liaisoncas.com\/applicant-ux\/#\/login\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Apply Now<\/a>\u00a0\u00a0<a class=\"button button-primary\" href=\"https:\/\/mycas.bu.edu\/requestinformation\/inquiryform\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Request More Information<\/a><\/p>\n<p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<h6><\/h6>\n<div class=\"bu_collapsible_container \" aria-live=\"polite\" data-customize-animation=\"false\"><h3 class=\"bu_collapsible\" aria-expanded=\"false\"tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\">PhD Deadline and Application for Fall 2026<\/h3><div class=\"bu_collapsible_section\" style=\"display: none;\"><\/p>\n<h4>The deadline for Fall 2026 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.bu.edu\/mcbb\/programs\/phd\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" style=\"color: #cc0000;\" target=\"_blank\">PhD in MCBB<\/a> applications is December 3, 2025 at 11:59pm EST<\/h4>\n<p><em><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\">The PhD application will open November 1, 2025<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<p><em>Generally the Program does not accept new students for the spring semester.<\/em><\/p>\n<p>Curious about specific program statistics? Check out the <span style=\"color: #cc0000;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bu.edu\/grad\/why-bu\/phd-program-profiles\/molecular-biology-cell-biology-biochemistry\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" style=\"color: #cc0000;\">MCBB PhD Profile<\/a><\/span> to view data on application and admissions; enrollment; career outcomes; and more!<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><a class=\"button button-primary\" href=\"https:\/\/bu-grs.liaisoncas.com\/applicant-ux\/#\/login\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Apply Now<\/a><\/p>\n<p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<h6><\/h6>\n<div class=\"bu_collapsible_container \" aria-live=\"polite\" data-customize-animation=\"false\"><h3 class=\"bu_collapsible\" aria-expanded=\"false\"tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\">MS &amp; PhD Application Requirements<\/h3><div class=\"bu_collapsible_section\" style=\"display: none;\"><\/p>\n<ul id=\"req\">\n<li><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><strong>Transcripts<\/strong><\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><strong>Three recommendations<\/strong><\/span> &#8211; We consider letters of recommendation a very important part of your application. Letters from individuals who can address the applicant&#8217;s research experience and aptitude are particularly valued for those applying for the PhD or the MS with research thesis.<\/li>\n<li><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><strong>Personal statement\/statement of purpose<\/strong><\/span> &#8211; A thoughtful personal statement is important and should include information on your motivation for attending graduate school. Those applying for the PhD or the MS with research thesis should also include any research interests and any prior research experience.<\/li>\n<li><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><strong>Curriculum Vitae<\/strong><\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><strong>Additional requirements for international students<\/strong><\/span> &#8211; Information for international students on English proficiency and other requirements is available on the <span style=\"color: #cc0000;\"><a href=\"http:\/\/www.bu.edu\/cas\/admissions\/phd-mfa\/international-students\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" style=\"color: #cc0000;\">International Student Applicant page<\/a>.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<h6><\/h6>\n<div class=\"bu_collapsible_container \" aria-live=\"polite\" data-customize-animation=\"false\"><h3 class=\"bu_collapsible\" aria-expanded=\"false\"tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\">3 Reasons to Apply<\/h3><div class=\"bu_collapsible_section\" style=\"display: none;\"><\/p>\n<h4>1. Enjoy the Unique Advantages of an Interdisciplinary Program<\/h4>\n<p style=\"padding-left: 30px;\">MCBB students have the opportunity to take classes and do world-class research in the molecular biosciences with an interdisciplinary, interdepartmental approach. Students can do research with <span style=\"color: #cc0000;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bu.edu\/mcbb\/people\/faculty\/\" style=\"color: #cc0000;\">faculty<\/a><\/span> in departments that span BU\u2019s College of Engineering, Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, and Faculty of Computing and Data Sciences and select a coursework plan in line with their interests, goals, and background. Research training using tools and approaches from molecular, cell, systems, and synthetic biology; neuroscience; chemistry; biomolecular engineering; and more enables students to be competitive in their chosen career paths upon completion of the program.<\/p>\n<h4>2. Benefit From Our World-Class Research Centers and Facilities<\/h4>\n<p style=\"padding-left: 30px;\">MCBB students benefit from the resources in the department and research centers in which the student\u2019s advisor is housed. MCBB faculty are affiliated with a number of vibrant, <span style=\"color: #cc0000;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bu.edu\/research\/our-research\/centers-institutes\/\" target=\"_blank\" style=\"color: #cc0000;\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">interdisciplinary research centers<\/a><\/span>, including the Biological Design Center, BioMolecular Engineering Research Center, Center for Systems Neuroscience, Center for Molecular Discovery, Genome Sciences Institute, Neurophotonics Center, Hariri Institute for Computing and Computational Science &amp; Engineering, and more. Students also have access to <span style=\"color: #cc0000;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bu.edu\/research\/corefacilities\/\" target=\"_blank\" style=\"color: #cc0000;\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">shared research facilities<\/a><\/span> including the Biomedical Engineering Core Facilities; the Cognitive Neuroimaging Center; the Animal Science Center; the Proteomics and Imaging Core Facility; Electronics Design Facility; Research Computing; and the Neurophotonics Center.<\/p>\n<h4>3. Experience the Advantages of Boston<\/h4>\n<p style=\"padding-left: 30px;\">MCBB students experience the unique advantages of obtaining an education in Boston\u2014a hub for the scientific and medical community. Students collaborate on research with the world&#8217;s top scientific and medical minds, have access to outstanding professional development events, and network with local professionals from both academia and industry. Many graduates of our programs choose to stay in the Boston area, providing a rich base of local alumni available for events, networking, and mentoring.<\/p>\n<p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<p><a id=\"faq\"><\/a><br \/>\n<span><\/span><\/p>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: center;\">Frequently Asked Questions<\/h3>\n<p>Please review the below FAQ for MS &amp; PhD applicants. Applicants can also visit the <span style=\"color: #cc0000;\"><a href=\"http:\/\/www.bu.edu\/cas\/admissions\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" style=\"color: #cc0000;\">GRS Academic Admissions page<\/a><\/span> and the <span style=\"color: #cc0000;\"><a href=\"http:\/\/www.bu.edu\/academics\/bulletin\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" style=\"color: #cc0000;\">GRS Online Bulletin<\/a><\/span> for more details on admission procedures and requirements.<\/p>\n<h4><\/h4>\n<h4><span style=\"color: #cc0000;\">Application Process<\/span><\/h4>\n<div class=\"bu_collapsible_container \" aria-live=\"polite\" data-customize-animation=\"false\"><h5 class=\"bu_collapsible\" aria-expanded=\"false\"tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\">When does the application become available?<\/h5><div class=\"bu_collapsible_section\" style=\"display: none;\"><\/p>\n<p>Applications for the upcoming fall admissions period typically become available in early September for the MS and early October for the PhD each year.<\/p>\n<p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"bu_collapsible_container \" aria-live=\"polite\" data-customize-animation=\"false\"><h5 class=\"bu_collapsible\" aria-expanded=\"false\"tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\">What are the application deadlines?<\/h5><div class=\"bu_collapsible_section\" style=\"display: none;\"><\/p>\n<p>Application deadlines for Fall 2026 admission are December 3, 2025 at 11:59pm EST for the PhD program and January 15, 2026 at 11:59pm EST (priority)\/May 15, 2026 at 11:59pm EST (final) for the MS program. Note: For full consideration for the MS program, applications must be received by January 15th. Late MS applications may also be considered if space in the cohort permits.<\/p>\n<p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"bu_collapsible_container \" aria-live=\"polite\" data-customize-animation=\"false\"><h5 class=\"bu_collapsible\" aria-expanded=\"false\"tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\">Do you accept international students?<\/h5><div class=\"bu_collapsible_section\" style=\"display: none;\"><\/p>\n<p>Yes, we welcome applications from all over the world.<\/p>\n<p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"bu_collapsible_container \" aria-live=\"polite\" data-customize-animation=\"false\"><h5 class=\"bu_collapsible\" aria-expanded=\"false\"tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\">What are the application requirements?<\/h5><div class=\"bu_collapsible_section\" style=\"display: none;\"><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><strong>Transcripts<\/strong><\/span>; <span style=\"color: #000000;\"><strong>Three recommendations<\/strong><\/span> &#8211;\u00a0We consider letters of recommendation a very important part of your application. Letters from individuals who can address the applicant&#8217;s research experience and aptitude are particularly valued for those applying for the\u00a0PhD or the MS with research thesis; <span style=\"color: #000000;\"><strong>Personal statement\/statement of purpose<\/strong><\/span> &#8211;\u00a0A thoughtful personal statement is important and should include information on your motivation for attending graduate school. Those applying for the\u00a0PhD or the MS with research thesis should also include any research interests and any prior research experience; <span style=\"color: #000000;\"><strong>Curriculum Vitae<\/strong><\/span>; <span style=\"color: #000000;\"><strong>Additional requirements<\/strong><\/span> for international students &#8211; Information for international students on English proficiency and other requirements is available on the <span style=\"color: #cc0000;\"><a href=\"http:\/\/www.bu.edu\/grs\/academics\/admissions\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" style=\"color: #cc0000;\">GRS Academic Admissions page<\/a><\/span> and on the <span style=\"color: #cc0000;\"><a href=\"http:\/\/www.bu.edu\/cas\/prospective-students\/graduate-admissions\/international-students\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" style=\"color: #cc0000;\">International Student Applicant page<\/a><\/span>.<\/p>\n<p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"bu_collapsible_container \" aria-live=\"polite\" data-customize-animation=\"false\"><h5 class=\"bu_collapsible\" aria-expanded=\"false\"tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\">Is there a minimum GPA for admission?<\/h5><div class=\"bu_collapsible_section\" style=\"display: none;\"><\/p>\n<p>The MCBB Program does not have a minimum GPA for admission. We consider the full application when reviewing applicants.<\/p>\n<p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"bu_collapsible_container \" aria-live=\"polite\" data-customize-animation=\"false\"><h5 class=\"bu_collapsible\" aria-expanded=\"false\"tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\">Is the GRE required for admission?<\/h5><div class=\"bu_collapsible_section\" style=\"display: none;\"><\/p>\n<p>No, the GRE is not required; the admissions committee fully recognizes that there are many components to your application and that GRE scores have a limited scope of predictive power in the evaluation of a candidate for their long-term success as a student.<\/p>\n<p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"bu_collapsible_container \" aria-live=\"polite\" data-customize-animation=\"false\"><h5 class=\"bu_collapsible\" aria-expanded=\"false\"tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\">Are there minimum English proficiency scores?<\/h5><div class=\"bu_collapsible_section\" style=\"display: none;\"><\/p>\n<p>Yes, the minimum scores are strictly enforced by the <span style=\"color: #cc0000;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bu.edu\/cas\/admissions\/phd-mfa\/international-students\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" style=\"color: #cc0000;\">Graduate School of Arts &amp; Sciences<\/a><\/span>. Your most recent test scores will be used to determine if you have met the English proficiency requirements. You cannot combine sections from different test dates and you must meet the minimum score for every section of the test to be considered for admission. We accept the following English proficiency tests and minimum scores:<\/p>\n<p style=\"padding-left: 40px;\"><span><span style=\"color: #cc0000;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ets.org\/toefl\/test-takers\/ibt\/about.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" style=\"color: #cc0000;\"><strong>TOEFL<\/strong><\/a><\/span>:\u00a0\u00a0<strong>100<\/strong>\u00a0Overall Score (25 recommended in each section). Internet-based Test (iBT) only. We do not accept \u201cMyBest Scores.\u201d<\/span><span><\/span><span><\/span><\/p>\n<p style=\"padding-left: 40px;\"><span style=\"color: #cc0000;\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ielts.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" style=\"color: #cc0000;\">IELTS<\/a><\/strong><\/span>:\u00a0<span>\u00a0<\/span><strong>7.0<\/strong><span>\u00a0<\/span>Overall Band Score<\/p>\n<p style=\"padding-left: 40px;\"><span style=\"color: #cc0000;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cambridgeenglish.org\/exams-and-tests\/qualifications\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" style=\"color: #cc0000;\"><strong>Cambridge English Qualifications<\/strong><\/a><\/span>:<span>\u00a0<\/span><strong>185<\/strong><span>\u00a0<\/span>Overall Score on B2 First, C1 Advanced, or C2 Proficiency exams<\/p>\n<p style=\"padding-left: 40px;\"><span style=\"color: #cc0000;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.duolingo.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" style=\"color: #cc0000;\"><strong>Duolingo<\/strong><\/a><\/span>:\u00a0<span>\u00a0<\/span><strong>130<\/strong><span>\u00a0<\/span>Overall Score<\/p>\n<p><span>Applicants who do not meet the\u00a0<\/span><strong>minimum<span>\u00a0<\/span><\/strong><span>requirements of English proficiency are\u00a0<\/span><strong>not eligible<span>\u00a0<\/span><\/strong><span>for admission.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"bu_collapsible_container \" aria-live=\"polite\" data-customize-animation=\"false\"><h5 class=\"bu_collapsible\" aria-expanded=\"false\"tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\">Can the proof of English proficiency requirement be waived?<\/h5><div class=\"bu_collapsible_section\" style=\"display: none;\"><\/p>\n<p>The proof of English proficiency requirement is waived if you meet any of the criteria listed on the <span style=\"color: #cc0000;\"><a href=\"http:\/\/www.bu.edu\/cas\/admissions\/phd-mfa\/international-students\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" style=\"color: #cc0000;\">GRS website<\/a><\/span>; see &#8220;English Proficiency Requirement&#8221;.<\/p>\n<p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"bu_collapsible_container \" aria-live=\"polite\" data-customize-animation=\"false\"><h5 class=\"bu_collapsible\" aria-expanded=\"false\"tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\">Do I have to submit all of the required documents by the application deadline?<\/h5><div class=\"bu_collapsible_section\" style=\"display: none;\"><\/p>\n<p>All applications must be complete by the deadline; any application materials received after the deadline may not be reviewed by the Program.<\/p>\n<p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"bu_collapsible_container \" aria-live=\"polite\" data-customize-animation=\"false\"><h5 class=\"bu_collapsible\" aria-expanded=\"false\"tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\">Are application fee waivers available?<\/h5><div class=\"bu_collapsible_section\" style=\"display: none;\"><\/p>\n<p>Applicants who would like to request an application fee waiver must follow the fee waiver instructions on the <span style=\"color: #cc0000;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bu.edu\/cas\/admissions\/phd-mfa\/apply\/fee-waiver\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" style=\"color: #cc0000;\">GRS website<\/a><\/span>. Note that\u00a0you must be a US citizen or a US permanent resident in order to be eligible to apply for a fee waiver. Non-US citizens are not eligible to apply for a fee waiver through GRS.<\/p>\n<p>In exceptional circumstances, applicants who are non-US citizens may be granted a Program fee waiver; please fill out the <span style=\"color: #cc0000;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bu.edu\/mcbb\/graduate-application-fee-waiver-for-non-us-citizens\/\" style=\"color: #cc0000;\">MCBB fee waiver request form<\/a><\/span> to be considered. <strong>We accept fee waiver requests September 1st to about three weeks prior to the application deadline.\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"bu_collapsible_container \" aria-live=\"polite\" data-customize-animation=\"false\"><h5 class=\"bu_collapsible\" aria-expanded=\"false\"tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\">It is past the application deadline. Can I still apply?<\/h5><div class=\"bu_collapsible_section\" style=\"display: none;\"><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>PhD applicants: Generally, we do not accept applications for submission after the deadline has passed.<\/li>\n<li>MS applicants: For full consideration, applications must be received by January 15th. Late applications may also be considered if space in the cohort permits.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Please contact the <span style=\"color: #cc0000;\"><a href=\"mailto:biograd@bu.edu\" style=\"color: #cc0000;\">Graduate Program Specialist<\/a><\/span> to find out if your application can still be submitted.<\/p>\n<p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"bu_collapsible_container \" aria-live=\"polite\" data-customize-animation=\"false\"><h5 class=\"bu_collapsible\" aria-expanded=\"false\"tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\">Do you offer spring admission?<\/h5><div class=\"bu_collapsible_section\" style=\"display: none;\"><\/p>\n<p>Generally, the Program does not accept new students for the spring semester.<\/p>\n<p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"bu_collapsible_container \" aria-live=\"polite\" data-customize-animation=\"false\"><h5 class=\"bu_collapsible\" aria-expanded=\"false\"tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\">Are there any pre-requisites or any courses that I should take before applying? What kind of degree(s) do I need to have?<\/h5><div class=\"bu_collapsible_section\" style=\"display: none;\"><\/p>\n<p>Applicants to the MS or PhD programs must have completed a bachelor\u2019s degree. An MS degree is not needed to apply to our PhD program. You do not need a specific degree, but you do need to have a strong background in organic and inorganic chemistry; cell biology and\/or genetics; physics; and calculus. Statistics would also be useful. Prior research experience will also make your application more competitive.<\/p>\n<p>Some BU courses may be available for non-degree students if you would like to take courses before applying. Please contact the <span style=\"color: #cc0000;\"><a href=\"mailto:biograd@bu.edu\" style=\"color: #cc0000;\">Graduate Program Specialist<\/a><\/span>\u00a0for more information.<\/p>\n<p>Students who apply to our PhD program with a master\u2019s degree may have an opportunity to transfer credits towards the program. Admission into the program is competitive and we favor applications with both strong academic records and a demonstrated aptitude for research.<\/p>\n<p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"bu_collapsible_container \" aria-live=\"polite\" data-customize-animation=\"false\"><h5 class=\"bu_collapsible\" aria-expanded=\"false\"tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\">Do I need to contact faculty prior to submitting my application?<\/h5><div class=\"bu_collapsible_section\" style=\"display: none;\"><\/p>\n<p>Yes, it is recommended that you contact one or more faculty with whom you might wish to work. The Program requires laboratory rotations during which students can explore their interests, but it is often useful to contact a faculty member. We do not provide a list of faculty members who are currently seeking graduate students.<\/p>\n<p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"bu_collapsible_container \" aria-live=\"polite\" data-customize-animation=\"false\"><h5 class=\"bu_collapsible\" aria-expanded=\"false\"tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\">Where can I find more information about the research opportunities that are available to MCBB graduate students?<\/h5><div class=\"bu_collapsible_section\" style=\"display: none;\"><\/p>\n<p>Please review our <span style=\"color: #cc0000;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bu.edu\/mcbb\/people\/faculty\/\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" style=\"color: #cc0000;\" target=\"_blank\">faculty profiles<\/a> <\/span>for information on individual research.<\/p>\n<p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"bu_collapsible_container \" aria-live=\"polite\" data-customize-animation=\"false\"><h5 class=\"bu_collapsible\" aria-expanded=\"false\"tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\">Can I schedule a visit to the BU campus?<\/h5><div class=\"bu_collapsible_section\" style=\"display: none;\"><\/p>\n<p>Yes, prospective applicants can contact the <span style=\"color: #cc0000;\"><a href=\"mailto:biograd@bu.edu\" style=\"color: #cc0000;\">Graduate Program Specialist<\/a><\/span> or any <span style=\"color: #cc0000;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bu.edu\/mcbb\/people\/faculty\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" style=\"color: #cc0000;\">faculty member<\/a><\/span> with whom they may wish to work to schedule a time to visit. The Graduate School of Arts &amp; Sciences does not offer tours of the campus however, prospective students can <span style=\"color: #cc0000;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bu.edu\/admissions\/visit-us\/schedule-your-visit\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" style=\"color: #cc0000;\">sign-up for tours<\/a><\/span> with undergraduate admissions.<\/p>\n<p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"bu_collapsible_container \" aria-live=\"polite\" data-customize-animation=\"false\"><h5 class=\"bu_collapsible\" aria-expanded=\"false\"tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\">How long will it take before I receive a decision on my applications?<\/h5><div class=\"bu_collapsible_section\" style=\"display: none;\"><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>PhD applicants: Initial Zoom interviews will be conducted in late January. Selected applicants currently in the continental US will be invited to visit the campus for Prospective Students Day in late February\/early March to learn more about Boston University, the surrounding area, and to meet with many of the faculty and current students within the department. Admission decisions are usually sent out the week following this visit to campus (early-mid March).<\/li>\n<li>MS applicants: Admissions decisions are sent out in rounds depending on application submission date\u2014typically mid-February, late-April, and mid-June.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"bu_collapsible_container \" aria-live=\"polite\" data-customize-animation=\"false\"><h5 class=\"bu_collapsible\" aria-expanded=\"false\"tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\">How many applicants are admitted into the program?<\/h5><div class=\"bu_collapsible_section\" style=\"display: none;\"><\/p>\n<p>Admission rates vary each year. However, you may view the <span style=\"color: #cc0000;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bu.edu\/grad\/why-bu\/phd-program-profiles\/molecular-biology-cell-biology-biochemistry\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" style=\"color: #cc0000;\">MCBB PhD Profile<\/a><\/span> to view data on application and admissions; enrollment; career outcomes; and more!<\/p>\n<p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h4><span style=\"color: #cc0000;\">Financial Aid<\/span><\/h4>\n<div class=\"bu_collapsible_container \" aria-live=\"polite\" data-customize-animation=\"false\"><h5 class=\"bu_collapsible\" aria-expanded=\"false\"tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\">What is the cost of attendance? Do you offer financial aid?<\/h5><div class=\"bu_collapsible_section\" style=\"display: none;\"><\/p>\n<p>Tuition and mandatory fees for the current academic year can be found on the<span style=\"color: #cc0000;\"> <a href=\"http:\/\/www.bu.edu\/cas\/current-students\/ma-and-ms-students\/cost-of-attendance\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" style=\"color: #cc0000;\">GRS website<\/a><\/span>.<\/p>\n<p>The MCBB Program guarantees support for up to five years for all PhD students, contingent on satisfactory performance in the program. This includes tuition, a stipend, and health insurance. You can learn more about the different fellowships that are offered on the <span style=\"color: #cc0000;\"><a href=\"http:\/\/www.bu.edu\/cas\/admissions\/phd-mfa\/fellowship-aid\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" style=\"color: #cc0000;\">GRS website<\/a><\/span>.<\/p>\n<p>The MCBB Program does not guarantee financial support for MS students, though there are often Teaching Assistant positions available for MS students. Please see<span>\u00a0<\/span><span><span style=\"color: #cc0000;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bu.edu\/provost\/students\/enrollment-student-life\/bugwu-information\/collective-bargaining-agreement-a-primer\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" style=\"color: #cc0000;\">article 18 of the BU Graduate Workers Union collective bargaining agreement<\/a><\/span>\u00a0<\/span>for information about current pay rates.<\/p>\n<p>MS students are also eligible for the scholarships offered by the Graduate School of Arts &amp; Sciences. Application materials are used for scholarship recommendations. Scholarships are usually renewed each year as long as the student is in good academic standing.<\/p>\n<p>Some resources are available on the <span style=\"color: #cc0000;\"><a href=\"http:\/\/www.bu.edu\/cas\/current-students\/ma-and-ms-students\/financial-aid\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" style=\"color: #cc0000;\">GRS website<\/a><\/span> for MS students seeking financial aid.<\/p>\n<p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<h4><\/h4>\n<h4><span style=\"color: #cc0000;\">Program Requirements<\/span><\/h4>\n<div class=\"bu_collapsible_container \" aria-live=\"polite\" data-customize-animation=\"false\"><h5 class=\"bu_collapsible\" aria-expanded=\"false\"tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\">How long does it take to earn a graduate degree in MCBB?<\/h5><div class=\"bu_collapsible_section\" style=\"display: none;\"><\/p>\n<p><span>MS students must complete the degree within three years, though most of our students complete this within 2 years. PhD students must complete the degree within seven years, though most of our students complete this within 5-6 years.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"bu_collapsible_container \" aria-live=\"polite\" data-customize-animation=\"false\"><h5 class=\"bu_collapsible\" aria-expanded=\"false\"tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\">How many credits can be transferred in towards my degree? Will this shorten the time to degree?<\/h5><div class=\"bu_collapsible_section\" style=\"display: none;\"><\/p>\n<p>MS students can transfer a maximum of 8 credits from other universities. PhD students can transfer a maximum of 32 credits. Your coursework would be reviewed by faculty to determine what is appropriate to transfer based on the program and what credits you would still need to take moving forward. This could certainly decrease the time to degree, but PhD and MS with research thesis students would still need to complete research credits and the length of time for completion can be different depending on the research projects that you take on and the progress of your dissertation\/thesis. More information about the transfer of credit policy can be found <span style=\"color: #cc0000;\"><a href=\"http:\/\/www.bu.edu\/academics\/grs\/policies\/transfer-of-credits\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" style=\"color: #cc0000;\">online<\/a><\/span>.<\/p>\n<p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"bu_collapsible_container \" aria-live=\"polite\" data-customize-animation=\"false\"><h5 class=\"bu_collapsible\" aria-expanded=\"false\"tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\">What classes will I need to take?<\/h5><div class=\"bu_collapsible_section\" style=\"display: none;\"><\/p>\n<p>Course requirement information for MS students can be found <span style=\"color: #cc0000;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bu.edu\/mcbb\/programs\/ma\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" style=\"color: #cc0000;\">here<\/a><\/span>.<\/p>\n<p>Course requirement information for PhD students can be found <span style=\"color: #cc0000;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bu.edu\/mcbb\/programs\/phd\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" style=\"color: #cc0000;\">here<\/a><\/span>.<\/p>\n<p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"bu_collapsible_container \" aria-live=\"polite\" data-customize-animation=\"false\"><h5 class=\"bu_collapsible\" aria-expanded=\"false\"tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\">Will I be required to teach?<\/h5><div class=\"bu_collapsible_section\" style=\"display: none;\"><\/p>\n<p>The PhD program requires a minimum of two semesters of teaching during a student\u2019s graduate career. During the first semester of teaching, students are required to enroll in our first-year seminar course, <span style=\"color: #cc0000;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bu.edu\/academics\/grs\/courses\/grs-mb-697\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" style=\"color: #cc0000;\">GRS MB 697 A Bridge to Knowledge<\/a><\/span>. The course provides guidance and training on pedagogy and other aspects of graduate school.<\/p>\n<p>MS students are not required to teach but there are sometimes opportunities for MS students to teach if interested.<\/p>\n<p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"bu_collapsible_container \" aria-live=\"polite\" data-customize-animation=\"false\"><h5 class=\"bu_collapsible\" aria-expanded=\"false\"tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\">Can I take classes part time?<\/h5><div class=\"bu_collapsible_section\" style=\"display: none;\"><\/p>\n<p>It is possible to take classes part time if you are in the master\u2019s program or if you want to take a class or two before officially enrolling in the program. However, we do not offer evening courses, so if you have a full time job and are interested in taking one or two courses, this may not be a good fit for you. The PhD program is a full-time program.<\/p>\n<p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<h4><\/h4>\n<h4><span style=\"color: #cc0000;\">For additional information, please contact:<\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><strong>Jen Correia <\/strong><\/span>(PhD program) | <span style=\"color: #000000;\"><strong>Cailin Zadravec <\/strong><\/span>(MS program)<br \/>\n<span style=\"color: #000000;\">Graduate Program Specialists<\/span><br \/>\n<span style=\"color: #cc0000;\"><a href=\"mailto:biograd@bu.edu\" style=\"color: #cc0000;\">biograd@bu.edu<\/a><\/span><br \/>\n<span style=\"color: #000000;\">617-358-2432<\/span><\/p>\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #cc0000;\"><a href=\"#top\" style=\"color: #cc0000;\">Back to Top<\/a><\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Frequently Asked Questions Please review the below FAQ for MS &amp; PhD applicants. Applicants can also visit the GRS Academic Admissions page and the GRS Online Bulletin for more details on admission procedures and requirements. Application Process &nbsp; Financial Aid Program Requirements For additional information, please contact: Jen Correia (PhD program) | Cailin Zadravec (MS [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":16528,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":25,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.bu.edu\/mcbb\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/1904"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.bu.edu\/mcbb\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.bu.edu\/mcbb\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.bu.edu\/mcbb\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/16528"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.bu.edu\/mcbb\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1904"}],"version-history":[{"count":50,"href":"https:\/\/www.bu.edu\/mcbb\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/1904\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":4818,"href":"https:\/\/www.bu.edu\/mcbb\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/1904\/revisions\/4818"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.bu.edu\/mcbb\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1904"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}