AREAS OF CONCENTRATION
Infectious Diseases & Immunity: Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
Curriculum & Requirements
The Ph.D. program in Infectious Diseases usually takes about 5 years to complete. The Graduate Group in Infectious Diseases and Immunity is an interdepartmental graduate program that is unique in its emphasis on integrated multidisciplinary training. Important areas of inquiry include the biology of host-pathogen interactions, molecular and cellular aspects of pathogenesis, the ecology and evolution of disease agents, environmental factors in transmission, intermediate hosts and vectors, the biology of surveillance and epidemiological analysis, and vaccine and disease prevention and control.
Sample Curriculum (PDF)
Admissions Statistics:
- Admission Ratio: 8% (5/59)*
- Average GRE scores of admitted applicants: A 70% average in Quantitative and Verbal
- Average GPA of admitted applicants: 3.64
*Please note that admission is competitive, and all factors such as Statement of Purpose, academic achievements, letters of recommendation, potential as a graduate student and public health professional and overall promise will be taken into consideration.
What we look for in competitive applicants:
The following subjects are normally required as undergraduate preparation for all candidates. Deficiencies must be made up early during the graduate program.
- Mathematics: Calculus; one course in probability or statistics.
- Physics: General physics.
- Chemistry and biochemistry: Inorganic chemistry; organic chemistry; biochemistry; and associated laboratories.
- Biology: General biology lecture and laboratory; genetics; and a basic course in molecular biology.
- Common undergraduate majors for admitted applicants: Biology, integrative biology, microbiology, biological sciences, biology and communications
- Common work experience for admitted applicants: Work experience is not required for admission, but relevant work experience related to infectious diseases, e.g. laboratory or surveillance work, would be considered a plus. Most of the admitted applicants have some lab and research experience.
Employment Opportunities:
Student matriculating through this degree program will acquire expertise in fundamental infectious diseases research for which there is demand from academic institutions, local and national government agencies, and biotechnology companies.