Applying to the Biophysics PhD Program

This information is specific to the Doctor of Philosophy in Molecular and Cellular Biophysics as the University of Denver. Students with strong quantitative undergraduate backgrounds (e.g., undergraduate degrees in physics, chemistry, mathematics, computer science/engineering) who desire to apply these skills to various biological problems, as well as students with a background in cell or molecular biology with a solid foundation in mathematics and physics, are encouraged to apply.

If you have questions about the process, please contact the Office of Graduate Admission. 

Quick Links:

• Graduate policies posted in the official bulletin include information on admission, application requirements and graduate student support services.
• General admission requirements for this program are posted here.

    

• Application Deadlines

  This program admits for the fall quarter only. 

  All online materials must be received, and all supplemental materials including transcripts must be on file in the Office Of Graduate Education, by the program’s stated deadline: January 15.

  We may consider applications after this date on a rolling basis until all positions are filled.

  A non-refundable application fee is required for each application.

  Application fee waivers are available for McNair Scholars.

   

• Course and Degree Prerequisites and Requirements

  Applicants must earn and submit proof of earning the equivalent of a baccalaureate degree and, if applicable, a master's degree from a regionally accredited institution prior to beginning graduate coursework at DU.

  A minimum of one year of calculus and one year of college physics (preferably calculus-based) regardless of undergraduate major, are required.

• Transcripts

  Applicants are required to submit an official transcript from each post-secondary institution they have attended, or are presently attending, where two quarter hours (or one semester hour) or more were completed including study abroad and college coursework completed in high school.

  The applicant is responsible for obtaining all transcripts. More information on transcript requirements can be found in the official graduate bulletin.

  DU students and alumni do not need to provide DU transcripts.

  Mail official transcripts to:
  
  University of Denver
  Office Of Graduate Education
  Mary Reed Building, Room 5
  2199 S. University Blvd.
  Denver, CO 80208-4802

• Language Proficiency

  Please see the DU's Additional Standards for Non-Native English Speakers for all information regarding language proficiency requirements.

   

• Test Scores

  The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is optional starting Fall 2021.

• Personal Statement

  A personal statement of at least 300 words is required. The statement should include information concerning your education, practical (research) experience, special interests and specific purpose for applying to the interdisciplinary program in molecular and cellular biophysics at the University of Denver.

  The personal statement should be submitted via upload through the online application process.

• Resume/CV

  A resume or C.V. is required. This should include work experience, research and/or volunteer work.

  A resume or C.V. should be submitted via upload through the online application process.

• Recommendation Letters

  Three letters of recommendation are required. Requests for letters should be sent to recommenders well in advance so the letters are on file by the application deadline.

  Letters should be solicited and uploaded by recommenders through the online application system.

• Financial Support

  Students are supported by graduate teaching assistantships through the program for the first year, and on graduate research or teaching assistantships, arranged by their faculty thesis advisor, in their subsequent years. 

  Graduate teaching and research assistants receive a tuition waiver, stipend and health insurance. 

• International Applicants

  For complete international applicant information, please visit the Office Of Graduate Education International Student Application Information. International applicants are strongly encouraged to have their applications complete, with all materials on file in the admission office, at least eight weeks prior to the program’s application deadline.

  The graduate policies posted in the bulletin provide complete details regarding admission requirements.

• Application Status

  We encourage you to be actively engaged in the admission process. You can check your application status online at MyDU. Applicants will receive login information post application submission.