<h1>Loyola Univ. Health Sys- Microbiology & Immunology: Our Graduate Program - How to Apply</h1>

How to Apply to our Ph.D. Program 

 

Requirements for admission to the Microbiology and Immunology graduate program

To apply for the Ph.D. program, applicants must submit a complete application either online (free) or by hard copy ($40) along with a statement of purpose, 3 letters of recommendation, GRE scores (code 1412), and transcripts. Foreign applicants must also submit TOEFL scores (code 1412). Applicants should demonstrate a clear interest and competence in science through their successful completion of undergraduate courses in biology and chemistry (or related science disciplines), as measured by grades and GRE scores, through laboratory-based research experiences, and through a well-written and enthusiastic statement of purpose.

An admissions committee chaired by Dr. Susan Baker makes admissions decisions based on the quality of the entire application package. Therefore, we do not list specific GPA an GRE requirements. The student should address potential weaknesses within their application as a (small) part of her/his statement of purpose. 

To be admitted, students must have received a Bachelor's degree (B.S. or B.A.) prior to entering graduate school.

In addition to applying directly to the Microbiology and Immunology graduate program, students may enter our program through participation in the Integrated Program in Biomedical Sciences program or the Molecular Biology program.

  

The admissions committee begins review of applications on Dec. 15 each year. Completed applications received after Dec. 15th will be reviewed by the admissions committee and applicants who meet our requirements will be interviewed as space permits.

Students accepted into our program should inform the graduate school or Dr. Susan Baker of their decision as soon as possible, but no later than April15.

  

If selected you will be invited to visit Loyola and meet faculty in a formal interview that will allow you to learn about our program, faculty and research interests and allow us to learn about you. These interviews are scheduled throughout January, February, and March, typically on Fridays. Dr. Baker or a member of the admissions committee will issue an invitation to visit by phone or e-mail. 

interview Dates for Fall 2009 admission:
   
  • Friday, Feb 5, 2009
  • Friday Feb 26, 2009
  • Friday, March 12, 2009

Interview Schedule for 2009
  
                 

  9:00-10:00am 
 
10:00-10:30am
10:30-11:00am
11:00-11:30am
 
11:30-12:00 
 
12:00-1:00pm
 
  1:00-2:00pm
 
  2:00-2:30pm 
  2:30-3:00pm 
  3:00-3:30pm
 
 
3:30pm
 
  6:30pm

Orientation/overview
 
Meet with faculty
Meet with faculty
Meet with faculty
 
Break
 
Friday Meeting (students and faculty present current research)
 
Lunch with current students
 
Meet with faculty
Meet with faculty
Meet with faculty
 
Tour campus then return to hotel
 
Dinner in Oak Park with faculty and graduate students
                                     

Students may visit our list of faculty and request specific meetings during their visit. We will try to accommodate such requests.

After their visit, the admissions committee offers verbal acceptance to a subset of candidates.  This decision typically occurs within 1-2 weeks following each candidate's visit.  Formal paperwork is mailed to accepted students shortly thereafter. Students who receive an offer of admissions must inform the graduate school and Dr. Baker of their decision by April 15th.

We welcome you to visit the Department of Microbiology and Immunology at Loyola University's Medical Center. If you have been invited for an interview, please coordinate your visit with Ms. Debbie Hammer, and consult our list of faculty so that you may request meetings with specific faculty during your visit. If you choose to visit in advance of an invitation to interview, we suggest that you contact both the chair of the Admissions committee, Dr. Susan Baker, and  Ms. Debbie Hammer, who can facilitate the process and determine faculty availability on your behalf.

Department of Microbiology and Immunology
Loyola University Chicago
Building 105, Room 3846 
2160 South First Avenue
Maywood, Illinois 60153

FAX number: (708) 216-9574


 

 Q: What degrees do you offer?

A:

We offer a Ph.D. degree. Students may also apply to the Stritch School of Medicine's MD/PhD program and, if accepted, receive a Ph.D. through the Department of Microbiology and Immunology.
 

Q:

What is the deadline for applying to your Ph.D. program?

A:

We will begin our review of Ph.D. applications on December 15 and complete admissions by April 15 of the following year. Applications received throughout this period are reviewed, but those received earlier have greater chances of success.

 

Q:

Can I enter the Ph.D. program during the Spring semester?

A:

No. We admit students into our PhD program for the Fall semesters only. We initiate our program of study  at the beginning of August.

 

Q;

I have low GRE scores but a high GPA. Can you tell me whether I should consider applying to your Ph.D. program?

A:

You should always consider applying. Once we receive your completed application, we can evaluate your entire package (GRE scores, GPA, letters of recommendation, research experiences). We look at all aspects of your application to make our admission decisions.

 

Q:

How many students do you admit to each class?

A:

Our typical class sizes include five Ph.D. students.

  

Q;

Will I have the opportunity for a personal interview, and if so, how will I be notified of interview dates?

A:

We interview up to 20 students each year. You will receive an invitation to interview with us by telephone - our admissions director will call you.

   

Q:

When do you interview prospective Ph.D. students?

A:

Our interview dates are on Fridays, on average twice per month, from January through March.

 

Q:

Is there any way that the GRE test requirement can be waived?

A:

No.

 

Q;

What is your GRE code?

A:

1412

 

Q:

What should be included in the statement of purpose?

A:

The statement of purpose should include information about your reasons for wanting to obtain a PhD, your preparation for that degree to date.

  
Q:

Is there financial aid? / What is the tuition?

A:

Our stipend is $23,000. In addition, full tuition and health insurance are provided. 

 

Q:

What about health insurance? 

A:

Group health insurance is available through the university.

 

Q:

Is there housing available? 

A:

While the medical center does not have on site housing, there are many varied and affordable accommodations near the medical center all within easy reach by public transportation.

 

Q:

What are the GRE/TOEFL requirements?

A:

We prefer to evaluate our candidates in their totality rather than by any single measure.

 

Q:

What should be worn to the interview?

A:

Business casual with comfortable shoes.

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Web Master: Sheila Crumrine
Last Reviewed: Sept. 24, 2009
Created: Jan 23,1995

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