BS/MS Program in Immunology, Microbiology and Virology

The application deadline for Fall is May 1st each year. Interested students are strongly encouraged to contact:
Jacques Robert, Professor and Chair of Microbiology and Immunology
Phone: (585) 275-1722

Objectives

This degree program is designed to actively prepare graduates for careers in biomedical research by allowing them to earn both BS and MS degrees in 5 years. Pursuit of the MS in Immunology, Microbiology, and Virology affords the opportunity for selected students to receive intensive, advanced training in the allied fields of immunology, microbiology, virology, and biotechnology, with a focus on hands-on research and “real world” skills including critical scientific thinking, scientific communication, group dynamic, problem-solving and data analysis, and instruction in drug discovery. Active training in bioinformatics, cGMP stem cell manufacturing, and other advanced methodologies is included. The goals are to reflect the interconnectivity and complexity biomedical sciences as well as the increasing requirement for teamwork in problem solving in the workforce.

Requirements for Admissions

• Current UR undergraduates
• Strong academic record
• Minimum 3.3 GPA in major
• Demonstrated commitment to pursue research (e.g., Independent Research IND/MBI 395)

Pre-Application Requirements

• Email application
• Personal statement
• Letter of recommendation by a research advisor or professor in the major discipline
• Official transcripts
• Interviews with the Program Director and members of the admission committee

Full Application Requirements

• Online application (deadline May 1 of each year)
• Personal statement
• 3 Letters of recommendation by professors in the major discipline (the recommendations for the pre-application may be used)
• Official University of Rochester transcripts

Application timeline

• Between the spring of junior year and the fall of senior year:  pre-application
• May 1: Complete application due
• May-June: Offer of Admission notices
• May-June: Summer semester begins
• July 1: Offer accepted by students
• August: Orientation
• September: Fall semester begin

Immunology, Microbiology and Virology BS/MS Curriculum