UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN–MADISON · UNITED STATES
Cancer Biology, PhD
PhD · Taught in en
At a glance
66 mo
Duration
—
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
PhD
Level
- 5.5 yearsAverage completion time
- Established in 1940Pioneering program
- 50+ faculty trainersInterdisciplinary faculty
- 3 lab rotationsFirst semester experience
- 5-member advisory committeePersonalized guidance
- Full financial supportFor students in good standing
The PhD program in Cancer Biology at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, established in 1940, is a pioneering program dedicated to fundamental cancer research. It operates under the Interdisciplinary Biological and Health Sciences Consortium, fostering a collaborative environment. The program brings together over 50 faculty from diverse departments, including Oncology, Medicine, and Molecular Biology, offering students extensive training opportunities across various aspects of cancer biology. Students delve into topics like genetics, carcinogenesis, cell and molecular biology, virology, and toxicology. The curriculum is flexible, allowing for specialization through core and elective courses, seminars, and research. A key feature is the research advisory committee, formed after students complete three lab rotations in their first semester, guiding them through their doctoral journey. The program prepares graduates for research and teaching careers in academia, government, and industry. While master's degrees are available under special circumstances, the program primarily focuses on admitting students directly into the PhD track. Financial support, including stipends and tuition remission, is provided to students in good standing.
Curriculum
The curriculum is designed to provide a solid foundation in cancer biology, preparing students for independent research. It includes core courses, electives, seminars, and a significant research component. Students are expected to complete a minimum of 51 credits. Core courses must be passed with a grade of B or above.
- Years 1-2
- General Virology-Multiplication of VirusesONCOLOGY/ M M & I/ PL PATH 640
- Carcinogenesis and Tumor Cell BiologyONCOLOGY 703
- Ethics in ScienceONCOLOGY 715
- Readings in Cancer BiologyONCOLOGY 725
- Grant Writing in Cancer BiologyONCOLOGY 735
- Seminar (presentation)ONCOLOGY 901
- ResearchONCOLOGY 990
Careers
The program prepares students for careers focused on teaching and research in various settings.
- Academia
- Government
- Industry
Frequently asked questions
- What are the entry requirements for the Cancer Biology PhD program?
- You need a bachelor's degree in a related science field with a minimum GPA of 3.0. Relevant coursework in biology, chemistry, and molecular biology is required, and prior laboratory research experience is highly desirable. GRE is not required.
- How much does the Cancer Biology PhD program cost?
- The program provides continuing financial support for students in good standing, including a competitive stipend and tuition remission. All graduate students are eligible for comprehensive health insurance.
- How long does the Cancer Biology PhD program typically take to complete?
- The average completion time for the Cancer Biology PhD program is 5.5 years.
- What is the application deadline for the Cancer Biology PhD program?
- The application deadline for Fall and Summer admission is November 15. Spring admission deadline is not available.
- What materials are needed for the Cancer Biology PhD application?
- You will need to submit an online application, a personal statement, unofficial college transcripts, a CV/resume, and three letters of recommendation.
- What are the career prospects after completing the Cancer Biology PhD program?
- Graduates are prepared for careers in research and teaching in academia, government, and industry.
Entry requirements
Bachelor's degreeIn biology, biochemistry, chemistry, molecular biology, or a related area from an accredited college or university with a GPA of at least 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale).
Prior courseworkShould include basic courses in biology and several advanced courses in chemistry, microbiology, biochemistry, genetics, physiology, and molecular biology.
Research experiencePrior laboratory research experience is highly desirable.
English ProficiencyRefer to Graduate School minimum requirements
Applicants must meet both the minimum requirements of the Graduate School and the specific program requirements. GRE is not required. Three letters of recommendation are required.
Fees
Tuition (international)Not specified
Tuition (home)Not specified, but tuition remission is provided for PhD students in good standing.
LivingNot specified
The program is committed to providing continuing financial support for all Cancer Biology PhD students in good standing, which includes a competitive stipend and tuition remission. All graduate students are eligible for comprehensive health insurance.
How to apply
1. Check EligibilityEnsure you meet the minimum academic and English proficiency requirements set by the UW–Madison Graduate School and the Cancer Biology program.
2. Prepare Application MaterialsGather your unofficial college transcripts, a personal statement detailing your reasons for graduate study, an updated CV/resume highlighting laboratory experience, and secure three letters of recommendation from academic or professional references.
3. Submit Online ApplicationComplete and submit the online application form through the UW–Madison Graduate School portal.
4. Program ReviewThe program faculty will review your application. If admitted, you will be invited to participate in a selection process that includes laboratory rotations.
Frequently asked questions
What are the entry requirements for the Cancer Biology PhD program?
+
You need a bachelor's degree in a related science field with a minimum GPA of 3.0. Relevant coursework in biology, chemistry, and molecular biology is required, and prior laboratory research experience is highly desirable. GRE is not required.
How much does the Cancer Biology PhD program cost?
+
The program provides continuing financial support for students in good standing, including a competitive stipend and tuition remission. All graduate students are eligible for comprehensive health insurance.
How long does the Cancer Biology PhD program typically take to complete?
+
The average completion time for the Cancer Biology PhD program is 5.5 years.
What is the application deadline for the Cancer Biology PhD program?
+
The application deadline for Fall and Summer admission is November 15. Spring admission deadline is not available.
What materials are needed for the Cancer Biology PhD application?
+
You will need to submit an online application, a personal statement, unofficial college transcripts, a CV/resume, and three letters of recommendation.
What are the career prospects after completing the Cancer Biology PhD program?
+
Graduates are prepared for careers in research and teaching in academia, government, and industry.