UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, DAVIS · UNITED STATES
Graduate Group in Microbiology (GMIC) - PhD
PhD · Taught in en
At a glance
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PhD
Level
The Graduate Group in Microbiology (GMIC) at UC Davis offers a PhD program focused on advancing research in the field of microbiology. While an MS program exists, it is strongly de-emphasized, and admission is generally only granted under special circumstances such as having a 2-year government-sponsored fellowship, personal funding, or a faculty mentor's commitment of financial support. International applicants are particularly encouraged to secure fellowship support from their home countries, as only exceptional candidates without financial backing may be considered. The program aims to cultivate a diverse student body and welcomes applications from underrepresented groups. Admissions decisions are finalized by Graduate Studies, with the Admissions Committee making recommendations on behalf of the GMIC.
Frequently asked questions
- What are the academic and research requirements for the PhD program?
- A Bachelor's degree in a biological science with a minimum 3.0 GPA is required, including coursework in biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics. Demonstrated research experience through an independent project or post-baccalaureate work is also necessary.
- Are there specific courses recommended for applicants?
- Upper-division courses in biochemistry, cell biology, microbiology, microbial physiology, genetics, or immunology are recommended to strengthen your application.
- How do I apply for the PhD program and when is the deadline?
- Applications are submitted electronically through the Graduate Studies application portal. The application opens in September and the deadline for Fall Quarter admission is December 1.
- Is it important for international students to secure funding before applying?
- Yes, international applicants are strongly advised to seek and secure fellowship support from their home countries or other external sources, as admission without financial support is rare.
- How should international students approach potential faculty mentors?
- Prospective students are encouraged to research faculty research interests within the GMIC and contact potential major professors to discuss research opportunities and inquire about their application.
Entry requirements
Undergraduate DegreeA B.S. or B.A. in a biological science is required, with coursework including biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics. Upper-division courses in biochemistry, cell biology, microbiology, microbial physiology, genetics, or immunology are recommended. A minimum UC Davis GPA of 3.0 is necessary.
Research ExperienceDemonstrated aptitude and enthusiasm for research, including active participation in an independent research project supervised by a faculty member and/or post-baccalaureate research experience.
Applicants are strongly encouraged to contact potential faculty mentors to discuss research opportunities and lab availability before applying. Doctoral candidates will have the opportunity for laboratory rotations, while MS students are directly admitted to a lab. If a chosen major professor is not yet a member of the GMIC, they must be approved for membership. International students are strongly advised to seek fellowship support from their home countries. Exceptional international students without financial support might be considered.
Fees
Tuition (international)MSBA requires 44 units at $1,490 per unit, totaling an estimated $65,560 for students entering in summer 2025. (Note: This fee structure appears to be for a different program, the MSBA, and may not apply to the GMIC PhD program.)
Tuition (home)—
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All costs associated with the MS program are the responsibility of the applicant. International students are strongly advised to secure fellowship support. Information regarding general UC Davis graduate tuition and fees can be found on the UC Davis Tuition and Fees and Financial Aid Cost of Attendance websites.
How to apply
1. Review Program RequirementsEnsure you meet the academic and research experience requirements, including a relevant undergraduate degree and a minimum 3.0 GPA. Familiarize yourself with the program's strong emphasis on the PhD.
2. Identify Potential Faculty MentorsResearch faculty members within the GMIC whose research aligns with your interests. Contact these faculty members to inquire about potential research opportunities and to discuss your application.
3. Secure Fellowship Support (International Applicants)International applicants are strongly advised to seek and secure fellowship support from their home countries or other external sources. Admission without financial support is rare and typically reserved for exceptional cases.
4. Complete the Online ApplicationThe electronic application opens in September each year. Submit all required materials through the Graduate Studies application portal.
5. Submit Application MaterialsEnsure all application materials are submitted by the December 1 deadline for Fall Quarter admission.
Frequently asked questions
What are the academic and research requirements for the PhD program?
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A Bachelor's degree in a biological science with a minimum 3.0 GPA is required, including coursework in biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics. Demonstrated research experience through an independent project or post-baccalaureate work is also necessary.
Are there specific courses recommended for applicants?
+
Upper-division courses in biochemistry, cell biology, microbiology, microbial physiology, genetics, or immunology are recommended to strengthen your application.
How do I apply for the PhD program and when is the deadline?
+
Applications are submitted electronically through the Graduate Studies application portal. The application opens in September and the deadline for Fall Quarter admission is December 1.
Is it important for international students to secure funding before applying?
+
Yes, international applicants are strongly advised to seek and secure fellowship support from their home countries or other external sources, as admission without financial support is rare.
How should international students approach potential faculty mentors?
+
Prospective students are encouraged to research faculty research interests within the GMIC and contact potential major professors to discuss research opportunities and inquire about their application.