UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON · UNITED STATES
PhD Program in Biology
PhD · Taught in en
At a glance
60 mo
Duration
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IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
PhD
Level
- Commitment from the entire department for student support.Departmental Support
- Students receive additional training in departmental governance and curriculum development.Professional Development
- Collaborative research environment with national and international connections.Global Collaboration
- Opportunity for lab rotations and tutorials in the first year.Exploratory Learning
- Focus on publishing and presenting research at national and international meetings.Research Output
- Students are treated as colleagues by committed faculty.Mentorship Quality
The PhD Program in Biology at the University of Washington offers a comprehensive graduate education focused on research and theory. Students are integrated into a collaborative environment, working with faculty and researchers both within the department and globally. The program emphasizes mentorship, providing opportunities for students to develop their research interests, build professional networks, and contribute to high-impact publications and presentations.
Curriculum
The program is structured over five years, with a focus on research progression, committee development, and dissertation completion. Students engage in lab rotations, coursework, comprehensive exams, and regular supervisory committee meetings.
- Year 1
- Lab Rotation or Tutorial #1
- Lab Rotation or Tutorial #2
- Lab Rotation or Tutorial #3
- Select Supervisory Committee; First Year Conversation
- Year 2
- Continue graded credits
- Develop final supervisory committee
- General Exam (by end of Spring Quarter)
- Supervisory Committee Annual Meeting
- Year 3
- Conduct research and begin writing
- Work to publish/present research
- Supervisory Committee Annual Meeting
- Year 4
- Conduct research and continue writing
- Work to publish/present research
- Supervisory Committee Annual Meeting
- Year 5
- Publish/present a chapter of your dissertation
- Select Reading Committee
- Schedule Final Exam
Frequently asked questions
- What are the general entry requirements for the PhD Program in Biology?
- A strong academic record, typically demonstrated by a bachelor's or master's degree, is required. International applicants should refer to the UW Graduate School for specific requirements.
- How long is the PhD program in Biology?
- The program is structured over five years, focusing on research progression, committee development, and dissertation completion.
- What are the tuition fees for the PhD program?
- Tuition rates for graduate programs vary. Please refer to the University of Washington's Tuition & Fees dashboard for the most current information.
- Are there opportunities for financial support, such as scholarships or assistantships?
- Yes, Research and Teaching Assistantships are available and often include a full tuition waiver, monthly stipend, and medical/dental insurance. All applicants are considered for assistantships.
- How do I apply to the PhD Program in Biology?
- Applications are managed by the UW Graduate School. You should review program admission details, prepare your application materials, and submit the online application through the UW Graduate School admissions portal.
- What kind of career support is available for PhD students?
- The program prepares students for advanced independent research. Career exploration and planning tools are available through the University of Washington's Career & Internship Center.
Entry requirements
Bachelor's or Master's DegreeA strong academic record is required, typically demonstrated by a bachelor's or master's degree.
International applicants should refer to the UW Graduate School for specific requirements and application procedures.
Fees
Tuition (international)Tuition rates for graduate programs vary. Refer to the University of Washington's Tuition & Fees dashboard for the most current information.
Tuition (home)Tuition rates for graduate programs vary. Refer to the University of Washington's Tuition & Fees dashboard for the most current information.
LivingEstimated annual costs of attendance for first-year undergraduates are available, but specific living costs for graduate students are not detailed.
Graduate Appointment Waivers may be available. Research and Teaching Assistantships often include a full tuition waiver.
How to apply
1. Review Program Admission DetailsVisit the PhD program admission page on the University of Washington website for specific requirements.
2. Prepare Application MaterialsGather all necessary documents, including academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose. For research and teaching assistantship consideration, clearly state your interest and the faculty you wish to work with in your statement of purpose.
3. Submit ApplicationComplete and submit the online application through the UW Graduate School admissions portal before the specified deadline.
4. International Applicant InformationInternational applicants should consult the UW Graduate School's dedicated section for international applicant information regarding any additional requirements or procedures.
Scholarships
Assistantships (Research and Teaching)Monthly stipend, full tuition waiver, medical and dental insurance
PacTrans Fellowship Program—
Valle Fellowship Program—
National Science Foundation Fellowships—
Frequently asked questions
What are the general entry requirements for the PhD Program in Biology?
+
A strong academic record, typically demonstrated by a bachelor's or master's degree, is required. International applicants should refer to the UW Graduate School for specific requirements.
How long is the PhD program in Biology?
+
The program is structured over five years, focusing on research progression, committee development, and dissertation completion.
What are the tuition fees for the PhD program?
+
Tuition rates for graduate programs vary. Please refer to the University of Washington's Tuition & Fees dashboard for the most current information.
Are there opportunities for financial support, such as scholarships or assistantships?
+
Yes, Research and Teaching Assistantships are available and often include a full tuition waiver, monthly stipend, and medical/dental insurance. All applicants are considered for assistantships.
How do I apply to the PhD Program in Biology?
+
Applications are managed by the UW Graduate School. You should review program admission details, prepare your application materials, and submit the online application through the UW Graduate School admissions portal.
What kind of career support is available for PhD students?
+
The program prepares students for advanced independent research. Career exploration and planning tools are available through the University of Washington's Career & Internship Center.