Graduate Programs

Consistent with our stated mission, the graduate program in Biochemistry seeks to prepare students for independent careers as professional scientists by mastering the scientific method and investigating the molecular basis of life. Our training focuses on core skills in scientific techniques, communication, and professional development. Our program is designed to develop professionals, leaders, and innovators. Our graduates are very successful in securing jobs in the biotechnology and healthcare industries, law firms, and academia, just to name a few. 

Our department offers four graduate programs:

1.    Accelerated Bachelors/Master of Science program

2.    Professional Master of Science in Life Science program (non-thesis)

3.    Research-based Master of Science in Life Science program (with thesis)

4.    Doctor of Philosophy (with dissertation)

Explore this page to learn more about each program and their requirements, curricula, and admissions processes. To learn more about our department’s research specialties and our faculty, click here.

Applying to our Graduate Program 

Application Deadline: December 15

We accept applicants for Fall admission each year via the Virginia Tech Graduate School’s application portal. We strongly encourage students from diverse backgrounds to apply to our graduate program. Application fee waivers are available for eligible prospective students. The list of criteria can be found here. GRE scores are no longer required to apply, but are optional, if you wish to include your score in your application. 

To apply to our graduate program, you need to submit an application electronically. Instructions and forms for applying online are available here. Students who are most successful in our program have earned a Bachelor's degree with a grade point average of at least 3.5 on a 4.0 scale, and have completed two semesters (or equivalent) in Biology, Organic Chemistry, Biochemistry, and Calculus.

A complete application includes the following:

1. Online application for admission, including a personal statement describing motivation and career objectives, and a complete resume/CV.
2. Three letters of recommendation. Names and e-mail addresses of the individuals providing letters should be included with the online application to facilitate electronic submission and review of the letters.
3. Official transcripts from all institutions previously and presently attended. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable for the initial application, but official transcripts will be required after an admission offer and prior to enrollment via the Graduate School application portal.
    

International students must also submit proof of English language competency (e.g. TOEFL or IELTS scores). The Virginia Tech Graduate School sets testing requirements; details can be found here.

If you have questions concerning specific requirements, please contact our Graduate Program Director, Dr. Justin Lemkul  (jalemkul@vt.edu).

Benefits of our Graduate Program

All graduate students pursuing a thesis or dissertation are entitled to the following benefits:

·         12-month stipend of $32,184 (for 2024-2025)

·         Free tuition

·         Subsidized health insurance benefits