The first stage of the Ph.D. program focuses primarily on coursework, to develop a solid background in biomedical sciences such as data science, statistics and scientific integrity. Courses also include introductory and advanced explorations of mendelian genetics, cytogenetics, molecular genetics, statistical genetics, clinical genetics, genomics, disease pathogenesis and the study of complex disorders. The curriculum also includes journal clubs and seminars. Students must complete the required courses within four semesters and one summer.
VCU’s Human Genetics Ph.D. program provides rigorous, interdisciplinary training across all aspects of human genetics and genomics.
Our faculty are committed to supporting the next generation of scientists and academics in the field, and graduates of the program have gone on to pursue successful careers in academia, government, clinical and private industry laboratories. Over the course of three to six years, doctoral students develop the ability to design, implement and interpret experimental approaches to address questions across a broad spectrum of research areas, including:
- Cancer genetics
- Clinical genetics
- Cytogenetics
- Data science
- Developmental genetics
- Genetic epidemiology
- Molecular genetics
- Psychiatric and behavioral genetics
- Quantitative genetics
- Translational research
We also offer a quantitative human genetics concentration for Ph.D. students.
Program structure
Full curriculum
Research
During the first year, students rotate through three laboratories to explore different areas of research. By the end of the first year, students are expected to select a faculty mentor for their dissertation work and formally join the program.
During the second year, students identify faculty members to serve on their graduate advisory committee and shift their attention to an original research project and related activities such as publishing articles and presenting at conferences. Upon completion of the research project, students prepare a written dissertation based on their findings, which they present in a public seminar and defend to their graduate advisory committee.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need GRE scores to apply for the program?
We currently do not require GRE scores for admission decisions for the Ph.D. program.
How many students are accepted into the Ph.D. program in human genetics?
The number of students accepted annually varies, but incoming Ph.D. classes typically have three to six students each.
What is the minimum TOEFL score I need to be accepted into the program?
A minimum of 100 must be achieved on the computerized TOEFL exam.
What is the minimum IELTS score I need to be accepted into the program?
A minimum of 6.5 must be achieved on the IELTS.
Do you accept students for the spring semester?
The vast majority of our students enroll starting in the fall semester. We consider applications for students that want to enroll starting in the spring semester in very special circumstances only.
How do I apply for a student assistantship?
You do not need to apply separately for a graduate assistantship for the Ph.D. program. It is automatically done for Ph.D. applicants, domestic and international alike.
Do I need to choose a mentor before applying to the Ph.D. program?
Human genetics Ph.D. students do not need to choose a mentor before they start graduate school. Instead, Ph.D. students perform up to three laboratory rotations during their first year and then choose a mentor during that time.
Where do VCU graduate students live?
Most students live off campus. Check out VCU’s off-campus housing website and learn more about Richmond neighborhoods here.
What is the minimum Duolingo score I need to get accepted into the program?
A minimum score of 120 must be achieved on the Duolingo exam.
What is the minimum Pearson Test of English (PTE) score I need to get accepted into the program?
A minimum score of 65 must be achieved on the PTE exam.
How recent do my English proficiency test scores need to be in order to get accepted into the program?
Scores are valid for two years.
Resources
Supporting our students is at the core of the School of Medicine's mission. We provide a wide variety of resources to help enhance our graduate students' experience and ensure their safety, as well as resources to support our faculty.
How to apply
Prospective students must apply through the BSDP. After creating an account with the Graduate School at VCU, select "Application for all other graduate programs," then select "Biomedical sciences – undifferentiated – Doctoral Portal," before completing the application.
Application requirements
- The online application form
- Official undergraduate transcripts
- Three letters of recommendation
- A personal statement, describing the following:
- Your research or experience
- Why you are interested in the Ph.D. program
- Your main research interests
- A short list of prospective faculty mentors
- Any career plans you have
- Other information that may help us evaluate your qualifications as an Ph.D. trainee
- A copy of the financial guarantee or reward level if supported by a scholarship
After completing the online applications, documents that cannot be submitted electronically, such as official transcripts, should be mailed to the following address:
Virginia Commonwealth University
Office of Admissions
Box 843051
Richmond, Virginia 23284-3051
International application requirements
- TOEFL or IETLS scores (international and non-native English-speaking applicants only)
- Academic credentials evaluated by a service that is a member of the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services, or NACES, such as:
Ready to get started?
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If you have any questions about the program or application requirements, please contact:
Daniel Bullard, Ph.D.
Graduate program director
daniel.bullard@vcuhealth.org