Program structure

The University of Maryland, Baltimore (UMB) does not offer a Bachelor's degree (B.Sc.) in Biochemistry, Biophysics, and Molecular Biology. UMB primarily focuses on graduate-level programs, particularly in the life sciences, including Ph.D. and master's degree programs in these fields. If you are interested in undergraduate programs related to biochemistry or molecular biology, you might want to explore the offerings at other campuses within the University of Maryland system, such as the University of Maryland, College Park.

For more information on UMB’s graduate programs, visit here.

Fees and Funding

For students in the Biochemistry, Biophysics, and Molecular Biology program at the University of Maryland, financial support and funding opportunities are available through various means:

1. Tuition and Fees:

   • Tuition rates for the Graduate Program in Life Sciences (GPILS), which includes the Biochemistry, Biophysics, and Molecular Biology program, vary by residency status (in-state vs. out-of-state). The specific tuition and fee structure can be found on the university's financial support page.

2. Stipends and Assistantships:

   • Students admitted to Ph.D. programs are generally offered competitive stipends, health insurance, and full tuition remission. These stipends are often provided through teaching assistantships (TAs), research assistantships (RAs), or fellowships.

3. Health Insurance:

   • Graduate students receiving a stipend are eligible for comprehensive health insurance coverage, which is typically provided as part of their financial package.

4. Fellowships:

   • The university offers a variety of internal and external fellowships for which students can apply. These fellowships may be awarded based on merit and can supplement the base stipend.

5. Travel Grants:

   • Funding for conference and research travel is also available to support students presenting their research or engaging in academic activities that enhance their training.

6. External Funding:

   • Students are encouraged to seek external funding from sources such as the National Institutes of Health (NIH), National Science Foundation (NSF), or other organizations that offer fellowships and grants for graduate research.

For more details about the available funding options and to explore tools for estimating the cost of attendance, visit the financial support page

Scholarship Guidance

The University of Maryland, College Park (not Baltimore) offers several scholarships and awards for undergraduate students in the Chemistry and Biochemistry department. These scholarships are designed to recognize academic excellence and provide financial support for students pursuing degrees in related fields such as Biochemistry, Biophysics, and Molecular Biology.

Available Scholarships and Awards:

1. James R. Miller Undergraduate Scholarship:

   • Awarded to chemistry or biochemistry majors who demonstrate academic excellence.

2. Dr. Myron and Mrs. Elaine Sussman Award:

   • For students majoring in chemistry or biochemistry, recognizing outstanding performance in coursework.

3. The John Fourkas Summer Research Award:

   • Provides funding for students to pursue summer research projects under the mentorship of faculty.

4. The Richard & Barbara Jacoby Endowed Scholarship in Chemistry and Biochemistry:

   • Supports students based on merit and financial need.

5. Meredith J. Burgess Memorial Scholarship:

   • An award given to students with strong academic records and involvement in departmental activities.

These scholarships are awarded to students who excel academically and are involved in research or departmental activities. The specific eligibility criteria, application process, and deadlines vary for each award, so students are encouraged to check the official page for detailed information.

For more details, visit the Awards and Scholarships page.

Admission Requirements

For international applicants to the Biochemistry, Biophysics, and Molecular Biology program at the University of Maryland, the following additional admission requirements apply:

1. English Language Proficiency:

   • International students must demonstrate proficiency in English. The acceptable tests and minimum scores are:
     • TOEFL: A minimum score of 80 (internet-based) is required.
     • IELTS: A minimum score of 7.0.
     • Duolingo English Test: Minimum score of 115.
   • Applicants who have earned a degree from an accredited university in a country where English is the primary language of instruction may be exempt from this requirement.

2. Transcript Evaluation:

   • All international transcripts must be evaluated by a credential evaluation service. The University of Maryland accepts evaluations from organizations such as World Education Services (WES), Educational Credential Evaluators (ECE), or any National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES) members.

3. Visa and Financial Documentation:

   • International students who are accepted into the program will need to provide documentation showing they have sufficient financial resources to cover the cost of their education and living expenses while studying in the United States. This includes submitting a financial statement and obtaining a student visa (typically an F-1 visa).

4. Application Deadlines:

   • International applicants should pay special attention to deadlines, as processing of international documents may take longer. It’s important to apply well in advance to ensure timely submission of all required documents.

For detailed information, visit the International Applicants page.

Application Procedure

To apply for the Biochemistry, Biophysics, and Molecular Biology program at the University of Maryland, Baltimore (UMB), prospective students must follow the university's graduate admissions process. Below is a general guide to the application process:

Application Steps:

1. Online Application:

   • Complete the online application through the University of Maryland Graduate School website. Ensure you select the Biochemistry, Biophysics, and Molecular Biology program under the Graduate Program in Life Sciences (GPILS).

2. Required Documents:

   • Transcripts: Submit official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions you have attended.
   • Letters of Recommendation: Typically, three letters of recommendation from academic or research mentors are required.
   • Statement of Purpose: Write a statement outlining your research interests, career goals, and reasons for choosing this program.
   • CV/Resume: Include your academic and research background, publications, and relevant work experience.
   • GRE Scores: Check the program’s specific requirements regarding GRE scores, as they may or may not be required.
   • English Proficiency (for International Students): Submit TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo scores if English is not your native language.

3. Application Fee:

   • Pay the required application fee when submitting your online application. The fee is typically around $75, though fee waivers may be available under certain circumstances.

4. Application Deadline:

   • The application deadline for fall admission is usually December 1 for the following academic year. Early submission is encouraged, especially for international applicants.

5. Interview:

   • Selected applicants may be invited for an interview as part of the application process. This can be conducted virtually or in person.

Important Links:

• Graduate Program in Life Sciences (GPILS) Application Portal
• Admission Requirements and Procedures for International Applicants

Make sure to review the specific program page for any additional application details or updates.