Program structure

The Molecular Microbiology and Immunology (MMI) program at the University of Maryland is designed to provide rigorous interdisciplinary training, preparing students for careers in research, academia, government, and industry. The program structure includes several key components:

1. Core Curriculum:

• First-Year Courses: All students begin with a comprehensive core course titled Mechanisms in Biomedical Sciences: From Genes to Disease, which covers cellular, molecular, and genetic mechanisms.
• Specialized Courses: Students then move on to advanced courses in areas like Immunology, Microbial Pathogenesis, Virology, and various elective topics.

2. Laboratory Rotations:

• During the first year, students complete three laboratory rotations to gain hands-on experience and explore different research areas before selecting a dissertation advisor.

3. Research Focus:

• Research is a major part of the program, and students are expected to focus on topics such as immune cell function, inflammation, vaccine development, and tumor immunology. This training often involves advanced techniques like functional genomics and gene delivery​

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4. Qualifying Exams and Candidacy:

• After completing the core curriculum and rotations, students must pass a comprehensive qualifying exam to advance to candidacy for their PhD. This exam typically takes place during the second year​

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5. Dissertation Research:

• Students conduct independent research under a faculty advisor, culminating in a dissertation defense. The typical duration of the program is around five years, during which students are also expected to publish their research​

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6. Professional Development:

• The program incorporates professional development opportunities, such as seminars, journal clubs, and workshops, to hone presentation and research skills. Students are also encouraged to participate in conferences and networking events​

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This structure ensures that students gain both theoretical knowledge and practical research experience in microbiology and immunology. For more details, you can visit the MMI program page.

Fees and Funding

The Molecular Microbiology and Immunology (MMI) PhD program at the University of Maryland provides several funding options for its students. Most students accepted into the PhD program receive graduate fellowships or assistantships, which include an annual stipend, tuition remission, and health insurance. This makes the program financially accessible for students aiming for leadership roles in research, academia, or industry.

The tuition costs for the program are:

• In-state: $638 per credit hour
• Out-of-state: $1,102 per credit hour

Funding is generally provided through assistantships, and the program emphasizes providing financial support to ensure students can focus on their studies and research.

For more details on the fee structure and funding opportunities, you can check the University of Maryland Graduate School's official page​

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Scholarship Guidance

The University of Maryland’s Molecular Microbiology and Immunology (MMI) PhD program offers several financial support options for its students. Most PhD students receive comprehensive funding packages that include:

• Graduate fellowships or assistantships that cover:
  • An annual stipend (currently $34,325 for pre-qualifying students, increasing to $36,325 post-qualifying).
  • Tuition remission.
  • Health insurance.

In addition, the program offers opportunities for NIH-funded training grants, mentor grants, and other university sources. Students may also be selected for competitive training grants that provide additional support, including funding for travel to conferences and training activities​

For more information about financial aid and scholarships, you can visit the financial support page.

Admission Requirements

The Molecular Microbiology and Immunology (MMI) PhD program at the University of Maryland has the following admission requirements:

1. Educational Background:

   • Applicants must have a strong undergraduate background in biological sciences, chemistry, mathematics, and general physics.
   • A GPA of 3.0 or above is typically required, with preference given to students who have achieved A or B grades in relevant science courses.

2. GRE Scores:

   • While the program encourages strong applicants, preference is given to those with a combined GRE score of 310 or above. However, the GRE may not always be required, so it’s recommended to check the latest details.

3. English Proficiency (for International Applicants):

   • A minimum score of 100 on the TOEFL or a comparable score on the IELTS is required for international applicants.

4. Application Deadline:

   • International Applicants: November 15.
   • All Other Applicants: December 1.

5. Additional Materials:

   • Three letters of recommendation.
   • A personal statement.
   • Transcripts from all prior institutions.
   • A resume or CV.

Successful applicants typically demonstrate strong academic credentials and a passion for research in microbiology and immunology. You can learn more about the application process here​

Application Procedure

To apply for the Molecular Microbiology and Immunology (MMI) PhD program at the University of Maryland, you can follow the application process outlined on the Prospective Students page.

Here are the key steps:

1. Complete the Online Application: You'll need to create an account and submit your application through the university’s official portal.

2. Submit Required Documents:

   • Transcripts from all prior educational institutions.
   • Letters of recommendation (usually three).
   • A personal statement detailing your academic and research interests.
   • GRE scores (if required; check current requirements).
   • English proficiency test scores (TOEFL or IELTS) for international applicants.

3. Application Deadlines:

   • International applicants: November 15.
   • Domestic applicants: December 1.

Make sure to check the specific requirements and timelines on the official page for more details​

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