We encourage applications from individuals who are bright, inquisitive and capable of independent thinking and learning. These are essential traits for a successful career in scientific research.

Undergraduate degree with at least one year (3 quarters or 2 semesters) of Calculus, one year of Physics, one year of Biology, and two years of Chemistry. (For the Ph.D., Physical Chemistry is not required, but is recommended). Previous research experience is not required, but is recommended. Prerequisites are not absolute, and often a tailor-made program can make-up for a particular deficit.

Scores from either the Graduate Record Exam (GRE, general test only; for more information go to: http://www.gre.org/ttindex.html ) or scores from the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) are required. As a general requirement of the Graduate School, international student applicants whose native language is not English are also required to take the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). The Cellular and Integrative Physiology graduate Program does not use an automatic reject threshold for applicants below a set GRE score. We use the GRE scores to help identify potential strengths and weaknesses so that if the applicant is accepted, we can tailor an academic program that best fits the student’s needs.

Three letters of recommendation are mandatory.

Admission is on a competitive basis. Admission decisions and decisions on financial support are made separately. However, for maintaining a high quality program, the faculty requires that all entrants be free to devote full-time to scholarship for the Ph.D.. Generally, this means that virtually all students admitted to the Ph.D. program are afforded full financial aid for the duration of their studies. The Special Master's Degree Program is designed to be completed while the student is employed in the Twin Cities.

In considering your application we look at more than your academic record and scores on standardized exams. We search for evidence of creativity and initiative in letters of recommendation, previous laboratory experience or other work experience.

There is no deadline for receipt of applications. We can admit students for entry into either Fall (early September) or Spring (mid January) Semesters. However, completed applications received before January 15^th for entrance next fall are eligible for special funding.

However, before you apply, you should directly contact Stephen A. Katz, Director of Graduate Studies, Cellular & Integrative Physiology Graduate Program. An individualized discussion with Stephen A. Katz (preferably via phone, e-mail, or in person) will immediately let you know if the Cellular & Integrative Physiology Graduate Program is a good fit for you. Please contact:

  Before you apply, directly contact Stephen A. Katz, Director of Graduate Studies. See above for contact information.

  Complete Application for Admission Form. The web site is the preferred method for filling out the form. Go to: http://www.grad.umn.edu/application.html   or  https://app.applyyourself.com/?id=umtc-grad. 

If you do not have easy access to the Web, Stephen Katz can mail you a paper copy of the application form.

The current application asks for a Statement explaining your immediate and long-range objectives in relation to your major field (Item 23A on some application forms). At the minimum we need at least a few paragraphs telling us about you and your plans. Also tell us about the research you would like to conduct.

The application will ask for your proposed Major Code, Major, and degree desired. If applying for a Masters then Major code = 015331508, Major = Cell & Integ Physiology, and degree desired = M.S. The corresponding Ph.D. codes are 015360208, Cell & Integ Physiology, and Ph.D.

  Send all of your official transcripts (and your paper application form if you did not use the Web) to the graduate school at:

Graduate School
University of Minnesota
309 Johnston Hall
101 Pleasant St. SE
Minneapolis, MN 55455-0421

  Also, send your official GRE or MCAT scores (and TOEFL scores if your native language is not English) to the graduate school at the address above.

  Have 3 letters of recommendation sent directly to:

If applicable, it is a very good idea to have one of your letters come from your current supervisor at work.

  Send unofficial or copies of originals of your application form, transcripts, GRE or MCAT scores (and TOEFL scores if appropriate) directly to Stephen A. Katz at the address above. This last step will greatly speed up your application processing time since the Graduate School can be slow, especially during peak times.

Other Programs to consider:

1) A Masters Degree in Cellular and Integrative Physiology is also available in cooperation with the Duluth campus. The Masters Degree program is open to all applicants. Contact Dr. Lorentz E. Wittmers at lwittmer@d.umn.edu if interested, or, to visit the Duluth Physiology web site, go to http://www.d.umn.edu/medweb/phsl/physiology.

3) If you are interested in Neuroscience you might want to contact the NEUROSCIENCE graduate program.
E-mail to neurosci@tc.umn.edu.