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Programs

Biomedical Sciences PhD

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The Penn State Biomedical Sciences (BMS) PhD Program – with its options in Biochemistry, Genetics, and Genomics, Cancer Biology, Cellular and Integrative Physiology, Translational Therapeutics, and Virology and Immunology – is a nationally and internationally recognized interdisciplinary graduate program that provides students curricular and research training with a unique focus on human health and disease.

Drone view of Penn State Health Hershey, Pa. medical center in the early morning with sun shining off camera to the left.

Program Overview

Students receive rigorous training that provides the skills necessary to be leaders in biomedical research and other endeavors including business, education, law, journalism, and public policy.

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Students in the BMS Graduate Program have the ability to choose among several curricular tracks:

  • Biomedical Sciences

  • Option in Biochemistry, Genetics and Genomics

  • Option in Cancer Biology

  • Option in Cellular and Integrative Physiology

  • Option in Translational Therapeutics

  • Option in Virology and Immunology

The program offers extensive flexibility to tailor curriculum and dissertation research to each individual student’s interests.

With the research emphasis of the program, students also participate in research rotations in at least three laboratories during the first year before choosing the laboratory for their dissertation research.

Students admitted to the Biomedical Sciences PhD program receive a financial assistance package that includes a stipend and tuition. For the 2024-25 academic year, the stipend is $34,539.

A number of first-year supplemental awards and fellowships are also available on a competitive basis.

The program pays the stipend and tuition for the first four semesters (Fall/Spring/Summer/Fall). Subsequently, the adviser for the dissertation research is responsible for the stipend and tuition. To ensure that students will be able to complete their dissertation research in this laboratory, the departmental chair guarantees this support.

Non-Tuition Costs

Medical insurance is required for all students, with the University paying 80 percent of the cost of medical, dental and vision coverage.

Recruitment Events

Dr. Inginia Genao, vice dean of diversity, equity and belonging, talks with a student on a bench outside the college.

Student Support

Dedicated offices support your health and well-being, while services such as a health sciences library assist in your learning journey. We are committed to enhancing students' experience and development.

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