Cell Biology PhD Program

All enrolled students complete the first semester GPiBS curriculum that focuses on fundamentals of biomedical science, biostatistics, scientific rigor, and scientific integrity (). 

Subsequent year courses are minimal so students can focus on research progress, but include courses using flipped learning models focused on expanding core fundamentals of cell biology, learning to present research, and learning how to critically analyze the primary literature. 

Cutting edge electives are also offered including, courses to focused on coding in R for data analysis, hands-on training in super-resolution microscopy, and teaching practica for students interested in building teaching skills. 

Credit hours to complete the degree: 90 

 The gateway to the Ph.D. Program in the Department of Cell Biology is the GPiBS Program. Students who apply to and are accepted into the GPiBS Program participate in a year-long interdisciplinary curriculum, as well as lab rotations, that give them the exposure to the breadth of biomedical science programs and faculty mentors available at OU Health Sciences Center. This allows the students ample time in a variety of courses and labs to make an educated decision on which graduate program and mentor they wish to complete their Ph.D. studies with prior to joining a departmental program such as the PhD in Cell Biology. To view more details about applying to the GPiBS program.  

Direct Admission to Cell Biology 

In specific circumstances a student MAY be considered for Direct Admission to the Cell Biology Graduate Program (without first completing GPiBS). Applications for direct admission to the Ph.D. program in Cell Biology are accepted from students who have identified a faculty member in the Department of Cell Biology under whom they wish to train. The faculty member must be willing to provide mentorship and financial support for the duration of the student’s Ph.D. training. 

Online submission of the application is required. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Well-qualified candidates are interviewed by Skype by the Cell Biology Departmental Graduate Education Committee who makes recommendations for admission.  
Application Procedure 

To apply directly to the Department of Cell Biology, first email the program director (Dr. Shannon Conley, Shannon-conley@ouhsc.edu) to express your interest. 

Admissions Requirements 

• Undergraduate degree in a relevant major 
• Minimum G.P.A. of 3.0 in the last 60 hours of their undergraduate degree program and a minimum GPA of 3.0 on any Graduate coursework 
• A WES or ECE report to confirm GPA is required for applicants who are graduating, or have graduated, from foreign institutions. 
• GRE general exam scores may be submitted but are not required 
• The TOEFL exam is required for foreign applicants.  Any applicant whose first language is not English must certify proficiency in English when applying. Such applicants must submit scores received on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). A TOEFL score of at least 600 on the paper and pencil test, 220 on the computer-based test, or equivalent score on the web-based exam is the minimum required to be considered for admission to the Ph.D. program in Cell Biology. 
• A letter from the prospective mentor in Cell Biology. 
• Three letters of recommendation from individuals other than the prospective mentor 
• A personal statement of goals/purpose