THE PROGRAM
What are the minimum admission criteria required by Biomedical Sciences (BMS)?
We recognize that every student and their application is unique but in order to be considered for acceptance we set a minimum overall GPA of 3.0 and science GPA of 3.0. We also prioritize applicants with a science degree background. If applicants don’t meet these criteria we can explore other routes to admission, such as initial enrollment as a non-degree seeking student for a semester before full admission into the program.
Is there a deadline for applying to the Biomedical Sciences department?
No. We accept applications year round on a rolling basis for either Fall or Spring entry.
How many graduate students are accepted to the 1-year MS program each year, and are there preferences regarding admission or financial aid?
Our current maximum enrollment is 50 students each academic year. The program is self-funded and we are not able to offer any formal financial assistance. Domestic students are eligible for financial aid through our Office of Financial Aid.
Are there any required prerequisites for the program?
We require students to have a strong science background. We look for applicants with a Bachelor of Science degree or a degree in which you have taken a wide variety of sciences, especially in the biological sciences.
What types of research experience does the BMS program offer?
Some of the current research areas in our department are:
- Malaria biology
- Antibiotics
- HIV
- Spinal muscular atrophy
- Vaccine development
- Ion channels and drug development
- Anthelmintic drugs
- Epilepsy
- Retinal biology
- Prion diseases
How many credit hours are required in this program?
We require 30 credit hours for completion.
Is this program designed for students who are trying to satisfy professional school prerequisites?
Our program will strengthen your application to professional school but not by satisfying prerequisites. Most professional schools require 100- or 200-level courses to satisfy their prerequisites. Those courses cannot be counted toward a graduate degree at ISU. However, it may be possible to add 1-2 prerequisites into elective credit slots during the spring semester.
How long is your program?
Our program usually takes two semesters to complete, beginning in either Fall or Spring semesters. However, we do provide flexibility and allow completion in three semesters. This helps some of our students balance work-life commitments.
Can I schedule an appointment to talk with someone about the program?
Absolutely, we would love to hear from you. Please email bmsgrad@iastate.edu if you are interested in setting up a tour of the department or meeting with someone to talk about the program.
APPLICATION PROCESS AND MATERIALS
How do I apply?
Start by completing the free online Preliminary Application Form. We will review your information and send you an email within 24 hours with our recommendations regarding your application.
If positive, you will then need to submit a Graduate College Application. Please select the BMS Master’s Degree “Non” for the degree option to be reviewed for the One-Year Non-Thesis Master’s Degree Program. Once we have received all your application materials, your application will be reviewed by our Admissions Committee. Once the review is finished, which can take up to 4 weeks, an admissions decision will be communicated to you.
I won’t graduate with my undergraduate degree until summer, can I still apply for fall?
Yes. If you expect to receive your bachelor’s degree before the beginning of the semester you intent to begin, you may apply. Proof must be given to the Office of Admissions prior to being allowed to register for classes.
What is the timeline for when I will hear back after submitting my application?
We review applications on a rolling basis and have no application deadline.
Is there an interview process?
No. we do not interview applicants.
How can I check the status of my application?
You can view your application status in the online application portal.
Who should write my letters of recommendation?
Your letters can be written by anybody who can vouch for you as a student, employee, or community member. We prefer letters from professors or supervisors who can give specific examples in their letter. The more specific a letter is, the better!
Will you accept emailed letters of recommendation?
All letters must be submitted through the online application system (link). If you are experiencing difficulties please reach out to us at bmsgrad@iastate.edu and we can try to help.
Will you accept letters that were used for a professional program application such as medical school?
Yes
Will you accept letters of recommendation from Interfolio?
Yes, please forward to bmsgrad@iastate.edu
If I will graduate from Iowa State University, do I need to request an official transcript?
No, the system will do this for you automatically if you list Iowa State on your application. Please do upload an unofficial copy of your transcript in the supplemental section for our review while we wait for the official document.
COST AND FINANCIAL AID
How much does it cost to apply?
Submitting a Preliminary Application form for our program is free. You will only be assessed an application fee when you formally submit your full application on the Iowa State University Graduate College online portal. Domestic applications are $60; International applications are $100.
Does BMS Offer Assistantships?
Not for our One Year Non-Thesis Program
Is there financial aid available?
Most students use federal student loans to fund the program. We recommend filling out the FAFSA form at the same time you apply for our program. You can find more information about the FAFSA and loan process on the Financial Aid website.