Admissions

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MS Admissions

We embrace diversity and welcome motivated applicants with backgrounds in diverse fields. Our master of science program attracts brilliant local, national, and international students with undergraduate training and/or work experience in the biological, behavioral, and quantitative sciences.

ADMISSIONS REQUIREMENTS

U.S. bachelor’s or graduate degree (or international equivalent) in a relevant discipline
Introductory courses in genetics and calculus (required), as well as biochemistry and behavioral/social sciences (recommended)
Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores above the 70th percentile in verbal and quantitative

INTERNATIONAL APPLICANTS

In addition to the above criteria, the following additional requirements must be met:

Either of the following: Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) score of at least 80 on the internet-based test or 550 on the written test; International English Language Testing System (IELTS) score of at least Band 6.5 and having taken the academic writing and reading modules
World Education Services (WES) Credential Evaluation of previous international degree program(s)

APPLICATION PROCESS

Applications are considered twice per year, for Fall and Spring matriculation, although most students matriculate in the Fall term which matches the intended sequence of course offerings. There is no formal interview process, although the admissions committee may request to hold phone or video interviews with promising applicants to gather more information. Applicants wishing to visit the department in person are encouraged to do so after receiving an offer of admission.

PERSONAL STATEMENT

The personal statement provides an opportunity for the applicant to shape the narrative of his or her application. It should address the following questions:

How have your experiences informed your decision to pursue a degree in human genetics?
What qualifications and experiences have prepared you to succeed in your graduate work?
Why you have chosen Pitt Public Health?
What do you seek to gain from your graduate studies and how does this align with future career goals?

HOW TO APPLY

Applications for admission to the Master of Science program are processed through the Office of Student Affairs at the Graduate School of Public Health. New applications are accepted through the SOPHAS system, the centralized application service for graduate schools of public health. Please note, SOPHAS routes applications to the Graduate School of Public Health only after all required materials are received. Applicants who have submitted applications may track their status online.