The Comparative Biomedical Sciences Graduate Program at NC State University offers a dynamic, multidisciplinary environment for students passionate about unraveling complex biological mysteries. Our program distinguishes itself by fostering a Comparative State of scientific inquiry, encouraging students to explore health and disease across species using cutting-edge technologies and innovative approaches. We are committed to training the next generation of leaders in biomedical research through both Master of Science (M.S.) and Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degrees.
Our core objectives are designed to cultivate well-rounded scientists. We aim to equip students with the skills to:
- Conduct independent and impactful research in specialized areas of biomedical sciences.
- Acquire a comprehensive, interdisciplinary understanding of health-related sciences in both animal and human contexts.
- Hone critical thinking, communication (both oral and written), leadership, and teamwork capabilities.
- Excel as educators and mentors in the biomedical science field.
- Prepare for successful and comparative careers in academia, government, non-profit organizations, and the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries.
Advancing Research in a Comparative State
Students benefit from exceptional research facilities, primarily located in the College of Veterinary Medicine’s main building and the state-of-the-art Biomedical Research Building. This 100,000-square-foot facility houses advanced resources, including a transgenic mouse facility crucial for genomics and animal model research, enabling studies in a truly comparative state.
What sets our program apart is its unique ability to provide extensive interdisciplinary training. We have established strong collaborations with graduate faculty across NC State University, as well as with esteemed institutions like Duke University and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Many of our faculty are affiliated with university-wide programs spanning diverse fields such as biotechnology, genomics, immunology, physiology, toxicology, and zoology. This broad network expands course offerings and subject areas, enriching the student experience and fostering a comparative state of knowledge acquisition.
Furthermore, our college actively engages with adjunct faculty from prominent industries (e.g., GlaxoSmithKline, Novartis), research centers (e.g., CIIT Centers for Health Research), and federal agencies (National Institute of Environmental Health and Safety, Environmental Protection Agency) within the renowned Research Triangle Park. These connections provide students with invaluable real-world perspectives and opportunities to study biomedical challenges in a comparative state across different sectors.
Within the program, students can specialize their graduate research by choosing from seven distinct concentration areas, allowing for focused exploration within the broader comparative state of biomedical sciences.
Core Curriculum Emphasizing Comparative Understanding
All students are required to complete foundational courses that reinforce the comparative state of biomedical research:
CBS 565: Fundamentals of Comparative Biomedical Sciences (3 credits)
ST 511: Experimental Statistics for Biological Sciences (3 credits)
CBS 662: Responsible Conduct of Research (1 credit)
CBS 800: Seminar series (1 credit; doctoral students: minimum 3 credits; master’s students: minimum 2 credits)
Admission and Financial Support for a Comparative Journey
Admission to the Comparative Biomedical Sciences program is competitive and based on a holistic review of academic achievements (GPA), letters of recommendation, and a clear expression of interest in comparative biomedical research. While GRE scores are optional, research experience, particularly in biomedical disciplines, or completion of clinical residency programs strengthens applications, especially for the Ph.D. program. The application deadline is December 1st for fall admission, although exceptions may be considered.
- Complete the NC State Graduate School On-Line Application.
- Fulfill all NC State Graduate School Admission Requirements.
- Upload official transcripts with the application.
- Submit a Curriculum Vitae.
- Provide a Personal Statement outlining interest in comparative biomedical research.
- Include Letters of Recommendation.
Applicants should hold a degree from an accredited biological science or medical science program. Students with course deficiencies may be admitted but will need to address undergraduate prerequisites.
Financial support is available through graduate assistantships from the College of Veterinary Medicine, College of Sciences, affiliated departments, training grants, and individual faculty. Doctoral students receive priority for college-level assistantships, enabling them to fully immerse themselves in their comparative state of research.
