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School of Biological Sciences School of Biological Sciences
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  3. Contiguous BS/MS Program
  4. Directed Research Track
  5. Eligibility & Application

Eligibility & Application

The Directed Research Track under the Contiguous BS/MS program will provide a streamlined program of research-based coursework, allowing students to complete their MS requirements in 3 quarters during an academic year (Fall, Winter, Spring). Students in the Directed Research Track will adhere to the Thesis Plan and complete a research-based thesis that will be reviewed by a three member faculty thesis committee.

Eligibility Requirements for the Directed Research Track

Eligible applicants must be current UC San Diego undergraduates, with a declared major in one of the undergraduate degree programs offered by the School of Biological Sciences. Students must demonstrate excellent performance in upper-division biology core courses during their undergraduate program to be eligible to enroll in biology graduate core courses. Eligible applicants will be considered for admissions if they meet the following requirements:

  • 3.0 Cumulative UC San Diego GPA
  • 3.3 Upper Division Major GPA
  • Spring 2024 or Summer 2024 undergraduate degree completion date

All prospective students must submit a complete application to the BS/MS program by the stated deadline. Application instructions and deadlines are detailed below.

Admission to the Directed Research Track of the Contiguous BS/MS program is not guaranteed for any applicant and will be selective due to the limited capacity of this program. Admissions decisions are final.

Application Instructions and Deadline

Students interested in the Directed Research Track must submit an application by the stated deadline. To be considered for admissions, students must complete the application form and submit the following materials through the application:

  • Current UC San Diego transcript or PDF copy of the applicant’s Academic History
  • Statement of Purpose that answers the following questions:
    • What are your future career plans?
    • Do you have previous experience with research? If so, please provide details.
    • Why are you interested in biology research?
    • What kind of biology research are you interested in?

Applicants are strongly encouraged to provide a letter of recommendation with their application. If providing a letter of recommendation, the letter may be written by any faculty member in the School of Biological Sciences.

Application Link

Application Opens: April 29, 2024 at 8:00 AM PST

Application Deadline: May 15, 2024 at 11:59 PM PST

All applications must be complete and submitted by 11:59 PM PST on May 15, 2024. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.

Only applicants with an expected undergraduate degree completion date of Spring 2024 or Summer 2024 will be considered for Fall 2024 admission. Students selected for admission to the Directed Research Track will be contacted by the program with instructions for finalizing admissions.

Questions?
Current UCSD students: Please submit your questions via the VAC. An advisor will respond in 1-3 business days.
Drop-in Advising times are posted on the Advising Calendar.