PhD Biological Sciences at University of Pittsburgh

Programme overview

A PhD offered through two programs, Ecology and Evolution (E&E) and Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology (MCDB). Students receive full financial support including stipend, tuition waiver and health benefits.

Faculty: Dietrich School of Arts and Sciences | Department: Biological Sciences | Intake: Fall | Location: Pittsburgh, PA, United States

What you will study

MCDB students complete three 10-week research rotations in year one, about four formal courses, literature review courses, ethics and communication workshops, a comprehensive exam at the end of year two, and thesis research with a ideally year-5 defense. E&E students typically apply through a specific mentor.

Career pathways

Postdoctoral positions at institutions such as Yale, Harvard and UCSF, biotechnology industry, and college and university teaching.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Fall 2027 entry; application due 1 December 2026. Required: personal statement (about two pages, up to three), CV, ranked list of four tenured or tenure-stream department faculty, transcripts for all colleges attended (unofficial accepted), three letters of recommendation, $75 application fee (fee waivers available). GRE scores are not required and not used. International applicants need TOEFL 4.5 overall on the new scale (4.5 speaking, reading, writing; 5.0 listening), IELTS 7.0 with 6.5 in each section, or Duolingo 120. Applicants with a master's may apply for Advanced Level Entry with an identified mentor.

Domestic applicants: USD 27,412 a year (2026-27). Pennsylvania-resident graduate tuition, Dietrich School of Arts and Sciences, full-time two terms (fall and spring). Tuition only; mandatory fees and other expenses excluded. Source

International applicants: USD 49,272 a year (2026-27). Out-of-state (non-PA resident) graduate tuition, Dietrich School of Arts and Sciences, full-time two terms (fall and spring). Tuition only; mandatory fees and other expenses excluded. Source

Intake: Fall

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