Graduate Programs in Medical Microbiology and Immunology

General Information

The Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology offers programs leading to the degrees of Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy. Students may specialize in the following: bacteriology, immunology, parasitology, or virology. Both programs require coursework, completion of a research project, and preparing a thesis.

The staff of the Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology is currently carrying out research in various aspects of cellular, molecular, reproductive, and tumour immunology; microbial pathogenesis; and the development of novel methods for the diagnosis and treatment of infectious diseases.

The Department is well equipped with the modern facilities required for research in medical microbiology and immunology.

Prospective students are invited to consult with the Graduate Coordinator for further information and to visit the Department’s home page on the worldwide web.

Entrance Requirements

The Department’s minimum admission requirements are an undergraduate degree in a related discipline with an admission GPA of at least 3.3 on the 4-point scale from the University of Alberta, or an equivalent qualification and standing from a recognized institution. The admission GPA will be calculated on the last 60 units of graded coursework completed, or on the equivalent of the last two years of full-time graded coursework.

It is highly recommended that international applicants hold a Master’s degree in a related area of Basic Science; applicants without this credential should specifically address the suitability of their undergraduate training to our program.

Where applicable, applicants must provide proof of English Language Proficiency (refer to English Language Requirement ). Any one of the following is acceptable:

• a minimum TOEFL score of 96 (Internet-based) or equivalent
• an equivalent score on an English Language Proficiency test approved by the Faculty of Graduate Studies and Research.

Applicants are also required to submit

• Curriculum Vitae
• Statement of Interest – maximum two page personal statement indicating motivation for pursuing graduate studies
• Three letters of reference, preferably from Professors familiar with applicants’ research experience

Evidence of research experience in a laboratory setting is advantageous.

Financial Assistance

Exceptionally qualified applicants may be nominated for University of Alberta entrance scholarships by the department. Students accepted into a graduate program are encouraged to apply for a studentship through the Department to outside agencies such as the Alberta Heritage Foundation for Medical Research, NSERC and the Canadian Institutes of Health Research. In addition, a limited number of graduate assistantships are available.

Graduate Program Requirements

Master’s Programs

• Master of Science (Medical Microbiology and Immunology)
    

Doctoral Programs

• Doctor of Philosophy (Medical Microbiology and Immunology)
    

Graduate Courses

Graduate courses can be found in Course Listings, under the subject heading:

Medical Microbiology and Immunology (MMI)