University of Minnesota

Program Information

Degree Offered

M.S.-Stem Cell Biology, Ph.D.-Stem Cell Biology

Format: Campus, Online

Program Description:

Our objective at the Stem Cell Institute is to further our understanding of the potential of stem cells to improve human and animal health. In recognition of the seemingly unlimited potential of stem cells in the treatment of human and animal diseases, the University of Minnesota established the Stem Cell Institute and has provided the Institute with nearly $15 million in capital investments.
The Stem Cell Institute at the University of Minnesota offers two graduate programs:

Master of Science (M.S.) Degree in Stem Cell Biology

Since the first Stem Cell Institute in the United States was founded at the University of Minnesota in 1999, many universities have established their own stem cell centers, (e.g. Wisconsin, Connecticut, Vanderbilt, Oregon, and several in California). This area of research is rapidly expanding and funding from the State and Federal level is being invested. As projects move from the academic to the applied science area, bioscience companies will increasingly take up the technology and will be in need of skilled staff. Important companies currently engaged in this area include Merck, Pfizer, Novartis and Geron. All of this activity, in both academic and commercial settings, is creating a demand for trained staff, which in turn will lead to more demand for relevant education.

Ph.D. Minor in Stem Cell Biology

The minor in Stem Cell Biology is available to students in relevant Ph.D. programs such as MCDB&G, MICaB, Neuroscience, Pharmacology, Bioengineering with an interest in stem cell biology. Students pursuing this minor will undertake their main research project in the laboratory of a member of the Stem Cell Biology Graduate Program faculty.

Accreditation:

The University of Minnesota has been accredited since 1913.

Eligibility Requirements:

B.S., B.A., or a foreign equivalent in biological sciences or a related field.
An operational standard of 3.20 GPA or better (on a 4-point scale) at the undergraduate level.
competitive GRE scores.
The application deadline is May 31.

International Student Requirements:

International applicants: Minimum English language proficiency: TOEFL score (obtained within two years) of 580 paper-based, 237 computer-based with a minimum score of 4 in the TWE, or 92 internet based, with a minimum score of 21 on each of the two components. Requirement for the IELTS is 6.5 (with not less than 6.0 in each of the four components).

Tuition & Financial Aid

Financial Aid Offered: No

Classification: Doctoral/Research Universities - Extensive

Institution Sector: Public

Locale: Fringe Rural Area

Size & Settings: 10,000 - 19,999