F.A.Q. - genomics.NCSU.edu

How do I apply for a program in Genomic Sciences? You can apply online by going to the NCSU Graduate School web site at: https://applygrad.ncsu.edu/apply/
What forms do I need to fill out for Financial Aid? There are no additional forms for financial aid. All accepted students are considered for all forms of financial support for which they qualify. Financial support for international students is available but is very limited, and is reserved for students pursuing a PhD.
When is the deadline for Fall admission? The deadline is January 15^th of every year.
Do you offer Spring admission? We do not have admission for Spring, so your next chance would be to apply by January 15^th of the next year.
May I apply with a paper application? Our university will no longer accept paper applications. You will find instructions for applying online at both the Genomic Sciences website (http://brc.ncsu.edu/genomics/how-to-apply) and at the Graduate School website (http://www.ncsu.edu/grad/future-students/)
What are the requirements for admission for degrees in Bioinformatics? Students should have an undergraduate major in the biological or physical sciences, mathematics, statistics or computer science. Students in Bioinformatics should have basic knowledge of a programming language such as R, Python, or C/C++. Students should also have completed undergraduate courses in calculus, linear algebra, and courses comparable to the following: ST 511 (Experimental Statistics for Biological Sciences I) and GN 311 (Principles of Genetics). Alternatively, accepted students must take these courses as prerequisites outside the credit requirements for the degree.
What degrees do you offer? We offer five different degrees (MR [non-thesis master’s degree; i.e. no research] and PhD in Bioinformatics, and MR, MS, and PhD in Functional Genomics), and they prepare the applicant for quite different roles in their future careers in scientific research. You will have to decide whether you want to apply for our graduate program in Bioinformatics or Functional Genomics; they are two very different programs. Please see our web site (http://brc.ncsu.edu/genomics) to compare the curricula. Our Bioinformatics program emphasizes statistical and computational approaches, and your PhD dissertation would likely involve development of new algorithms for data analysis. While it is possible for our Bioinformatics students to do “wet-lab” work, most of our Bioinformatics students complete their degrees doing only computer work. Our Functional Genomics program emphasizes a “wet-lab” approach, using technologies that address whole genomes to solve biological problems. Because much genomics research requires an interaction between Functional Genomicists and Bioinformaticists, we start by having the two types of students take 15 credits of classwork together. This gives them a common language with which to communicate (by giving each group an introduction to the other’s discipline), and also encourages continued interactions between the students. But after that, the students take very different courses.
Is the GRE required? No.
Is there a minimum GPA? When we review applications for our PhD program, we examine a variety of criteria. Therefore, we do not list a “minimum” GPA requirement. Please note that our bioinformatics program emphasizes three components, statistics, biology and computation. Education background in all the three areas is considered in the admission. Of course we are looking for a strong record, but deficiencies in one area may be compensated by outstanding achievement in others. We are particularly interested in evidence that an applicant has had some kind of previous research experience, so that we know the applicant is making an informed decision.
Are there minimum TOEFL/IELTS scores? The minimum requirement for admission is a TOEFL score of at least 80 on the iBT (Internet-based test). Minimum test scores for each section can be found on the Graduate School website (https://grad.ncsu.edu/students/rules-and-regulations/catalog/application-and-admissions/english-proficiency/) Applicants must score at least 18 point for admission. An IELTS score of at least 6.5 is required for admission and at least a 7.0 for a TA appointment.
Do I need to submit my official transcripts? If so, where do I submit them? No, for application purposes you do not have to submit official transcripts. If you are admitted, official transcripts will be requested.
How much is tuition? Please see the Cashiers Office website for details (http://www.fis.ncsu.edu/cashier/tuition/)
How much does it cost? The cost differs year to year as well as depending on your residency status and number of credit hours you are taking. The most accurate way of knowing is by clicking here: https://studentservices.ncsu.edu/your-money/financial-aid/estimated-cost-of-attendance/graduate-student/
Do I need to fill out financial aid forms? No, all applicants are automatically considered for all forms of financial support that they qualify for. In general, financial support is offered primarily to Ph.D. seeking students, however, seeking a Master’s (MR) degree may be appropriate for an industry internship.
How will I know if I’m eligible / competitive for your program? Our Genomics graduate programs are very competitive programs, with many applications for each admitted student. We are looking for students with a strong background. We evaluate the entire package for each student, including their GPA, work experience, letter of intent, and letters of reference. Accordingly, it is nearly impossible to determine your “chances” of admission by email. We would need to see your application. We are interested in international students; however, we have very limited funds available.
Can I take courses at NCSU before I’m admitted? Yes, there is a mechanism for you to take courses in advance. Please consider enrolling in courses as a post-baccalaureate student (PBS)This would allow you to take courses while not enrolled in a graduate degree program. It is important to emphasize, however, that taking courses as PBS in no way ensures admission to our graduate program. Therefore, you should only take courses that would benefit you regardless of whether you are admitted to our program in the future. Please note that up to 12 credits can be transferred directly into the Masters program. While no credits can be transferred into the PhD program, we can grant a course “waiver” which indicates you have already fulfilled the course requirements.