Microbiology and Immunology

The Master of Science in Microbiology and Immunology at Georgetown University offers students a comprehensive training in the fundamental principles and cutting-edge developments in the fields of microbiology and immunology. This graduate program is designed for individuals seeking to deepen their understanding of microbial organisms, immune system mechanisms, and their implications for human health and disease. The curriculum combines rigorous coursework, laboratory research, and practical applications, preparing graduates for diverse careers in biomedical research, healthcare, biotechnology, and academia. Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities and collaborate with leading scientists in areas such as infectious diseases, vaccine development, pathogen-host interactions, and immune responses. The program emphasizes critical thinking, experimental skills, and scientific communication, aiming to produce well-rounded professionals capable of addressing complex biological questions and contributing to advancements in medicine and public health. Whether pursuing careers in research, industry, or further academic study, students gain a solid foundation in microbiology techniques, immunological assays, data analysis, and ethical research practices. The program also fosters interdisciplinary learning by integrating insights from molecular biology, biochemistry, and clinical sciences. With its strong emphasis on research excellence and professional development, the Master of Science in Microbiology and Immunology prepares graduates to meet the challenges of contemporary biomedical sciences and to make meaningful contributions to improving health outcomes worldwide.

Students that enroll in the program must complete 34 credit hours with at least a "B" average in order to graduate. Following the completion of requisite coursework, students must pass a series of Comprehensive Examinations before continuing on to the Thesis Research portion of their curriculum.

* Georgetown University Medical Center offers numerous elective courses in Biomedical Sciences, Biotechnology, Epidemiology, Biodefense, and Science Policy.

FIRST YEAR 

Summer 

• MICB-985 Laboratory Rotation Summer [0 credits]

Fall 

• BCHB-501 Biochemical & Cellular Sciences [4 credits] 
• BCHB-528 Modern Methods in Molecular Biology [3 credits] 
• MICB-612 Immunology [3 credits] 
• MICB-614 Bacteriology and Mycology [3 credits] 
• MICB-986 Laboratory Rotation Fall [0 credits] 

Spring 

• CBIO-539 Molecular Cell Biology [4 credits] 
• MICB-619 Biology/Biochemistry of Viruses [3 credits] 
• MICB-629 Mechanisms of Microbial Pathogenesis [3 credits] 
• PHAR-534 Ethical Issues in Scientific Research [2 credits] 
• Electives [3 credits] 
• MICB-987 Laboratory Rotation Spring [0 credits] 

SECOND YEAR 

Summer 

• MICB-985 Laboratory Rotation Summer [0 credits] 

Fall 

• BIST-501 Applied Biostatistics [3 credits] *
• PHAR-529 Applied Statistics [2 credits] *
• Electives [3 or 4 credits] **
• MICB-999 Thesis Research [0 credits] 
• Written qualifying and oral comprehensive examinations

Spring 

• MICB-999 Thesis Research [0 credits]

NOTE: Students must select one of the courses with an asterisk ( * )

NOTE: If you are taking BIST-501, you will need to take 3 additional elective credits during the second year fall semester.  If you are taking PHAR-529, you will need to take 4 additional elective credits during this semester ( ** )

Additional Degree Requirements: 

1. Attendance and participation in Departmental Seminar Series. 

2. Two to three research rotations with Microbiology & Immunology research faculty. 

• Application Form
• Non-refundable Application Fee
• Resume/CV (including publications, if applicable)
• Official Transcripts
  (Note: For the Ph.D. and M.S. programs in Microbiology and Immunology ONLY (2 programs) - WES transcript evaluations are required of students with international degrees.) 
• Official Recommendations (3)
• Official Score Report for the GRE General Test 
  (Note: MCAT scores can be submitted in place of GRE scores for MS applications ONLY.)
  (Note: The M.S. in Biomedical Science Policy and Advociacy Program and M.S. in Biohazardous Threat Agents & Emerging Infectious Diseases DO NOT require the GRE General Test.  Our Ph.D. and M.S. in Microbiology and Immunology do require the GRE General Test.)
• Official Score Report for the TOEFL/IELTS Required for Non-Native English Speakers 
• Statement of Purpose: 500-word (max) academic statement of purpose should describe your academic and professional goals and their fit with the biomedical graduate program

GENERAL QUALIFICATIONS AND PREREQUISITES:

• Minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale) is required, though 3.5 or higher is preferred
• GRE General Test scores of 300 combined or higher (GRE revised General Test - tests taken on or after August 1, 2011) or 1200 combined or higher (GRE General Tests - tests taken prior to August 1, 2011); and 4.5 or higher on the Analytical Writing section are preferred.
• For Non-Native English Speakers: Minimum TOEFL score of 80 or minimum IELTS score of 7 is required

ENTRANCE EXAMINATION REQUIREMENTS:

Official Test Results - To request an official score report, see the contact information for the major standardized testing organizations below:

• Graduate Record Exam (GRE)
  Georgetown University Graduate School (ETS Code: 5244)
  Telephone: 609-771-7670
  http://www.gre.org
• Medical College Admissions Test (MCAT)
  Georgetown University MCAT Code: Please follow the instructions provided by the program to which you are applying.
  Telephone: 319-337-1357
  https://www.aamc.org/students/applying/mcat/scores/

Scholarships

Assistantships and fellowships normally include a stipend and a full tuition scholarship. For 2015-2016, the stipend for the PhD program in Microbiology & Immunology is $29,000. An average of 2 students is awarded each year. Thesis research tuition for PhD students is $5,500 per annum and Fellows' tuition and several other fees are covered by the University, in addition to their stipend. Only full-time students pursuing the Ph.D. will be considered for assistantship and fellowship awards.  

The Microbiology and Immunology program at Georgetown University provides students with an in-depth understanding of the fundamental principles underlying microbial life and immune system function. This interdisciplinary program combines rigorous coursework, laboratory research, and clinical applications to prepare students for careers in health sciences, research, and biotechnology. The curriculum covers key topics such as microbial genetics, virology, bacteriology, immunology, host-pathogen interactions, and molecular biology techniques. Students gain hands-on experience through laboratory work, enabling them to develop essential skills in microbiological and immunological methods, experimental design, and data analysis.

The program is designed for students aspiring to pursue advanced degrees, medical school, or careers in research institutions and healthcare settings. Opportunities for research are often available through collaborations with faculty involved in cutting-edge projects in infectious diseases, vaccine development, and immunotherapy. The faculty members are experts recognized nationally and internationally, providing mentorship and guidance to enhance students' academic and professional growth.

Georgetown University’s location in Washington, D.C., offers unique advantages such as proximity to government agencies, research institutions, and healthcare organizations, facilitating internships, networking, and employment opportunities post-graduation. The university emphasizes a comprehensive approach, integrating coursework, research, and practical experience, leading to a strong foundation in both theoretical and applied aspects of microbiology and immunology.

Graduates of the program are well-equipped to pursue further education, including PhDs or medical degrees, or to enter the workforce directly in areas such as public health, pharmaceuticals, biotech industries, or academic research. The program also emphasizes the importance of ethical considerations, communication skills, and professional development, aiming to produce well-rounded scientists and healthcare professionals ready to make meaningful contributions to society.