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Prospective Students

Student doing research at bench
Interdisciplinary Graduate Pathways
Student receiving lab coat from faculty member
First Year Pathways

Doctoral Programs

The BRET Office handles all aspects of the recruitment, application and admissions processes for graduate programs in the biomedical sciences. The application for IGP and QCB opens August 1 and closes December 1.

  • Interdisciplinary Graduate Pathway (IGP)

    The Interdisciplinary Graduate Pathway (IGP) in the Biological and Biomedical Sciences is a leading integrative biomedical graduate pathway, designed to foster creative and analytical thinkers, geared to tackle the quickly evolving world of research and technology. As a union between 11 participating programs, the IGP provides a strong foundation for biomedical dissertation work.

  • Quantitative and Chemical Biology (QCB) Pathway

    The Quantitative and Chemical Biology pathway is a Ph.D. track, multidisciplinary pathway introducing elements of biology to students who wish to pursue a doctoral degree at the interface of the chemical, physical, and biological sciences. The curriculum prepares students for research careers in any area of biomedical research. Many students choose to work in interdisciplinary fields such as chemical biology, structural biology, imaging sciences, molecular and cellular biophysics, or systems biology.

  • Medical Scientist Training Program (MSTP)

    The MSTP (formerly known as the M.D./Ph.D. program) provides students with an integrated curriculum that features a strong core education in medicine and intensive training in scientific inquiry. Successful completion of the program leads to both the M.D. and Ph.D. degrees. The Vanderbilt MSTP builds on the existing strengths of Vanderbilt University to meet national needs for well-trained basic and clinical biomedical investigators.

    Please follow the MSTP's website for instructions.

  • Department Specific Direct Admit Programs

    Biomedical Informatics

    Biostatistics

    Epidemiology

    Hearing and Speech Sciences

    Health Policy

    Neuroscience

Masters and Professional Programs

  • Master of Science in Biomedical Informatics

    The Vanderbilt DBMI Training Program is uniquely positioned to prepare future leaders in the field with a comprehensive understanding gained through a strong foundation in the principles and theory of biomedical informatics, and participation in mentored scientific research and large-scale informatics development and implementation projects.

  • Master of Science in Biostatistics

    Students completing a MS in the Master of Science in Biostatistics are required to demonstrate a pattern of competency in five skill areas. This will be accomplished through two years of satisfactory coursework, one set of written comprehensive examinations, participation in Departmental clinics, seminars, interdisciplinary collaborations, thesis writing and a departmental seminar. MS candidates must demonstrate competency and ability in these areas in a manner that is commensurate with an MS degree and in the best traditions of MS biostatisticians across the country.

  • Professional Programs offered by the Office of Health Sciences Education

    Other non-BRET programs provided through the School of Medicine are listed below:

    • Doctor of Medicine
    • Master of Science in Applied Clinical Informatics
    • Master of Genetic Counseling
    • Master of Imaging Science
    • Master of Public Health
    • Doctor of Audiology
    • Master of Education of the Deaf
    • Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology
    • Doctorate of Medical Physics
    • Master of Science in Medical Physics

Post-baccalaureate Programs

  • Master of Biomedical Sciences

    The Masters Program in Biomedical Sciences provides coursework, experiential learning, and personalized advising for individuals wishing to increase their competitiveness to medical school or other health professions programs.   Coursework is focused on developing competencies in the sciences, communication, and critical thinking and includes preparation for the MCAT, instruction in scientific communication, and reflection-based discussions on Narrative-based healthcare.  Students are encouraged to conduct independent research and will have access to experienced mentoring and guidance through the application process to medical or graduate school.  

Opportunities for Undergraduates

  • The Vanderbilt Summer Science Academy (VSSA)

    The Vanderbilt Summer Science Academy (VSSA) gives college students earning a four-year degree the opportunity to participate in both research and/or clinical patient care at an academic medical center. There are two major tracks within the VSSA; the Basic Science Programs for undergraduates interested in careers in research, and the Undergraduate Clinical Research Internship Program for undergraduates who wish to pursue a career in medicine. Participants in Basic Research Programs will complete a research project under the leadership of a research mentor. Participants in Clinical Research Programs directly observe clinical patient care while spending time with resident and attending physicians. Participation in any one of the Summer Science Academy programs is a valuable learning experience that enhances a student's skills and makes them more competitive for acceptance to frontline graduate programs.

  • Independent Research Opportunities

    The breadth of biomedical research at Vanderbilt University (VU) and at the Vanderbilt University Medical Center (VUMC) creates an array of opportunities for individuals to participate in enriching educational experiences. Those interested in pursuing an independent research experience should contact faculty members whose research interests align with their own to inquire if an opportunity is available in their laboratory. Once a faculty mentor has been identified, the mentor’s department can request the appropriate appointment.