Admissions | Biology Master’s/Ph.D.

Find your footing as a natural scientist with a master’s or doctoral degree in Biology from PSU. In our cutting-edge labs, you will conduct research, learn grantsmanship, gain teaching experience, and pursue an academically rigorous program that will allow you to succeed beyond graduate school.

Application Materials

Below is the list of the materials and information you will need to provide as part of your application. We recommend preparing these materials in advance of submitting your application.

• Potential Advisor: Graduate students in our program work closely with their faculty advisor.  As you prepare your application, it is critical to contact a faculty member with whom you wish to work. Set up interviews (virtual or in-person) with prospective advisors to discuss common interests and research you would do as a graduate student. 
• Statement of Intent: Describe in your statement of purpose your reasons for applying to the graduate programs in the Biology department at PSU and your research and study interests.
• References: Submit contact information for at least two references. Portland State will contact your references and provide them with instructions for submitting recommendation forms.
• GRE (optional): The graduate programs in the Biology department at PSU do not currently require the GRE.
• Copies of transcripts from each college or university attended (other than Portland State)
• Proof of English Language Proficiency (if applicable)