FAQ: MS Program
1. What are the application deadlines for the Epidemiology and Clinical Research MS and Human Genetics and Genomic Medicine MS programs?
Completed applications are reviewed by the Epidemiology and Human Genetics Admissions Committee and should be received by February 15. International applicants should submit applications no later than January 15. These deadlines are for the receipt of all application materials.
2. Do you accept applications for spring admission?
No, applicants are only accepted for Fall Semester admission.
3. Will the program accept my MCAT scores in lieu of the GRE?
No. GRE scores are required to be considered for the MS in Human Genetics and Genomic Medicine program.
GRE scores are no longer required for admission to the MS in Epidemiology and Clinical Research programs.
4. What is considered a competitive candidate for the MS Epidemiology and Clinical Research-Clinical Research Track?
A competitive candidate for the MSCR program would be an MD or PhD-trained scientist with strong letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and an identified research mentor.
5. What is considered a competitive candidate for the MS Human Genetics and Genomic Medicine Track?
We prioritize students based on GRE scores, grades, research experience, recommendation letters, and expected fit of the student’s interests with the program of study and faculty research interests. A strong personal statement that clarifies the student's interests, future goals, and how pursuing an MS in the program is essential to fulfilling those goals.
6. Do you offer financial aid?
GPILS does not provide financial support for MS students.
There is no financial aid for the MSCR track. Employees of UMB are able to utilize their tuition remission benefits.
Students requiring additional funds may visit the Financial Aid website for more information.
7. Will my application be reviewed if you have not received all of the required materials?
Given that each application is reviewed as a complete package, it is necessary to submit all portions of the application prior to it being reviewed by the Admissions Committee.
8. What are the institution and program codes for reporting GRE?
The institution code for GRE is 5848. The Epidemiology and Human Genetics Program code is 0606.
9. How do I send my letters of recommendation?
Letters of Recommendation will be submitted through the online account you will create at https://umaryland.elluciancrmrecruit.com/Apply/Account/Login. Once you have created an account you will submit your recommenders' emails into the system and they will receive a notification to submit letters of recommendation directly into your application package.
10. Where can I find housing information?
Go to the Residence Life website.
11. Is the program a part of the University of Maryland School of Medicine?
Yes.
12. What is the atmosphere of the campus?
The University of Maryland Baltimore is an urban campus in the heart of Baltimore that is home to graduate students and professionals. The UMB campus consists of seven different schools and programs as well as the University of Maryland Medical Center located right on campus. UMB is separate from the undergraduate college, which is located in College Park, Maryland.
13. Is public transportation available?
Yes. Baltimore has many options including buses, the Metro (Baltimore subway system), the Light Rail (aboveground train), and the Charm City Circulator (free bus that loops within Baltimore City). There is also a free UMB shuttle that is available to UMB students and staff. You must show a UMB ID to board.
14. Are there fun things to do in Baltimore?
Yes! Baltimore is home to the beautiful Inner Harbor, where residents and visitors alike can visit, dine, and shop! There are many restaurants, small shops, and a mall located in and around the Inner Harbor. If you want something more than shopping and snacking, there are also many museums within a small radius of the Inner Harbor. Nearby attractions include the Maryland Science Center, American Visionary Art Museum, the Port Discovery Children’s Museum, the Reginald F. Lewis Museum of Maryland African American History & Culture, and the Babe Ruth Museum, to name just a few. There are also a variety of different cruises one can take in the harbor, even a Pirate Cruise! Fells Point and Federal Hill are also fun Baltimore neighborhoods that offer a lot in terms of dining, nightlife, and history. We are also located close to other great cities, such as Philadelphia, Arlington, and Washington, DC.
15. Is there shopping nearby?
Yes, there are grocery stores in Fells Point and Canton that can be reached by public transportation or by car. There are additional grocery stores that are located outside of the Baltimore city limits which are more easily accessible by car.
16. Is it safe to live in Baltimore?
Yes. As with all major cities, awareness of your surroundings is important. UMB has its own police force that is dedicated to keeping the campus safe. Emergency call buttons are located on streets throughout the campus. They even offer vehicle and walking escort services to all students, faculty, and staff.
17. Where do students live?
Students may choose to live wherever they wish. They often live in and around the city to be close to campus. There are many options available, such as apartments, condos, and houses. http://www.umaryland.edu/housing/
18. Are there opportunities to meet students outside of the EPI/HGEN program?
Yes! In addition to some of the classes that are taken with other Epidemiology and Human Genetics students and students from other programs such as the Master’s in Genetic Counseling for MS Human Genetics Students, there are many fun opportunities to meet and mingle with other UMB students. The Student Government Association and Graduate Student Association regularly hold fun events, such as the Welcome Back to School Social, Crab Feast, Fall Formal, holiday socials, and outings to Orioles’ games!
For International Students Only
1. Do you accept international students? If so, how many each year?
We do accept international students; however, we do not have a particular number or percentage of international students we intend to accept – the application pool varies from year to year and it is dependent upon the applications we receive. We accept the most qualified candidates.
2. What is the deadline for international applicants?
International applicants must submit all application materials no later than January 15 to be considered.
3. Do you provide funding for international students?
GPILS does not provide financial support for MS students.
There is no financial aid for the MSCR track. Employees of UMB are able to utilize their tuition remission benefits.
Students requiring additional funds may visit the Financial Aid website for more information.
4. Is the TOEFL required for international students?
Applicants whose native language or the language of home country is not English must take the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or the examination of the International English Language Testing System (IELTS). For further information on TOEFL/IETLS, click here.
5. If I am an international student with an MS degree from a US university do I still need to take the TOEFL?
The TOEFL requirement is waived for applicants who have received an MS degree from an American accredited university/college. For further information on TOEFL waivers, click here.
6. What are the institution and program codes for reporting TOEFL scores?
The TOEFL institution code number is 5848; use the department code 45 (Biomedical Sciences).
Be sure to visit our 'How to Apply page' as well for information and links.