Genetics and Developmental Biology

The master of science and doctor of philosophy degrees are offered in genetics and developmental biology, an interdisciplinary program involving the faculty and facilities of a number of departments in the various colleges and schools of the University. A student may concentrate in genetics or developmental biology.

The objective of this program is an increased level of understanding of modern concepts and methodologies employed in genetic and developmental biological work and to prepare a student to pursue a career in teaching and/or research. Responsibility for a student’s program is vested in a graduate committee charged with arranging the student’s coursework, conducting examinations, and supervising the research.

Admissions requirements:

University and College Level

• A regular graduate student is a degree-seeking student who meets all of the criteria for regular admission to a program of his/her choice.
• The student must possess a baccalaureate degree from a college or university, have at least a grade point average of 2.75 on a 4.0 scale (or an average of 3.0 or higher for the last 60 credit hours),
• The student must have an adequate academic aptitude at the graduate level as measured by the Graduate Record Examination (GRE).
• The student must provide three letters of reference from persons acquainted with the applicant’s professional work, experience, or academic background.
• The student must submit a written statement of 500 words or more indicating the applicant’s goals and objectives relative to receiving a graduate degree.
• International students have the additional requirement to submit a minimum score of 550 on the paper TOEFL examination or 213 on the electronic TOEFL examination if their native language is not English.

Program Level

• The student must provide three letters of reference, at least two of which are required from persons familiar with the applicant’s academic performance.
• The student must provide a one to two-page letter of intent describing research and professional aspirations.
• The student must have completed the following courses at the undergraduate level:
• Entomological or Biological Sciences – 12 hours
• Chemistry – 12 hours

Program Contact:
Panaccione, Daniel
Division Coordinator of Graduate Programs
Professor of Plant Pathology
G109 South Agricultural Sciences
(304) 293-8819
Dan.Panaccione@mail.wvu.edu