PhD in Biomedical Sciences

The biomedical sciences program in the at 51¶¯Âþ is designed to train graduates for innovative and dynamic research careers in academic medicine, government, and health sciences institutions and industries that focus on this exciting and fast-moving field.Ìý

The well-balanced program offers students new pathways for learning and discovery though a broad interdisciplinary and translational training approach. Our mission is to educate premier biomedical scientists who will be tomorrow’s research leaders in the U.S. and around the world.ÌýHere, you’ll work with renowned faculty and accomplished research scientists in state-of-the-art research facilities as well as innovative clinical and research centers.

What sets apart the Biomedical Sciences PhD at Katz?

  • High faculty-to-student ratio: PhD students receive outstanding mentoring from their advisors and faculty—all of whom are premier and accomplished researchers with national and international reputations.ÌýÌý

  • Ample independent study and research opportunities: This dynamic program challenges students to think logically and creatively and to express themselves independently.Ìý

  • Training at world-class research centers: Within the five broad specialty clusters, PhD candidates work closely in Lewis Katz School of Medicine’s respected disease-based research centers with their advisors and faculty—all of whom are premier researchers in their respective fields. Such in-depth involvement with cutting-edge research makes the PhD an exceptional way to jumpstart a meaningful career in biomedical research.Ìý

Program Format & CurriculumÌýÌý

The doctor of philosophy degree in biomedical sciences curriculum is a full-time, 37-credit program that typically takes just over five years, but must be completed within seven years.ÌýLearn more about Biomedical Sciences PhD courses.

The program is housed on the 51¶¯Âþ Health Sciences Center (HSC) campus. Elective courses not offered at HSC may be taken at other campuses with permission from the student’s research advisory committee.Ìý

First-year Common Core CurriculumÌý

The program’s interdisciplinary approach starts with a common core curriculum in the first year that includes courses includingÌýMolecules to Cells; Experimental Design and Biostatistics; Scientific Integrity, Organ Systems: Function, Dysfunction and Therapies; Bioinformatics;Ìý²¹²Ô»å Scientific Communication. Students work together, fostering interactions and teamwork.Ìý

In addition, PhD students complete three laboratory rotations. In subsequent years, PhD students take additional advance concentration-specific elective courses, participate in seminars and journal clubs, perform research in the laboratory of their choice, and write and defend a thesis.Ìý

Concentrations

You can focus on Biomedical Sciences or you can take one of the following concentrations. Learn more about each.

  • Cancer Biology and Genetics
  • Infectious Disease and Immunity
  • Molecular and Cell Biosciences
  • Neuroscience
  • Organ Systems and Translational Medicine

Tuition & Fees

In keeping with 51¶¯Âþ’s commitment to access and affordability, this Doctor of PhilosophyÌýoffers a competitive level of tuition with multiple opportunities for financial support.

Tuition rates are set annually by the university and are affected by multiple factors, including program degree level (undergraduate or graduate), course load (full- or part-time), in-state or out-of-state residency, and more. These tuition costs apply to the 2024–2025 academic year.

Pennsylvania resident: $1,016.00 per credit
Out-of-state: $1,393.00 per credit

You can view the full .

Program Contacts

Biomedical Sciences Graduate Program
Lewis Katz School of Medicine at 51¶¯Âþ
3500 N. Broad St., MERB 1111
Philadelphia, PA 19140

Victor Rizzo, PhD, FAHA
Associate dean, graduate studiesÌý
Email:Ìývictor.rizzo@temple.edu
Phone: 215-707-9863Ìý

Scott K. Shore, PhDÌý
Associate dean for graduate studies and postbaccalaureate programsÌý
Email:ÌýÌý
Phone: 215-707-5072Ìý

ME-BMSC-PHD

Additional Program Information