MS Program in Microbiology and Immunology
Master of Science Program
Microbiology and Immunology
Application procedures and instructions for submitting a Master's or PhD application are available on the Graduate Education page. The MS Program in Microbiology and Immunology does not require GRE scores.
Our Program by the Numbers
full-time study
Hours
Faculty Mentors
Disciplines
Welcome from the MS Microbiology and Immunology Program Director
On behalf of the faculty and staff in the Department of Microbiology and Immunology, welcome and thank you for taking the time to learn more about us.
The Department of Microbiology and Immunology offers a graduate program leading to the Master's Degree in Microbiology and Immunology. The goal of our program is to prepare students for scientific careers in a broad range of microbiology, including bacteriology and virology, and immunology.
Research experience is coupled with graduate-level coursework to provide broad-based knowledge that supports multidisciplinary interests and approaches to problem solving—critical attributes of a scientist in our world today.
Program Experience
The M.S. program is designed to be completed in two years of full-time study. During that time, our students engage in both didactic and workshop-style classes, read and discuss primary literature together with faculty in journal clubs, and develop presentation skills by participating in "research in progress" forums.
Students conduct research related to faculty-developed projects and gain practical training in conducting experiments and employing scientific approaches. In addition, professional development seminars and workshops offered through myHub within the Office of Graduate Education and Postdoctoral Affairs provide opportunities to practice and enhance necessary skills and explore options post-graduation.
If you are a University of Rochester undergraduate student interested in an MS degree, please consider applying to the B.S./M.S. program between the spring of junior year and the fall of senior year.
Courses and Standards
Courses
A list of the courses required for the MS degree in Microbiology and Immunology is available here .
Research Training
Hands-on training in experimentation and critical thinking occurs while students pursue a project under the guidance of one of our faculty.
Approximately 40 faculty members participate in the MS program and have the potential to serve as mentors for thesis work.
Research Opportunities
Students have access to a diverse range of research opportunities spanning the three program disciplines, as well as opportunities in basic and clinical science laboratories.
The research experience offers students training in the latest experimental approaches applied to important problems in microbiology, virology and immunology, while providing a solid foundation for the next stage of their career. Work culminates in a written thesis, a formal seminar presenting the thesis project, and oral defense.
Application and Application Process Forms
Students interested in the M.S. degree are encouraged to apply to the program early during the calendar year for matriculation in the fall of the same year, in order to allow adequate time for the Admissions Committee to consider their application.
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, beginning in March. Applicants moving to the second stage of review will be contacted by the Program Director to set up a video interview.
We do not offer admission during the spring semester.
Application procedures and instructions for submitting a Master's or PhD application are available on the Graduate Education pages .
MS Tuition and Financial Aid
2026–2027 Academic Year:
Tuition: $2,150/Credit Hour
- 30 credit hours to earn MS degree.
- May be necessary to register for either MS Dissertation or Continuation of MS Enrollment for the third and fourth semesters
Health Insurance: $4,392/Year ($2,196/semester)
- $480 per semester for Mandatory Health Fee
- $1,860 per semester for the Health Insurance
- International Student Fee: $53 per semester
Federal work-study program funds, government or personal loans, and part-time employment opportunities can be used to help cover tuition and living expenses during the MS Program. The Program does not offer assistantships, stipends or tuition waivers for MS students.
Additional Information
Housing
A variety of University and private housing is available for graduate students in locations close to the University. These include furnished and unfurnished accommodations for both single students and students with families.
After receiving an admission letter, a student can contact the University Apartments Office for information and a housing application.
Applicant Visits
Prospective applicants who may be in the Rochester area and wish to visit the Department are very welcome to do so.
To arrange a visit, call (585) 275-3402 in advance or email the department.
Alumni
Learn more about graduates of the program and where their education has taken them.
Ready to Learn More?
Explore the program, connect with faculty, and learn how the MS in Microbiology and Immunology can prepare you for your next step in science.
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