College of Arts and Sciences
Molecular Biology (Ph.D.)
College of Arts and Sciences
Molecular Biology (Ph.D.)
Lead Molecular Discovery — Earn Your Ph.D. in Molecular Biology
The Ph.D. in Molecular Biology and Interdisciplinary Life Sciences at NMSU offers a rigorous research pathway for those who aim to lead scientific discovery. Designed for students with strong foundations in biology, chemistry, or related disciplines, this program involves core coursework in biochemistry, molecular and cell biology, followed by tailored advanced research. With approximately 75 credits beyond the B.S., milestones such as qualifying and comprehensive exams, and a dissertation defense, you’ll become an independent scholar ready to shape the future of molecular science.
Admission Deadlines
December 15 (for fall admission) and September 1 (for spring admission)
- Total course hours: 75
- Total dissertation credits: 18
Delivery Format
In-person
Career Pathways
A Ph.D. in Molecular Biology from NMSU positions you for leadership in academia, industry, and research institutions. Possible career opportunities include:
- University professor or principal investigator in molecular biology research
- Senior biotech or pharmaceutical researcher leading R&D teams
- Genomics or bioinformatics director developing novel technologies
- Government or national-lab scientist driving public health or environmental research
- Consultant or entrepreneur in biotech startups and innovation
- Lead scientist in molecular diagnostics, synthetic biology, or microbial engineering
Degree questions, answered
Have questions about the Doctor of Philosophy in Molecular Biology? Fill out our inquiry form.
Why choose a Ph.D. in Molecular Biology at NMSU?
Opting for NMSU’s Ph.D. in Molecular Biology means engaging with multidisciplinary faculty, contributing to high-impact research, and accessing advanced infrastructure in molecular genetics and bioinformatics. The program emphasizes both foundational scientific training and original research contribution — positioning you to become a leader in molecular biology, biotechnology, and beyond.
No GRE Required
We’re removing barriers to graduate education, which is why we don’t require the GRE.
A Ph.D. in Molecular Biology at NMSU requires a minimum of 75 credits beyond a bachelor's degree, which includes at least 30 credits of formal coursework plus dissertation research credits. A minimum of 18 of these credits must be for the dissertation itself, and students must complete a minimum of 30 graduate course credits (450 and above), with at least 15 of those in BIOL courses. In addition, students must pass a qualifying examination and a basic comprehensive exam.
Take classes like:
- MOLB 520 - Molecular Cell Biology
- MOLB 545 - Molecular and Biochemical Genetics
- AGRO 516 - Molecular Analysis of Complex Traits
- GENE 486 - Genes and Genomes
- BIOL 490 - Neurobiology
- BIOL 447 - Applied and Environmental Microbiology
GPA: A minimum GPA of 3.0 is required for admission.
Application: The application includes a letter of interest, transcripts and three letters of recommendation.
Ready to take the next step?
Request Information
Scholarships and Financial Aid
At NMSU, we strive to offer competitively priced tuition to keep your tuition costs affordable. If you need financial aid, we’re ready to work with you to determine the best ways to finance your education.
Financial assistance includes loans, grants, and scholarship opportunities. To apply, use NMSU’s convenient Scholar Dollar$ one-stop scholarship application, which serves all students in the NMSU system.
NMSU students are also eligible for loans and grants. The first step in applying for financial aid is to complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Learn more about financial aid opportunities at NMSU.
Contact Financial Aid
Phone: 1-888-729-6678
Email: financialaid@nmsu.edu
Accreditation
New Mexico State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, an institutional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Specialized accreditation from other accrediting agencies is also granted for some programs. NMSU’s accreditation ensures that your education meets high-quality standards and that your credits are transferable.