Candidates must have completed all master's degree requirements and have been issued a master’s degree prior to matriculating as an EVMS student. If the master's degree was issued by a U.S. college or university, as a general rule it should be from a regionally accredited institution. However, the program may grant exceptions on a case-by-case basis. Official transcripts from the awarding institution must specify the date upon which the degree was issued. Graduate-level transfer credits will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Listed below are the requirements for application and admission into the RCS PhD program. If you have any questions or concerns about these requirements, please contact the program.

Applicants must:

  • Have a Master of Science degree in one of the following areas: Clinical Embryology, Biology, Molecular Biology, Developmental Biology, Reproductive Sciences or Biochemistry. Other Master of Science Degrees may be acceptable; contact the program to inquire.
  • Have a grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 (B) or higher in the master's degree. 
  • Prerequisites: Have successfully completed a master's in Clinical Embryology and Andrology or in an acceptable master’s with one semester of each of the following:
    • Biochemistry
    • Introductory Biostatistics
    • Molecular Cellular Biology
    • Genetics or Developmental Biology
  • Be an established clinical embryologist/andrologist with at least three years of embryology experience. Submit letters of support from employers indicating level of experience and willingness to allow applicant to perform research projects in their current position.
  • Submit three letters of recommendation (submitted by the reference electronically) from individuals who are acquainted with you academically and/or professionally. References from close friends and family members are not acceptable.
  • Letters of Support to Conduct Research
    • Submit a letter of support from your employer, lab director or medical director stating that you will be allowed to conduct research where you work as part of the PhD in RCS.
    • This letter is a separate letter from the letters of Recommendation.
  • Submit a personal essay that will persuade the faculty that your past experiences will provide the foundation for success in graduate school. The statement will also be reviewed as an example of your ability to communicate effectively. 

International students, or applicants whose native language is not English, must take the TOEFL exam.

Contact RCS

Potential applicants are encouraged to contact the program directly by email or by phone (757.446.5002 or 757.446.8421) with questions about the program.