Frequently Asked Questions
As an undergraduate student, what type of courses would help me be successful in your program?
Students from a variety of undergraduate majors can be successful in this graduate program. Well qualified applicants have a strong background of coursework in the biological or physical sciences. Additional courses in statistics or advanced mathematics is helpful. Research experience is also highly desirable.
When is the best time to apply?
Submission of application materials between October - December is is ideal for fall admission for the following academic year. Spring and summer admission is by direct entry only through invitation of a faculty member.
How do I apply?
Applicants must identify the ERP Program on the on-line application form; our academic code is G391A. Applications are processed electronically through the Graduate School's on-line application form. Only official transcripts and MCAT scores (optional) need to be sent by postal mail. GRE and TOEFL scores must be sent directly to the Graduate School by ETS; the UW-Madison code is 1846. Curriculum vita's and personal statements may be sent by e-mail to the Program Coordinator or included with the on-line application.
International students should not send a financial statement until requested to do so.
I am interested in applying to Medical School, will a MS degree help me in the admissions process?
Please read our page on Advising for applicants with an interest in applying to Medical School. Applicants looking for a short-term enrollment period to enhance academic qualifications may find the website from the American Association of Medical Colleges helpful in identifying structured post baccalaureate programs.
Will you accept MCAT Scores instead of GRE Scores?
Yes. Our program will accept MCAT scores instead of GRE scores. Our Admissions Committee is looking for candidates with MCAT scores that would make them competitive with traditional medical school applicants.
How are applications evaluated?
A five faculty member Admissions Committee reviews all completed applications in mid-January for fall admission. Each application is evaluated on its own merits taking into consideration undergraduate GPA, research experience, GRE or MCAT scores and TOEFL / English Language assessment scores for international students, career goals, letters of recommendation and personal attributes. The committee will invite selected applicants to campus for personal interviews. Offers of admission are made in March 2011.
What type of financial support is available?
Financial support is generally offered as a research assistantship. A research assistantship will provide tuition assistance, health insurance coverage and monthly stipend for work that is related to your thesis project.
Limited rotation funds are available to incoming students who are enrolled as either MS/PhD or PhD degree seeking students. The rotation will last approximately 4 weeks in each laboratory, with three different faculty members. Funds are available at the 50% RA rate for the first semester. The student is expected to have identified a major professor by the start of the second semester who will continue to provide financial support. Extended rotation support is at the discretion of the Program Director and if funding is available.
I am unsure what my degree goal is. What should I do?
Commitment to graduate education is a significant investment of both time and resources on your part. Indicating an interest in both MS/PhD provides you with the most opportunities for financial support and long-term flexibility. A change of degree goal can be accomplished by contacting the Program Coordinator.
What are tuition and fees?
Tuition and fees are determined by the student's residency status. Wisconsin residents are assessed one rate, out of state residents are assessed a different rate. Current tuition and fee rates are posted on the Registrar's web site.
Students with a Research Assistantship or Teaching Assistantship of at least 33.33% are eligible for tuition remission each semester. The student is still responsible for payment of the segregated fees each semester.
What is the process for selecting an advisor and research project?
First year students will be assigned to the ERP Program Director and the Assistant Director for Diversity until the degree certification process is complete. Students who rotate will complete rotation evaluation forms for each laboratory visited. At the end of the rotation period each month all forms will be returned to the Program Coordinator. Interested faculty may make an offer to the student after the rotation process is complete.
Project selection and development is handled between the student, advisor and advisory committee members. Some projects are a continuation of previous studies in the lab while other projects are new endeavors based on the student's individual interest and financial support of granting agencies.
When can I expect to graduate?
On average, MS degrees take two and half years to complete and PhD will take approximately five to six years to complete. The best advice is to work from a solid plan by forming your advisory committee within the first year of study; having your degree plan certified no later than start of your 2nd year of study and scheduling the preliminary exam by the start of the 3rd year. Be prepared to expect the unexpected and make your goals reasonable at the outset.
What courses should I take my first year?
First year students should complete the core course requirements as soon as possible. Review our first year course page for more information.
What type of careers will I find with a degree in Endocrinology & Reproductive Physiology?
Our alumni have careers in academia as faculty members, teachers, scientists, post-doctoral fellows and laboratory managers. Others are employed in the biotechnology sector including pharmaceutical companies, research institutions and small-business owners. Career opportunities also exist with federal agencies as staff scientists and program managers. Many alumni have continued with their education in medical school, veterinary school or law school.
Alumni of the ERP Program leave highly-trained and able to secure jobs within the field of Endocrinology and reproductive biology.