Degree Program Ph.D. in Pathology

The Ph.D. in pathology provides opportunities for graduate training in fundamentals of modern pathobiology, immunology, and investigative microbiology, with an emphasis on a multi-disciplinary approach to research problems. Study naturally occurring animal disease and host response in a variety of species, including cancer, inflammatory, and infectious diseases. The program will not only provide a strong foundation in a selected discipline, but also involves research in progressive areas such as emerging diseases, comparative oncology, interdisciplinary/systems biology, and translational medicine.

Applications are due December 1 for the program starting the following fall.

about the department

Microbiology, Immunology, and Pathology

With a focus on understanding internationally important infectious diseases, the Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Pathology is home to world-renowned scientists and leaders in laboratory research. Students have the opportunity to gain hands-on experience by working alongside faculty with specialties in bacteriology, mycobacterial diseases, prion biology, vector-borne infectious diseases, virology, and computational biology.

Program Highlights

  • Hands-on experience

    Opportunity to work alongside world-renowned pathologists, clinicians, and researchers in departmental laboratories and centers

  • Teaching and mentoring experience

    Gain teaching experience in undergraduate courses and the Research Teams Program, which facilitates research, allows graduate students to earn credit through developing mentoring skills, and provides undergraduate students with research experience.

  • Collaborative research opportunities

    Take advantage of established collaborations within the university and with organizations like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Institutes of Health, and Hokkaido University in Japan.

  • Personalized program of study

    Build a flexible program of study based on academic background and area of specialization

Research Opportunities

There are many opportunities to work with our world-renowned faculty in the areas of:

  • Bacteriology
  • Cancer biology
  • Computational biology
  • Mycobacterial diseases
  • Pathobiology
  • Pathology
  • Prion biology
  • Translational medicine
  • Vector-borne infectious diseases
  • Virology

Training grants

Students may be eligible to earn grant funding and additional hands-on research experience by participating in a research training opportunity funded by the National Institutes of Health:

Application Information and Deadlines

Interested applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 to be considered for this program. GRE scores are not required and will not be considered if voluntarily submitted.

To apply, complete the Online Graduate Application via the Graduate School. The following materials are required for this program, and must be received by December 1:

  • Statement of Purpose (2-3 pages double spaced)
  • Resume/CV
  • 3 letters of recommendation: This program requires 3 recommenders, which may be more than other graduate programs at CSU require.
  • Official transcripts: The department will not accept unofficial transcripts as a replacement. This may be different than other graduate programs at CSU.
  • English proficiency results (for international applicants only, unless your country is exempt)
  • Application fee (please verify all other requirements are fulfilled before paying). The Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Pathology cannot waive the fee. The Graduate School offers application fee waivers to participants in specific, eligible programs.

Please visit our FAQ page for in-depth answers about the admissions process.

Because this is a fall-start only program, if you select a spring or summer start your application will not be reviewed.

Date Action
December 1 Application deadline
Mid-January First-round interviews (live video)
February Second-round interviews (in person)

Online Graduate Application

Frequently Asked Questions

Contact Us

Have questions about the program, minimum requirements, application process, or tuition and financial aid? Fill out the contact form to get in touch with our program staff.

Tuition and Financial Aid

Visit the Office of Financial Aid to apply for financial aid opportunities like scholarships, grants, loans, and student employment, understand tuition, fees, and the billing process, establish residency, and find other financial aid resources.

Graduate teaching and research assistantships are available, providing stipend and tuition coverage to qualified students.

Students are encouraged to apply for the National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship Program, which provides three years of support for the graduate education of individuals who have demonstrated their potential for significant research achievements in STEM or STEM education.

Office of Financial Aid

Assistantship Resources and Policies

NSF Graduate Research Fellowship Program

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