UNMC_Acronym_Vert_sm_4c
University of Nebraska Medical Center

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between degrees in Immunology, Pathology & Infectious Disease vs. general biomedical sciences?

A graduate student in Immunology, Pathology & Infectious Disease is part of an interdisciplinary program firmly grounded in the basic principles of biochemistry, immunology, molecular biology, virology and microbiology. Through individual research efforts, students learn how to design experiments to accomplish their research goals, analyze data and effectively communicate scientific information. The doctoral training program prepares students to pursue successful independent research in academic or industrial arenas.

How soon after I graduate college in May can I start graduate school?

Committed Immunology, Pathology & Infectious Diseases students can start in August when fall semester begins. Uncommitted IGPBS students can also apply for summer semester and start during the summer sessions. New admitted students may start planning and scheduling research rotations even before the semester officially begins.

Is it possible to start graduate studies in January or for the spring semester?

The typical answer is No. Applications for PhD program are only accepted for admission starting fall or summer semester. With Program Director’s approval, students may only apply for MS program starting in spring semester.

Will the application fee be waived?

The application fee is NOT waived for MS program applications.

How many credit hours should I enroll for each semester?

If you are a full-time student, you must have at least nine credits during the fall and spring semesters and 4 credits during the summer sessions until your candidacy. After reaching candidacy, students will register for minimum credit hours only. Except in special cases, you must be enrolled continually throughout your graduate training. This is important to maintain your health benefits and funding.

How many credits should I enroll in if I work full-time and am a graduate student only part-time?

Full-time employees may register for a maximum of six credit hours during the fall and spring semesters. To maintain enrollment, it is important that even part-time students register for at least one credit year-round.

Is it required that I buy my textbooks from the UNMC bookstore?

No, you may buy textbooks from any source (other students, independent bookstores, online, etc.). However, you must use a real textbook if required by your courses. It is a violation of U.S. copyright law to use photocopied versions of textbooks for courses. Both you and the University of Nebraska could be sued or fined if the publishers were to discover such a violation.

Who will be there to help me when I arrive at UNMC?

Dr. Singh will assist you with setting up your rotations and explaining the courses of study; Ms. Cechin will direct you through the enrollment process, registration for classes and assists with any other enquiries you may have. She will also help you with questions about student health and insurance, fees and housing. The UNMC Graduate Student Association and Office of Graduate Studies sponsor new graduate student orientation during the week before classes begin. Students are also recommended to refer to UNMC Graduate Student Association's survival guide to help them settle down in Omaha.

What do UNMC and Omaha have to offer?

In addition to wide range of research opportunities in multicultural environment, UNMC offers training in transferable skills and professional growth for our graduate students. Students also organize and participate in many social activities during and outside normal working hours, including traditional as well as multicultural holiday parties and various other events. The UNMC campus offers flexible and cost efficient transport options for our students via TravelSmart program, which is part of a larger campus sustainability plan. Visit Omaha lists many of the attractions in and around Omaha metro area, including trails, sports events and art scenes. The quaint Old Market area is Omaha’s entertainment district with thriving nightlife and frequent live concerts.