Integrative Anatomical Sciences PhD Program

Admissions Requirements

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Program Admission Information

The Department of Integrative Anatomical Sciences (IAS) selects highly qualified students for admission into the IAS PhD program. We are a direct admission program, which means students are typically admitted to work in the lab of a specific faculty member. Applicants are encouraged to contact faculty members directly to discuss research goals and potential fit in their lab.

The prerequisite for applicants to the PhD program is a bachelor’s degree with a science major or equivalent. Applicants should have a superior undergraduate record at an accredited college or university, with a minimum undergraduate grade point average of 3.0. Applicants are expected to have a strong background in science and mathematics.  College-level courses in evolutionary biology, developmental biology, organismal biology, and physiology are recommended. All applications are expected to be supported by three strong letters of recommendation.

Holistic Review Admissions Criteria

The Integrative Anatomical Sciences Graduate Admissions Committee evaluates applicants using holistic review criteria. Criteria considered include: 

Academic Preparation: Applicant demonstrates academic preparation and skillset that equips them well for graduate coursework and research.

Resilience and Adaptability: Applicant demonstrates ability to meet challenges, overcome obstacles, and/or to take in new information/events and adjust accordingly.

Research Experience and Goals: Applicant has taken advantage of relevant research opportunities available to them, given socio-economic background and previous schools attended. Has a realistic perspective on how to conduct and/or complete research projects; strong ability to work independently and problem solve.

Contributions to Community Diversity: Applicant has the potential to contribute to diversity in the anatomical sciences as evidenced by life experiences (including participation in outreach or broadening participation programs) and educational background (e.g. non-traditional paths).

 Leadership and Teamwork: Applicant demonstrates maturity through clear communication, ability to work collaboratively and as part of a team, strong organizational skills, and/or ability to juggle multiple tasks at once.

We acknowledge the UC Davis Graduate Group in Ecology’s holistic review model.

How to Apply

Application Deadlines: Applicants are encouraged to apply by December 1st for full consideration. Applications received after this date may be considered as space in the program allows.

    • Create a USC Graduate Admission application profile on the Graduate Admission portal.
    • Upload required documents, including:
    • Statement of Purpose – Applicants should describe why they are pursuing a PhD degree in Integrative Anatomical Sciences and how such a degree will further their career goals. Applicants should specify their research interests, their previous research experience, and which IAS faculty members they are interested in working with.
    • Letters of Recommendation- The IAS PhD Program requires three (3) letters of recommendation from faculty members who can evaluate the applicant’s potential for graduate work, teaching and/or independent research.
    • Curriculum Vitae/Resumé
    • Transcripts- Upload scanned copies of official transcripts (university-issued) from all institutions attended.
    • Submit TOEFL/IELTS/PTE scores (If applicable) USC Institution Code: 4852
    • Submit application

  • Submit official transcripts from all college/university institutions attended. For faster processing, include your 10-digit USC ID with your transcripts.

    • By electronic transcripts (preferred):
      USC now also accepts official electronic transcripts, provided they meet the following guidelines:

      • The transcript originates from a secure site, formally linked to the sending institution.
        The school is located in the United States. We do not accept electronic transcripts from any institution overseas.
      • Please instruct the vendor to email the transcript to etrans@usc.edu. Do not send any materials or correspondence to this email address yourself. To avoid delays, do not provide vendor with any other email.
    • By regular mail:
      • University of Southern California
        USC Office of Graduate Admission
        3601 South Flower Street, Room 112
        Los Angeles, CA 90089-0915
    • By courier service, such as DHL or FedEx:
      • University of Southern California
        USC Office of Graduate Admission and Financial Aid
        3601 South Flower Street, Tyler 1
        Los Angeles, CA 90089-0915
        (213) 740-1111

Program Contact

Program Director

Craig McGowan, PhD

(323) 442-9804