Doctor of Philosophy in Veterinary Biomedical Science

The Doctor of Philosophy in Veterinary Biomedical Science (PhD VBMS) is designed to train the next generation of scientists and educators who will be leaders in biomedical and veterinary research and education. Graduates will possess the credentials and competency to lead in academic, industry, and government settings, driving advancements in veterinary medicine and biomedical sciences.

Program Curriculum

The Doctor of Philosophy in Veterinary Biomedical Sciences (PhD VBMS) is a full-time, in-person (face-to-face instruction) program accomplished with 96 graduate credit hours. These credits include core (21 credits), elective (15), and research (minimum of 60 credits) culminating with the preparation and defense of a dissertation. The program may be completed in 11 consecutive semesters.

The PhD VBMS curriculum offers a comprehensive blend of foundational knowledge, advanced research skills, and specialized expertise. In the early stages of the program, students engage in courses focused on research techniques, design, and analysis, as well as scholarly writing and applied ethics in biomedical sciences. As the program progresses, students dedicate significant time to their thesis research project (VBMS 800), which spans multiple semesters with increasing credit hours. Alongside this, students select from a diverse range of electives to tailor their studies to their specific research interests, covering areas such as life sciences research instrumentation, molecular biology techniques, biostatistics, immunology, virology, bacteriology, and veterinary physiology. Elective and research courses will be determined with the LMU-CVM Graduate Advisory Committee based on relevancy to the student’s dissertation research.

Through this combination of core coursework, research-focused seminars, and elective options, the program ensures students develop both a solid foundation in veterinary biomedical sciences and the expertise needed for independent research in the field. 

Student Learning Objectives

Upon completion, graduates of the program will be able to:

1. Demonstrate advanced proficiency in designing, conducting, and analyzing original research in veterinary biomedical sciences. 
2. Exhibit strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills, particularly in the context of complex and interdisciplinary research questions.
3. Apply advanced technical skills and methodologies relevant to veterinary biomedical research.
4. Apply effective scientific communication skills, both written and oral, for diverse audiences including academics, industry professionals, and the general public.
5. Advocate for ethical principles in research, including animal welfare, data integrity, and professional conduct.
6. Integrate knowledge from various disciplines to address complex problems in veterinary biomedical sciences.
7. Demonstrate leadership and teamwork skills necessary for managing research projects and working collaboratively in diverse research environments.

All applicants to the PhD VBMS must:

• Hold a Master of Science or Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (or equivalent) from an accredited college or university
• Minimum 3.00+ GPA in the last two years of studies
• Demonstrate successful completion of 15 semester credit hours of 300-level (junior or senior) biology, physical sciences, or mathematics coursework in any combination of the following subjects: Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry, Microbiology (Bacteriology/Virology/Parasitology), Immunology, Molecular Biology, and Statistics. All coursework should be completed with a grade of C or higher from an accredited institution within the last 10 years. 

Entering students are expected to have training in biology, physical science, and mathematics to support graduate-level coursework and research. Exceptions to admissions requirements may be recommended by the LMU Graduate Admissions Committee and must be approved by the LMU-CVM Dean.

The cost is estimated at $1,110 per credit hour. A stipend will be made available to qualified students.

Application Process & Notifications

To apply to the PhD VBMS program, the following must be completed and/or submitted to Ciera.Lindley@LMUnet.edu:

1. PhD VBMS Application (email Ciera Lindley to receive application)
2. Official transcripts from all institutions attended 
3. Research Statement (500-750 words) – used to evaluate compatibility with graduate faculty, knowledge of discipline, and ability to articulate a potential research problem
4. Three (3) letters of recommendation
5. Curriculum Vitae (CV)

Applications must be completed by February 1 of the admissions cycle year.

The LMU-CVM Graduate Admissions Committee will review applications as they are received. Admissions decisions will be made on a rolling basis, with all notifications sent by April 1. Students are expected to join the program in the Fall, but under special circumstances can request a deferment for up to one year.

Non-US Citizens

For international applicants, all data included on the application (e.g., experiences, essays, etc.) must be written in English

• Any transcripts from institutions located outside of the United States must be evaluated by World Education Services (WES) or Josef Silney & Associates, Inc. before submission.
• Letters of recommendation must be submitted following standard procedure; please note that these letters must be written in English.
• If English is not the applicant’s native language, international applicants to the LMU-CVM are required to submit one of the following official test score reports:

Please note: if an applicant earns a baccalaureate degree from an American or English-speaking institution, then the TOEFL exam will not be required.