PhD in Veterinary Biomedical Science

The Doctor of Philosophy in Veterinary Biomedical Science (PhD VBMS) is a full-time, in-person program designed to develop the next generation of scientists, researchers, and educators in the fields of biomedical and veterinary science. Through rigorous coursework, hands-on research, and personalized academic planning, PhD VBMS students gain both deep scientific knowledge and the practical skills required for success as independent researchers and thought leaders in veterinary biomedical science. Graduates will be well-prepared to lead in academia, industry, or government, driving innovation and progress in veterinary medicine and biomedical research.

Program Structure

• Format: Full-time, face-to-face instruction

• Duration: 11 consecutive semesters

• Total Credits: 96 graduate credit hours

  • Core Courses: 21 credits

  • Electives: 15 credits

  • Research & Dissertation: Minimum 60 credits

Curriculum Highlights

The PhD VBMS program delivers a rigorous and comprehensive education through a combination of core coursework, independent research, and elective specialization.

Key components include:

• Foundational Training:
  Courses in research methods, study design, data analysis, scientific writing, and applied biomedical ethics

• Elective Flexibility:
  Tailored to each student's research interests, electives may cover topics such as:

  • Molecular biology techniques

  • Life sciences instrumentation

  • Biostatistics

  • Immunology, virology, and bacteriology

  • Veterinary physiology

• Dissertation Research (VBMS 800):
  A multi-semester research project guided by the LMU-CVM Graduate Advisory Committee, allowing students to deeply explore their chosen area of study

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

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-U.S. 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:

Deadline to apply for non-U.S. citizens is December 1st of the admissions cycle year.

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