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Cancer Biology Graduate Program

Students who wish to apply for the Cancer Biology PhD program at the Gerstner Sloan Kettering Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences should have already completed a baccalaureate degree program at an accredited institution prior to matriculation.

Applicants must have completed the following college-level courses:

  • General biology
  • General chemistry
  • General physics
  • Organic chemistry (two semesters)
  • Mathematics (through integral calculus)
  • Introductory course in biochemistry
  • Physical chemistry (recommended)

In addition, applicants should have completed some advanced science and mathematics coursework. Students may make arrangements to fulfill a specific course requirement during the summer before matriculation. Special requests for a waiver of any of these requirements will be evaluated within the context of the student’s undergraduate record and prior research experience.

It is essential that applicants have significant basic science research experience. Letters of recommendation from research mentors and written comments from the applicant about prior research work are major components of the student admissions file.

GSK does not accept Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores. GRE scores are not requested on our application and will not be reviewed as part of the admissions process.

Cancer Engineering Graduate Program

Students who wish to apply for the Cancer Engineering PhD program at the Gerstner Sloan Kettering Graduate School should have already completed a baccalaureate degree program at an accredited institution prior to matriculation. Their coursework and research experience should highlight a strong interest in the life sciences and demonstrated strength in mathematics, engineering, and/or physical sciences. Consideration is also given to applicants with strong, relevant life science backgrounds who have demonstrated quantitative skills.

Applicants must have completed the following college-level courses: 

  • General biology  
  • General chemistry  
  • General physics  (two semesters)
  • Mathematics (four semesters, including calculus). Coursework in linear algebra and/or differential equations is strongly encouraged.
  • Extensive upper division coursework in either engineering, physical sciences, or computer science.

Applicants to this program should have exposure to both biology and more quantitative fields including math, physics, engineering, and computer science through a mix of coursework and research experience. Special requests by exceptional students for a waiver of any of these requirements will be evaluated within the context of the student’s academic record and prior research experience.

It is essential that applicants have significant science and/or engineering research experience. Letters of recommendation from research mentors and written comments from the applicant about prior research work are major components of the student admissions file. An applicant’s background will be evaluated based on how their training will allow them to succeed in the Cancer Engineering curriculum.

GSK does not accept Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores. GRE scores are not requested on our application and will not be reviewed as part of the admissions process.

Notice of Non-Discrimination

In accordance with institutional policy and in compliance with the requirements of the Civil Rights Act, the Education Amendments, the Rehabilitation Act, the Age Discrimination Act, and the Americans with Disabilities Act, Gerstner Sloan Kettering Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences (GSK) does not discriminate on the basis of age, gender identity, gender expression, race, color, creed, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, citizenship status or any other status protected by law in the administration of its educational policies, admission policies, employment or any other GSK program or activity.

Any inquiries regarding the non-discrimination policies can be addressed to GSK’s Title IX Coordinator:  

For further information on notice of non-discrimination, you can contact the appropriate federal office by visiting the website for the address and phone number of the office that serves your area, or call 800-421-3481.

Transfer of Credit

Matriculated students can apply for transfer of credit. Supporting materials including complete syllabus, reading materials, and exams should be submitted to the registrar with a cover letter detailing the request. Such requests will be reviewed by the curriculum committee for content, topic coverage, and comparison to the Gerstner Sloan Kettering Graduate School curriculum.