Pharmacology & Neuroscience Graduate Program

Application process

We encourage students with BA/BS or MA/MS degree in a biological or chemical science to apply to our Ph.D. program.

Application Process

1. Submit an application online to the Southern Illinois University Graduate College at gradschool.siu.edu/apply      

         a.  Deadline submission date – February 15.

         b.  See below for required supplemental materials

2. Submit the following items directly to gradschool.siu.edu/apply

NOTE:  Applicant name (Last, First) and assigned Dawg Tag number (generated when you create an account on the application website) MUST be on each submitted document.

         a.  Non-refundable $65.00 admission fee payable via credit/debit card. This fee can't be waived. 

         b.  Unofficial transcripts for all undergraduate and graduate coursework

         c.  Diplomas - Upload copies of any diplomas that you have received

         d.  A copy of your English proficiency test scores (International students only - TOEFL, IELTS, and Duolingo accepted)                                    

         e.   A copy of your Graduate Record Examination (GRE) score (required for International students and optional for Domestic students)                    

         f.  Three letters of recommendation

         g.  Career Statement - Please limit to 250 words.

Describe the career path that you hope to pursue upon completion of our graduate program.  If interested in the Med Chem track, please include that here.

         h.  Statement of Research Interests - Please limit to 250 words.       

Identify 2-3 faculty members whose research interests are most aligned with yours. Describe why. A list of potential mentors can be found at http://www.siumed.edu/pharm/research-intensive-phd-program-pharmacology-neuroscience.html.

         i.  A current resume and/or curriculum vitae

    3.  Submit the following DIRECTLY to:         

        SIU School of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology
        Pharmacology and Neuroscience Graduate Program
        Attn:  Dr. Brandon Cox, Director 
        P.O. Box 19629
        Springfield, Illinois  62794-9629

  1. Official transcripts in a sealed envelope for all undergraduate and graduate coursework sent directly from each university or college attended by the applicant.  
  2. Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores sent directly from the ETS;  School code 1726; Department code 0216   
  3. TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo (International ONLY) score sent directly from ETS School code 1726; Department code 0216  

Stipend Support

The Department of Pharmacology offers graduate assistantships at the rate of $22,164 (Fall 2023). According to http://www.bestplaces.net/, an individual living in Chicago, Illinois, would have to make approximately $31,570 per year to have the purchasing power of $22,164 per year in Springfield. Bestplaces.net also indicates that the median home price in Springfield is 46% of the national average.