Frequently Asked Questions

FAQs

    Can I start in the Certificate Program and then transfer to the Master's or Ph.D. Program?

    Yes, however you can only transfer 9 credit hours of coursework taken prior to entering a graduate program. The Certificate is considered a Second Bachelors. You cannot actually just "transfer" to the graduate program; you must apply with all other applicants by the annual posted deadlines in December. Be aware of the additional application requirements for a graduate program that differs from the Certificate. You must take the GRE, for example, and have a written Statement of Purpose to outline your research objectives.

    Can I transfer from the Master's Program to the Ph.D. Program?

    MS students interested in the PhD will need to reapply during the regular admissions cycle. 

    If I already have a Master's degree, do I still need to submit a GRE test result if I am applying to your Master's or Ph.D. program?

    The GRE is not required to apply to the MS program and is optional for the PhD program.

    Can I transfer course credits from another university?

    This only applies to the Master's program as there is not a set requirement of credit hours for the PhD program. However, as quoted from the Graduate School's Policies:

    Graduate credit may be transferred from other institutions. Credits transferred from another institution may be used for only one degree. Up to six semester hours of transfer credit may be applied toward fulfillment of graduate degree requirements if they are of high letter grade (B or higher; 'credit only' grades are unacceptable), are recommended by the student's supervisory committee, and were taken within four years of semester of admission to the University of Utah for master's students and within seven years of semester of admission to the University of Utah for doctoral students.

    Can I take one or two classes in the program without being accepted into the graduate program?

    Yes, you can apply as a non-matriculated student and enroll in courses in the Department of Biomedical Informatics. You can take up to 9 credit hours of coursework prior to being accepted to a graduate program and can then apply those courses to your Master's or Ph.D. program. You can apply here as a non-matriculated student (Non-Degree Seeking).

    Have more questions? Please reach out to: 

    Barbara Saffel

    PhD Program

    801-213-3730

    barbara.saffel@utah.edu

    Eli Covarrubias

    Master’s Program

    801-213-3364

    eli.covarrubias@utah.edu