Doctor of Philosophy in Applied Life Sciences
PhD
Program Details
Start Term
Fall, Spring, and Summer
Deadline
Program Details
Start Term
Fall, Spring, and Summer
Deadline
Strong Foundation
Draw upon a unique interdisciplinary and applied educational foundation through continued studies and applied research.
Original Research
Gain competence in the methods of scientific inquiry by conducting and communicating original research for their theses.
Translate Discoveries
Become adept in the translation of science and engineering discoveries into products and processes that benefit society.
KGI’s PhD in Applied Life Sciences provides students with expertise in research areas relevant to applied biosciences. Using state-of-the-art interdisciplinary tools and approaches to solve problems, students use the knowledge they gain through this degree program to advance new horizons in the applied biosciences.
About the Program
KGI’s PhD program enriches students experiences in both science and business aspects of the bioscience industry, making them unique among the graduate pool. All applicants must have completed a master’s degree focused on applied life sciences. Completion of the PhD Program is anticipated to require at least an additional three years of full-time study beyond the master’s degree with the possibility for extension depending on the particular research project.
Graduates of KGI’s PhD program are expected to:
- Apply rigorous research methodologies to original, independent experimental, theoretical, and/or computational work in applied bioscience.
- Develop both a broad understanding of current scientific advances and mastery in an area of interdisciplinary science of relevance to applied bioscience sufficient for conducting original research.
- Understand the translation of basic science and engineering discoveries into products and processes, which benefit society.
- Adhere to ethical principles in research, development, and business issues inherent in the bioscience industries.
What Can You Do With A PhD Degree?
Your Doctor of Philosophy in Applied Life Sciences degree offers the competencies and strategic-thinking skills needed to pursue roles in several areas of research, bioscience, and many more areas. Explore the careers and salary information that many of our graduates continue into after obtaining their KGI PhD degree.
KGI Offers Two Tracks in PhD
Traditional Track
The student is conducting PhD studies on KGI premises under supervision of Henry E. Riggs School of Applied Life Sciences or School of Health Sciences faculty. To foster interdisciplinary research, the student may have one or more research advisors. One advisor must be a KGI faculty member; additional advisors may be from collaborating institutions.
Tuition is typically covered by external grants or institutional funding and students also receive a stipend. International students may be required to pay tuition and cover their own living expenses.
Industry-Sponsored Track
The student is sponsored by a biotechnology or pharma company. This track involves the student conducting studies at the company site and periodically visiting KGI. In addition to the company research advisor, the student must be supervised by a KGI faculty advisor.
Tuition is typically covered by an industry sponsor or tuition remission from a student's employer. Students are required to pay some or all tuition if not supported by an industry sponsor. If the student is not employed by the industry sponsor, a stipend is typically provided by the sponsor. Industry-sponsored track students may complete their research on site at KGI or remotely at the sponsor's site.
Successful PhD Student at KGI
Student shares how earning a PhD from Keck Graduate Institute helped him discover his passion and purpose.
Oghenetega Imiruaye, '25 PhD
Shares how Keck Graduate Institute opened paths to incredible research opportunities that will make an impact in the future
Inside Look at Research Laboratory
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Program Faculty and Staff
Prerequisites
Two-year master’s degree with experiential learning and professional development components
How to Apply
- Completed online application
- Personal statement
- Resume
- Letter of recommendation
- Transcripts
- English language proficiency (TOEFL, PTE, IELTS, iTEP)
- $75 non-refundable application fee
- Admission interview
Admitted students are required to submit a $400 non-refundable enrollment fee to hold their spot in the program.