Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the difference between the MS in Infectious Disease and other post-bac or MS programs?

A: The MS in Infectious Disease and Immunology is distinct from other MS programs in a number of important ways. Most strikingly, this program is a full time, research intensive training experience in which the student is guided in a cutting-edge project by two mentors: a basic scientist and clinician scientist. The course work provides a rigorous foundation in molecular and cellular biology, as well as in advanced topics in infectious disease and immunology. The course work also exposes our students to the medical school curriculum, providing unique insights into that level of training.


Q: Where is the location of the program? 

A: This program is held at the Loyola University Chicago Health Sciences Campus located in Maywood, IL.  Maywood is about 13 miles west of downtown Chicago.  The campus includes the Biomedical Science programs, the Stritch School of Medicine, and the Marcella Niehoff School of Nursing. 


Q: Do you have an application deadline?

A: Review of applications will begin in early December and will continue until the class is full, which we expect will be in April. Sometimes we will also accept late submission for applications in May and June; however, there is no guarantee there will be spots available if you apply this late.


Q: Can I enter the Masters program during the Spring semester?

A: No. We admit students into our Masters program for Fall semesters only. We initiate our program of study at the beginning of August.


Q: Can you transfer my medical school application documents to your program?

A: Unfortunately, no.  We have a different application process than the Stritch School of Medicine.  


Q: Can my application materials be emailed to Loyola? 

A: Yes, they may be emailed to gradapp@luc.edu or mailed to Graduate and Professional Enrollment Management 820 N. Michigan Ave 8th floor Chicago, IL 60610.


Q: I have low GRE scores but a high GPA. Can you tell me whether I should consider applying to your Masters program?

A: You should always consider applying. Once we receive your completed application, we can evaluate your entire package (GRE scores, GPA, letters of recommendation, research experiences). 


Q: How many students do you admit to each class?

A: We expect to recruit between five to ten students each fall.


Q: Will I have the opportunity for a personal interview, and if so, how will I be notified of interview dates?

A: The Admissions Committee will call/email you if you have been selected to a phone interview or a Skype interview after a thorough review of your application.


Q: When do you interview prospective students?

A: As often as we can, we will work with prospective students to find a mutually convenient day for the interview.


Q: Is there any way that the GRE test requirement can be waived?

A: No.  We will accept the MCAT in lieu of the GRE however.


Q: What is your GRE code?

A: 1412


Q: What should be included in the statement of purpose?

A: The statement of purpose should include information about your reasons for wanting to obtain a Masters degree and your preparation for that degree to date.


Q: Is there financial aid? / What is the tuition?

A: We do not provide stipends for MS students. However you could work with Loyola’s financial aid office to secure a student loan. Click here for Tuition and fees.


Q: What about health insurance?

A: Students must provide proof of health insurance. Group health insurance is available through the university.


Q: Is there housing available?

A: While the medical center does not have on site housing, there are many varied and affordable accommodations near the medical center all within easy reach by public transportation.


Q: Is this a good program if I want to get into medical school?

A: While we do not have any formal pipelines into medical school, many of our graduates do go on to medical school.  Our graduates also go on to PhD programs and nursing programs.


Q: What else can I do with this degree?

A: Our program provides a very strong foundation for a variety of advanced degrees in biomedical sciences, including but not limited to the PhD, MD and nursing degrees. Our program supports such a diverse range of educational opportunities because the training is highly rigorous in both the course work and bench research. Beyond further education, directly upon graduation our graduates are highly successful in research careers in laboratories in industry, academia and government.


Q: I’m a foreign applicant. Are there any special requirements for me?

A: For full consideration, applications that include undergraduate transcripts from non-U.S. schools must also include a professional interpretation/evaluation of the relevant transcripts from www.ece.org.  Foreign applicants must also submit TOEFL scores to prove English competency.