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Recommended undergraduate background

BIG track: Applicants to the BIG program typically have majored in a quantitative field (e.g., computer science, mathematics, statistics, physics, bioengineering) with a demonstrated interest in biological sciences OR have majored in a biological science but with considerable aptitude in computer programming and quantitative methods.

AIM track: The AIM program aims to train students who have majored in a quantitative field to solve problems in biomedicine and clinical care. There isn't a fixed set requirements for preparation. However, as the program is computationally and quantitatively rigorous, successful applicants will show mastery of fields such as statistics, linear algebra, computer science & machine learning. Though not necessary, foundational biological or medical knowledge will be a benefit.

Holistic Admissions Process

Applicants are evaluated holistically, assessing the person’s accomplishments and potential based on all information provided (transcripts, letters of recommendation, personal statement, etc). There are no cut-offs for GPA or GRE scores, no required set of courses, and no specific undergraduate majors. GRE scores are optional. After the initial review, a group of students are invited for in-person interviews in late January or early February with all expenses paid by the program.

Program Selection

Students apply to a PhD program and once admitted, perform at least two lab rotations in order to select a dissertation advisor. Students do not need to secure a dissertation advisor prior to applying.

Most applicants apply to one HILS PhD program, and we strongly recommend this targeted approach. While prospective students are encouraged to choose the program that best fits their academic goals carefully, interested applicants may apply to up to three HILS programs and pay only one application fee. If you elect to apply to three programs, only two may be programs in the Department of Medical Sciences (DMS). Each application must be unique, containing a tailored statement of purpose and separate recommendation letters.

To apply to BIG or AIM, you should select "Division of Medical Sciences" as your degree program from the pulldown menu at the Select degree program box and "Biomedical Informatics" as your Select Area of Study. Then, on the DMS Program Supplemental Form page, select either "Bioinformatics and Integrative Genomics (BIG)" or "Artificial Intelligence in Medicine (AIM)" in the Area of Interest box.

How to Apply

Fee Waiver

Full funding for admitted students

Successful applicants are fully funded throughout the entire graduate school years. The funding covers full tuition, health insurances, and fees, as well as a monthly stipend. For the first two years, the program provides the funding; starting in the third year, the thesis advisor takes over. (Thesis advisors are required to demonstrate that they have sufficient funds to cover a student’s expenses throughout his/her entire thesis research period before taking on a student; thus, no student has ever left a laboratory for financial reasons).

FAQ

Q: Can I apply or be considered for both the BIG PhD track and the AIM PhD track?

A: No, you may only apply and be considered to one of the tracks within the same application cycle. Please note that you may only apply a maximum of three times to HILS programs, including two DMS programs.

Q: Should I apply to BIG or BBS (Biological and Biomedical Science)?

A: The two programs share many features, including some course requirements. The biggest difference perhaps is who your peers will be. If you are in BIG, you will spend most of your time with those with a strong quantitative background. If you are strongly inclined toward a computational thesis, BIG may be a better fit.

Q: Could I defer after getting admitted?

A: Deferrals are granted only in exceptional circumstances, e.g., winning a prestigious fellowship for study abroad. If you will perform research at a university or work in a company, for instance, you will have to reapply.

Q: I have a master’s degree. Could some required courses be waived?

A: If your master’s degree was in a related field, once admitted, you can petition to have one or two courses waived. Approval is at the discretion of the program director(s).

Q: Could I get feedback on my application, parts of my application or general fit for the program?

A: Given our holistic admissions process, it is not possible to provide feedback on any application for admission prior to review by the Admission Committee(s).

Q: Does the application require official transcripts to be uploaded?

A: You can upload unofficial transcripts with your application. If you are accepted, you will need to provide official transcripts at a later date.

Q: Do you accept international students?

A: Yes.

Q: For international applicants, can the TOEFL or IELTS score be submitted after the application deadline?

A: The review process happens very quickly after the December 1st deadline, so we cannot guarantee that your application will be reviewed if the TOEFFL score is absent.

Q: How much does previous research experience weigh in the application?

A: We have a holistic admission process and do not have pre-defined weights for different parts of the applications. In general, the student’s performance in a previous research experience is an important indicator for aptitude in graduate studies, assuming that opportunities are available. We encourage potential applicants to engage in research opportunities during the academic year and/or summer(s).

Video FAQ with BIG students

Q: What is the biggest benefit of completing your PhD in the Harvard BIG track?
 
Q: What's your advice for those considering a computational PhD?
 
Q: Can you speak about the research opportunities in the Harvard BIG PhD track?
 
Q: What attracted you to apply to the Harvard BIG PhD track?
 
Q: Can you speak about advising and mentorship in the Harvard BIG PhD track?
 
Q: What would you say to applicants that think Harvard has an exclusive culture?
 
Q: What are some of the challenges you’ve encountered as a PhD student?

Information Sessions