PDD Admissions
Candidates seeking admission to the MS in Pharmacology and Drug Development (PDD) Program apply to the Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences using the online application.
| Note: For applicants beginning in the 2025 cycle, the GRE is optional. If submitted, scores will be considered; if not submitted, there will be no negative impact on the admissions decision. |
PDD Application & Decisions Timeline
| Application Opens | September 15 |
| Application Closes | May 1 (for applicants who require a student visa to attend) July 1 (for applicants who do not require a student visa) |
| Interviews Take Place | February-July |
| Decisions Released | February-July |
| Classes Start | September |
Eligibility
The PDD application is open to both domestic and international applicants. Applicants must have completed their bachelor’s degree, preferably in the sciences, before beginning graduate school. It is recommended that prospective applicants complete a minimum of one course of college-level biology.
Selection Criteria
The PDD Admissions Committee reviews applications on a rolling basis (i.e., applications are reviewed as they are received). Applicants are encouraged to submit all required materials as early as possible. Admissions decisions are based on:
- Academic background
- Relevant research experience
- Responses to the application personal statement
Personal Statement Essay Prompt: In a 1–2 page personal statement, demonstrate your academic motivation for the PDD program and describe your background and perspective that will allow you to contribute to the Tufts GSBS community. If you have research experience, please ensure that you highlight this in your statement.
Interview
Applications are reviewed by the Program Director and Admissions Director. As part of the admissions evaluation process, selected applicants will be invited for a virtual interview with the Program Director, Admissions Director, Student Advisor, and/or faculty member(s). The interview provides an opportunity for the faculty to learn more about the candidate's academic interests, research experience, professional goals, and readiness for graduate study, while also answering any questions the candidate may have about the program. The PDD Admissions Committee will use the application materials and interview feedback to make an admissions decision, typically within a few weeks of the interview.
Waitlist
When the program reaches the class size, the PDD Admissions Committee will begin its waitlist process for competitive candidates. If enrolled candidates decide not to attend, the Committee will offer that open spot to a candidate on the waitlist.
Application Process
Details related to the application process, and the required application documents, as well as information for international applicants and tuition information can be found using the links below.
For general admissions questions please contact GSBS Admissions. For program-related questions, please contact David Greenblatt, MD, Admissions Director