Microbiology and Immunology (Thesis) (M.Sc.)

Frequently asked questions

• How much does Microbiology and Immunology (Thesis) (M.Sc.) cost?

  CAD 6,078 / year.

• What English score does it need?

  IELTS 6.5 overall is the score listed for this programme.

• What are the entry requirements?

  McGill Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies minimum (all applicants, regardless of country): a Bachelor's degree (or equivalent as recognized by McGill) in a subject closely related to the one selected for graduate studies; unless otherwise specified, a Master's program requires a four-year undergraduate degree in a related area, and a doctoral (PhD) program generally requires a Master's degree in a related area; minimum CGPA 3.0 out of 4.0, or GPA 3.2 out of 4.0 in the last two years of full-time studies (some departments require more). Credentials are assessed for equivalency with a McGill degree. Source: https://www.mcgill.ca/gradapplicants/how-apply || Department admission requirements (https://coursecatalogue.mcgill.ca/en/graduate/medicine-health-sciences/biomedical-sciences/): The Department offers graduate programs leading to the degrees of M.Sc. and Ph.D. Each program is tailored to fit the needs and backgrounds of individual students. The graduate program is designed to offer students state-of-the-art training, concentrating on four key areas of research: - cellular and molecular immunology - microbial physiology and genetics - molecular biology of viruses - medical microbiology Basic research discoveries in microbiology may lead to improved drug design and vaccine development to treat and prevent diseases. The Department has many notable facilities and resources, including a cell sorter, ultra centrifuges, confocal microscope, real-time PCR facilities, cryostat for immunocytochemistry, and facilities for radio-isotope studies and infectious diseases. We foster close ties with McGill’s teaching hospitals and research centres to promote multidisciplinary research. Microbiology and Immunology Admission Requirements and Application Procedures: Master of Science (M.Sc.) Microbiology and Immunology (Thesis) (45 credits): The primary goal of this program is to provide students with unique opportunities to learn experimental designs and fundamental research techniques, and objectively synthesize information from scientific literature. These tools enable the students to focus on major research topics offered by the Department: molecular microbiology, mycology, microbial physiology, virology, genetics, immunology, drug design, and aspects of host–parasite relationships. Each M.Sc. student chooses their preferred major research area and research supervisor. Following an interview, the student is presented with a research topic and offered a studentship (amounts vary). Each student must register for our graduate courses (two seminars, two reading and conference courses). If pertinent to the student’s research program, the research advisor may advise the student to take additional courses. Most of our students, after one year, are proficient researchers, and some first authors of a research publication. M.Sc. students may fast-track to the Ph.D. program after three terms of residency. The remaining students advance their microbiology background by opting to enter into medicine, epidemiology, biotechnology, or pharmaceutical disciplines. Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) Microbiology and Immunology: The primary goal of the Ph.D. program is to create a self-propelled researcher, proficient in experimental designs and advanced methodologies applicable to the varied and rapidly changing disciplines in microbiology and immunology. [...] || Additional requirements set by the department: - Supervisor Confirmation Form - Personal Statement - CV · English: IELTS 6.5; TOEFL iBT 120 · English test waiver: Proof of English proficiency is normally not required if the applicant: has obtained (or is about to obtain) an undergraduate or graduate degree from a recognized institution in Canada or the United States of America (anglophone or francophone); or has obtained (or is about to obtain) an undergraduate or graduate degree from a recognized foreign institution where English is the language of instruction; or has lived and attended university, or been employed, for at least four consecutive years, in a country where English is the acknowledged primary language. Documentation proving the condition must be sent directly to the department, which then waives the requirement. Source: https://www.mcgill.ca/gradapplicants/how-apply/you-apply-mcgill/proficiency · Application fee: CAD 143.82, non-refundable - McGill GPS states this as the graduate application fee for Summer 2027; one fee covers up to two applications in the same term; payable by credit card only; GPS offers no application fee waivers; some programs may have additional fees. Source: https://www.mcgill.ca/gradapplicants/how-apply/application-support

• Is there a scholarship?

  Students accepted to McGill's thesis-based graduate degree programs (Thesis Master's and PhD) receive a funding letter with their offer of admission. Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies allocates internal Differential Fee Waivers (covering the difference between International and Quebec-resident tuition) to faculties for international doctoral students, and exceptionally to international thesis Master's students; 2026/2027 value: Master's CAD 18,231.00, PhD CAD 16,045.20; awarded only on unit nomination, no application form. Citizens of countries with a Quebec tuition agreement (all French citizens and a limited number of others) may be eligible for external exemptions from the international supplement View scholarship page