Applications will be reviewed on the basis of grade point average, GRE results, letters of recommendation, statement of purpose and when felt necessary, the results of personal interviews. It is advantageous, when possible, for the applicant to visit the department. If this is not possible either because of time, distance, or financial constraints, (the department will provide on-campus accommodations), and if an interview is thought to be necessary, it may be arranged at a location distant from the University with someone whose judgment is respected by the department, e.g., an alumnus of the Doctoral program.

It is the policy of the department to limit acceptance into the graduate program to those students who have the potential for becoming outstanding scientists; priority is given to students entering the Ph.D. program. The department does not use a predetermined formula for decisions on acceptance. Rather, all available information is considered in making final decisions. The quality of the undergraduate institution attended, grades in specific courses, temporal grade pattern and extenuating circumstances for poor performance may be considered when taking final action on an application. Some applicants, because of unusual undergraduate training (e.g., advanced training in pharmacology or toxicology) or prior work experience, may be admitted to this program in advanced standing. Recommendations regarding advanced standing are made by the Graduate Education Committee.