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Prospective Students

Thank you for your interest in our program!  
    1. Applying to Graduate School is an exciting yet potentially stressful time. The PBC program has put together some information to help make this process as smooth as possible. If you are interested in the Ph.D. or MS thesis research track and have already identified faculty with whom you are interested in working, we suggest you email them directly (see below for tips). If you are still exploring options, you can explore ongoing research of faculty, to determine with whom you may be interested to work, and then reach out to them and their students with questions. Finally, it is not unusual to be in touch with several prospective faculty mentors as you narrow your interests for graduate study – our goal is for you to find the best fit. 
  1. Visit our faculty page to find out who is currently taking on new students
  2. Check out this flow chart to help as you consider options for graduate school.
  3. Check out faculty and student web pages to help explore options for research directions
  4. When should you start reaching out? Anytime is good, but late summer/early fall is a great time to reach out to potential programs and mentors. We recommend getting in touch at least two weeks before the application deadline to give plenty of time to start discussions with potential mentors or to simply learn more about the program.  
  5.  If you are emailing a faculty member for the first time, here are things to consider including in a brief email to a prospective mentor:

You will need to submit a CV/resume if you decide to apply. It should include your academic background (degree, major, school, and year of graduation/or anticipated year of graduation), relevant professional experience, and a list of skills. Although not required, you can list any of the following that applies: previous research experience (e.g., REU programs, internships, research assistant positions) or scientific communications (e.g., peer-reviewed publications, reports, blog posts, etc.).

 

Applying to the Plant Biology and Conservation Program

Students apply to the program through Northwestern University and take their courses at both NU and CBG with faculty from both institutions. Students use research facilities at the Plant Conservation and Science Center at CBG. 

Application deadlines for Academic Year 25-26:

Ph.D.: December 1, 2025

MS (thesis-based): February 16, 2026

MS (internship-based): Applications will be reviewed beginning February 16, and reviews will continue through April 30, 2026. Admissions are on a rolling basis.

 Combined Degree (BS/MS): Accepting Fall, Winter, and Spring applications. Please contact us for application deadlines.