The Department of Biology and Biochemistry believes that high quality Graduate studies requires a commitment to high quality research. As a result our graduate students receive financial support sufficient to provide a modest standard of living that enables them to make a full time commitment to their graduate training. The types of financial support available to students are listed below.
 

Teaching Assistantships (TAs)

TAs are the main source of support for first year students, but are available in subsequent years for students not supported by grant funds. TAs will be provided a stipend of $1,800/month (US$21,600 per year). This level of support is sufficient for international students to obtain an F1 visa.

Research Assistantships (RAs)

RAs are the main source of support for students after their first year in the program. RA support is provided through grants to the lab you join to perform graduate research. RA support is currently $1,800/month (US$21,600 per year).

Tuition Fellowship

Students supported as TAs or RAs are eligible for tuition fellowships to cover the complete cost of their tuition. These fellowships provide the students with about $4,500/year to pay for their tuition. Even International students are eligible for these.

Presidential/Cullen/Ehrhardt Fellowships

All applications submitted for admissions to the Biology and Biochemistry graduate program are reviewed by our Graduate Recruiting and Admissions Committee. This committee is comprised of a group of faculty from each division of our department. Once admitted to our program, accepted applicants are further evaluated for the Preseidential/Cullen/Ehrhardt Fellowships. The criteria for evaluation are as follows: (1) appropriate academic coursework in the major, (2) outstanding grades in previous university coursework, and (3) demonstrated research ability, or (4) potential for research excellence. If awarded, the student receives fellowship money for the first two years. This money is in addition to the monthly stipend and Graduate Assistant Tuition Fellowship given to all students who are admitted to our graduate program.

Medical Insurance

All students supported as TAs and RAs receive full medical and dental insurance. Insurance for additional family members can be obtained at additional cost.

Cost of Living

Houston has a relatively low cost of living compared to most major US cities and many low cost apartments and houses  are available.

Also see  Getting Settled in Houston