Transfer Between Graduate Groups
If you would like to switch from one graduate group to another in a very different area or another School within the University (ie from Neuroscience to Health Policy or Bioengineering), you will need to submit an application to the group you hope to join.æ However, transfer among the basic science BGS groups (Cell and Molecular, Neuroscience, Immunology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics, Immunology and Pharmacological Sciences) is less formal.æ The first step to transferring is to meet with the prospective Graduate Group Chair in order to discuss joining and talk about the Graduate Group's requirements. After this, you will need to follow up with every brief letter formally requesting transfer.æ In some cases, this may be sufficient to allow transfer.æ In other cases, students may be asked to meet with additional faculty members or provide additional materials.æ While students are not guaranteed that they will be allowed to transfer, permission is virtually always granted for students in good standing during the first or second year of the program.æ The second step, if transfer is granted, is to contact the Chair of the Group you are leaving. You should explain the reason for transfer and offer to meet with the Chair.æ Depending on the Graduate Groups involved, you may also be asked to take a copy of the Transfer of Graduate Group form to the Chairs for their signatures and to BGS.
