Q: Must I apply to a specific department in order to be a BPSD student, or do I apply directly to the BPSD program?
A: If you wish to be a BPSD student, you must apply directly to the BPSD program.
Q: Can I apply to more than one program or department at the University of Washington at the same time?
A: Yes. However, you must submit a separate application to each department, and pay a separate fee for each application.
Q: What will the name of my degree be on my diploma?
A: BPSD is not a degree-granting program. Graduating students will receive a PhD from their advisor’s department.
Q: Do you accept people into the program with a Master’s Degree?
A: Yes. However, you may still be required to take courses specific to the BPSD program, subject to the discretion of the advisors of the program.
Q: Can I obtain a Master’s Degree in the BPSD program?
A: No. Only a PhD degree is awarded.
Q: Is it possible for me to be accepted into the BPSD program without a science undergraduate degree?
A: Yes. Your transcripts, personal statement, and letters of recommendation will be closely evaluated by the Admissions Committee to determine the likelihood of your success in the BPSD program in light of your previous program of study.
Q: Is it recommended that I contact individual professors to request their support of my application?
A: No. Your application is first reviewed by members of the Admissions Committee to determine those students to invite for personal interviews with faculty. You will be invited to meet in person with faculty of interest to you if your application receives the recommendation of the Committee.
Q: What financial aid is available?
A: The BPSD program offers full financial support for the first three quarters of a student’s first year. When the student joins their thesis lab in summer of the first year, their thesis advisor takes over their financial support. Domestic students may apply for a variety of training grants and TA positions are also available. International students who are not native English speakers must meet the English proficiency requirements before receiving a TA position as described in Policy 5.2: Conditions of Appointment for TAs who are not Native Speakers of English.
Q: Is the satisfaction of the spoken English requirements for international students as described in Policy 5.2: Conditions of Appointment for TAs who are not Native Speakers of English necessary for acceptance into the program?
A: You do not need to meet the requirements until after you are accepted into the program and are here at the University.