| Course Level: | Doctorate | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 3 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Master’s Degree | |
| Course Level: | Doctorate | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 3 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Master’s Degree | |
The University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) is a prestigious public research university dedicated exclusively to health sciences. Unlike other University of California (UC) campuses, UCSF focuses solely on graduate-level education in medicine, pharmacy, nursing, dentistry, and biomedical research.
Location: San Francisco, California, USA
Established: 1864
Campus Type: Urban
Affiliation: University of California System
Specialization: Health sciences and medical research
Ranking: Consistently ranked among the top medical and health sciences institutions globally
UCSF is home to four professional schools:
School of Medicine – One of the top-ranked medical schools in the U.S.
School of Pharmacy – Among the best in pharmaceutical education and research.
School of Nursing – Known for its leadership in nursing education.
School of Dentistry – A leader in dental research and clinical practice.
UCSF also offers Ph.D. programs through the Graduate Division, covering fields like biomedical sciences, neuroscience, epidemiology, and more.
UCSF is a leader in medical research, with major contributions in genetics, immunology, neuroscience, and cancer research.
It operates multiple research institutes, including the Gladstone Institutes and the Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center.
The university has been instrumental in the development of CRISPR gene-editing technology.
UCSF Medical Center – One of the top hospitals in the U.S.
Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital – A major public hospital affiliated with UCSF.
UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospitals – Leading pediatric care centers in San Francisco and Oakland.
UCSF is a graduate-only university, meaning it does not offer undergraduate programs.
It is highly selective and attracts top-tier faculty, researchers, and students worldwide.
The university has a strong commitment to public health, diversity, and community service.
A. School of Medicine (MD)
Doctor of Medicine (MD) – A highly competitive program for aspiring physicians.
Joint Programs:
MD/PhD (Medical Scientist Training Program – MSTP)
MD/MPH (Master of Public Health, in collaboration with UC Berkeley)
MD/MAS (Master of Advanced Studies)
B. School of Pharmacy (PharmD)
Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) – A top-ranked pharmacy program with an emphasis on clinical and pharmaceutical sciences.
Optional PharmD/PhD pathway for research-focused careers.
C. School of Dentistry (DDS)
Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) – A program that prepares students for dental practice and research.
Advanced Education in General Dentistry (AEGD) and other specialized residency programs.
D. School of Nursing (DNP & MSN)
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) – A leadership-focused nursing doctorate.
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) – Specialized in fields like family nurse practitioner (FNP), adult-gerontology, and midwifery.
A. Master’s Programs
Master of Science (MS) in various disciplines, such as:
Biomedical Imaging
Clinical Research
Global Health Sciences
Health Policy & Law
B. PhD Programs (Doctoral Programs in Health & Biomedical Sciences)
UCSF is a research powerhouse with PhD programs in:
Biomedical Sciences
Neuroscience
Biophysics
Bioinformatics
Epidemiology & Translational Science
Pharmaceutical Sciences & Pharmacogenomics
Medical Anthropology (Joint program with UC Berkeley)
UCSF offers medical residencies and fellowships in various specialties, such as:
Internal Medicine
Surgery
Pediatrics
Oncology
Neurology
Psychiatry
Orthopedics
Course Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
|
Master of Science in Biomedical Imaging (MSBI) |
1 year |
$55,000 - $60,000 |
|
Master of Science in Clinical Research (MSCR) |
2 years |
$45,000 - $50,000 |
|
Master of Science in Global Health Sciences (MSGHS) |
1 year |
$56,000 - $60,000 |
|
Master of Science in Health Policy and Law (MSHPL) |
1-2 years |
$40,000 - $50,000 |
|
Master of Advanced Study in Clinical Research (MAS) |
2 years |
$30,000 - $40,000 |
|
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) |
1-2 years |
$30,000 - $45,000 |
PhD Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
|
PhD in Biomedical Sciences (BMS) |
5-6 years |
Fully funded (stipend provided) |
|
PhD in Biophysics |
5-6 years |
Fully funded (stipend provided) |
|
PhD in Bioinformatics |
5-6 years |
Fully funded (stipend provided) |
|
PhD in Chemistry and Chemical Biology (CCB) |
5-6 years |
Fully funded (stipend provided) |
|
PhD in Developmental & Stem Cell Biology (DSCB) |
5-6 years |
Fully funded (stipend provided) |
|
PhD in Epidemiology & Translational Science |
4-6 years |
Fully funded (stipend provided) |
|
PhD in Neuroscience |
5-6 years |
Fully funded (stipend provided) |
|
PhD in Oral and Craniofacial Sciences (Dentistry focus) |
4-6 years |
Fully funded (stipend provided) |
|
PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences & Pharmacogenomics (PSPG) |
5-6 years |
Fully funded (stipend provided) |
|
PhD in Sociology (Medical Sociology focus) |
5-6 years |
Fully funded (stipend provided) |
|
PhD in Global Health Sciences |
4-5 years |
Fully funded (stipend provided) |
1. Programs Available for International Students
UCSF welcomes international students for the following programs:
Doctor of Medicine (MD) – Limited spots for international students
Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD)
Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS)
Master’s Programs (MS, MAS) in Clinical Research, Global Health, Nursing, etc.
PhD Programs in Biomedical Sciences, Neuroscience, Bioinformatics, and more
Postdoctoral Fellowships & Medical Residencies (varies by department)
However, UCSF does not offer undergraduate (bachelor’s) degree programs.
2. Admission Requirements for International Students
A. General Requirements
A recognized bachelor’s or master’s degree (for MS, PhD, or professional programs)
Strong academic background in health sciences, biology, or related fields
Research experience (especially for PhD applicants)
Standardized test scores (varies by program)
MCAT (for MD)
DAT (for DDS)
GRE (for some PhD and MS programs)
TOEFL or IELTS (if English is not your native language)
B. PhD & Research Programs
Most PhD students receive full funding (tuition + stipend)
Requires a research proposal and faculty sponsorship
C. Medical & Dental Programs (MD, DDS)
Very limited spots for non-U.S. applicants
Foreign-trained dentists may apply for Advanced Standing Programs
The admission process varies by program, but generally includes:
Choosing a Program – Select an MD, PharmD, DDS, MS, or PhD program.
Meeting Eligibility Requirements – Academic qualifications, standardized test scores, and experience.
Submitting an Online Application – Through UCSF’s official application portal or centralized application systems (e.g., AMCAS for MD, PharmCAS for PharmD).
Application Fee Payment – Fees vary by program, ranging from $80 - $150.
Providing Required Documents – Transcripts, test scores, recommendations, etc.
Interviews (if applicable) – Required for MD, DDS, PharmD, and some PhD programs.
Receiving Admission Decision – If accepted, you’ll receive an offer and next steps.
Program |
Application Portal |
Standardized Tests |
GPA Requirement |
Additional Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Doctor of Medicine (MD) |
AMCAS (American Medical College Application Service) |
MCAT |
3.7+ (competitive) |
Clinical experience, research, letters of recommendation, interview |
|
Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) |
PharmCAS |
PCAT (optional) |
3.0+ |
Prerequisite coursework, healthcare experience, interview |
|
Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) |
ADEA AADSAS |
DAT |
3.5+ |
Shadowing experience, interviews |
|
Master’s Programs (MS, MAS) |
UCSF Online Application |
GRE (varies by program) |
3.0+ |
Research experience, statement of purpose |
|
PhD Programs |
UCSF Online Application |
GRE (varies by program) |
3.5+ |
Research proposal, faculty sponsorship, interview |
English Language Proficiency (For Non-Native English Speakers)
TOEFL: Minimum 90 (iBT)
IELTS: Minimum 7.0
UCSF follows a single intake cycle per year for most programs:
Program |
Intake Period |
Application Deadline |
|---|---|---|
|
Doctor of Medicine (MD) |
Fall (August/September) |
June - October (via AMCAS) |
|
Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) |
Fall (August/September) |
November - January (via PharmCAS) |
|
Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) |
Fall (August/September) |
June - November (via ADEA AADSAS) |
|
Master’s Programs (MS, MAS) |
Fall (August/September) |
December - March |
|
PhD Programs |
Fall (August/September) |
December - February |
No Spring or Summer intake for most programs.
Some postgraduate fellowships and research programs may accept applications year-round.
Eligibility requirements vary by program, but general criteria include:
A. Doctor of Medicine (MD) Eligibility
Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field (Biology, Chemistry, etc.).
Minimum GPA: 3.7+ (Competitive applicants have 3.8+).
MCAT Score: Required (typically 510+).
Clinical & research experience required.
Letters of recommendation.
Interview required.
B. Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) Eligibility
Pre-pharmacy coursework completed at an accredited university.
Minimum GPA: 3.0+ (higher preferred).
PCAT: Optional but recommended.
Experience in healthcare/pharmacy setting.
Interview required.
C. Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) Eligibility
Bachelor’s degree with prerequisite coursework in sciences.
Minimum GPA: 3.5+.
DAT Score: Required (20+ recommended).
Dental shadowing experience.
Interview required.
D. Master’s Programs (MS, MAS) Eligibility
Bachelor’s degree in a related field.
Minimum GPA: 3.0+ (varies by program).
GRE: Required for some programs.
Research experience preferred.
Statement of Purpose & letters of recommendation.
E. PhD Programs Eligibility
Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in a relevant field.
Minimum GPA: 3.5+.
GRE: Optional for most programs.
Strong research experience required.
Faculty sponsorship may be needed.
Interview required.
F. English Language Requirements (For International Students)
TOEFL: Minimum 90 (iBT)
IELTS: Minimum 7.0
Scholarship Name |
Eligible Programs |
Eligibility Criteria |
Award Amount (USD) |
Coverage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Regents Scholarship |
MD, PharmD, DDS, Nursing |
Academic excellence & leadership |
$5,000 - $10,000/year |
Tuition support |
|
Graduate Division Fellowships |
PhD, MS |
Research potential, academic merit |
(often full funding) |
Tuition + stipend |
|
UCSF Chancellor’s Scholarship |
MD, PharmD, DDS |
Underrepresented students in healthcare |
$20,000+/year |
Tuition + living expenses |
|
School of Medicine Dean’s Scholarship |
MD |
High MCAT/GPA, leadership |
$20,000 - $40,000 |
Partial tuition |
|
School of Pharmacy Merit Scholarship |
PharmD |
High GPA, research experience |
$5,000 - $10,000/year |
Tuition support |
|
School of Dentistry Scholarships |
DDS |
Academic excellence, financial need |
$5,000 - $15,000 |
Tuition support |
|
Nursing and Allied Health Scholarships |
MSN, DNP |
Leadership in nursing, financial need |
$2,000 - $10,000 |
Tuition support |
|
PhD Funding (Research Assistantships & Fellowships) |
PhD |
Research assistant role, faculty sponsorship |
Fully funded (varies) |
Tuition + stipend (~$40,000/year) |
|
Fulbright Scholarship (External) |
MS, PhD |
International students from eligible countries |
(full or partial) |
Tuition + living expenses |
|
UC-HBCU Initiative Fellowship |
PhD |
Students from Historically Black Colleges & Universities (HBCUs) |
Full funding |
Tuition + stipend |
Campus Name |
Location |
Key Facilities |
|---|---|---|
|
Parnassus Heights |
Central San Francisco |
UCSF Medical Center, Library, Classrooms, Labs, Student Housing |
|
Mission Bay |
South San Francisco |
Research Labs, UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital, Gym, Housing |
|
Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital |
Downtown SF |
Public Health Research, Clinical Training |
|
Mount Zion |
Western SF |
Cancer Research, Outpatient Clinics |
Housing Type |
Location |
Room Type |
Monthly Rent (USD) |
Facilities |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Aldea San Miguel |
Parnassus Heights |
Studio, 1-2 Bedroom |
$1,500 - $3,500 |
Kitchen, Laundry, Wi-Fi |
|
Mission Bay Housing |
Mission Bay |
Studio, 1-2 Bedroom |
$1,800 - $3,800 |
Gym, Study Rooms, Security |
|
Tidelands Housing |
Near Mission Bay |
Shared Apartments |
$1,400 - $2,500 |
Lounge, Laundry, Wi-Fi |
|
Faculty & Staff Housing |
Various locations |
1-3 Bedroom |
$2,500 - $4,500 |
Family Housing, Parking |
Housing Type |
Location |
Monthly Rent (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Shared Apartment |
Near UCSF (Inner Sunset) |
$1,200 - $2,000 |
|
Studio Apartment |
San Francisco |
$2,000 - $3,500 |
|
1-Bedroom Apartment |
City Center |
$2,500 - $4,000 |
|
2-Bedroom Apartment |
San Francisco |
$3,500 - $5,500 |
Utilities (electricity, Wi-Fi, water) add $100 - $300 per month.
Public transport costs $81/month (Clipper Card for students).
1. Academics & Research Environment
UCSF is known for its rigorous coursework, groundbreaking research, and clinical training in medicine, pharmacy, dentistry, nursing, and biomedical sciences.
Students often work in research labs, hospitals, and community health programs to gain practical experience.
The university provides access to world-class faculty, state-of-the-art research facilities, and partnerships with top medical centers like UCSF Medical Center and Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital.
2. Student Organizations & Extracurricular Activities
UCSF has over 100+ student organizations covering professional development, cultural groups, social activism, and wellness activities.
Popular groups include:
Graduate & Professional Student Association (GPSA) – Represents student interests.
Medical, Pharmacy, and Dental Student Associations – For networking and career growth.
Diversity & Inclusion Groups – LGBTQ+ groups, ethnic student organizations, and women in science clubs.
Community Service Groups – Engage in public health initiatives, free clinics, and mentorship programs.
3. Health & Wellness Facilities
UCSF promotes student well-being with resources such as:
UCSF Student Health & Counseling Services – Offers mental health support, primary care, and wellness programs.
Fitness & Recreation Centers – Full gym facilities at Bakar Fitness Center (Mission Bay) and Millberry Fitness Center (Parnassus Heights).
Meditation & Mindfulness Programs – Stress management workshops for busy students.
4. Housing & Living in San Francisco
UCSF offers on-campus housing at Mission Bay, Parnassus Heights, and Aldea San Miguel, but many students opt for off-campus apartments.
San Francisco is a diverse, vibrant city with access to world-class restaurants, museums, hiking trails, and cultural events.
Public transport, including Muni buses, BART trains, and bike-sharing programs, makes commuting easier.
5. Career & Networking Opportunities
UCSF is connected to top hospitals, biotech companies, and research institutions, offering internships, residencies, and job placements.
Career services provide resume workshops, job fairs, and mentorship programs to help students transition into professional roles.
Annual UCSF Research & Alumni Networking Events allow students to connect with industry leaders and faculty members.
6. Diversity & Inclusion
UCSF is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment, with students from over 100 countries.
The Office of Diversity & Outreach organizes cultural events, speaker series, and mentorship programs to support students from all backgrounds.
7. Fun & Social Life
San Francisco offers a vibrant nightlife, outdoor activities, and cultural festivals.
Students often explore Golden Gate Park, museums, concerts, and beaches during their free time.
UCSF hosts social mixers, wellness retreats, and student-led events to help students balance work and play.
Doctor of Medicine (MD)
Residency Match Rate: ~98% (one of the highest in the U.S.).
Graduates match into top hospitals like UCSF Medical Center, Stanford, Harvard, and Johns Hopkins.
Specializations include Internal Medicine, Surgery, Pediatrics, Neurology, and Oncology.
Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD)
Graduates work in hospitals, retail pharmacy chains (CVS, Walgreens), biotech companies (Genentech, Pfizer), and government agencies (FDA, NIH).
Many pursue Pharmacy Residency (PGY-1 & PGY-2) at top medical centers.
Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS)
High job placement in private clinics, hospitals, and dental research.
Many graduates open private dental practices or specialize in Orthodontics, Endodontics, and Prosthodontics.
Master’s Programs (MS, MAS)
Graduates secure jobs in public health, healthcare administration, biotech, and consulting.
Employers include WHO, CDC, UCSF Medical Center, and global NGOs.
PhD Programs
Almost all PhD graduates secure postdoctoral fellowships or research positions at UCSF, Stanford, Harvard, and leading biotech firms.
Strong demand in biotech, pharmaceuticals, and academia.
UCSF has strong connections with top hospitals, biotech firms, pharmaceutical companies, and research institutes, including:
Healthcare & Hospitals:
UCSF Medical Center
Stanford Health Care
Mayo Clinic
Johns Hopkins Hospital
Biotech & Pharma:
Genentech
Pfizer
Gilead Sciences
Amgen
Novartis
Public Health & Policy:
World Health Organization (WHO)
Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC)
National Institutes of Health (NIH)
California Department of Public Health
Research & Academia:
Harvard University
Stanford University
MIT
Berkeley Lab
Program |
Average Salary (USD per year) |
Job Roles |
|---|---|---|
|
MD (Doctor of Medicine) |
$180,000 - $300,000 |
Physician, Surgeon, Specialist |
|
PharmD (Doctor of Pharmacy) |
$120,000 - $150,000 |
Clinical Pharmacist, Research Scientist |
|
DDS (Doctor of Dental Surgery) |
$150,000 - $250,000 |
Dentist, Oral Surgeon |
|
MS in Global Health/Clinical Research |
$80,000 - $120,000 |
Research Analyst, Public Health Consultant |
|
PhD in Biomedical Sciences |
$100,000 - $150,000 |
Research Scientist, Biotech Consultant |
UCSF offers strong career support through:
Career Counseling & Job Fairs – Hosted by UCSF Career Center.
Residency & Fellowship Match Programs – High match rates in top hospitals.
Industry Networking Events – Connections with biotech & pharma companies.
Internships & Research Assistantships – Hands-on experience for students.
UCSF is one of the most selective universities in the U.S., with highly competitive admissions across its graduate and professional programs in medicine, pharmacy, dentistry, nursing, and biomedical sciences.
Extremely selective: Average acceptance rate across all programs: ~2% - 10%
Highly competitive for international students due to limited seats.
Program |
Applicants Per Year |
Accepted Students |
Acceptance Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Doctor of Medicine (MD) |
~8,000 |
~150 |
1.8% |
|
Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) |
~1,000 |
~120 |
10-12% |
|
Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) |
~2,000 |
~60 |
3% |
|
Master’s Programs (MS, MAS) |
~500+ |
~100-200 |
20-40% |
|
PhD Programs |
~1,000+ |
~100-150 |
10-15% |
MD and DDS programs are the most competitive, with acceptance rates below 5%.
PhD programs have slightly higher acceptance rates (10-15%) but require strong research backgrounds.
Master’s programs have more variability in acceptance rates, depending on the program.
High GPA & Test Scores – MD applicants typically have GPA 3.8+ and MCAT 510+.
Strong Research & Clinical Experience – Required for MD, PhD, and health science programs.
Letters of Recommendation & Personal Statement – Crucial for competitive programs.
Diversity & Community Service – UCSF values applicants with a commitment to healthcare equity.
Interview Performance – Required for MD, DDS, PharmD, and some PhD programs.
Limited Seats for International Students:
MD and DDS programs accept very few international students.
PhD and MS programs have more opportunities but still remain competitive.
Visa & Funding Requirements:
PhD programs often offer full funding, making them attractive for international applicants.
MD/DDS applicants must prove financial ability (since most scholarships are for U.S. students).
Campus Name |
Location |
Specialization |
|---|---|---|
|
Parnassus Heights (Main Campus) |
505 Parnassus Ave, San Francisco, CA 94143 |
UCSF Medical Center, School of Medicine, Nursing, Pharmacy, Dentistry, Research Labs |
|
Mission Bay Campus |
600 16th St, San Francisco, CA 94158 |
Biomedical Research, UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital, Cancer Center, Neuroscience |
|
Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital |
1001 Potrero Ave, San Francisco, CA 94110 |
Public Health, Trauma & Emergency Medicine, Community Healthcare |
|
Mount Zion Campus |
1600 Divisadero St, San Francisco, CA 94115 |
Cancer Research, Outpatient Clinics, Dermatology, Surgery |
|
Laurel Heights Campus |
3333 California St, San Francisco, CA 94118 |
Health Policy Research, Administrative Offices |
