Developing Tomorrow’s Biomedical Leaders.
Rigorous coursework and extensive laboratory experience prepare students for successful careers in biomedical research and beyond.
The Graduate School’s Ph.D. program is designed to train students to be scientists through a problem-based learning approach. If you have any questions, you can reach out to our admissions team at [email protected] or call us at (616) 234-5708.
Doctoral Program
Graduate School Admissions
Life at Van Andel Institute
Faculty, Leadership & Staff
Led by Distinguished Biomedical Scientists and Educators. Meet the Van Andel Institute faculty and staff who mentor and support students from day one.
Current Students
Meet Our Graduate Students
Distinguished Alumni
Van Andel Institute Graduate School Alumni Association
Graduate Success Stories
At Van Andel Institute Graduate School, our Ph.D. graduates are making a significant impact in biomedical research. Many have pursued successful careers in academia, biotech and the pharmaceutical industries. Graduates like Dr. Rachel (Rae) House, who conducted groundbreaking research in cancer metabolism, are advancing our understanding of complex diseases. Similarly, Dr. Alix Booms has contributed to breakthroughs in Parkinson’s disease research, while Dr. Natalie Niemi focuses on how mitochondria affect health and disease.
With 96% of alumni employed in science/research or pursuing higher education, our Ph.D. program equips students with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in their careers, whether conducting research at top institutions or driving advancements in the private sector.
Accreditation and Standards
Van Andel Institute Graduate School is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
This accreditation assures current and prospective students that the Graduate School meets Higher Learning Commission standards of higher education. To maintain accreditation, our programs are continuously reviewed to ensure institutional quality and integrity. The Graduate School was first accredited in 2013 and was reaffirmed in 2024.
For more information regarding our status or affiliations with the Higher Learning Commission, please visit hlcommission.org.
Our Impact
Making biomedical breakthroughs for a better tomorrow
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5.3 yrs
1:1.5
Student:Faculty ratio
96%
Alumni employed in science/research or pursuing higher education