Graduate Studies
    General Plan of Study 

Curriculum

The Curriculum is intended to develop the skills necessary for pursuing research in the chosen discipline.  It includes the core courses that are required for all students, and electives chosen by the student and advisor to augment topics relevant to the individual’s research. Core courses are usually completed in the first year of study.

Rotations

Rotations in the first year of study in three different laboratories allow the students to gain  experience with methodology and instrumentation, and to become familiar with prospective research advisors for their thesis project.  At the end of the first year, students choose a permanent advisor and embark on a Ph.D. thesis research program.  Students may choose any  faculty member in the School of Medicine and Dentistry or a participating faculty member in the College of Arts and Sciences as their research advisor.

Teaching Assistanceship

A one-semester Teaching Assistantship is required.  Students usually complete this requirement in the second year of study.

Qualifying Examination

A Qualifying Examination at the end of the second year of studies is a means of determining the potential of the student for independent thought, experimental acumen, comprehension of the general field, and potential for exploiting a relevant problem in a scientifically sound manner.  The M.S. degree is awarded upon successful completion of this examination.

Student Seminar Series

The Student Seminar Series is designed to develop the organizational and speaking skills necessary for an independent career in research and to facilitate exchange of research information within the program.

Thesis

At the end of the first year, students choose a permanent advisor and embark on a Ph.D. thesis research program.  Students may choose any faculty member in the School of Medicine and Dentistry or a participating faculty member in the College of Arts and Sciences as their research advisor.  The Ph.D. is awarded based on development of an Independent Thesis Research Project as well as a written dissertation describing the rationale, methodology, results, conclusions and significance of the project.