Doctoral Degree

Year One

During your first year, your coursework will include a core curriculum that will provide a basis for your later research. You will also complete three laboratory rotations that involve participation in a defined research project. This experience provides the student with first hand exposure to a broad range of research. During this time, you will choose an advisor, a mentor to provide you with direction and support during your dissertation project. Your advisor will help you to choose your dissertation committee. Your dissertation committee is a group of 5-6 faculty members that observes your progress through the program and offers advice and guidance when needed. This committee also serves as your examining committee for your oral examinations.

Students participate in journal and research clubs throughout their graduate career. These clubs allow students to present recent journal articles, or their own research for discussion. During journal club meetings, participants review and critique the journal articles to enhance their analytical and communication skills. Research presented at research clubs is discussed, and suggestions are offered by participants for future experimentation.

Students will also complete their teaching requirement in the first year (except for the Francis H. Snow Scholars who have the option to postpone teaching until the second year).

Year Two

During your second year, you, your advisor, and your dissertation committee will meet to discuss your coursework for the second year. This coursework will be a specialized curriculum to aid you in your dissertation research. Advanced courses are available in a variety of contemporary topics such as Modern Biochemical and Biophysical Methods, Advanced Molecular Virology, Control Methods in Development, Brain Disease and Neurological Disorders.

During the second year, Francis H. Scholars complete their teaching requirement.

At the end of your second year, you will take a comprehensive oral examination. In order to be admitted for Doctoral Candidacy, students must pass this examination. The exam includes two parts 1) oral defense of an original research proposal not related to your dissertation work and 2) and oral examination of general knowledge in your field of study.

Following Years

In addition to aggressively pursuing your research goals in the laboratory, you will continue to participate in Journal and Research Clubs. You will attend regional, national and international meetings in the specialized area of your research. You will write papers for publication in peer reviewed journals, and your dissertation.

A Ph.D. degree is awarded upon successful completion of an oral defense of your dissertation work. This defense includes presentation of a public seminar that describes your original scientific investigations, and demonstration of the ability to complete creative and significant research at a private examination conducted by your dissertation committee. On the average, students complete doctoral degree work in 5 to 7 years.