Graduate Training

The interdisciplinary MCB Program coordinates graduate education related to molecular and cellular biology. Two graduate degrees are available through the MCB Program:

• The Ph.D. degree in Molecular and Cellular Biology requires the following curriculum and research training through faculty affiliates in the Molecular and Cellular Biology Program or through one of the traditional basic science departments.
• The M.S. degree in Applied Biotechnology is designed to provide students with specialized training that will enable them to be productive participants int he biotechnology sector. The Applied Biotechnology Master's track builds on the same fundamental curriculum, adding training in areas where the emphasis in industrial laboratories differs from training needed to pursue a career in basic research.

Year 1

• Meet with Advising Committee
• MCB Core Curriculum
• Department Graduate Courses
• Research Rotations
• Seminars/Symposia/Journal Clubs
• Select Research Adviser (by the end of the third rotation)
• Establish Ph.D. Program Committee
• Schedule Ph.D. Program Meeting

Year 2

• Graduate Courses in Emphasis Area
• Complete Preliminary Written Examination
• Pass Oral Qualifying Examination
• Initiate Ph.D. Thesis Research Project
• Seminars/Symposia/Journal Clubs

Years 3 - 5

• Thesis Research
• Graduate Courses in Emphasis Area (if necessary)
• Teaching Assistant Experience
• Scientific Meetings: Attend and Present
• Seminars/Symposia/Journal Clubs
• Formal Seminar Presentation(s)
• Prepare and Defend Ph.D. Thesis

For application information about the MCB Program, contact us at: