The multidisciplinary core curriculum provides a broad based foundation of knowledge and cultivates critical thinking skills. Additional opportunities and upper level courses build professional, educational and leadership skills.
Students complete three-semesters of core courses that integrate basic science principles at all levels. The courses include a combination of lectures and interactive seminars that focus on contemporary research topics by reference to the biomedical research literature. In addition, students learn about the wide variety of research activities being conducted by the graduate faculty that allows them to complete five, hands-on laboratory rotations.
Fall (Semester 1)
Spring (Semester 2)
Students must take 4-credit hours from the following selectives:
At the end of their second semester, students choose a research mentor, join a laboratory and enter one the nine biomedical science majors.
Summer (Semester 3)
The Doctor of Philosophy curriculum is not lock-step; students do not graduate as a class at the end of a specific semester. The average time to degree is approximately 5 years of full-time, year-round study. The acceptable duration of the program is between 3 and 7 years.
Program Specific Curriculum
The number and type of advanced or elective courses vary by major. Electives may be taken in major or in another biomedical science major (selections require approval from mentor, advisory committee and program director).
In addition to course requirements, students must complete additional PhD degree requirements, including satisfactory performance on the comprehensive exam, development and approval of a research proposal, writing and approval of their doctoral dissertation, and satisfactory performance on the final oral examination (dissertation defense). Annual meetings with your advisory committee and individual development plans are also required. Attendance at workshops and career and professional development activities are highly recommended.
Biomedical Science Program
Health Sciences Campus
706-721-3278
706-721-6829