A minimum of four years of study beyond the BS degree is usually required. During the first two years, students complete most of their course work and are also involved in laboratory research. The third and fourth years are spent primarily performing laboratory research. A comprehensive qualifying examination is taken. Degree requirements are fulfilled when the student successfully completes and defends the research dissertation.
Formal requirements are flexible and tailored to meet individual needs.
The core curriculum includes Biochemistry, Pharmacology, Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics and an integrated series of courses covering the principles of Pharmacology and Toxicology. Students also participate in a Departmental Seminar program in which they present their research, and may be encouraged to enroll in additional courses pertinent to their research specialization. There are specialized facilities for molecular biology, cell culture, and drug analysis and synthesis within the department. Laboratories for gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, Raman spectroscopy and imaging are available. The department maintains its own computer network that provides students with access to personal computing, other information resources at the Medical College and the Internet.