Students develop a broad familiarity with various areas of genetics and related areas of biochemistry and molecular biology. The program includes a core of three graduate-level classes in genetics and biochemistry during the first two years. Additional coursework may be taken in an area of specialization in consultation with the student's guidance committee. Incoming students are exposed to various research topics and methodologies throughout a series of three 10-week laboratory rotations. The guidance committee assists students in the selection of their coursework and the design of their research project.
Formal training is supplemented by departmentally sponsored seminars and colloquia.
A number of teaching and research assistantships are awarded on a competitive basis to successful applicants. Graduate Assistants at Michigan State University receive monthly stipends within the ranges established by the University and vary by level. A tuition waiver is provided during the period of the assistantship and is in the amount of nine credits for Fall Semester, nine credits for Spring Semester, and four credits for Summer Semester. Visitor credits do not count as part of a graduate assistant's credit load and are not covered by the waiver. Students appointed as graduate assistants are charged in-state tuition rates for any additional credits not covered by their assistantship.