Graduate Course Requirements First-year students consult with the Graduate Advisory Committee before the fall and spring terms to determine which courses to take. Beyond these required courses, first-year students work closely with the Advisory Committee to construct an individualized program of study that meets their specific interests and professional goals. All graduate students, in all years, participate in an informal course on scientific integrity and ethical principles. Back to Top Selecting a Thesis Advisor Students choose an area of thesis research near the end of the first year, after becoming familiar with faculty research activities through coursework, attending the Departmental Research Conference and participating in the laboratory rotations.
Every effort is made to give students their first choice of a faculty thesis advisor.
This enables the student to become familiar with faculy research activities through coursework and gives an introduction to research. During the fall and spring semesters, first-year students rotate through the laboratories of three to four faculty members of their choice. Here students, postdocs and faculty discuss their research and enjoy recreational activities in a relaxed, informal setting. During this retreat, new graduate students have their first opportunity to become acquainted with the department and learn in detail about the research interests of various laboratories. All members of the department are invited to present posters about their research.