It coordinates with the M.D.- Ph.D. program for students seeking joint degrees. Courses within the department provide students with a basic knowledge of several subdisciplines of cell biology, including histology, neuroanatomy, ultrastructure, development, and molecular biology. Required and elective courses in other areas of biomedical science ensure a broad background upon which students can build a research career. Overall Time table Coursework and laboratory rotations are normally completed during the first 1.5 years. Student takes comprehensive qualifying examination as part of the requirements for admission to candidacy.
Questions test basic scientific reasoning skills.
The seminar is followed by an oral examination by an ad hoc examination committee. This committee typically serves as the Supervisory Committee for the student's research. An outside member from off campus is chosen to serve on the final Supervisory Committee. This is presented to the Supervisory Committee and successfully defended in an oral examination. Customarily students take 4-6 years to finish the program.