The Dissertation Committee will report to the Graduate Programs Committee the results of each examination of a prospective degree candidate and a copy of the research proposal will be made a part of the student's permanent record in the departmental files. A majority of the committee must be present at each meeting. The chair of the committee will submit a written report to the Graduate Program Committee summarizing the student's progress and the committee's evaluation after each committee meeting. Courses and Seminars Two of the specific aims of the doctoral program are to train students in the basic disciplines of modern biology and to give them a thorough awareness of current problems. To fulfill these aims a range of topically oriented courses is offered.
Most courses consist of lectures with occasional student presentations.
In the lecture part of these courses the basic principles are covered. Through active participation in the seminar parts of the courses, the students are brought to the forefront of knowledge and problems in the various fields. Each Core Area will recommend a general program of study for students. Specific courses will also be recommended by the individual student's advisor and Dissertation Committee. The Department of Biological Sciences requires demonstration of proficiency in one research tool.