Other Academic Activities Students participate in one or more journal clubs that meet once a week to critically review an important recent publication. Most faculty and graduate students also participate in local scientific societies of southeastern Wisconsin composed of scientists in common areas of interest, and in some of these societies students present their own research. Eminent scientists are invited to the department to deliver seminars on Friday afternoons, and students have ample opportunity to engage these scientists in individual or group conversation. Presentation of Research Findings Students gain experience in presenting their research before audiences in several settings. Individual research groups have weekly meetings for the purpose of exchanging ideas and results.
Some research groups have combined meetings to provide broader input.
Each year, several graduate students deliver research presentations at national and international meetings, and the department helps pay for the expenses incurred. Doctoral Program Ph.D. degree requires include 30-40 credit hours of coursework, a Ph.D. qualifying examination, a dissertation based on original research work, and a minimum of one year of teaching. A committee of five faculty members, including the dissertation advisor, guides the student in designing an individualized program. It is expected that the student will finish within four to six years of beginning graduate studies. Master's Program M.S. degree requirements include 24 credit hours of coursework, a comprehensive examination, a thesis based on original research work, and one year of teaching.