The selection of courses depends on the student's background, research goals, and other objectives. For the most part, first-year classes include introductory pharmacology courses and courses in physiology and biochemistry. During each quarter in the first year of graduate study, the student will carry out a research project in the laboratory of one of the faculty members. At the end of each quarter the student will present a ten-minute talk on his or her project. The presentation will be evaluated by the faculty using the criteria of scientific content, delivery, knowledge of the subject, and organization of material.
Students receive a grade and academic credits for rotation research.
The purpose of rotation research with different members of the faculty is to acquaint the student with the various areas of pharmacology and research problems under investigation within the department. Most often, the sponsor is one of the faculty members with whom the student has done rotation research. This decision should be given thorough consideration. The choice must be approved by the prospective faculty sponsor and by the Departmental Chairman.