Curriculum [ First Year IGPBS Curriculum ]

The curriculum for the IGPBS provides students with strong educational and research experiences in order to prepare them for scientific careers in the 21st century. 

Courses:

Required Courses
In the first year, students enroll in an interdisciplinary core curriculum that provides fundamental knowledge and concepts in the biological and biomedical sciences and includes courses in biochemistry, cell biology and molecular biology.

Elective Courses
During the Spring semester, students also choose from a menu of departmental electives to tailor their educational experience to suit their individual interests.  Although students may have the opportunity to become involved in teaching in subsequent years, first year IGPBS students do not have any teaching obligations.

Course Description

Laboratory Rotations:

A series of laboratory rotations provide research experience and allows students to explore various research areas and mentors before making a final choice. Students are required to take three rotations (one in the Fall semester and two in the Spring semester) and have the opportunity for an additional rotation after the Spring semester. Informal research days are scheduled early in the Fall semester to allow students to meet the various principal investigators and learn about the different research projects in each department and program. 

Conclusion of First Year

At the end of the first year, students choose a Ph.D. mentor, matriculate into the mentor's department and ultimately complete the degree requirements within that department or program. Students are required to maintain a grade point average of 3.0 and receive a grade of "B" or better in all required courses. Presidential Fellows and Dean's Scholars are expected to maintain a minimum 3.5 grade point average for continuance as fellows. 

Students may expect to receive their doctoral degree in four to five years.