PROGRAM Overview

The Cell and Molecular Biology Program is a program of study, within the Department of Biological Science, that is tailored to the individual needs and interests of students. We encourage students to embark on research as early as possible, so course work is kept to a minimum. Most CMB students complete a core of two courses (Advanced Molecular Biology and Advanced Cell Biology) and then select additional course work in consultation with their supervisory committees.

 The Department of Biological Science offers both Ph.D. and M.S. degrees in biological science. Specific requirements for each degree are available on line in addition to other information available though the on-line graduate handbook.

Ph.D. Degree in CMB

 The Ph.D. in Biological Science program is intended to be completed in approximately five years. First-year students are encouraged to participate in three lab rotations of their choosing. These provide students with exposure to diverse research environments and help them select a major professor. By the end of the spring semester, students begin focusing primarily on research. They have until the end of the first year to select a major professor. A list of our faculty and their specific research interests can be found on our CMB Research Areas page.

Typically, Ph.D. students complete their preliminary written and oral exams near the end of their second year and successfully defend their research proposal near the end of their third year. After completing the research project, each student is required to write a dissertation and to defend it before a faculty committee.

 M.S. in CMB

The Master's in Biological Science program typically takes two to three years to complete. Master's students participate in selected parts of the core curriculum along with Ph.D. students. Each master's students is required to write and defend a thesis presenting their original research, but they do not take preliminary written or oral exams. Additional requirements for master's students vary as described in the graduate handbook.

How to Apply

Contacts for more information: