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All Ph.D. students in the department receive their degrees through an interdepartmental program, typically the Molecular and Cellular Biology, Plant Biology or Neuroscience and Behavior programs.

It is anticipated that the Ph.D. candidate will spend four to five years in the program after the bachelor’s degree. During the first year, all students will complete three core courses covering more advanced aspects of biochemistry, molecular biology, and cell biology. They will also participate in two research projects during the first year of residence. At the end of the first year, a written qualifying exam will be taken. The second qualifying exam, which is an oral defense of a written proposal, will be taken during the second year. Courses in advanced physical chemistry, genetics, and cell biology offered in several departments are usually recommended.

Prerequisites to the Program

Candidates for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy are accepted under the general requirements of the Graduate School. Students must satisfy the requirements of the particular graduate program to which they are admitted. Students are generally supported by research assistantships or fellowships. All students, regardless of source of support, are required to serve as teaching assistants for one semester.