By the end of the second year, the student takes the qualifying exam.  This consists of preparing and defending a research proposal written according to the guidelines of a NIH grant.  Successful completion of this exam admits the student to candidacy for the Ph.D. degree.  Course work should be largely completed by this time, allowing candidates to concentrate on their dissertation research.  Students receive close, individual training in laboratory technique and scientific acumen from the Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience faculty.  An original research project is completed under the supervision of a faculty advisor and dissertation committee.  A written thesis and oral defense of the thesis complete the degree requirements.  Students are encouraged to present their research at national scientific meetings throughout the course of training and develop oral communication skills through regular participation in journal clubs and formal seminar series. 
 

For questions or comments on our web page, contact sallen@usouthal.edu 
http://southmed.usouthal.edu/com/scb/grad.htm
Last Update 11/06/02