Ph.D. Requirements

In conjunction with research, the degree requirements for earning a Ph.D. in the  Chemical Biology Program include: major/minor coursework, laboratory rotations, a preliminary research exam, an original research proposal, and a 4th year seminar. Please use the menu at left to learn more about each of these requirements.

General time line for degree completion:

1st Year

Fall

• Faculty advising for course work selection (End of August)
• Take Chemical Biology (Biochem 704) - Required major course for Fall
• Additional coursework (Minor courses)
• Rotations
• Research group selection (November 1)
• Initiate Thesis research!

Spring

• Take a Biophysical/Bioanalytical Methods course (Choice of several, see coursework) - Required major course for Spring (preferred timing)
• Additional coursework (Minor courses)
• Assemble a committee of three faculty members (one is your thesis adviser)
• Research

2nd Year

• Research
• Additional coursework (Minor courses: Fall & Spring)
• Preliminary Exam oral & written defense (Submitted by end of January; Defended by end of March)

3rd Year

• Research
• Original research proposal oral & written defense (Submitted by end of December; Defended by end of Winter Break)
• Dissertator status achieved

4th Year

• Research
• Thesis planning meeting (1 year prior to anticipated defense, at student and adviser's discretion)
• 4th year seminar on thesis research at "Seminar Day" in May

5th Year (+)

• Research
• Assemble your Ph.D. thesis committee (augment current committee with two additional faculty members)
• Write and defend Ph.D. thesis