Degrees Offered by the Department
The Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology offers the Master of Science and the Doctor of Philosophy degrees. Original research performed under the direction of a dissertation advisor plays a major role in these degrees. The dissertation research helps the student acquire the necessary technical skills, critical thinking ability, originality, as well as independence for a future career as a scientist. It is through participation in an aggressive research program that the graduate student makes the transition from student to professional colleague.
Students ordinarily perform rotations in the laboratories of three different Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Department faculty members during the first year of graduate study, and choose a thesis advisor by the end of the first year. This allows students to begin their thesis research in the summer between their first and second years of study.
Ph.D. in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology.
 The Doctor of Philosophy degree in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology requires completion of 30 credit hours of didactic coursework, successful performance on a cumulative qualifying exam, advanced research study and an oral defense of an original research dissertation. The qualifying exam covers areas of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology appropriate to the student's training and research interests, in addition to general aspects of protein biochemistry, membrane biology, gene regulation, macromolecular structure, intermediary metabolism, cellular physiology, enzymology, and related areas. This program normally has a duration of five years, though in exceptional cases may be completed in less time. A Master's degree is not required for admission into the Ph.D. program. Upon consultation with a thesis advisor, each student pursues an individual program of advanced dissertation study which is pertinent to his or her long range research interests. Upon successful completion of the written and oral qualifying exams at the end of the second year of study, the student is free to pursue his/her research problem on a full time basis. A final oral presentation of the doctoral research is scheduled after the thesis has been submitted and evaluated by a committee of examiners.
MS in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology.
The program leading to a Master of Science degree in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology includes 20 credit hours of didactic coursework, plus a thesis. The duration of this program generally encompasses two years. The Master of Science degree is not a requirement for the Ph.D. degree. Applicants who ultimately wish to obtain a doctoral degree should apply directly to the doctoral program.
Forms for Download:
Dissertation Defense Forms: These forms must be delivered to the office of Graduate Studies at least two weeks prior to the exam!!
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