Program Overview

Graduate Program Overview

The Molecular Pharmacology and Therapeutics Graduate Program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive education in the field of molecular pharmacology and therapeutics. The program is structured to allow students to explore various research areas and develop a sophisticated understanding of their thesis project and broader scientific knowledge.

Program Requirements

• Average Length: 5.7 years
• Requirements: 12 credit minimum per semester
• Student Body: 20-25 students
• Stipend Level: $41,928 (2021)
• Degrees:
  • MA Degree: conferred after the completion of 2 years in the program
  • MPhil Degree: conferred after successful pass of qualifying exam and approved thesis proposal (pre-requisite MA degree)
  • PhD: conferred after successful defense of thesis research (pre-requisite MPhil degree)

First Year

In the first year, students participate in laboratory rotations, take their core courses, and identify a thesis research laboratory. Laboratory rotations provide an opportunity for students to participate in ongoing research in laboratories associated with the graduate program, allowing them to become familiar with techniques, literature, and current questions in a variety of research areas.

Second Year

During the second year, students begin their thesis research in earnest and take additional courses tailored to their research interests. In the spring of their second year, students take their qualifying exam, which provides a formal evaluation of the student's potential as a candidate for the PhD degree.

Qualifying Exam

The qualifying exam consists of two parts: a written research proposal and an oral defense. The written research proposal is based on the student's thesis research, and the oral exam is intended to be a comprehensive examination of the student's overall knowledge and understanding of underlying principles related to their research.

Third Year

By the third year, most students will have completed their coursework and qualifying exam and be fully focused on their thesis research. Early in the third year, students will choose their thesis committee in discussion with their advisor and the program director.

Fourth Year and Beyond: Dissertation & Defense

The ultimate role of the thesis committee is to provide the green light for writing and defending the thesis. The dissertation committee consists of the mentor, two existing program faculty members, and two additional examiners (one must be outside of the department and program). A hard copy of the thesis should be submitted to the committee members no later than two weeks before the scheduled defense.

Electives

All students must take at least one elective during the course of matriculation. Electives are chosen depending on the student's research area and/or general interest.

Grades

Students must maintain at least a B average (3.00) in all courses with no grades below a B-. A student who fails to maintain a B average must meet with the Program Director to discuss remedial options and possible withdrawal from the program.