Graduate Programs

Programs

The SGSHS offers degree programs leading to Master of Science (MS) and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), and a post-baccalaureate certificate in Biochemistry. A listing of the graduate programs offered at the University of Mississippi Medical Center follows.

Select a program in blue to jump to a section.

• Master of Science Degree Programs
  • Master of Science in Biomedical Sciences
  • Master of Science in Clinical Investigation
    • Clinical Trials track
    • Maternal-Fetal Medicine track
    • Population/Outcomes Research track
    • Translational Human Research track
• Doctor of Audiology (pending approval by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission of Colleges)
• Doctor of Philosophy Degree Programs
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Biomedical Materials Science
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Biomedical Sciences
    • Neurobehavioral Sciences track
    • Bioimaging track
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Cell and Molecular Biology
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Clinical Anatomy
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Experimental Therapeutics and Pharmacology
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Microbiology and Immunology
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Neuroscience
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Physiology and Biophysics
• Post-Baccalaureate Certificate Program
  • Certificate in Molecular Medicine (online program)
• MD/PhD Program

Post-Baccalaureate Certificate

Molecular Medicine - online program

PROGRAM DIRECTOR: Bettye Sue Hennington, PhD

ASSISTANT DIRECTOR: Maryam Syed, PhD

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION: The graduate certificate program in Molecular Medicine is a distance education program aimed at working professionals or graduates whose professions are impacted by the fields of biological chemistry and molecular biology.The graduate certificate program in Biochemistry is a distance education program aimed at working professionals or graduates whose professions are impacted by the field of medical biochemistry. Students who successfully complete 11 credit hours will be able to demonstrate knowledge in the areas of biochemistry, enzymology, cellular metabolism, biotechnology, forensics, and genetic deficiencies of human disease.

PROGRAM OUTCOMES: The program is designed for working professionals as well as post-baccalaureate students whose professions are impacted by the field of molecular medicine and require an understanding of medical biotechnology and underlying genetic deficiencies of common metabolic disorders.

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS: The program accepts students for fall, spring, and summer enrollment. Application deadlines for each semester are listed below:

• Summer: May 1
• Fall: July 17
• Spring: December 18

Post-baccalaureate certificate applicants will be evaluated on the following:

• Baccalaureate degree in a science-related field or must have completed five (5) semester courses in biology, chemistry, physics, engineering, or math;
• A cumulative GPA of 2.0 or better on a 4.0 scale;
• Official transcripts from all schools attended

GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS: Students must successfully complete 11 credit hours of coursework for certificate completion. Students may choose to complete more than the required 11 hours if desired.

• REQUIRED COURSES
  • CMB 705 Molecular Structure & Cell Function Biochemistry I: Molecular Structure & Cell Function (Semester 1)
  • CMB 706 Enzymology and Cellular Metabolism Biochemistry II: Enzymology and Celluar Metabolism (Semester 2)
• ELECTIVE COURSES (must take at least 1-2 courses to fulfill certificate requirements)
  • CMB 707 Biotechnology Today
  • CMB 708 Biochemistry IV: Genetics, Development, & Disease
  • CMB 702 Cellular Biochemistry (Semester 2 or 3)
  • CMB 703 Metabolic Enzymology (Semester 2 or 3)

PLAN OF STUDY

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Master of Science Degree Programs

Biomedical Sciences

PROGRAM DIRECTOR: Edgar Meyer, PhD

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION: The Master of Science in Biomedical Sciences (MS-BMS) degree program is designed to meet the needs of those students seeking to broaden and deepen their scientific knowledge base in their pursuit of dental, medical, physician assistant, pharmacy or graduate (PhD) school admission; junior/community college level teaching positions; and government employment opportunities. The program trains students in biochemistry, physiology, pharmacology, microbiology and immunology, human anatomy, cell biology and histology, biomedical research and more.

PROGRAM OBJECTIVES: Upon successful completion of the degree program, students will be able to compare/contrast and distinguish between multiple concepts and facets of biomedical science, and apply knowledge of these concepts in order to solve discrete equations and complex clinical scenarios. In addition, students will learn how to better manage their time and improve study strategies in preparation for the demands of professional school or the workforce.

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS - The program offers admission to students for fall enrollment. To be considered for fall admission, all applications must be submitted and completed by June 1.

• MS in Biomedical Sciences applicants will be evaluated on the following criteria:
• Baccalaureate degree in a relevant scientific discipline
• Transcripts from all previous colleges and universities attended
• A preferred cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better on a 4.0 scale
• A personal statement highlighting strengths, motivation for admission to the program, and leadership and service record

Applicants to the MS BMS degree program who are participants in the Professional Portal Program must be recommended by the Admissions Committee of either the UMMC School of Dentistry (SOD) or School of Medicine (SOM), meet the minimum admission criteria for the program, and complete an application for admission to the MS-BMS program by the June 1 deadline.

Because of space constraints, this program is limited to legal residents of Mississippi, U.S. citizens, and permanent residents of the U.S.A. (Green Card Holders). In addition, because an essential aspect of UMMC's mission is training health care providers for Mississippi, preference is given to Mississippi residents.

Program Completion Requirements: To be eligible for graduation, students must maintain a GPA of 2.8 or higher or a weighted numerical average greater than or equal to 75% in a minimum of 30 credit hours beyond the BS or BA degree. Students must successfully complete a minimum of 10 credit hours from the courses listed in Groups A and B below. The recommended plan of study for students interested in professional or graduate school is shown below under "Pre-Dental and Pre-Medical Plan of Study."

CORE COURSES - 10 of the 30 hours required for graduation must be selected from the core courses below.

PRE-DENTAL AND PRE-MEDICAL PLAN OF STUDY

The 32 credit hour plan of study outlined below is recommended for those students with a goal to pursue dental or medical school following the completion of this degree program. For students wishing additional study in a particular discipline, elective courses may be substituted, as long as a minimum of 10 hours of coursework come from the CORE COURSES listed above. These students should consult the director for the MS-Biomedical Sciences program for alternative study plans.

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Clinical Investigation Program

PROGRAM DIRECTOR: Denise Cornelius, PhD

ASSISTANT DIRECTOR: Lorenal Amaral, PhD

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION: The degree program is designed for UMMC-affiliated clinical professionals and clinical scientists, including faculty and resident physicians, fellows in training, dentists, nurses, pharmacists, and other terminal degree clinical professionals. Successful program graduates will be expected to conduct independent and collaborative clinical studies in their special areas of practice and interest while holding positions as clinician-investigators and/or professionals in areas focused on clinical research in academic settings.  The program will also serve as a formalized training program for qualified participants seeking extramural clinical or patient-oriented career development support (K awards).

The program will emphasize specific training in four principal areas:

• Clinical Trials
• Population/Outcomes Research
• Translational Human Studies
• Maternal Fetal Medicine

PROGRAM OBJECTIVES: The objectives of this program are to increase research education and research design skills of clinicians or individuals who work in clinical settings.

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS – The program accepts students for fall enrollment. To be considered for fall admission, all applications must be submitted and completed by June 1, and the applicant should be a current employee/trainee or plan to be by August 1 of the enrolling academic year.

MS in Clinical Investigation applicants will be evaluated on the following:

• Terminal doctoral degree (MD, PhD, DMD, etc.) or demonstration of at least 45% current work designation with patients or in clinical administration.
• Applicants to the Maternal-Fetal-Medicine track must have concurrent admission to the UMMC Obstetrics & Gynecology Maternal-Fetal-Medicine Fellowship program.
• Three letters of recommendation
• Letter of support from the Division Chief or Department Chair
• Letter of support from the proposed research mentor
• Letter of recommendation (colleague, resident director, former research mentor, supervisor)
• A personal statement which includes career goals, a brief description of research idea, and identification of research mentor (limited to 500-750 words)
• Applicant's curriculum vitae
• Mentor's curriculum vitae
• Official transcripts from all previous colleges and universities attended

Applicants should be in good standing with their department at the time of admission.

Admission to the program will be competitively determined by the admissions committee and will evaluated on the quality of the science proposed, the commitment of the mentor of the career development of the candidate, and on the overall impact of the training program on the applicant's career development.

PROGRAM COMPLETION REQUIREMENTS: The MS in Clinical Investigation program requires a minimum of 30 credit hours and completion of at least three (3) electives. To be eligible for graduation, students must maintain a GPA of 2.8 or higher or a weighted numerical average greater than or equal to 75% in a minimum of 30 credit hours beyond the BS or BA degree.

REQUIRED COURSEWORK - All students must pass ID 709 (Responsible Conduct in Research).

REQUIRED PRESENTATION – All students must present a portion of their capstone at a local, regional or national conference before defending their Capstone Project.

CAPSTONE PROJECT/THESIS – Tracks require the successful completion of a capstone project or thesis as a requirement for graduation. The capstone project or thesis should show evidence of original investigation and must be approved by the advisory committee and the SGSHS Dean. An oral examination and defense are mandatory in tracks requiring a thesis. The candidate's advisory committee will conduct the examination.

CORE COURSES

CLINICAL TRIALS TRACK PLAN OF STUDY:

POPULATION/OUTCOMES RESEARCH TRACK PLAN OF STUDY:

TRANSLATIONAL HUMAN STUDIES TRACK PLAN OF STUDY:

MATERNAL FETAL MEDICINE TRACK PLAN OF STUDY:

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Doctor of Audiology

(pending approval by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission of Colleges)

Audiology

PROGRAM DIRECTOR: Christopher Spankovich, AuD, PhD, MPH

ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR: Sarah Faucette, AuD, PhD

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION: The programmatic goal for the AuD program is for graduates to gain necessary skills to improve patient outcomes, develop leadership skills, and increase research activity in the field of audiology. Specifically, graduates of the program will be able to: demonstrate clinical proficiency in the assessment and management of medically complex pediatric and adult patients with varying hearing and balance disorders; lead multi-disciplinary teams to plan, coordinate, and implement best patient care practices; integrate research, knowledge, and clinical experiences; present clinical research, case presentations, and outcomes data in a clear and concise manner via written and oral communication; and develop innovative and creative approaches to patient assessment and treatment.

Additionally, students are given the opportunity to apply to and complete the PhD program in Neuroscience. Students who enter the AuD/PhD track will complete three years of training within the AuD program and three years of training within the PhD program, before completing the final year within the AuD program. Students will be considered for competitive admission into the PhD in Neuroscience program within the School of Graduate Studies.

PROGRAM OBJECTIVES:

• Demonstrate clinical proficiency in the assessment and treatment of medically complex pediatric and adult patients with varying hearing and balance disorders;
• Lead multi-disciplinary teams to plan, coordinate, and implement best patient care practices;
• Integrate research, knowledge, and clinical experiences;
• Effectively communicate clinical research, case presentations, and outcomes data in a clear and concise manner via written and oral communication;
• Develop innovative and creative approaches to patient assessment and treatment.
• Understand and apply the principles of ethical, culturally competent, and professional conduct.

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS – The program accepts students for fall enrollment. To be considered for fall admission, all applications must be submitted through CSDCAS, and completed by June 1. Prospective students who wish to attend the Graduate School Spring Recruitment Day must have applications submitted by December 15.

Applicants will be evaluated based on the following:

• Baccalaureate degree
• Transcripts from all previous colleges and universities attended
• A cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better on a 4.0 scale
• Three letters of recommendation
• A personal statement

A GRE score > 300 on the combined verbal and quantitative scores or MCAT score > 495 is preferred.

PROGRAM COMPLETION REQUIREMENTS: The Doctor of Audiology degree is not conferred solely as a result of formal course work, no matter how superior and extensive. To receive the doctoral degree, the candidate must demonstrate knowledge and skills in professional practice competencies, prevention and identification, assessment, intervention, advocacy, and research. In addition, students must complete a minimum of 1,820 hours of supervised clinical practicum sufficient in depth and breadth to achieve the knowledge and skills outcomes defined above. Training will culminate with completion and presentation of an original capstone project.

• CAPSTONE PROJECT - The capstone project must show originality of thought and demonstrate the results of independent investigation and practice. It should contribute to the advancement of knowledge, exhibit mastery of the subject literature, and be written with an acceptable degree of literary skill. Thus, the student must demonstrate a base of knowledge within the fields of audiology such that graduates can practice within the full scope of practice.
• CAPSTONE PRESENTATION - The capstone presentation will be presented orally to the student's capstone director/committee in a meeting designed for that purpose in their 3rd year.
• COMPREHENSION EXAMINATIONS AND CLINICAL SKILLS ASSESSMENT: Written comprehensive examinations and clinical skills assessments will be given to monitor overall progress within the program and ensure that all students are prepared to begin their externships. These examinations will receive scores of High Pass, Pass, Remediate, and Fail. All examinations must be completed with a score of Pass or High pass for students to continue in the doctor of audiology program. Knowledge and skills assessed in these exams will be dependent on student's completed coursework and clinical experiences. Detailed expectations will be shared with students during the semester leading up to each exam. Assessment schedules are as follows:
  • Written Comprehensive Examination I for AuD at end of Spring Year 1
  • Clinical Skills Assessment for AuD I at End of Fall 2
  • Written Comprehensive Examination II for AuD at end of Spring Year 2
  • Clinical Skills Assessment for AuD II at end of Summer 3 (prior to initiating Externship)
• REQUIRED COURSEWORK - All students must successfully complete ID 709 (Responsible Conduct in Research). In addition, all graduate students must successfully pass ID 714 (Professional Skills).

PLAN OF STUDY

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Doctor of Philosophy Degree Programs

Biomedical Materials Sciences

PROGRAM DIRECTOR: Susana M. Salazar Marocho, PhD

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION: The Doctor of Philosophy in Biomedical Materials Science program is intended to educate and train the next generation of biomedical researchers. The plan of study begins with core coursework, progresses to a combination of more specialized coursework and laboratory research, and culminates with mentored research on an independent project in the laboratory of one of the program’s faculty members. Students will be educated through didactic instruction, laboratory practicums, and involvement in active research projects. Successful graduates of the program will be expected to possess the necessary skills for research careers in academia, industry, or government through independent and collaborative research practices.

PROGRAM OBJECTIVES: The objectives of the program are to educate and train a diverse group of individuals to become independent research investigators, teachers, and mentors with a broad understanding of the relevant field as well as focused training within a subset of the areas of study. These objectives apply whether the individual's ultimate career goal is to work in academic, industrial, government, or administrative settings.

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS: The program accepts students for fall enrollment. To be considered for fall admission, all applications must be submitted through BioMedCAS, and completed by June 1. Prospective students who wish to attend the Graduate School Spring Recruitment Day must have applications submitted by December 15. Students wishing to be considered for a graduate stipend for the upcoming fall semester should apply for admission prior to April 1 of the admission year.

Applicants' minimum requirements are the following ones:

• Baccalaureate degree in a relevant scientific discipline (i.e. engineering, science, or health care)
  • Students from other disciplines with appropriate preparation may be considered on a case-by-case basis.
  • Transcripts from all previous colleges and universities attended
• A cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better on a 4.0 scale
• Three letters of recommendation
• A personal statement

GRE is not required but it is highly recommended. A score of ≥ 300 may indeed be requested at the discretion of the BMS Admissions Committee.

PROGRAM COMPLETION REQUIREMENTS: The Doctor of Philosophy degree is a research degree and is not conferred solely as a result of formal course work, no matter how superior and extensive. To receive the doctoral degree, the candidate must demonstrate evidence of proficiency and distinctive attainment in biomedical materials science and a recognized ability for independent investigation as presented in a dissertation based upon original research.

QUALIFYING EXAMINATION AND ADMISSION TO CANDIDACY - The Qualifying Examination is given to graduate students in good academic standing upon completion of core coursework and must be successfully completed for admission to candidacy for the Doctor of Philosophy degree.

DISSERTATION -The dissertation must show originality of thought and demonstrate the results of independent investigation. It should contribute to the advancement of knowledge, exhibit mastery of the subject literature, and be written with an acceptable degree of literary skill. The dissertation, written according to prescribed form, is prepared under the direction of the candidate's advisor and must be submitted for approval to the candidate's Dissertation Advisory Committee and the dean of the Graduate School. This approval must be obtained and all other requirements completed by the date given in the official academic calendar. Guidelines outlining the prescribed form for a student's written dissertation can be found on the SGSHS website (UMMC login required).

DISSERTATION DEFENSE -The dissertation defense is conducted by the candidate's Dissertation Advisory Committee and consists of a public presentation and defense of the dissertation.

REQUIRED COURSEWORK - All students must pass the program core courses, ID 709 (Responsible Conduct in Research) and ID 714 (Professional Skills).

PUBLICATION REQUIREMENT - Students receiving the PhD degree are required to have the results of their research accepted for publication prior to awarding of the degree. This manuscript must meet the publication requirement, i.e., the student must be listed as the sole first author on at least one publication in a national or international peer-reviewed journal.

Upon recommendation of the student's advisor, after admission to doctoral candidacy one or more off-campus internships may be required. The student will receive academic credit for such internship(s) as BMS 750 (Special Topics in Biomedical Materials Science). Such internships will be individually arranged to meet the goals of the research and plan of study for the student.

BIOMEDICAL MATERIALS SCIENCE PHD PROGRAM

Director: Susana M. Salazar Marocho, PhD

BIOIMAGING TRACK

Track director: Candace Howard-Claudio, MD, PhD

NEUROBEHAVIORAL SCIENCES TRACK

Track director: Kevin Freeman, PhD

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Cell and Molecular Biology Program

PROGRAM DIRECTOR: Michael Hebert, PhD

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION: The 4–5-year program begins with course work, followed by a combination of course work and laboratory research, and finishes with independent research conducted in the laboratory of one of the faculty. The department is well equipped for biochemical training and research. Each faculty member has generous laboratory space and the specialized equipment necessary for his/her research. In addition, there is an abundance of shared, state-of-the-art, departmental equipment and facilities. Application for pre-doctoral funding is promoted as an essential part of the students' training and development. The program in Cell and Molecular Biology is strongly committed to graduate research and teaching. A particular advantage is that the program faculty are relatively small in size, which promotes close scientific interactions between faculty members and students.

PROGRAM OBJECTIVES: The primary objectives of the PhD program in Cell & Molecular Biology is to:

• Train graduates who will have highly productive careers in cell and molecular biology that contribute to the overall advancement of the cell and molecular biology sciences,
• Educate the next generation of integrative cell and molecular biologists, and
• Extend the knowledge base of integrative cell and molecular biologists.

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS: The program accepts students for fall enrollment. To be considered for fall admission, all applications must be submitted through BioMedCAS, and complete by June 1. Prospective students who wish to attend the Graduate School Spring Recruitment Day must have applications submitted by December 15. Students wishing to be considered for a graduate stipend for the upcoming fall semester should apply for admission prior to April 1.

Applicants will be evaluated based on the following:

• Baccalaureate degree in a relevant scientific discipline
• Transcripts from all previous colleges and universities attended
• A cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better on a 4.0 scale
• Three letters of recommendation
• A personal statement

PROGRAM COMPLETION REQUIREMENTS: The Doctor of Philosophy degree is a research degree and is not conferred solely as a result of formal course work, no matter how superior and extensive. To receive the doctoral degree, the candidate must demonstrate evidence of proficiency and distinctive attainment in a special field, and a recognized ability for independent investigation as presented in a dissertation based upon original research.

QUALIFYING EXAMINATION AND ADMISSION TO CANDIDACY - The qualifying examination is given to graduate students in good academic standing upon completion of coursework and must be successfully completed for admission to candidacy for the doctor of philosophy degree.

DISSERTATION - The dissertation must show originality of thought and demonstrate the results of independent investigation. It should contribute to the advancement of knowledge, exhibit mastery of the subject literature, and be written with an acceptable degree of literary skill. The dissertation, written according to prescribed form, is prepared under the direction of the candidate's advisor and must be approved by the candidate's Dissertation Advisory Committee and the dean of the Graduate School. This approval must be obtained and all other requirements completed by the date given in the official academic calendar. Guidelines outlining the prescribed form for a student's written dissertation can be found on the SGSHS website (UMMC login required).

DISSERTATION DEFENSE - The dissertation defense is conducted by the candidate's Advisory Committee and consists of a public presentation and defense of the dissertation.

REQUIRED COURSEWORK - All students must pass ID 709 (Responsible Conduct in Research). In addition, all graduate students must successfully pass ID 714 (Professional Skills).

PUBLICATION REQUIREMENT - Students receiving the PhD degree are required to have the results of their research accepted for publication prior to awarding of the degree. This manuscript must meet the publication requirement, i.e., the student must be listed as the sole first author on at least one publication in a national or international peer-reviewed journal.

PLAN OF STUDY

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Clinical Anatomy

PROGRAM DIRECTOR: Tim Dasinger, PhD

ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR: Nathan Tullos, PhD

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION: The PhD degree program in Clinical Anatomy is aimed at training the next generation of educators and scholars in the field. The program is intended to train professionals to become master educators in anatomy, qualified to communicate anatomical knowledge to future personnel in the health professions. Students will learn the anatomical disciplines of human gross anatomy and developmental anatomy, histology (microanatomy), neuroanatomy, and will be trained in educational theory, pedagogical skills, and curricular development. Doctoral students who successfully pass their qualifying examinations after their first year of study will do a dissertation project either in the pedagogical methods of teaching anatomy, which may include the development of new methods, or in the clinical applications of anatomy. In addition, the program will train students to teach at the post-graduate level and to do research in clinical anatomy or in an area of health science education. During the first two years students will be exposed to basic anatomical content, education content, and educational research. Beginning their second year, students will take one teaching practicum each semester. In addition, students will perform research rotations with various faculty in which they will be introduced to educational research in anatomy, research in clinical anatomy, or both. These rotations are intended to aid students in choosing their advisors. Core anatomical and education courses can be taken in any order unless part of a sequence, but all of them have to be completed prior to the beginning of the second year so that the candidacy examination can be taken during the first summer of the program.

PROGRAM OBJECTIVES: The objectives for the Clinical Anatomy program are to educate and train individuals to become educator scholars of the anatomical sciences; those who have the knowledge to use evidence-based practices to teach and also to publish educational research to help inform others about these best practices.

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS: The program accepts students for fall enrollment. To be considered for fall admission, all applications must be submitted through BioMedCAS, and complete by June 1. Prospective students who wish to attend the Graduate School Spring Recruitment Day must have applications submitted by December 15.

Students wishing to be considered for a graduate stipend for the upcoming fall semester should apply for admission prior to April 1.

Applicants will be evaluated based on the following:

• Baccalaureate degree in a relevant scientific discipline
• Transcripts from all previous colleges and universities attended
• A cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better on a 4.0 scale
• Three letters of recommendation
• A personal statement

PROGRAM COMPLETION REQUIREMENTS: The Doctor of Philosophy degree is a research degree and is not conferred solely as a result of formal course work, no matter how superior and extensive. To receive the doctoral degree, the candidate must demonstrate evidence of proficiency and distinctive attainment in a special field, and a recognized ability for independent investigation as presented in a dissertation based upon original research.

QUALIFYING EXAMINATION AND ADMISSION TO CANDIDACY - The Qualifying Examination is given to graduate students in good academic standing upon completion of coursework and must be successfully completed for admission to candidacy for the doctor of philosophy degree.

DISSERTATION - The dissertation must show originality of thought and demonstrate the results of independent investigation. It should contribute to the advancement of knowledge, exhibit mastery of the subject literature, and be written with an acceptable degree of literary skill. The dissertation, written according to prescribed form, is prepared under the direction of the candidate's advisor and must be approved by the candidate's Dissertation Advisory Committee and the dean of the Graduate School. This approval must be obtained and all other requirements completed by the date given in the official academic calendar. Guidelines outlining the prescribed form for a student's written dissertation can be found on the SGSHS website (UMMC login required).

DISSERTATION DEFENSE - The dissertation defense is conducted by the candidate's Advisory Committee and consists of a public presentation and defense of the dissertation.

REQUIRED COURSEWORK - All students must pass ID 709 (Responsible Conduct in Research). In addition, all graduate students must successfully pass ID 714 (Professional Skills).

PUBLICATION REQUIREMENT - Students receiving the PhD degree are required to have the results of their research accepted for publication prior to awarding of the degree. This manuscript must meet the publication requirement, i.e., the student must be listed as the sole first author on at least one publication in a national or international peer-reviewed journal.

PLAN OF STUDY

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Experimental Therapeutics and Pharmacology

PROGRAM DIRECTOR: Jan Michael Williams, PhD, Program Director

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION: The field of pharmacology is very broad and offers many research directions and opportunities. Curiosity, drive, and dedication allow students to receive diverse training, yet focus on areas that are personalized to the individual's interests. The breadth of training of a PhD in Experimental Therapeutics and Pharmacology opens a wide range of career options and employment opportunities in academic, governmental and industrial organizations. That objective is achieved through a combination of formal course work, independent study and both faculty-directed and independent research. Students are exposed to fundamental principles of pharmacology as well as current concepts related to mechanisms of actions of an array of different classes of drugs and modern research techniques. The curriculum provides ample opportunities for students to improve their written and verbal communication skills and to develop skills in critical thinking, problem solving and experimental design. Research interests of the faculty are diverse and include the cardiovascular and renal systems, pregnancy, metabolic diseases, signal transduction, membrane transport, drug metabolism/biotransformation, protein-DNA interactions, DNA damage and repair, cancer chemotherapy, and drug development. Multidisciplinary approaches ranging from whole animal to genomic, transgenic, proteomics, and translational techniques and bioinformatics are used to investigate the genetic and molecular basis of human diseases.

PROGRAM OBJECTIVES: The primary objective of Experimental Therapeutics and Pharmacology Program is to train individuals for a successful independent career in pharmacology, toxicology or a related biomedical science.

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS: The program accepts students for fall enrollment. To be considered for fall admission, all applications must be submitted through BioMedCAS, and complete by June 1. Prospective students who wish to attend the Graduate School Spring Recruitment Day must have applications submitted by December 15.

Students wishing to be considered for a graduate stipend for the upcoming fall semester should apply for admission prior to April 1.

Applicants will be evaluated based on the following:

• Baccalaureate degree in a relevant scientific discipline
• Transcripts from all previous colleges and universities attended
• A cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better on a 4.0 scale
• Three letters of recommendation
• A personal statement

PROGRAM COMPLETION REQUIREMENTS: The Doctor of Philosophy degree is a research degree and is not conferred solely as a result of formal course work, no matter how superior and extensive. To receive the doctoral degree, the candidate must demonstrate evidence of proficiency and distinctive attainment in a special field, and a recognized ability for independent investigation as presented in a dissertation based upon original research.

QUALIFYING EXAMINATION AND ADMISSION TO CANDIDACY - The qualifying examination is given to graduate students in good academic standing upon completion of coursework and must be successfully completed for admission to candidacy for the doctor of philosophy degree.

DISSERTATION - The dissertation must show originality of thought and demonstrate the results of independent investigation. It should contribute to the advancement of knowledge, exhibit mastery of the subject literature, and be written with an acceptable degree of literary skill. The dissertation, written according to prescribed form, is prepared under the direction of the candidate's advisor and must be approved by the candidate's Dissertation Advisory Committee and the dean of the Graduate School. This approval must be obtained and all other requirements completed by the date given in the official academic calendar. Guidelines outlining the prescribed form for a student's written dissertation can be found on the SGSHS website (UMMC login required).

DISSERTATION DEFENSE - The dissertation defense is conducted by the candidate's Advisory Committee and consists of a public presentation and defense of the dissertation.

REQUIRED COURSEWORK - All students must pass ID 709 (Responsible Conduct in Research). In addition, all graduate students must successfully pass ID 714 (Professional Skills).

PUBLICATION REQUIREMENT - Students receiving the PhD degree are required to have the results of their research accepted for publication prior to awarding of the degree. This manuscript must meet the publication requirement, i.e., the student must be listed as the sole first author on at least one publication in a national or international peer-reviewed journal.

PLAN OF STUDY

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Microbiology and Immunology

PROGRAM DIRECTOR: Brian Akerley, PhD

ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR: Eva Bengten, PhD

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION: Our core curriculum includes introductory courses in medical microbiology and biochemistry, and specialized graduate courses in immunology, bacterial physiology and virology. In addition to laboratory research under the direction of a faculty mentor, training includes formal course work, seminars, and journal clubs. Together these experiences aid the student in learning to critically read the scientific literature, and in developing proficiency and competence in scientific writing and public speaking, all of which are crucial for success in a scientific career.

PROGRAM OBJECTIVES: The goals of the PhD program in Microbiology and Immunology are to train highly qualified researchers who will make significant contributions to the fields of Bacteriology, Virology, and Immunology and educate those who will teach the next generation of health care professionals and research scientists.

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS: The program accepts students for fall enrollment. To be considered for fall admission, all applications must be submitted through BioMedCAS, and complete by June 1. Prospective students who wish to attend the Graduate School Spring Recruitment Day must have applications submitted by December 15. Students wishing to be considered for a graduate stipend for the upcoming fall semester should apply for admission prior to April 1.

Applicants will be evaluated based on the following:

• Baccalaureate degree in a relevant scientific discipline
• Transcripts from all previous colleges and universities attended
• A cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better on a 4.0 scale
• Three letters of recommendation
• A personal statement

PROGRAM COMPLETION REQUIREMENTS: The Doctor of Philosophy degree is a research degree and is not conferred solely as a result of formal course work, no matter how superior and extensive. To receive the doctoral degree, the candidate must demonstrate evidence of proficiency and distinctive attainment in a special field, and a recognized ability for independent investigation as presented in a dissertation based upon original research.

QUALIFYING EXAMINATION AND ADMISSION TO CANDIDACY - The Qualifying Examination is given to graduate students in good academic standing upon completion of coursework and must be successfully completed for admission to candidacy for the doctor of philosophy degree.

DISSERTATION - The dissertation must show originality of thought and demonstrate the results of independent investigation. It should contribute to the advancement of knowledge, exhibit mastery of the subject literature, and be written with an acceptable degree of literary skill. The dissertation, written according to prescribed form, is prepared under the direction of the candidate's advisor and must be approved by the candidate's Dissertation Advisory Committee and the dean of the Graduate School. This approval must be obtained and all other requirements completed by the date given in the official academic calendar. Guidelines outlining the prescribed form for a student's written dissertation can be found on the SGSHS website (UMMC login required).

DISSERTATION DEFENSE - The dissertation defense is conducted by the candidate's Advisory Committee and consists of a public presentation and defense of the dissertation.

REQUIRED COURSEWORK - All students must pass ID 709 (Responsible Conduct in Research). In addition, all graduate students must successfully pass ID 714 (Professional Skills).

PUBLICATION REQUIREMENT - Students receiving the PhD degree are required to have the results of their research accepted for publication prior to awarding of the degree. This manuscript must meet the publication requirement, i.e., the student must be listed as the sole first author on at least one publication in a national or international peer-reviewed journal.

PLAN OF STUDY

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Neuroscience

PROGRAM DIRECTOR: Eric Vallender, PhD

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION: The program in Neuroscience is a course of study leading to a PhD degree. It is an interdepartmental degree program with collaborating faculty from both basic and clinical departments at the UMMC. During the first year of study, students are required to take Foundations in Neuroscience (NSCI 701) which is an intensive overview of neuroscience coupled with analysis of relevant primary literature, Special Topics in Neuroscience (NSCI 708) focusing on current issues of interest in neuroscience, Experimental Design and Biostatistics (NSCI 710) focusing on scientific rigor, experimental design and use of statistics in neuroscience research, and Fundamental Biochemistry (CMB 704). Students also engage in a series of up to six 4–5-week surveys (introductory laboratory rotations) of different research laboratories affiliated with the program (NSCI 790). During the second year of study, students engage in intensive Senior Laboratory Rotations (NSCI 791), which typically are focused within the students' planned dissertation laboratories. Throughout the first two years of study, students also engage in professional skills development with courses in Neuroscience Journal Club (NSCI 720), Scientific Writing (NSCI 721 and NSCI 722), and Responsible Conduct in Research (ID 709). In addition, students must successfully pass a Qualifying Examination, which consists of developing and defending a research proposal that students select from topics provided by the neuroscience faculty. This is normally completed in the summer between the second and third years. Successful completion is required in order to be admitted to candidacy for a dissertation.

PROGRAM OBJECTIVES: The objectives for the program in Neuroscience are to educate and train individuals to become independent research investigators, teachers and mentors with a broad understanding of the neurosciences as well as focused training within a subset of the areas of study which comprise neuroscience. These objectives apply whether the individual's ultimate career goal is to work in academic, government, industrial or administrative settings.

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS: The program accepts students for fall enrollment. To be considered for fall admission, all applications must be submitted through BioMedCAS, and complete by June 1. Prospective students who wish to attend the Graduate School Spring Recruitment Day must have applications submitted by December 15. Students accepted into the program and wishing to be considered for a graduate stipend for the upcoming fall semester should respond to their letter of admissions acceptance prior to April 1.

Applicants will be evaluated based on the following:

• Baccalaureate degree in a relevant scientific discipline
• Transcripts from all previous colleges and universities attended
• A cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better on a 4.0 scale
• Three letters of recommendation
• A personal statement
• Prior research experience

PROGRAM COMPLETION REQUIREMENTS: The Doctor of Philosophy degree is a research degree and is not conferred solely as a result of formal course work, no matter how superior and extensive. To receive the doctoral degree, the candidate must demonstrate evidence of proficiency and distinctive attainment in a special field, and a recognized ability for independent investigation as presented in a dissertation based upon original research. Original, first-author peer-reviewed publications in recognized scientific journals is the cornerstone of success and is required for the dissertation.

QUALIFYING EXAMINATION AND ADMISSION TO CANDIDACY - The qualifying examination takes the form of writing an R21 style NIH grant and orally defending the proposed project. Subject matter for the grant is the student's response to any question available from a pool provided by the Program in Neuroscience faculty. The Qualifier Exam is given to graduate students in good academic standing upon completion of coursework (typically, end of second year) and must be successfully completed for admission to candidacy for the Doctor of Philosophy degree.

DISSERTATION - The dissertation must show originality of thought and demonstrate the results of independent investigation. It should contribute to the advancement of knowledge, exhibit mastery of the subject literature, and be written with an acceptable degree of literary skill. The dissertation, written according to prescribed form, is prepared under the direction of the candidate's advisor and must be approved by the candidate's Dissertation Advisory Committee and the Dean of the Graduate School. This approval must be obtained and all other requirements completed by the date given in the official academic calendar. Guidelines outlining the prescribed form for a student's written dissertation can be found on the SGSHS website (UMMC login required).

DISSERTATION DEFENSE - The dissertation defense is conducted by the candidate's Advisory Committee and consists of a public presentation and defense of the dissertation.

REQUIRED COURSEWORK – In addition to the NSCI courses listed in the Plan of Study, all students must pass ID 709 (Responsible Conduct in Research) and ID 714 (Professional Skills).

PUBLICATION REQUIREMENT - Students receiving the PhD degree are required to have the results of their research accepted for publication prior to awarding of the degree. This manuscript must meet the publication requirement, i.e., the student must be listed as the sole first author on at least one publication in a national or international peer-reviewed journal.

PLAN OF STUDY

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Nursing

PROGRAM DIRECTOR: Angela A. Duck, PhD, RN, CNE

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION: The PhD in Nursing program provides a strong foundation in theoretical and methodological content essential for the scholarly investigation of health care problems encountered in the practice of nursing. The program is designed to develop nurse researchers to generate and translate knowledge toward improving the health of individuals, families, communities, and populations through the conduct of biologic, physiologic, or experiential research in health and illness. The program of study and research are foundational to understanding client-centered health problems and developing the theoretical and experiential foundation necessary to initiate and coordinate clinical outcomes research. UMMC offers entry points to the PhD program for post-BSN, post-MSN, and post-DNP applicants. Individuals seeking admission to the PhD in Nursing program must meet the general admission requirements and technical standards for admission for the School of Graduate Studies (SGSHS), as well as those determined by the School of Nursing.

PROGRAM OBJECTIVES:

• Design, conduct, direct, and disseminate research in nursing and health.
• Test and/or generate concepts, theories, and models for the advancement of nursing science and practice.
• Assume a leadership role in the generation and implementation of solutions for reduction of health disparities and improvement in health outcomes.

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS: Applicants will be evaluated based on the following:

• BSN and a master's degree in nursing (or closely related field) or current student in the last year of a nationally-accredited MSN program for post-master's entry; earned BSN or current student in the last year of a nationally-accredited BSN program for post-BSN entry; earned DNP or current student in the last year of a nationally-accredited DNP program for post-DNP entry.

• A cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better on a 4.0 scale with strong performance in science courses.

• Transcripts from all previous colleges and universities attended

• Eligibility for RN licensure in Mississippi

• Three letters of recommendation

• A personal statement

• Personal interview with one or more PhD faculty

*A GRE >300 on the combined verbal and quantitative scores and score of 3.5 on Analytical Writing component of the GRE is preferred.

PROGRAM COMPLETION REQUIREMENTS: The Doctor of Philosophy degree is a research degree and is not conferred solely as a result of formal course work, no matter how superior and extensive. To receive the doctoral degree, the candidate must demonstrate evidence of proficiency and distinctive attainment in a special field, and a recognized ability for independent investigation as presented in a dissertation based upon original research.

REQUIRED COURSEWORK – Plan of study includes 52 hours. Post-BSN students must take a minimum of 60 hours for the degree, which includes 8 hours of electives, relevant to the student's research. Plans of study for post-DNP students will be determined on an individual basis following a gap analysis of required coursework for the degree. Students must take a minimum of 3 hours of doctoral-level biostatistics prior to enrolling in PHN courses. All students must pass ID 700 Ethics in Research or its equivalent.

QUALIFYING EXAMINATION AND ADMISSION TO CANDIDACY - The qualifying examination is given to graduate students in good academic standing upon completion of coursework and must be successfully completed for admission to candidacy for the doctor of philosophy degree.

DISSERTATION PROPOSAL AND DEFENSE – In collaboration with the PhD program director and approval of the dean of the Graduate School, each candidate forms a Dissertation Advisory Committee to develop a proposal for dissertation research. The candidate must orally defend the written dissertation proposal to their Advisory Committee prior to beginning dissertation research. Students must enroll in PHN 701 every fall and spring until successful defense of the dissertation proposal.

DISSERTATION - The dissertation must show originality of thought and demonstrate the results of independent investigation. It should contribute to the advancement of knowledge, exhibit mastery of the subject literature, and be written with an acceptable degree of literary skill. The dissertation, written according to prescribed form, is prepared under the direction of the candidate's advisor and must be approved by the candidate's Dissertation Advisory Committee and the dean of the Graduate School. This approval must be obtained and all other requirements completed by the date given in the official academic calendar. Guidelines outlining the prescribed form for a student's written dissertation can be found on the SGSHS website (UMMC login required).

DISSERTATION DEFENSE - The dissertation defense is conducted by the candidate's Advisory Committee and consists of a public presentation and defense of the dissertation.

PUBLICATION REQUIREMENT - Students receiving the PhD degree are required to have the results of their research accepted for publication prior to awarding of the degree. This manuscript must meet the publication requirement, i.e., the student must be listed as the sole first author on at least one publication in a national or international peer-reviewed journal.

SUGGESTED PLAN OF STUDY

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Physiology and Biophysics Program

PROGRAM DIRECTOR: Eric George, PhD

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION: In keeping with the mission of the UMMC, the mission of the Department of Physiology is "to maintain the highest level of productivity and excellence in teaching, and research to the University of Mississippi Medical Center, national, and international scientific communities". In addition, the faculty play leading roles in national and international service to the American Physiological Society, the American Heart Association (AHA), the AHA Council on Hypertension, NIH, the International Society of Hypertension, and the Inter-American Society of Hypertension.

PROGRAM OBJECTIVES: Graduates from the PhD program in Physiology and Biophysics will:

Be able to understand fundamental integrative mammalian physiology and identify unanswered questions and gaps in knowledge related to physiology and pathophysiology.

Become highly qualified researchers who will make significant contributions to the discipline of physiology by designing and implementing basic research that addresses questions and knowledge gaps.

Understand how scientific inquiry through basic physiological research improves, or has the potential to improve, clinical and translational science.

Have sufficient knowledge base and expertise to educate and train the next generation of integrative physiologists.

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS: The program accepts students for fall enrollment. To be considered for fall admission, all applications must be submitted through BioMedCAS, and complete by June 1. Prospective students who wish to attend the Graduate School Spring Recruitment Day must have applications submitted by December 15. Students wishing to be considered for a graduate stipend for the upcoming fall semester should apply for admission prior to April 1.

Applicants will be evaluated based on the following:

• Baccalaureate degree in a relevant scientific discipline
• Transcripts from all previous colleges and universities attended
• A cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better on a 4.0 scale
• Three letters of recommendation
• A personal statement

PROGRAM COMPLETION REQUIREMENTS: The Doctor of Philosophy degree is a research degree and is not conferred solely as a result of formal course work, no matter how superior and extensive. To receive the doctoral degree, the candidate must demonstrate evidence of proficiency and distinctive attainment in a special field, and a recognized ability for independent investigation as presented in a dissertation based upon original research.

QUALIFYING EXAMINATION AND ADMISSION TO CANDIDACY - The qualifying examination is given to graduate students in good academic standing upon completion of coursework and must be successfully completed for admission to candidacy for the doctor of philosophy degree.

DISSERTATION - The dissertation must show originality of thought and demonstrate the results of independent investigation. It should contribute to the advancement of knowledge, exhibit mastery of the subject literature, and be written with an acceptable degree of literary skill. The dissertation, written according to prescribed form, is prepared under the direction of the candidate's advisor and must be approved by the candidate's Dissertation Advisory Committee and the dean of the Graduate School. This approval must be obtained and all other requirements completed by the date given in the official academic calendar. Guidelines outlining the prescribed form for a student's written dissertation can be found on the SGSHS website (UMMC login required).

DISSERTATION DEFENSE - The dissertation defense is conducted by the candidate's Advisory Committee and consists of a public presentation and defense of the dissertation.

REQUIRED COURSEWORK - All students must pass ID 709 (Responsible Conduct in Research). In addition, all graduate students must successfully pass ID 714 (Professional Skills).

PUBLICATION REQUIREMENT - Students receiving the PhD degree are required to have the results of their research accepted for publication prior to awarding of the degree. This manuscript must meet the publication requirement, i.e., the student must be listed as the sole first author on at least one publication in a national or international peer-reviewed journal.

PLAN OF STUDY

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MD-PhD Program

PROGRAM DIRECTOR: Joshua Speed, PhD

CO-DIRECTOR: Sarah Sterling, MD

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION: The MD-PhD Program is a seven (7) year, 3-3-1, program consisting of the first three (3) years of medical school (M1-M3), followed by three (3) years of graduate study (G1-G3), and a final year of medicine (M4). To closely align clinical and research interests, students typically select an area for graduate study during their M3 year and maintain association with their clinical interests through interaction with clinical faculty mentors during their G1-G3 years.

PROGRAM OBJECTIVES: The goal of the MD-PhD program is to train medical students to become physician-scientists. To prepare students for careers in academic medicine, the program will provide them with a broad understanding of contemporary medical knowledge and the ability to productively investigate issues related to human disease.

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS:

Traditional Route: Students applying to this dual degree program should follow admission guidelines for both the School of Medicine and the School of Graduate Studies in the Health Sciences, and prospective students will complete a separate application for each school. Students interested in pursuing the MD-PhD program must first complete all medical school application materials through the American Medical College Application Service (AMCAS) online portal, adhering to the School of Medicine Regular Decision Program deadlines. In addition, applicants must complete the following to AMCAS: 1) MD-PHD Motivation and Significant Research essays, describing all relevant research experience, and 2) submit at least one supplemental faculty letter of evaluation from someone able to evaluate the research potential. If selected by the School of Medicine to continue in the MD-PhD application process, students will be invited to interview with and submit additional application materials to the School to Graduate Studies in the Health Sciences through BioMedCAS. Students will receive notification of admission offer in October, following interviews with both schools.

Alternate route: Currently enrolled first or second year students in the School of Medicine may also apply for admission to the MD-PhD program. Interested students should contact the MD-PhD Program Director for additional information.

FINANCIAL SUPPORT

Students enrolled in the MD-PhD program are fully financially supported with tuition scholarships, health insurance coverage, and stipend for living expenses for the duration of their enrollment in the dual degree program. These scholarships and stipend are detailed below.

$28K annual stipend

This living allowance is paid twice per month by the School of Graduate Studies in the Health Sciences to each student while enrolled in the MD-PhD program.

Dean's Scholarship

This scholarship covers the cost of tuition for courses taken in the School of Graduate Studies in the Health Sciences. The scholarship is awarded by the School of Graduate Studies in the Health Sciences.

Conerly Scholarship

This scholarship covers the cost of School of Medicine tuition and fees. The scholarship is awarded by the School of Medicine.

Students who are accepted to the MD-PhD program will receive information about stipend support and the Dean's Scholarship from the School of Graduate Studies in the Health Sciences; these students will receive information about the Conerly Scholarship from the School of Medicine.

PROGRAM COMPLETION REQUIREMENTS:

MD-PhD students are required to complete labs during the summer semesters prior to their first (M1) and second (M2) year of medical school. MD-PhD students will take the USMLE Step 1 exam during the summer following M2 year and the USMLE Step 2 exam following M3 year, MD-PhD students usually select their graduate (PhD) program during the third (M3) year of medical school, after which the student identifies a graduate faculty member as their research mentor and begins to fulfill specific requirements of that PhD program. During the graduate school year (g1-G3), MD-PhD students take graduate school coursework, complete their PhD qualifying exam, conduct research, and write manuscripts for publication. In addition, students maintain their skills during G1-G3 years with regular hours spent under the mentorship of a clinical faculty member. MD-PhD students complete all PhD degree requirements by the end of their G3 year. Students advance into their fourth (M4) year of medical school following the completion of all PhD degree requirements. During M4 year, students will apply to and interview for residency positions. Following residency match in March of M4 year, students graduate in May with both the MD and PhD degrees.

Laboratory Rotations and Mentor Selection - MD-PhD students are required to complete lab rotations as approved by the Program Director during the summer semesters prior to their first and second years of medical school. These lab rotations will be completed as part of the course requirements for ID 737 Research in Biomedical Sciences (6 credit hours).

When a major program has been identified, no later than April 1 of third year of medical school, the MD-PhD student will select an advisor and begin to fulfill specific requirements of that PhD program.

PhD Degree Requirements - The first through third years in graduate school (G1-G3) are devoted to research and writing and fulfilling all program requirements for the PhD. It is anticipated that some candidates may wish to continue research during the fourth year of medical school, which would be permitted, even encouraged.

• LABORATORY ROTATIONS - MD-PhD students are required to complete lab rotations in a minimum of three mentors' labs in two different departments during the summer semesters prior to their first and second years of medical school. The summer prior to their first year of medical school, the student will complete a five-week rotation in two different biomedical science programs. For the summer prior to the second year in medical school, the student may opt to complete the entire 10-week lab rotation in only one program or choose a new one.
• QUALIFYING EXAMINATION AND ADMISSION TO CANDIDACY - The qualifying examination is given to graduate students in good academic standing upon completion of coursework and must be successfully completed for admission to candidacy for the doctor of philosophy degree.
• DISSERTATION - The dissertation must show originality of thought and demonstrate the results of independent investigation. It should contribute to the advancement of knowledge, exhibit mastery of the subject literature, and be written with an acceptable degree of literary skill. The dissertation, written according to prescribed form, is prepared under the direction of the candidate's advisor and must be approved by the candidate's Dissertation Advisory Committee and the dean of the Graduate School. This approval must be obtained and all other requirements completed by the date given in the official academic calendar. Guidelines outlining the prescribed form for a student's written dissertation can be found the SGSHS website.
• DISSERTATION DEFENSE - The dissertation defense is conducted by the candidate's Advisory Committee and consists of a public presentation and defense of the dissertation.
• REQUIRED COURSEWORK – Students must also pass ID 709 (Responsible Conduct in Research). In addition, all graduates must successfully pass ID 714 (Professional Skills).