Graduate Program > Degree Requirements
Degree Requirements
The Microbiology graduate program is oriented toward providing a dynamic training environment with the ultimate goal of awarding a Ph.D degree. It typically requires four to six years of study. Independent research is at the core of the program. During the first two years, students complete formal course requirements and rotate through three different laboratories. Thesis labs are chosen after completion of the first year. Toward the end of the second year, students prepare and defend a detailed research proposal in the form of a "qualifying exam." Successful completion of this process qualifies the student to advance to candidacy for the Ph.D. degree. Those not admitted to candidacy may, on approval of the faculty, be permitted to complete the requirements for the degree of Master of Science in Biological and Physical Science. The degree of Doctor of Philosophy is awarded upon recommendation by the faculty after satisfactory completion of original research, supported by submission and defense of a dissertation.