Timeline to Degree
CMB student training programs are individually developed according to the student's research program and scientific interests. The following are requirements for graduation:
- Coursework (16 credits)
- Genetics, Cell biology, Biochemistry courses — 3 credits each
- Elective courses — 6 credits
- Research Responsibility course (PIBS 501/503) — 1 credit
- Research Rotations — minimum of 2 rotations
- Successful completion of preliminary exam
- Fulfillment of teaching — minimum of 1 semester
- Continued participation in CMB student seminar
- Participation in CMB short courses — minimum of 4 courses
More details are available in the student handbook. A typical timeline is as follows:
1st year (PIBS)
| Milestone |
Timing |
| Lab Rotations (2 mandatory; additional possible) |
Fall & Winter Terms (within PIBS) |
| Course work |
Fall & winter terms |
| Responsibility in Research |
End of first year (within PIBS) |
| Selection of thesis advisor |
Spring Term |
2nd year: CMB (pre-candidate)
| Milestone |
Timing |
| Completion of coursework (15 credits total) |
End of 2nd year |
| Student Seminar (CMB 850) |
Throughout |
| Short Courses (CMB 630) |
Attend at least 4 semesters |
| Preliminary exam |
Winter of 2nd year |
| Advancement to candidacy |
Winter of 2nd year |
3rd year and beyond: CMB (candidate)
| Milestone |
Timing |
| Teaching (one term) |
End of the 4th year |
| Student Seminar (CMB 850) |
Throughout |
| Short Courses (CMB 630) |
Attend at least 4 semesters |
| Thesis committee meetings |
Every 6 months |
| Completion of degree requirements |
Usually 4-6 years (avg. 5 yr) |
