Department of Cell and Developmental Biology

Qualifying and Thesis Exams

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Qualifying Exam

The Qualifying Examination is administered by the Program in Molecular and Cellular Biosciences (PMCB) during the second year of graduate studies. Students should inquire with the PMCB office about the format and deadlines for the exam.

A student must pass the Qualifying Examination in its entirety before being admitted to candidacy for the Ph.D. degree.

Thesis Exam

Candidates for the Ph.D. degree must present a written description of the experimental investigation carried out during their course of study in the form of a thesis. The thesis must demonstrate ability on the part of the student to plan and execute original experimental work, and the results must represent a definite contribution to scientific knowledge. An oral presentation covering the topics of the thesis is also required.

A student intending to proceed with the Thesis Exam should check with Elaine in the office. She is an invaluable resource and and can help with scheduling the exam and fulfilling other requirements.

The complete Guidelines and Regulations for Thesis Preparation and Defense can be found in the School of Medicine Graduate Student instructions.