In addition to meeting the requirements of the university and of the College of Natural Science, Human Medicine, Osteopathic Medicine, or Veterinary Medicine, students must meet the requirements specified below.
Admission
Admission to the Doctor of Philosophy degree in Microbiology and Molecular Genetics is through the BioMolecular Science Gateway – First Year (BMS). The successful applicant will typically have: a bachelor’s degree (four-year or equivalent) or Master of Science degree that includes course work that demonstrates proficiency in math and science; a grade point average of 3.50 or above; significant research experience equivalent to a minimum of one full-time summer research experience or four semesters of part-time research experience; and strong letters of reference.
Requirements for the Doctor of Philosophy Degree in Microbiology and Molecular Genetics
The student must:
| 1. |
Complete a minimum of four graduate courses (excluding topics and seminar courses) covering the areas of genetics, microbiology, and biochemistry. At least two of these courses must be offered by the Department of Microbiology, Genetics, and Immunology. |
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a. |
One course must focus on Molecular Biology or Genetics and include one of the following courses or an approved equivalent as approved by the Director of Graduate Studies. |
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BMB |
801 |
Molecular Biology |
3 |
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MMG |
833 |
Microbial Genetics |
3 |
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MMG |
835 |
Eukaryotic Molecular Genetics |
3 |
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b. |
One course must focus on Cell Biology or Cell Physiology and include one of the following courses or an approved equivalent as approved by the Director of Graduate Studies. |
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BMB |
802 |
Metabolic Regulation and Signal Transduction |
3 |
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MMG |
801 |
Integrative Microbial Biology |
4 |
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MMG |
825 |
Cell Structure and Function |
3 |
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c. |
Other approved course electives include: |
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BMB |
803 |
Protein Structure and Function |
2 |
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BMB |
805 |
Protein Structure, Design, and Mechanism |
3 |
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MMG |
813 |
Molecular Virology |
3 |
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MMG |
851 |
Immunology |
3 |
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MMG |
861 |
Advanced Microbial Pathogenesis |
3 |
| 2. |
Complete three special topics graduate seminar courses (MMG 803, MMG 991 or other departmental seminar courses as approved by the Director of Graduate Studies chosen to increase the breadth and depth of knowledge in your field. |
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| 3. |
Pass a comprehensive examination that includes a written research proposal, public seminar and oral examination with the student's guidance committee. |
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| 4. |
Complete 24 credits of MMG 999 Doctoral Dissertation Research. |
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| 5. |
Submit a dissertation and a publishable manuscript based on original research and representing a new and significant contribution to knowledge. |
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| All doctoral students in microbiology and molecular genetics are required to participate in laboratory teaching through enrollment of 1 credit of MMG 892 and are expected to attend departmental seminars through enrollment in 4 credits of MMG 892. In addition, all students must participate in the Work in Progress (WiPs) seminar series. |
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Academic Standards
Failure to pass the preliminary examination will result in dismissal from the program.