Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, PhD

Program Description

Enrollment in the Biochemistry and Molecular Biology program is open to students with appropriate degrees in agricultural, biological, or physical sciences or engineering. Entering students must have satisfactory academic records in mathematical, physical and biological sciences. Research activities include bioinformatics, functional genomics, microbial and plant biochemistry, molecular biology, proteins and signal transduction.

Summary of Degree Requirements

This degree requires a minimum of 30 credits beyond the master’s degree, and at least 60 credits beyond the bachelor’s degree. A minimum of 15 credit hours of non-research coursework and a minimum of 18 hours of dissertation research are required. Coursework leading to the PhD degree in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology is planned to give students a comprehensive knowledge of biochemistry and Biology and a mastery of the methods of research. This degree is not awarded solely on the basis of coursework completed, residence, completion of preliminary or comprehensive examinations, or other routine requirements. The final basis for granting this degree is the student’s grasp of the subject matter across a broad field of study, competence in planning and conducting research, and the ability to express themselves adequately and professionally both orally and in writing. Ultimately, only the student’s advisory committee can certify that the student has earned this degree.

Coursework

Core coursework includes:

• BCHM (GEN) 8050 - Issues in Research  
• BCHM (GEN) 8110 - Advanced Molecular Biology  
• BCHM 8140 - Advanced Biochemistry  
• Statistics Requirement: A graduate-level statistics course recommended by the student’s graduate advisory committee.