Graduate programs in molecular biology and genetics are offered in cooperation with the Center For Molecular Medicine and Genetic (CMMG) These are interdisciplinary programs with degrees granted by the Graduate School of the University.

The Molecular Biology and Genetics Program offers programs leading to the Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy degrees. The doctoral degree is standard in the Program; master’s study is recommended only for special circumstances. A joint M.D./Ph.D.  program is also available. Inquiries about these programs should be directed to the Graduate Officer, Molecular Biology and Genetics Program.

Admission to this program is contingent upon admission to the Graduate School and the Graduate Programs of the School of Medicine. Applicants to this graduate program should normally have a minimum honor point average of 3.0 and a strong background in one of the chemical or biological sciences. Applicants should provide Graduate Record Examination scores. International students must be proficient in English and should demonstrate a satisfactory performance on the TOEFL English proficiency examination. Applicants should have three letters of recommendation sent directly to the Graduate Officer, Molecular Biology and Genetics Program. A personal statement is required and an interview should be arranged with the Graduate Officer, if possible.

Scholarships: All course work must be completed in accordance with the regulations of the Graduate School and the School of Medicine governing graduate scholarships and degrees.

DEGREE REQUIREMENTS: Required program courses include Interdisciplinary Biomedical Sciences (IBS) 7010, 7020 and Molecular Biology and Genetics (MBG) 7600.  Students will generally select a variety of other courses in the program, should have a basic understanding of biochemistry and are expected to become computer-literate. Additional courses will be arranged to meet the individual needs of the student.    The program will enable the student to demonstrate a basic understanding of molecular biology and genetics, in order to pass a general examination for candidacy for the Ph.D. degree.

ASSISTANTSHIPS and RESEARCH:  The program has graduate assistantships and graduate research positions available for a number of qualified students.  All students accepted into the graduate degree program are considered for financial assistance, and no application forms are necessary for this purpose.  Students on assistantships are advised to elect no more than ten credits in a given semester.  All students, whether or  not they hold a fellowship or assistantship, are required to assist the graduate faculty in teaching and research activities as a component of their educational experience.  For more complete information on financial assistance, students should consult or write to the address listed below.

The graduate education and training program of the Center for Molecular Medicine and Genetics is unique in its focus, scope and content.  The mission of the program is to provide students with: 1) a foundational understanding of molecular biology and genetics, 2) proficiency in molecular and genetic approaches to significant questions in medicine and biology, and 3) training opportunities in molecular and human genetics.   The objective of the Center's education program is to prepare students for academic and research careers in biology and medicine via the following graduate programs.

1) A Doctoral Program in Molecular Biology and Genetics,
2) A Master's program Genetics Counseling, and
3) A medical board certified Fellowship Training Program in Medical Genetics.

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